The ABB ACS580 and ACS550 are two of the most widely used variable frequency drives (VFDs) from ABB, a company known for its performance in industrial settings. Both drives are trusted in use for their applications, but each offers unique features that make it better suited for specific needs.

Selecting the right ABB drive goes beyond just voltage or motor match—it directly affects energy savings, system reliability, and overall performance across the lifespan of your equipment. In this guide, we'll break down the key differences between the ACS580 and ACS550, highlight the best applications for each, and help you make a more informed buying decision.

Overview of ASC580 & ACS550

Common Applications for each VFD:

• ACS550: Water/wastewater, general industry, fans, pumps, conveyors
• ACS580: Water/wastewater, general industry, processing lines, heavy-duty machinery, fans, pumps, conveyors

What Is the ABB ACS550 Drive?

The ABB ACS550 drive is a general-purpose variable-frequency drive known for its simplicity, reliability, and straightforward integration. It supports both V/Hz and sensorless vector control, making it ideal for motor control in industrial environments.

Drive Highlights:

• Easy setup with parameter assistants
• Wide availability and cost-effectiveness
• Compatible with a broad range of systems
• Trusted by technicians for consistent, long-term operation in light-duty environments

For more information and specifications, refer to the ABB ACS550 Datasheet.

What Is the ABB ACS580 Drive?

The ACS580 drive is ABB's newer, more advanced model designed to deliver superior motor control, improved energy savings, and modern connectivity. It includes ABB's advanced motor control technologies, including Direct Torque Control (DTC), and is suitable for a wider range of demanding applications.

Drive Highlights:

• Intuitive control panel with built-in assistant
• Works with a variety of motor types, including PM motors
• Built-in Bluetooth and connectivity tools
• Energy usage tracking and diagnostics

For more information and specifications, refer to the ABB ACS580 Datasheet.

Key Feature Differences

When comparing the ACS580 and ACS550, several core feature differences stand out, from control panels to efficiency ratings and integration options.

User Interface & Ease of Setup

• ACS550: Offers a basic keypad and straightforward parameter setup. It's well-suited for experienced technicians who prefer manual configuration.
• ACS580: Features an intuitive assistant control panel that simplifies setup, ideal for users who want fast commissioning without deep programming knowledge.

Energy Efficiency & Motor Control Capabilities

• ACS550: Provides energy savings through standard PID and sensorless vector control.
• ACS580: Includes advanced features like an energy optimizer and DTC, which enhance precision and improve energy efficiency significantly.

Compatibility with Systems & Accessories

• ACS550: Offers standard system integration with basic fieldbus options.
• ACS580: Supports a wide range of protocols, has built-in Bluetooth, and is ready for IoT applications.

Environmental Ratings & Safety Features

• Both drives offer robust environmental protection and integrated safety features, but the ACS580 includes Safe Torque Off (STO) as a standard feature, making it ideal for applications with strict safety requirements.

Price & Support Comparison

Cost Considerations for ACS550 vs. ACS580

As the ACS550 has become obsolete, its cost has steadily increased, and it is no longer competitive with the ACS580. The ACS580 often leads to lower total cost of ownership through better energy optimization and reduced maintenance needs.

Accessing Manuals, Setup Guides & Product Support

ABB's comprehensive support and documentation backs both drives:

• ACS550 Manuals
• ACS580 Manuals

Use the ABB Drive Selection Tool to find the best match for your application.

Selecting a VFD: Why to Choose the ACS580

Uses for the ACS580

• Encompasses all the ACS550 applications and more!
• Industrial environments with high-demand motors
• Systems requiring real-time diagnostics
• Water/wastewater processing, food and beverage, or material handling
• Projects prioritizing energy efficiency and smart system integration

ACS580 in different applications 

• For constant-torque applications, such as extruders or conveyors, the ACS580 excels due to its torque response and broader power range.
• In variable-torque applications, such as fans or centrifugal pumps, the ACS580 still delivers sufficient efficiency at a lower cost.
• When working with complex or multi-motor systems, the ACS580 offers more robust programming and control flexibility.

Common Questions About ACS550 & ACS580 ABB Drives

What are the key differences between ACS550 & ACS580?

The ACS580 offers improved motor control (DTC), enhanced energy efficiency, smart connectivity, and easier commissioning. The ACS550 remains a reliable and cost-effective choice for standard VFD applications.

Is the ACS580 a replacement for the ACS550?

Yes, but note that the dimensions will not be exactly the same when transitioning from the old ACS550 to the ACS580. The ACS580 features newer enhancements, and in some cases, may even be slightly larger. 

Is the ACS580 ABB drive better for my application?

Yes, go with the ACS580 drive, you won’t be disappointed. For standard or even demanding, high-efficiency, or IoT-integrated systems, the ACS580 drive is a better fit. However, note that Wistex still repairs the ACS550s in-house, or in some cases, can still source an ACS550 for you during the short period ABB is supporting the product line.

Still Unsure about Switching to the ACS580? Contact the Wistex Experts or Request a Quote.

Choosing between the ABB ACS550 and ACS580 depends on your system's needs, complexity, and performance goals. If you're still unsure which drive suits your application, contact our team at Wistex for expert guidance or a custom quote. We'll help you find the right drive to keep your systems running efficiently and reliably.