Frequency converters for leaner automation
January 2016
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Demand-oriented motor control is enabling users to reduce their electricity consumption by up to 80% compared to fixed-displacement drives. Bosch Rexroth has recently added two new models to its range of frequency converters, the EFC 3610 and EFC 5610, to provide intelligent speed and torque control for motors from 400 W up to 18,5 kW.
Bosch Rexroth’s EFC-class frequency converters are open-source, scalable and expandable drive controls that are easily integrated into many different kinds of machines and automation environments, including in pumps, compressors, fans, conveyors, presses and packaging machines.
The EFC 3610 is a universal, low-cost converter for control and demand-oriented energy supply for almost all industry segments. The EFC 5610 is a high-torque solution with efficient, high-performance vector control for specialised requirements and an expanded power range (up to 18,5 kW). Both are available in heavy-duty and normal-duty configurations.
The communications interface of the EFC converters has expanded to include support for Modbus, Profibus and CAN protocols. Pluggable I/O connection terminals and fieldbus modules enable a high degree of expandability and flexibility in the way drive architectures can be configured. Integrated brake choppers and mains filters (EN61800-3 C3) reduce the need for external componentry, enhancing the plug-and-play functionality of these products. Process control is improved through integrated PID controllers alongside an eight-step sequence control system.
Other innovative features, such as the detachable control interface that allows parameters to be dumped into additional drives using the panel’s memory and copy function, enhance the overall usability of the EFCs. Additional braking resistors are available for applications where the controlled motor is required to stop instantly, dissipating the electromotive voltage.
The Bosch Rexroth frequency converter range will soon be expanded to support motors up to 22 kW, and will also include the Ethernet range of communications.
Apart from lowering the electricity bill through reduced and more efficient consumption, frequency converters lower capex by reducing the requirements of the associated switchgear, while also limiting component stress for a longer motor life.
For more information contact Georg Venter, Tectra Automation, +27 (0)11 974 9400, georg.venter@tectra.co.za, www.hytecgroup.co.za
Further reading:
How certified industrial automation channels become co-creators in the AI era
Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
As industrial automation becomes software-driven and AI-enabled, the role of channel partners is shifting from equipment supply to outcome-based consulting, software integration and lifecycle services that require continuous certification and capability development.
Read more...
Why integration defines the next competitive edge in pulp and paper
System Integration & Control Systems Design
ABB’s Arvin Ramjee argues that fragmented automation, assembled from different suppliers at different stages of a plant’s lifecycle has become one of the pulp and paper industry’s most overlooked commercial risks, and that true integration, rather than surface-level connectivity, is what delivers measurable business value.
Read more...
Integrated automation enhances water treatment at dairy facility
Process Dynamics
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and reverse osmosis system at a major South African dairy processing facility, achieving a 50% reduction in the client’s water utility costs.
Read more...
Intelligent process control is reshaping cement production in Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Advanced process control, predictive analytics and automation are helping African cement producers cut energy use and stabilise output as they contend with rising electricity costs and tighter margins.
Read more...
Schneider Electric’s Alliance Programme turns system integrators into trusted technology partners
Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
: Schneider Electric’s Alliance Partner Programme is helping system integrators across Africa move beyond one-off projects and build the skills and service models needed to become long-term industrial technology partners.
Read more...
Process Dynamics – Integrated Automation for Dairy Water Treatment
Process Dynamics
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Project and industry
Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and Reverse Osmosis (RO) system at one of South Africa’s
...
Read more...
New SI programme strengthens Schneider Electric’s partner ecosystem
Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Schneider Electric’s SI Energise 2.0 programme offers system integrators a competency-based framework to develop deeper expertise in EcoStruxure and AVEVA software, enabling them to deliver full-lifecycle industrial automation solutions.
Read more...
AI and smart solutions for underground proximity detection systems
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Booyco Electronics explains why fitting proximity detection systems underground is far more complex than installing sensors, and how integration, data and intelligent analytics are helping mines manage the challenge.
Read more...
Why cloud-ready BMS is reshaping building operations
Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Smart sensors and non-contact radar are reshaping industrial measurement, feeding connected platforms that predict failures before they happen.
Read more...
Flotation system modernisation for a gold processing and mineral recovery plant.
Moore Process Controls
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Moore Process Controls has successfully modernised a gold processing plant's flotation control system, replacing obsolete I/O hardware with Schneider Electric's latest M580 X80 platform.
Read more...
printer friendly version