RL vs RLW – Which Reactor Type is Right For You?

Which Reactor Type is Right For You?

Choosing the right reactor for your equipment can enhance performance, reduce harmonic distortion, and prolong device life. With both RL and RLW Line/Load Reactors offering unique advantages, understanding their differences in terms of durability, overload capacity, and impedance levels is key. Explore the best solution for your needs with this guide to RL and RLW reactors.

RLW Line and Load Reactors

 

RLW Line/Load Reactors
  • Proven performance in the field
  • Reliable and economical
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Ideal for OEMs, integrators and panel builders
Smaller, lighter protection.

Our RLW Line/Load Reactors are a state-of–the-art solution for absorbing everyday power line disturbances that can damage or shut down variable frequency drives (VFDs) and other sensitive equipment. They work on both the line side and load side to give you an economical way to reduce nuisance tripping, reduce harmonic distortion and minimize long lead effects. Their epoxy impregnated design also reduces audible noise, and improves structural and moisture integrity.

Put an end to power spike issues and minimize downtime with our RLW Line/Load Reactors from MTE.

Our RLW Reactors are the state-of-the art filtering solution for virtually any 4 or 6-pulse rectifier or power conversion unit. There are units available for amperage ratings from 0.5A to 750A. Our 3% impedance option is 90% effective and our 5% option extends spike protection to 99%.

Smaller size and weight makes these units ideal for OEMs, integrators and panel builders.

Wider range of impedance values for accurate and cost-effective selection.

DIN Rail mounting options for easy panel installation.

UL/cUL listed and CE marked for all your installation requirements.

Preliminary Performance Specifications
Impedance Levels 1.5%, 3% and 5%
Continuous Service Factor 100%
Overload Rating – Line Side 150% of RMS rating for 1 minute 200% of RMS rating for
10 seconds
Input Voltage Range 208V – 690V
Current Range 0.5A – 750A
Temperature Rise 140°C
Ambient Temperature -40 to 50°C
Altitude Maximum Without Derating 1,000 meters
Fundamental Frequency 50/60 Hz
Inductance Curve 100% at 100% Current
80% at 150% Current
50% at 200% Current
RLW Reactors
RLW Reactors

RL Line and Load Reactors

 

RL Line and Load Reactors
  • Best-in-class line/load reactors
  • Most robust, highest continuous service factor
  • Low watts loss
  • Performance and durability that is unmatched by the competition
Peace of mind included.

Our RL Line/Load Reactors are best-in class power quality units with a long history of proven performance for lowering harmonics caused by variable frequency drives (VFDs). Rugged and robust, they are unequalled in absorbing power line disturbances that can damage or shut down variable frequency drives (VFDs) and other sensitive equipment. They work on both the line (input) side and load (output) side to give you an easy solution that reduces nuisance tripping, reduces harmonic distortion and minimizes long lead effects.

Improved power quality, enhanced productivity and complete peace of mind are easy with RL Line/ Load Reactors.

Our RL Line/Load Reactors are a robust, best-in-class filtering solution for virtually any 4 or 6-pulse rectifier or power conversion unit. There is no need to derate these reactors. They are harmonic compensated and protected to assure optimum performance in the presence of harmonics. There are units available for a full line of currents (1A to 1,500A) and a full line of impedance options (1.5%, 3% and 5%).

Robust design and construction for unequaled filtering of power line disturbances.

Highest continuous service factor virtually eliminates breakdowns in the field.

Reduces audible noise.

Multiple cabinet designs help meet NEMA 1/2 and 3R.

Performance Specifications
Impedance Levels 1.5%, 3% and 5%
Continuous Service Factor Reactors rated 1 to
750 Amps – 150% of rating Reactors rated above
750 Amps – 125% of rating
Overload Rating 200% of rated for 30 minutes
300% of rated for 1 minute
Input Voltage Range 208V – 690V
Current Range 1A – 1,500A
Temperature Rise 135°C
Ambient Temperature -40 to 50°C
Altitude Maximum Without Derating 1,000 meters
Fundamental Frequency 50/60 Hz
Inductance Curve 100% at 100% Current
100% at 150% Current
50% at 350% Current
RL Line and Load Reactors
RL Line and Load Reactors

RL vs RLW – Which Reactor Type is Right For You?

We often get asked by customers if we would recommend using an RL-Reactor or an RLW-Reactor. There are a number of factors that need to be considered when making this decision. The information on this page is designed to help you make that decision.

General Differences

In general, the RL Reactors are more robust and perform better with regard to watts loss and overload capability.  Both can be used on Line Side and Load Side, however the RLW needs to be derated when used on the load side.  Also, RL Reactors are available in open style, NEMA 1/2 and NEMA 3R cabinets.  RLW reactors are not available in NEMA 3R as a standard offering, but can be purchased in open style and in NEMA 1/2 cabinets.

Technical Specification Differences

RL Reactors RLW Reactors
Continuous Service Factor Reactors rated 1 to 750 amps: 150% of rating; Reactors rated above 750 amps: 125% of rating 100%
Overload Rating 200% of rated for 30 minutes; 300% of rated for 1 minute 150% of RMS rating for 1 minute; 200% of RMS rating for 10 seconds
Current Range (additional ratings may be available) 1A – 1,500A 0.5A – 750A
Temperature Rise 135 Degrees Celsius 140 Degrees Celsius
Inductance Curve 100% at 100% Current; 100% at 150% Current; 50% at 350% Current; 100% at 100% Current 80% at 150% Current; 50% at 200% Current
Impedance Levels 1.5%, 3% & 5%
Input Voltage Range 208V – 690V
Ambient Temperature -40 to 50 Degrees Celsius
Altitude Maximum Without Derating 1,000 meters
Fundamental Frequency 50/60 Hz

By understanding the key distinctions between RL and RLW reactors, you can make an informed decision for your specific application. For tailored guidance on selecting the ideal reactor, reach out to our application engineers: servodynamics.com.vn/contact.