Choosing the right VSD for tunnel ventilation application
2026-05-13 17:30 - 18:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Online and in person at EA Melbourne, Level 26, 181 William Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Overview
In recent years, several tunnel projects have faced serious setbacks due to catastrophic motor failures. These failures are caused by high peak voltages, a result of using Active Front End (AFE) VSDs combined with long motor cable lengths, extending to 500 meters. This session examines the underlying electrical phenomena contributing to these issues and why conventional mitigation methods, such as standard filters, are often insufficient.
Participants will gain practical insight into proven engineering solutions that deliver near-sinusoidal voltage at the motor terminals, reducing stress on insulation and extending asset life. Drawing on real-world case studies and field testing, the session highlights key design considerations, specification pitfalls, and lessons learned to support more reliable tunnel ventilation system performance.
Learning outcomes
In this event, attendees will be able to:

identify the root causes of high peak voltages in AFE VSD tunnel applications
evaluate why conventional filtering methods may not adequately protect motors apply practical design and specification strategies to prevent premature motor failure
select VSD and mitigation solutions that improve reliability and extend asset life

Program
In-person:

5.00 pm AEST: Guest arrivals and registrations
5.30 pm AEST: Presentation begins
6.15 pm AEST: Q/A begins
6.30 pm AEST: Event close

Online:

5.30 pm AEST: Presentation begins
6.30 pm AEST: Presentation ends

About the speakers

Joris Feekman
Regional Sales Manager, Danfoss Drives

Joris is Regional Sales Manager at Danfoss Drives, with over 25 years of experience in electrical drives and industrial power conversion. He has experience across Europe and Australia, delivering reliable motor control solutions across a wide range of industrial applications.

Husain Natalwala
Business Development Manager, Danfoss Drives
Husain has strong experience supporting large-scale industrial and infrastructure projects, with exposure to Industrial Automation and Electrical Systems. At Danfoss, he works as a BDM focussing on Tunnel Ventilation, Water and Food Industries.
