Invertek Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors

Variable speed control for PSC and shaded pole single phase motors

0.37–1.1 kW · 110–240 V single phase · IP20 & IP66

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The Invertek Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors is a variable speed drive with a single phase output. It controls permanent split capacitor (PSC) and shaded pole induction motors from 0.37 to 1.1 kW on a 110 V or 230 V single phase supply, so fans, blowers and centrifugal pumps can run at variable speed without a three phase supply or a new motor.

About the Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors

Most variable speed drives give a three phase output, so a single phase motor would normally have to be replaced. This E3 variant drives the single phase motor directly. Invertek uses a dedicated control strategy for it: a boost phase first brings the motor up to rated voltage at a fixed starting frequency, then reduces frequency and voltage to the speed you set, which gives reliable starting.

Two supply options are available:

  • 110–115 V single phase: 0.37–0.55 kW (0.5–0.75 HP)
  • 200–240 V single phase: 0.37–1.1 kW (0.5–1.5 HP)


Both come in IP20 for panel mounting and in an IP66 (NEMA 4X) outdoor enclosure, in frame sizes 1 and 2, with switched IP66 versions that add local controls. The drive suits loads that do not need high starting torque. It shares the setup, application modes and communications of the standard Optidrive E3, which is the drive to use for three phase motors.

Features and benefits

  • Single phase output. Speed control for PSC and shaded pole motors, with no three phase wiring or motor change.
  • Reliable starting. A dedicated boost phase brings the motor to rated voltage before settling at the set speed.
  • Energy-optimised V/f control. Reduces motor losses on fans and pumps at part load.
  • Runs on factory settings. 14-parameter basic setup, keypad control and contactor-style wiring.
  • Industrial, pump and fan modes. With internal PI control, standby/sleep and fire mode.
  • Internal EMC filter. Category C1 on 230 V filtered models.
  • Modbus RTU and CANopen on board. For connection to a PLC or building management system.
  • IP66 outdoor option. Dust-tight and washdown-capable, with a coated heatsink, for mounting on or beside the equipment.
  • Switched IP66 models. Local speed potentiometer, run reverse/off/forward switch and lockable mains disconnect.
  • Fast commissioning. Compatible with the Optistick Smart tool over Bluetooth and NFC.

Specifications

SpecificationOptidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors
Supply voltage100–115 V or 200–240 V (±10%), single phase
Supply frequency48–62 Hz
OutputSingle phase, for PSC and shaded pole induction motors
Power range0.37–1.1 kW (0.5–1.5 HP)
EnclosuresIP20, frame sizes 1–2; IP66 / NEMA 4X, frame sizes 1–2, switched or non-switched
Control methodV/f and energy-optimised V/f, with boost start
Overload150% for 60 seconds; 175% for 2.5 seconds
Output frequency0–500 Hz, 0.1 Hz resolution
EfficiencyOver 98%
Switching frequency4–32 kHz effective
BrakingMotor flux braking; built-in brake transistor on frame size 2
EMC filterInternal Category C1 filter on 230 V filtered models
Inputs4 programmable: 2 digital, 2 analogue/digital selectable
Outputs2 programmable: 1 analogue/digital, 1 relay
Auxiliary supplies24 V DC 100 mA; 10 V DC 10 mA potentiometer supply
CommunicationsModbus RTU (9.6–115.2 kbps) and CANopen (125–1000 kbps) built in
KeypadBuilt-in keypad with 7-segment LED display; remote keypad optional
Ambient temperatureIP20: −10 to 50 °C; IP66: −20 to 40 °C; −20 to 50 °C with derating
AltitudeUp to 1,000 m without derating; 2,000 m maximum (UL); 4,000 m maximum (non-UL)
ApprovalsCE, UKCA, cULus, RCM, TÜV, ETL, RoHS
Manufacturer's warranty36 months as standard, extendable to 5 years

Source: Invertek Drives Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors product, features and specification pages (invertekdrives.com) and Invertek E Series brochure V3.02 (2026). Checked 20 October 2026.

Power range by supply

SupplyPower rangeFrame sizes
110–115 V single phase0.37–0.55 kW (0.5–0.75 HP)1–2
200–240 V single phase0.37–1.1 kW (0.5–1.5 HP)1–2

Source: Invertek Drives Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors product, features and specification pages (invertekdrives.com) and Invertek E Series brochure V3.02 (2026). Checked 20 October 2026.

Downloads

For technical information, brochures and further product details, visit our downloads page.

Optidrive E3 for Single Phase Motors FAQs

Permanent split capacitor (PSC) and shaded pole induction motors, on loads that do not need high starting torque. Capacitor start motors are not on Invertek’s list: their start winding is switched out by a centrifugal switch, which does not suit variable speed running.

No. The standard Optidrive E3 has a three phase output and is for three phase motors. This variant has a single phase output, and the two are not interchangeable.

Fans, blowers, centrifugal pumps, fume extractors and airflow controllers: loads where the torque needed rises with speed, so starting is light and running at reduced speed saves energy.

Yes. 110–115 V single phase models cover 0.37 and 0.55 kW motors. 200–240 V models cover 0.37 to 1.1 kW. Choose the supply version that matches the motor’s rated voltage on its nameplate.

IP20 drives mount inside a control panel. IP66 drives are dust-tight and washdown-capable, so they can be mounted on or beside a fan or pump, indoors or out. Switched IP66 models add a speed potentiometer, run switch and lockable isolator on the front.

Need a price on an Optidrive E3 for single phase motors?

Send us the motor nameplate, or the motor power, supply voltage and enclosure you need, for a quote. Call 01924 411921 or email sales@betech.co.uk.

 

Contact

Betech 100pt Ltd
Four Square Buildings, Thomas Street
Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, WF16 0LS

Telephone: 01924 411921
Email: sales@betech.co.uk
Opening hours: 8:00 to 17:00