DESCRIPTION
The Franklin Electric SubDrive Utility is a variable frequency controller that uses advanced electronics to protect the motor and enhance the
performance of standard pumps used in residential and light commercial water system applications. When used with Franklin Electric motors
(see Table 2 on page 15), the SubDrive Utility provides constant, "city-like" water pressure by eliminating the effects of pressure cycling associated
with conventional water well systems.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Constant Water Pressure
The Franklin Electric SubDrive Utility provides consistent pressure regulation using advanced electronics to drive a standard motor and pump
according to the pressure demands indicated by a highly accurate, heavy-duty, long-life pressure sensor or analog pressure transducer. By
adjusting the motor/pump speed, the SubDrive Utility can deliver constant pressure dependably, even as water demand changes. For example,
a small demand on the system, such as a bathroom faucet, results in the motor/pump running at a relatively low speed. As greater demands are
placed on the system, such as opening additional faucets or using appliances, the speed increases accordingly to maintain the desired system
pressure. Using the provided SubDrive pressure sensor, system pressure can be set in the range of 25–80 psi (1.7–5.5 bar).
Reduced Tank Size
Conventional systems use larger tanks in order to store water, whereas SubDrive Utility systems may utilize a smaller tank in order to maintain
constant pressure. See page 16 for pressure tank size requirements.
Overtemperature Foldback
SubDrive Utility controllers are designed for full power operation in ambient temperatures up to 122 °F (50 °C) at nominal input voltage.
In extreme thermal conditions, the controller will reduce output power in an attempt to avoid shutdown and potential damage while
still trying to provide water. Full output power is restored when the internal controller temperature cools to a safe level.
Motor Soft Start
Normally, when there is a demand for water, the SubDrive Utility will be operating to accurately maintain system pressure. Whenever the
SubDrive Utility detects that water is being used, the controller always "ramps up" the motor speed while gradually increasing voltage,
resulting in a cooler motor and lower start-up current compared to conventional water systems. In those cases where the demand for
water is small, the system may cycle on and off at low speed. Due to the controller's soft-start feature and the sensor's robust design,
this will not harm the motor or the pressure sensor.
Adjustable Underload Sensitivity
The SubDrive Utility controller is configured at the factory to ensure detection of underload faults in a wide variety of pumping applications.
In rare cases (as with certain pumps in shallow wells), this trip level may result in nuisance faults. If the pump is installed in a shallow well,
activate the controller and observe system behavior. Once the controller begins to regulate pressure, check operation at several flow rates
to make sure the default sensitivity does not induce nuisance underload trips. See the "Underload Sensitivity" section on page 23 for details
regarding the Underload Potentiometer.
Analog Pressure Transducer
The SubDrive Utility controller includes a traditional SubDrive pressure sensor, or an optional 4-20mA analog pressure transducer may be
used. When using an analog pressure transducer, the system setpoint is set with an adjustment knob by selecting 5–95% of the transducer
range in increments of 5%. This allows any range of pressure transducer to be used. See the "Pressure Setpoint" section on page 22 for details
regarding setting the system pressure using an analog pressure transducer.
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