FST-380L Open-Loop Elevator Drive | Cost-Effective Lift Control for Standard Applications (3.7kW-30kW)
Product Positioning: The FST-380L is our economy series open-loop elevator drive, designed specifically for induction motors (asynchronous motors) in standard passenger elevators, freight lifts, and modernization projects. It shares the same compact chassis and installation dimensions as the FST-820 series, providing a cost-effective solution without compromising essential safety and comfort features.
Why Choose Our FST-380L Open-Loop Elevator Drive?
- Induction Motor Optimized: Dedicated parameter sets for asynchronous motors ensure stable operation without complex encoder setup
- Essential Ride Comfort: 3-segment S-curve acceleration provides smooth start/stop for daily passenger use
- Standard Safety Protection: 20+ built-in safety functions including overspeed protection, door zone detection, and forced deceleration
- ARD Function Ready: Supports external 48V automatic rescue device (ARD) module for power-failure evacuation
- Reliable Starting Torque: 150% starting torque at 0.5Hz handles standard loads with confidence
- Easy Commissioning: Single-key operation panel with RJ45 remote connection simplifies debugging
- Cost Optimized: Streamlined design reduces system cost by 30% compared to full-featured drives
- Unified Design: Same chassis size and installation dimensions as FST-820 series for easy replacement
FST-380L Open-Loop Elevator Drive Control Functions
S-Curve Motion Profiling
Our FST-380L elevator drive features 3-segment S-curve acceleration/deceleration with adjustable jerk rates, providing comfortable ride experience for standard passenger and freight elevators up to 2.0m/s speed.
- 3-segment S-curve for acceleration, deceleration, and leveling
- Jerk rate adjustable 0.1-1.5 m/s³
- Automatic vibration suppression for induction motors
Pre-Torque & Load Compensation
The starting pre-torque compensation function calculates load weight and applies appropriate torque to prevent rollback on heavy loads. 150% torque at 0.5Hz ensures reliable starts for standard elevator applications.
- Analog or digital load cell input
- Automatic load weighing system integration
- Compensation accuracy ±8%
48V Emergency Rescue (ARD) Support
The FST-380L supports external ARD module connection for automatic power-failure evacuation. While not built-in like the FST-820 series, this modular approach allows flexible configuration based on project requirements and budget.
- External ARD module interface (optional)
- Rescue speed: 0.1-0.3 m/s adjustable
- Compatible with standard 48V battery systems
Standard Encoder Interface
The FST-380L supports ABZ incremental encoders (up to 100kHz) for basic speed feedback. This simplified interface is sufficient for standard elevator applications while reducing system complexity and cost.
- ABZ incremental encoder (up to 100kHz)
- Optional encoderless operation for simple modernization
- Easy parameter configuration for existing motors
Elevator Safety Logic
Built-in 20+ elevator safety functions including overspeed protection, door zone detection, forced deceleration judgment, and contactor adhesion detection. Provides essential safety coverage for standard applications.
- Overspeed protection: electronic safety
- Door zone detection: ±10mm accuracy
- Contactor adhesion detection prevents runaway
- Motor overheating protection (PTC input)
Communication & I/O
Standard RS-485 Modbus RTU for building management systems. Supports remote monitoring via optional 4G/WiFi gateway for basic predictive maintenance.
- Standard: RS-485 with Modbus RTU
- Remote monitoring via optional gateway
- Fault history: last 50 events with timestamp
FST-380L Open-Loop Elevator Drive Applications by Industry
Standard Passenger Elevators (Residential & Commercial)
For 8-person to 15-person standard speed elevators, the FST-380L provides reliable operation and comfortable S-curve motion. Ideal for residential buildings, small offices, and commercial spaces where high-end features are not required.
