The just-launched Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40 AC drive from complete automation leader, Rockwell Automation, gives OEMs, machine builders and end users performance-enhancing motor control in an easy-to-use, compact package. Available for use on 115, 230 and 460 V for applications up to 7,5 kW, the PowerFlex 40 features sensorless vector control to meet low speed torque demands, which helps improve application performance and maintains uptime.
The compact drive is the latest addition to the Allen-Bradley PowerFlex family, a comprehensive line of AC drives ranging from 0,2 kW to 6,9 MW. With flexible packaging options and an uncomplicated programming structure that is common to the PowerFlex 4 class of AC drives, the PowerFlex 40 can be quickly and easily installed and configured for a variety of applications. The drive provides OEMs and end users with a number of options and features not typically available at the microdrive level.
Optimised performance and functionality
The PowerFlex 40's sensorless vector control offers powerful motor torque at low speeds, making it suitable for applications such as incline conveyors, extruders and constant torque pumps. The new drive is also equipped with highly configurable I/O including the ability to perform basic logic, timer and counter functions. Performing these functions at the drive instead of a micro controller reduces both wiring and hardware costs. The drive can also perform many advanced functions such as PID and flying start, its makers believe that this makes it the most versatile product of its class.
Simplified installation and configuration
To simplify programming, the PowerFlex 40 has an integral keypad with the 10 most commonly programmed parameters grouped together for fast and easy start up. If PC programming is preferred, the drive's integral RS485 communications can be used along with Allen-Bradley DriveExplorer and DriveExecutive configuration and monitoring software. The PowerFlex 40 is also designed to accommodate internally mounted communication option cards, such as DeviceNet, making it a good choice for applications requiring advanced networking capability.
The PowerFlex 40 features both DIN rail and panel mounting for ease of installation. Overall panel space can be reduced by taking advantage of the drive's zero stacking capability, which allows drives to be mounted side by side. When complying with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements, the integral filter for single phase drives and piggyback mounted external filters for three phase ratings further reduce the amount of panel space required.
As with all products within the PowerFlex family of drives, the PowerFlex 40 is designed to meet worldwide power ratings and packaging requirements for out-of-the-box performance. The PowerFlex family of AC drives offers significant commonality across multiple platforms, including networks, operator interface, programming and hardware. This commonality is designed to help users feel comfortable with the programming and start-up features available with any PowerFlex AC drive.
Solving common automation challenges with Festo’s servo drive and servo motor solutions Festo South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Automation projects face challenges that include limited installation space, the need for precise and repeatable linear motion, rising cycle-speed demands, and seamless integration with existing control architectures. Festo’s servo portfolio directly addresses these issues with compact, modular drive and motor solutions designed for specific applications.
Read more...Inside the Giant Magellan Telescope with mechanical engineering at astronomical scale
Motion Control & Drives
Construction of the Giant Magellan Telescope, set to become the world’s largest Gregorian optical infrared telescope, is well underway. While its scientific mission is to transform astronomy, its performance depends heavily on advanced mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic engineering.
Read more...Filtration as a reliability driver in motion control systems Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
This article highlights the importance of filtration in motion control systems, how contamination affects performance, and what fleet managers, operators and maintenance teams in southern Africa can do to reduce downtime, avoidable wear and costly repairs, aided by Baldwin Filters.
Read more...Supporting construction of next-gen floating offshore wind turbines
Motion Control & Drives
While windy locations naturally make ideal spots for offshore wind farms, they bring challenges when it comes to assembling wind turbines, particularly in ports. Mammoet was approached by Euroports to support with the marshalling and assembly of the components that make up the three turbines at Port-la-Nouvelle in France.
Read more...Rollers excel where profits balance on a knife edge igus
Motion Control & Drives
Polymer component specialist manufacturer, igus has developed a range of lubrication-free long-life knife edge rollers designed to improve the transfer of products between conveyor belts in high-speed production environments.
Read more...Bringing physical AI to the factory floor by deploying humanoids in industrial operations Siemens South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Siemens and Humanoid have marked a landmark milestone in the journey to bring physical AI from vision to industrial reality. Humanoid’s humanoid robothas been successfully tested in operations at Siemens’ electronics factory in Germany, performing autonomous logistics tasks.
Read more...Next-generation oil-free motor systems with active magnetic bearings WEG Africa
Motion Control & Drives
WEG and SpinDrive are collaborating to integrate SpinDrive’s AMBs and built-in IoT condition monitoring into WEG’s market-leading electric motor offering, creating an oil-free, maintenance-free drive solution.
Read more...Addressing cost, supply and disease pressures in Africa’s feed industry
Motion Control & Drives
Feed producers across Africa are operating in an increasingly complex and volatile environment. The pressures are forcing producers to rethink how they operate, balancing cost control, production efficiency and the need for greater flexibility in an unpredictable market.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version