Motion Control & Drives


Cost-effective drive technology for low-demand applications

January 2025 Motion Control & Drives

With the AF1000, Beckhoff now also offers a variable frequency drive presenting a cost-effective solution for basic drive applications, including conveyor systems, pumps and fans. The variable frequency drive is fully integrated into the TwinCAT system via EtherCAT, providing the familiar convenience of commissioning and diagnostics found in servo drive technology.

The AF1000 variable frequency drive is available in two different versions: one for a single-phase supply of 1 x 230 V AC with a power range of 0,37 to 1,5 kW, and one for a three-phase supply of 3 x 400 V AC with a power range of 0,37 to 2,2 kW. Despite its compact dimensions, the AF1000 still manages to incorporate an integrated control power supply, DC link capacitors, and a ballast circuit. The control voltage is generated by the integrated power supply from the DC link. Both variable frequency drive versions are available as a single-axis module as well as an extremely cost-effective two-axis module. Supported motor types include synchronous servomotors, in addition to asynchronous and reluctance motors without feedback, that are operated in UF mode or vector control.

The AF1000 variable frequency drive is fully integrated into the TwinCAT system via EtherCAT. Just like the Beckhoff servo drives, the AF1000 is commissioned using TwinCAT Drive Manager 2, meaning users do not need to familiarise themselves with a new, additional tool.


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