Typical configuration: 7.5kW-15kW for 1.0-1.75m/s speed
Recommended models: FST-380L-7R5T4 (7.5kW), FST-380L-011T4 (11kW), FST-380L-015T4 (15kW)
Freight & Goods Elevators
Standard freight applications benefit from the FST-380L's robust overload capacity and reliable starting torque. Pre-torque compensation prevents rollback during loading/unloading operations.
Typical configuration: 15kW-22kW for 1000-3000kg capacity
Recommended models: FST-380L-015T4 (15kW), FST-380L-018T4 (18kW), FST-380L-022T4 (22kW)
Home Elevators (Villa Lifts)
Compact size and simplified operation make the FST-380L ideal for private residences. Single-phase 220V input option (FST-380L-3R7S2) allows installation in homes without 3-phase power.
Typical configuration: 3.7kW-5.5kW for 3-5 person lifts
Recommended models: FST-380L-3R7T4 (3.7kW), FST-380L-5R5T4 (5.5kW)
Elevator Modernization Projects
Upgrade aging DC drives or old AC drives while keeping existing induction motors. The FST-380L's simplified parameter configuration makes it ideal for quick replacements without complex encoder rewiring.
Typical configuration: Match existing motor power (5.5kW-22kW)
Recommended models: FST-380L-5R5T4 to FST-380L-022T4 based on existing motor
Service Elevators & Dumbwaiters
Light-duty service elevators and kitchen dumbwaiters require simple, reliable drives. The FST-380L's compact size and easy commissioning make it perfect for these applications.
Typical configuration: 3.7kW-7.5kW for 100-500kg capacity
Recommended models: FST-380L-3R7T4 (3.7kW), FST-380L-5R5T4 (5.5kW)
Car Parking Systems (Basic)
Basic mechanical parking systems require reliable positioning and moderate duty cycles. The FST-380L provides 150% overload capacity and 1:100 speed range for standard parking applications.
Typical configuration: 7.5kW-15kW for 2-3 ton vehicle lifts
Recommended models: FST-380L-7R5T4 (7.5kW), FST-380L-011T4 (11kW)
FST-380L Open-Loop Elevator Drive Technical Specifications & Model Selection
Complete Power Range for Standard Elevator Applications
| Model Number |
Power (kW) |
Output Current (A) |
Input Voltage |
Size(mm) |
Typical Elevator Load |
G.W. |
| FST-380L-3R7T4 |
3.7 |
8.2 |
3-phase 380V |
160*250*185 |
Home elevator (3-4 person) |
3.4KG |
| FST-380L-5R5T4 |
5.5 |
13 |
3-phase 380V |
160*250*185 |
Small passenger (6-8 person) |
3.4KG |
| FST-380L-7R5T4 |
7.5 |
18 |
3-phase 380V |
205*320*195 |
Standard passenger (10-12 person) |
5.6KG |
| FST-380L-011T4 |
11 |
27 |
3-phase 380V |
205*320*195 |
Standard passenger (15-18 person) |
5.95KG |
| FST-380L-015T4 |
15 |
33 |
3-phase 380V |
205*320*195 |
Freight / Service (1000-1600kg) |
6.55KG |
| FST-380L-018T4 |
18 |
38 |
3-phase 380V |
220*390*200 |
Heavy freight (2000kg) |
8.45KG |
| FST-380L-022T4 |
22 |
45 |
3-phase 380V |
220*390*200 |
Heavy freight / Group control |
8.8KG |
| FST-380L-030T4 |
30 |
60 |
3-phase 380V |
220*390*200 |
Industrial / Car parking |
9KG |
Core Performance Parameters for FST-380L
- Control Modes:
- Open-loop vector (SVC) for induction motors - speed accuracy ±0.5%
- V/F control for simple applications
- Starting Torque: 150% at 0.5Hz (SVC)
- Speed Range: 1:100 (SVC)
- Overload Capacity: 150% for 60 seconds, 180% for 1 second
- Carrier Frequency: 0.5-16kHz (auto-adjust based on load)
- Acceleration/Deceleration: 3 groups of S-curve settings, 0.01-600s
- Positioning Accuracy: ±10mm with encoder feedback
Safety & Protection Functions
