According to drive manufacturer Telemecanique the Altivar 61 and Altivar 71 variable speed drives are Simply Smart. The company says that its Simply Smart label means that the devices incorporate more ingenuity and intelligence for continually improving ease of use.
This generation of variable speed drives (VSDs) is characterised by the breadth of its power range, a feature that enables control of asynchronous motors from 0,37 up to 800 kW for voltages of 200 to 240 V a.c. and 380 to 690 V a.c. This broad power range means that plants can standardise on one product range for all their VSD needs. The Altivar 71 is tailored for constant torque applications, whereas the Altivar 61 is built for applications that require variable torque and is dedicated to pump and fan applications.
Features and benefits
Telemecanique boasts the following for these drives:
* A comprehensive suite of functions is incorporated, including preset speeds, torque control, advanced hoisting functions, functions for textile machines, PID regulation, master/slave function, acoustic noise reduction, underload and overload detection and detection of absence of fluid.
These functions, open loop and closed loop performance make the drives suitable for use in complex and/or high power machines in diverse applications.
* The drives are reliable and robust for continuous service. They withstand supply voltage drops of up to 50% and operate in ambient temperatures of up to 50°C without de-rating. A range of enclosures with various IP ratings is available where the drives are to be used in harsh environments.
* Safety is engineered into the drives. Their protective functions are simultaneously active at drive level, motor level (with its electronic relay and PTC probes) and machine level. High level safety is taken into account with Altivar's 'Power Removal' safety function, which prevents any unintentional starting of the motor, thus ensuring the safety of personnel. The controllers conform to category 3 of the standard AS4024-1 (EN954-1) and to level SIL2 of AS/IEC/EN 61508.
* Simple to use, the Altivar's front panel incorporates a graphic terminal which enhances dialogue through easy to read messages, graphics, navigation, function keys for short cuts and online help. The 'Simply Start' menu enables quick start-up using a single menu for simple applications.
* Application specific macro-configurations simplify drive programming and numerous services offered simplify setting-up as well as monitoring and diagnostics of machines. A 'user' menu can also be created.
* Ease of commissioning is ensured by the use of a Bluetooth wireless link as an interface with the PowerSuite software workshop available on PC. This configuration tool is available to the entire range of Altivar VSDs and Altistart starters.
* With its 150 specialised functions, numerous I/O points, onboard Modbus and CANopen communication protocols, the Altivar provides a complete and economical solution that is suitable for the majority of applications.
Function cards
For automation systems, specific functions such as additional I/O, alternative communication networks and incremental encoder interfaces are often required. These functions are provided by cards that simply install in the drive.
The 'Controller Inside' programmable card adds IEC 61131-3 programming capability at the drive level, converting Altivar into an intelligent automation node. Using this card, the drive can act as master to other drives and supports data exchange with other intelligent devices. Installing intelligence as close as possible to the motor control improves responsiveness.
With Multipump cards, Altivar 61 provides flexibility and adaptability for the management of several pumps working together. The card facilitates monitoring and full control of the pumping installation by switching between pumps and spreading wear and tear across them.
Open and available
With integrated Modbus and CANopen, Altivar integrates in industrial automation systems without any extra costs. Open, it has over 10 communication cards that cover all industrial communication networks.
On Ethernet, its Web server function offers worldwide accessibility, regardless of location or time.
For more information contact Sean Naude, automation product manager, Schneider Electric South Africa, +27 (0)11 254 6400, [email protected], www.za.schneider-electric.co.za
| Tel: | +27 11 254 6400 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.se.com/za/en/ |
| Articles: | More information and articles about Schneider Electric South Africa |
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