2 Engineering
2.5 Mains chokes
42 DC1 Variable Frequency Drive 04/16 MN04020003Z-EN www.eaton.com
2.5 Mains chokes
Mains chokes reduce the total harmonic distortion, the mains feedback and 
improve the power factor. The apparent current on the mains side is then 
reduced by around 30 %.
Towards the variable frequency drive, the main chokes dampen the 
interference from the supply network. This increases the electric strength of 
the variable frequency drive and lengthens the lifespan (diodes of the mains 
power rectifier, internal DC link capacitors).
T
→
For the operation of the DC1 variable frequency drive, the 
application of main chokes is not necessary. However, we 
recommend using a mains choke if the electrical supply system’s 
quality is not known.
While planning the project, consider
 
that a mains choke is only 
assigned to a single variable frequency drive for decoupling.
When using an adapting transformer (assigned to a single variable 
frequency drive), a main choke is not necessary.
Mains chokes are designed based on the mains-side input current
 
(I
LN
) of the variable frequency drive.
→
When the variable frequency drive is running at its rated current 
limit, the mains choke with a u
K
 value of around 4 % will cause 
the variable frequency drive’s maximum possible output voltage 
U
2
 to be reduced to about 96 % of the mains voltage U
LN
.
→
For the rated mains contactors for DC1 variable frequency 
drives, please refer to  Section 2.5, “Mains chokes“, 
page 42.