- 20+ Protection Functions: Overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, phase loss, ground fault, motor overload
- Elevator-Specific Safety: Overspeed protection, door zone detection, forced deceleration, contactor adhesion detection
- Emergency Functions: Supports external ARD module, fire emergency return
- Environmental: -10°C to +40°C, <95% RH, altitude <1000m (derate above)
Communication & I/O
- Standard: RS-485 with Modbus RTU
- Digital Input: 8 channels (programmable)
- Digital Output: 2 channels + 2 relay outputs
- Analog I/O: 2 inputs (0-10V/4-20mA), 1 output
- Pulse I/O: 1 pulse input (50kHz), 1 pulse output
FST-380L vs FST-820 & Competitors Comparison
| Feature |
Anyhertz FST-380L (Open-Loop) |
Anyhertz FST-820 (Closed-Loop) |
Standard Industrial VFD |
Economy Elevator Drive Brand X |
| Motor Support |
Induction (Async) only |
PM Synchronous + Async |
Async only |
Async only |
| Control Mode |
Open-loop vector (SVC) |
Closed-loop + Open-loop |
V/F or basic vector |
Open-loop only |
| Elevator S-Curve |
3-segment |
4-segment independent |
Basic S-curve |
2-segment or none |
| Starting Torque |
150% at 0.5Hz |
200% at 0Hz (FVC) |
100% at 0.5Hz |
120% at 0.5Hz |
| 48V Emergency Rescue |
External ARD module |
Built-in ARD |
External controller |
Not supported |
| Encoder Interface |
ABZ incremental |
5 types (UVW/ABZ/SinCos/Resolver/SSI) |
1-2 basic types |
ABZ only |
| Safety Functions |
20+ functions |
40+ functions |
General protection |
10-15 functions |
| Price (11kW model) |
$XXX (economy) |
$XXX (+40%) |
$XXX-20% |
$XXX-10% |
Selection Guide: Choose FST-380L for standard passenger elevators, freight lifts, and modernization projects using induction motors where cost optimization is priority. Choose FST-820 for high-speed elevators (>2m/s), hospital elevators, or applications requiring PM motor support and premium comfort features.
When to Choose FST-380L?
- Budget-Conscious Projects: Standard residential and commercial buildings where premium features are not required
- Induction Motor Systems: Existing elevators with asynchronous motors that do not require PM motor support
- Simple Modernization: Quick replacement of old drives without complex encoder rewiring
- Standard Speed Applications: Elevators operating at ≤2.0m/s where 3-segment S-curve is sufficient
- Maintenance Contracts: Reliable operation with simplified diagnostics and lower spare parts cost
FST-380L Customer Success Stories
★★★★★ 4.7/5 based on 126 standard elevator installations worldwide
"We replaced 30 old DC drives in a residential complex with FST-380L units. The installation was straightforward since we kept all existing induction motors. The 3-segment S-curve is smooth enough for daily use, and the cost savings allowed us to upgrade all elevators within budget."
— Zhang Ming, Project Manager, Beijing Elevator Maintenance Co.
"The FST-380L's external ARD module option was perfect for our project. We only added ARD to the 8 passenger elevators and skipped it for the 4 service elevators, saving 30% on safety system costs. The drives have been running for 18 months without issues."
— Sarah Johnson, Procurement Director, Midwest Elevator Services, USA
"As a maintenance company, we appreciate the FST-380L's simplified design. Fewer encoder types means less confusion in the field, and the unified chassis with FST-820 allows us to stock one set of spare mounting hardware. Remote monitoring helps us catch issues early."
