Okay, let's break down the motor connection and how it relates to your VFD and available power.

You are mostly correct, but there are nuances.

Here's the situation: You have a 3-Phase 208V Motor

This means it's designed to run on 3-phase power at 208 volts, line-to-line.

Motor Nameplate

The motor nameplate shows both Delta (Δ) and Wye (Y) connections. This is a common configuration for motors to allow them to be used with different voltages. Typically, a motor rated for 230/460V, the low voltage (230V) would be delta connected and the high voltage (460V) would be wye connected.

VFD (Variable Frequency Drive)

Your motor is being powered by a VFD. VFDs output 3-phase power.

Your Power

You have 3-phase power with a ground. No neutral.

Understanding Delta vs. Wye Connections Delta (Δ) Connection

In a delta connection, the three motor windings are connected in a closed loop, forming a triangle. The voltage is applied line-to-line (across two of the corners of the triangle).

Wye (Y) (also called Star) Connection

In a wye connection, one end of each of the three motor windings is connected to a common point (the "neutral" or star point). The voltage is applied from each line to this common point (line-to-neutral) but also line-to-line.

Here's the important part



The reason why there are both is to allow the same motor to be wired in two different wiring configurations to operate on two different line voltages. The motor nameplate will dictate which to use. VFDs and Delta Connections

VFDs inherently output a balanced 3-phase voltage, but they DO NOT supply a neutral. Since you do not have a neutral, most of the time the delta connection will be used for 230V or 208V motors.

Your Assumption



Your assumption is correct in most cases: With 3-phase power and no neutral, the delta connection is generally the way to go for 230V motors.Important Considerations Before Wiring


The Motor Nameplate is KING



Voltage Rating

The most important thing is the voltage rating on the motor nameplate. Look for the voltage ratings and see what the connection diagram shows. If the nameplate says "208-230Δ / 460Y," then your motor is likely designed to be delta-connected at 208/230V. If the nameplate says "460Δ / 208-230Y," then your motor is likely designed to be WYE-connected at 208/230V.

Connection Diagram

The nameplate must have a connection diagram for both Delta and Wye configurations. This is your definitive guide.

Follow the diagram on the motor nameplate exactly.2. VFD Settings



Motor Voltage

Make sure your VFD is programmed with the correct motor voltage (208V in your case). This is absolutely critical.

Motor Current

Program the VFD with the motor's rated full-load current (37A). This protects the motor from overloads.

Frequency

Set the base frequency (usually 60 Hz in the US).3.

Motor Lead Markings

The motor leads will be labeled (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, etc.). The connection diagram will tell you how to connect these leads for either Delta or Wye.

In summary


Consult the motor nameplate

It dictates the correct wiring configuration based on your voltage.2.

Delta is likely correct for 208V with no neutral

But always verify with the nameplate diagram.3.

Program the VFD carefully

Voltage, current, and frequency must match the motor's specifications.4.

When in doubt, consult a qualified electrician

Incorrect wiring can damage the motor or VFD.

Example Scenario

Let's say your motor nameplate looks something like this:

Voltage: 208-230V Δ / 460V YAmps:   37A Δ / 18.5A Y

In this case,

you would connect the motor in a Delta configuration because you are using 208V. Follow the Delta wiring diagram on the nameplate precisely.

Final Advice:

It's always best to double-check and be absolutely certain. If you're unsure, it's worth the small cost to have a qualified electrician verify your connections. A mistake can be expensive. Flag for review