How LS Electric VFD Drives Improve Efficiency on the Farm
In modern agriculture, irrigation is one of the most resource-intensive operations — consuming large amounts of electricity and water. With rising input costs and growing pressure to farm sustainably, producers are looking for smarter, more efficient ways to irrigate.
One of the most effective tools in achieving this is the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). At HmT Distribution, we proudly offer LS Electric’s range of VFDs, which are designed to optimise pump performance, reduce energy consumption, and extend equipment life — making them a powerful addition to any irrigation system.
And at this year’s NAMPO Cape, we’ll be demonstrating firsthand how LS Electric drives work and how they can be implemented into your farming and other operational systems.
What Is a VFD and How Does It Work?
A Variable Frequency Drive is a device that controls the speed and torque of electric motors by adjusting the frequency and voltage of the power supply. In irrigation applications, VFDs are typically used to control pump motors.
Rather than running the pump at full speed all the time, the VFD allows it to run only as fast as needed, based on water demand or pressure setpoints.
Key Benefits of Using LS Electric VFDs in Irrigation
🔌 1. Energy Savings
Pumps running at full speed consume more electricity than necessary — especially during low-demand periods. LS Electric’s VFDs allow you to match motor speed to irrigation requirements, leading to significant energy savings (up to 50% in some cases).
💧 2. Improved Water Efficiency
Over-irrigation can lead to waterlogging, runoff, and nutrient leaching. By regulating flow and pressure, VFDs ensure consistent and accurate water delivery, reducing waste and promoting better crop health.
🧠 3. Intelligent Pump Control
LS Electric VFDs come with smart control features, including:
- Pressure feedback loops
- Automatic fault detection
- Built-in protection for dry-run, overload, or phase loss
These features reduce the need for manual monitoring and protect the motor and pump from damage.
⚙️ 4. Soft Start and Stop
Instead of slamming into full power, VFDs allow pumps to ramp up and down gradually. This “soft start” reduces mechanical stress on pipelines and motors, extends pump life, and minimises water hammer.
🌾 5. Flexible Operation for Different Crops or Zones
Whether you’re irrigating vineyards, orchards, or vegetable fields, LS Electric’s VFDs allow for customised flow rates and pressures — making it easy to adapt to different crop needs or zones.
Real-World Applications: Where LS VFDs Shine
- Centre pivot systems
- Drip and micro-irrigation
- Booster pump stations
- Borehole pump control
- Fertigation systems
Whether you have a single pump or a complex multi-zone setup, LS VFDs scale easily and integrate into existing infrastructure with minimal fuss.
Why Choose LS Electric VFDs?
LS Electric is a globally recognised brand known for its reliability, user-friendly interface, and advanced features. With options ranging from compact models to high-power industrial drives, there's a solution for every size farm.
Top Features of LS Electric Drives:
- IP-rated enclosures for outdoor use
- Easy-to-navigate keypad and display
- Modbus and external control compatibility
- Built-in PID for pressure regulation
- Long lifespan and robust performance in harsh environments
Irrigation That Works Smarter, Not Harder
By combining intelligent motor control with energy and water savings, LS Electric’s VFDs offer a proven solution for making irrigation systems more efficient, more sustainable, and more profitable.
At HmT Distribution, we provide not only the hardware but also the technical support to integrate VFDs into your irrigation setup — whether you're upgrading an existing system or starting from scratch.
Join us at NAMPO Cape to experience LS Electric’s drive technology in action — and see for yourself how our solutions can transform your farm’s irrigation and operations.