— Hans Mueller, Technical Manager, Vienna Lift Modernization GmbH
Recent FST-380L Projects
- Guangzhou Residential Complex (2024): 48 units FST-380L-011T4 for 12-person standard elevators (1.75m/s)
- Mumbai Office Building (2023): 16 units FST-380L-015T4 for 1000kg service elevators
- Cairo Shopping Mall (2023): 24 units FST-380L-7R5T4 for modernization of 1990s elevator systems
- Bangkok Warehouse (2023): 10 units FST-380L-022T4 for 3-ton freight elevators
- Lima Apartment Towers (2022): 32 units FST-380L-5R5T4 for residential lifts
- Jakarta Factory (2022): 6 units FST-380L-030T4 for heavy industrial material hoists
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between FST-380L and FST-820 elevator drives?
The FST-380L is an open-loop economy series designed specifically for induction (asynchronous) motors with 3-segment S-curve control. The FST-820 is a high-performance closed-loop series supporting both PM synchronous and induction motors with 4-segment S-curve and built-in ARD. Both share the same chassis dimensions, but the 820 offers higher precision, more encoder options, and premium comfort features. Choose 380L for standard applications and 820 for high-end projects.
Q: Can FST-380L replace my old elevator drive (Monarch, STEP, or others)?
Yes, the FST-380L is designed as a cost-effective replacement for aging elevator drives from Monarch, STEP, and other brands that use induction motors. It supports standard ABZ encoders and offers parameter conversion guides for easy migration. However, if your existing system uses permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), you must choose the FST-820 series instead.
Q: Is open-loop control sufficient for passenger elevators?
For standard passenger elevators operating at speeds up to 2.0m/s, open-loop vector control (SVC) with 150% starting torque and ±0.5% speed accuracy is fully sufficient. The 3-segment S-curve provides comfortable ride quality for daily use. However, for high-speed elevators (>2.5m/s), hospital elevators, or applications requiring ±5mm precision leveling, we recommend the closed-loop FST-820 series.
Q: Does FST-380L support home elevators with single-phase 220V power?
Yes! The FST-380L-3R7S2 model supports single-phase 220V input to three-phase 220V output (3.7kW), perfect for residential home elevators where 3-phase power is unavailable. It maintains all essential elevator functions including 3-segment S-curve control and ARD module support, making it ideal for villa and home installations.
Q: Can I upgrade from FST-380L to FST-820 later?
While both series share the same chassis dimensions and mounting holes, they use different control boards optimized for their respective motor types. Upgrading from 380L to 820 requires replacing the entire drive unit, not just a software upgrade. We recommend carefully selecting the right series at the project start. If you anticipate future PM motor upgrades, choose FST-820 from the beginning.
Q: How do I configure the S-curve for optimal comfort?
The FST-380L provides 3 S-curve segments: acceleration, deceleration, and leveling. For standard passenger elevators, we recommend: jerk rate 0.5-1.0 m/s³, acceleration 0.6-0.8 m/s². For freight elevators, use 0.3-0.5 m/s³ for gentler motion. Our Commissioning Guide provides recommended settings for different applications.
Q: What encoder is required for FST-380L?
For standard induction motor applications, the FST-380L requires an ABZ incremental encoder (1024-4096 pulses per revolution) for speed feedback. Unlike the FST-820, it does NOT support UVW encoders for PM motors. For simple modernization projects, encoderless V/F control is also possible, though with reduced performance.
Q: Is FST-380L certified for international markets?
The FST-380L series holds CE certification for European markets and complies with basic elevator safety standards. For projects requiring EN81-20/50 full certification or UL/CSA for North America, we recommend the FST-820 series, which has comprehensive safety certifications. Contact us for specific market requirements and documentation.
Q: How to select the right model for passenger vs freight elevators?
For passenger elevators, prioritize smooth S-curve and low noise (7.5kW-15kW models). For freight elevators, focus on overload capacity and starting torque (15kW-30kW models). Our technical team provides free consultation for model selection based on your specific load, speed, and budget requirements.
Need Help Selecting? Contact our technical team for a free consultation. We can help you choose between FST-380L and FST-820 based on your specific project requirements, motor type, and budget constraints.
