Parker's AC series of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) offers a new robust and scalable solution for industrial motor speed and torque control. From simple standalone applications to sophisticated, multi-axis feedback-driven systems, the new AC15, AC20, and AC30 series delivers a range of high performance, flexible, solutions that make it suitable for a broad array of industries including manufacturing, HVAC, packaging, and process automation.
While there are myriad options for VFDs from many manufacturers on the market, Parker’s AC Series VFDs stand out for their simplicity, reliability, and wide array of advanced features usually only found in more expensive products. Across the four models, power outputs from 0.37 kW up to 450 kW are supported. All three models are equipped with Ethernet for easy communication and programming. Additionally, all of the Parker AC Series feature Safe Torque Off (STO) for SIL2 and PLd rated safety circuits.
Have You Ever Been Frustrated by Complex VFD Configurations?
Features
AC-Series Variable Frequency Drives Features:
The Parker AC Series is built around a scalable architecture that supports a wide range of industrial applications — from compact OEM systems to fully integrated automation lines. Whether you're choosing the AC15, AC20, or AC30, every drive is designed with shared core principles of reliability, flexibility, and control. All models are CE and RoHS compliant and feature conformally coated electronics for enhanced durability.
The Parker AC15 is optimized for compact installations and cost-sensitive applications where basic motor control is required in the lower power ranges.
The Parker AC20 adds advanced communication/fieldbus options and feedback options for more precise general-purpose industrial tasks.
The Parker AC30 is a modular platform that supports higher power, more advanced closed-loop control, PLC functionality, and extensive expandable I/O for high-end automation.
All Parker AC Drive models include the following features:
- Sensorless Vector and V/Hz Control Modes
- PID Control and Process Feedback Loops
- Energy Optimization & Fire Mode
- Spinning Load Recovery
- Programmable Frequency Skipping
- SD Card Slot for Backup and Cloning
- Maintenance Timers and Alerts
- Conformally Coated Electronics
Drive System Explorer Lite
Parker’s free DSELite software enables intuitive block-based configuration with drag-and-drop logic, real-time monitoring, and customizable function blocks — ideal for quick deployment and cloning across systems.
Specifications
AC-Series Variable Frequency Drives Specifications:
| AC15 | AC20 | AC30 | ||
| Price Point | (Budgetary) | ~$700 - $6,000 | ~ $1500 - $35,000 | ~$2,000 - $95,000 |
| Input Power | 230VAC 1 Phase | x | x | |
| 230VAC 3 Phase | x | x | ||
| 400+VAC 3 Phase | x | x | x | |
| Up to 450kW | x | |||
| Up to 180kW | x | |||
| Up to 30kW | x | |||
| I/O | Relay Out (Base) | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| DI/DO (Base) | 6/2 or 8/0 | 7/3 or 10/0 | 6/4 or 10/0 | |
| AI/AO (Base) | 2/3 | 2/3 | 2/2 | |
| Thermistor (Base) | 1 | 1 | 0 | |
| Expandable I/O | x | x | x | |
| Safety | STO | x | x | x |
| Programming | Keypad | x | x | x |
| DSE Lite | x | x | x | |
| Parker Developer (IEC 61131-3) | x | |||
| COMS | RS485 / Modbus RTU | x | x | |
| Ethernet/IP | x | x | ||
| Profinet IO | x | x | ||
| Profibus | x | x | ||
| Modbus TCP/IP | x | x | x | |
| CANopen | x | x | ||
| EtherCAT | x | x | ||
| Motor | AC Induction | x | x | x |
| Compatibility | PMAC | x | x | x |
| Feedback | Incremental | x | x | |
| Resolver | x | |||
| Ingress Protection | IP20 | x | x | x |
Full specifications can be found in the catalog and user manuals below.
Applications
AC-Series Variable Frequency Drives Applications:
Typical Uses for Parker AC Series Drives
| Industries | Applications |
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Q & A
AC-Series Variable Frequency Drives Q & A:
The AC20 adds closed-loop control and fieldbus compatibility up to 180 kW.
The AC30 is a modular drive with PLC features for high-end automation to 450 kW. The primary drivers on which series to use would be (1) application complexity, (2) power requirement, and (3) network or feedback compatibility.
All Parker AC drives support Modbus TCP/IP by default. Higher models (AC20 and AC30) also support common fieldbuses like Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, EtherCAT, and CANopen.
Yes, Parker DSELite is compatible with all AC drives and provides function block programming with pre-installed libraries for rapid setup and configuration.
Yes, Parker AC drives (especially the AC20 and AC30) are widely used in HVAC applications like fans, compressors, and pumps to increase performance and also to save money on energy costs.
Downloads
- Parker AC15 Series Variable Speed Drive Datasheet
- Parker AC15 Series Variable Speed Drive Product Manual
- Parker AC20 Series Variable Speed Drive Datasheet
- Parker AC20 Series Variable Speed Drive Product Manual
- Parker AC30 Series Variable Speed Drive Datasheet
- Parker AC30 Series Variable Speed Drive Product Manual
- Parker AC30 Series Variable Speed Drive Software Reference
If you have any questions or are just looking for some help, we're happy to discuss your application with you. Reach out to us at (855) 737-4716 or fill out our online form.