Hz to Voltage Calculator
Calculate required voltage from operating frequency using V/F ratio for VFDs and motor control

How to Convert Hertz to Voltage Using V/F Ratio
Hertz (Hz) and Volts (V) are fundamentally different electrical quantities—frequency measures how many cycles an AC waveform completes per second, while voltage measures electrical potential. Direct conversion between them is not physically possible because they describe different properties.
However, in Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and AC motor control systems, these quantities are linked through the V/F ratio. This ratio determines what voltage should be applied at any given operating frequency to maintain optimal motor performance and prevent overheating.
The Hz to Voltage Formula
This formula is essential for VFD programming. When you reduce motor speed by lowering frequency, you must also reduce voltage proportionally. According to Wikipedia’s article on VFDs, maintaining the correct V/F ratio ensures constant motor flux and torque capability.
Why V/F Ratio Matters in Motor Control
The V/F ratio controls the magnetic flux in AC induction motors. When you calculate voltage from frequency using this ratio, you ensure:
Standard V/F Ratios Reference Table
| Motor Rating | Base Frequency | Base Voltage | V/F Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Single Phase | 60 Hz | 120 V | 2.0 V/Hz |
| US Three Phase | 60 Hz | 240 V | 4.0 V/Hz |
| EU Single Phase | 50 Hz | 230 V | 4.6 V/Hz |
| EU Three Phase | 50 Hz | 400 V | 8.0 V/Hz |
| US Industrial | 60 Hz | 480 V | 8.0 V/Hz |
| High Power | 50 Hz | 690 V | 13.8 V/Hz |
Step-by-Step Calculation Example
Problem: A VFD needs to run a 480V/60Hz motor at 45Hz. What voltage should be applied?
Step 1: Calculate V/F ratio from motor nameplate
V/F ratio = 480V ÷ 60Hz = 8 V/Hz
Step 2: Apply the Hz to Voltage formula
V = Hz × (V/F ratio) = 45Hz × 8 V/Hz = 360V
Result: Apply 360V at 45Hz to maintain proper motor operation. For related calculations, use our Volts to Hz Calculator.
Voltage at Different Frequencies
| Operating Frequency | % of Base Speed | Voltage (4 V/Hz) | Voltage (8 V/Hz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 Hz | 100% | 240 V | 480 V |
| 45 Hz | 75% | 180 V | 360 V |
| 30 Hz | 50% | 120 V | 240 V |
| 15 Hz | 25% | 60 V | 120 V |
| 6 Hz | 10% | 24 V + boost | 48 V + boost |
Note: At very low frequencies (below 5-10 Hz), VFDs typically add “voltage boost” to compensate for motor winding resistance and maintain starting torque. Learn more about motor control with our Hz to RPM Calculator.