What should you keep in mind when replacing the VFD-E with an MS300?

The Delta VFD-E series has reached end-of-life. For new machines and replacements of existing drives, we recommend the Delta MS300 series.

The MS300 is not a direct replacement for the VFD-E. The drive is more compact, supports more motor types, and has built-in features that were more limited or optional on the VFD-E. These include STO, USB, modern communication cards, and support for both IM and PM motors.

When replacing a drive, it’s important to check the dimensions, connections, parameters, and communication capabilities, as these may differ. Especially with existing machines, it’s wise to look beyond just power and voltage.

Why is Delta discontinuing the VFD-E?

For many years, the VFD-E was a compact drive for simple to medium-duty applications. It was well-suited for low power ratings, featuring an IP20 enclosure, modular expansions, and a built-in PLC function for simple ladder logic. 

What does the MS300 do better than the VFD-E?

More compact design

The MS300 is smaller than previous drives, with a size reduction of up to 40%. This is practical for panel building, retrofits, and machines where cabinet space is limited. 

• More space in the cabinet
• Easier to install multiple drives side by side
• Less hassle when expanding or replacing

Note: A more compact design does not automatically mean it will fit the same mounting holes. When replacing a drive, always check the footprint.

Support for IM and PM motors

The VFD-E is best known as a compact drive for standard induction motors. The MS300 supports open-loop control of both IM and PM motors. 

This makes the MS300 more versatile. For example, in compact machines, retrofit projects, or applications where a more energy-efficient PM motor is used.

STO Available as Standard

The MS300 features Safe Torque Off (STO). This is a key difference for machines where safety circuits play a role. With STO, torque can be safely shut off without always having to interrupt the power supply to the drive.

For machine builders and engineers, this is particularly useful in:

• emergency stop circuits
• guards
• service modes
• CE compliance modifications or overhauls

The exact application depends on the machine’s safety design. STO is not a complete safety system in and of itself.

More communication options

The VFD-E featured optional fieldbus modules, including those for DeviceNet, Profibus, LonWorks, and CANopen. 

The MS300 has a built-in communication slot for various communication cards, including CANopen, Profibus, DeviceNet, MODBUS TCP, and EtherNet/IP. 

Machines are often connected to PLCs, HMIs, data logging systems, or maintenance systems. In such cases, you want to be able to read not only start/stop and analog setpoints, but also error codes, status, current, frequency, and parameters.

USB for Parameter Setting and Data Transfer

The MS300 is equipped with a USB port that allows parameters to be easily uploaded and downloaded without the controller needing to be connected to mains power. 

This saves time during mass production, service, and replacement. Parameters can be copied or checked more quickly; when dealing with multiple identical machines, you don’t have to set everything manually via the keypad. 

The keypad is standard on the MS300. On the VFD-E, it was an optional accessory.

Built-in PLC function remains available

The VFD-E had a built-in PLC function for simple ladder logic. The MS300 has a built-in PLC function with a 2K-step capacity. 
This is useful for small local functions, such as simple switching logic, a start condition, a timer, or a pump/fan function—all without the need for a separate small PLC.

For more complex machine control, a separate PLC usually provides a clearer overview.

Higher overload capacity and built-in brake chopper

The MS300 features a dual-rating design: 120% for 60 seconds in Normal Duty mode and 150% for 60 seconds in Heavy Duty mode. It also includes a built-in brake chopper.

This is relevant for applications with higher starting torques or braking energy. Examples include material handling, woodworking, packaging machines, or machines with short cycle times.

Always check whether an external braking resistor is required. This depends on the load, cycle time, and braking time.

Higher frequency ranges available

The VFD-E has an output frequency range of 0.1 to 600 Hz.
The standard MS300 models go up to 599 Hz. The high-speed models go up to 1500 Hz in V/f control. 

For standard applications, this makes little difference. For special spindles or high-speed applications, it can be relevant. Key factors here are the motor type, cooling, bearings, and application.

What should you look out for when replacing a drive?

When replacing a VFD-E with an MS300, you should at least check the following:

• supply voltage
• motor power and rated motor current
• overload capacity, duty cycle, and braking behavior
• mounting dimensions
• cooling and clearance in the enclosure
• I/O connections
• parameter settings
• Communication protocol
• EMC filter and cabling
• Safety function, especially for STO
• Existing accessories, such as keypad, expansion cards, and braking resistor

When is the MS300 a good replacement?

The MS300 is particularly suitable for compact machine building and retrofit applications where the VFD-E was previously used.

Examples include:

• conveyor belts
• small pumps
• fans
• packaging machines
• woodworking machines
• simple machine shafts
• Applications with standard motor control
• systems requiring communication with a PLC or HMI 

For heavy-duty applications, high dynamics, or specific process control, another Delta series may be a better fit. For example, the C2000 or MH300. It depends on the application.

Help with selection or replacement

When replacing a VFD-E, it’s important to look beyond just the model number. We’d like to first check what the drive does in the machine.

What do we need for that:

• model number of the current VFD-E
• motor specifications from the nameplate
• supply voltage
• machine application
• I/O used
• Communication protocol (if applicable)
• Photo of the connections or the schematic
• Current parameter list, if available

Based on this information, we can determine which MS300 model is suitable and where adjustments to the wiring or parameters are needed.

Would you like us to take a look? Please provide the information above via this form, by email, or via WhatsApp.