Rockwell Automation has announced the expansion of the Allen-Bradley Powerflex 400 HVAC drive offering to include increased power ratings of up to 250 kW. This allows variable frequency motor control to be applied to a far broader range of motor driven applications. The drives have been optimised for commercial fans and pumps and the installation can result in significant energy savings. PowerFlex 400 AC drives feature built-in network connectivity for seamless integration into building automation systems, as well as flexible packaging options for easy installation and start-up.
“Applications involving large centrifugal loads and changing flow rates, such as air handlers, cooling towers and chillers, are prime targets for significant energy savings,” said David Mantey, product marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. “PowerFlex 400 variable frequency drives deliver optimum speed control to help users improve air handling efficiency, optimise energy consumption and reduce overall energy costs.
An integral RS485 communications interface provides support for most standard building automation networks, including Modbus RTU, N2 and Siemens P1-FLN. These protocols are parameter selectable and require no additional hardware or software. For expanded communication capability, optional add-on modules provide connectivity to LonWorks and BACnet networks.
PowerFlex 400 HVAC drives feature an embedded PID controller that automatically adjusts the output frequency to maintain a process variable. Three programmable skip frequencies and bands prevent the drive from running continuously at resonant speeds, which could result in mechanical breakdowns. Selectable fan and pump curves provide reduced voltage patterns for centrifugal fan and pump loads.
A sleep function allows the drives to be cycled off when the system demand drops below a preset level, and restarted automatically when the demand increases. For applications that require unattended operation, a ‘Start At Power Up’ function allows the drives to resume running once power is restored after a power outage. Users also can connect the drives to fire and safety systems via freeze/fire and purge inputs. Users can easily program, monitor and control the drives using Allen-Bradley DriveExplorer and DriveTools SP software.
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