Motion Control & Drives


Drive solves major problems associated with standard variable speed drives

August 2002 Motion Control & Drives

The new Varispeed G7, is the first general-purpose VSD setting a new global standard to feature 3-level control method which approaches sine wave output voltage.

Features of the 3-level control method

This new control method solves the problem of micro-surges normally associated with conventional 2-level control. It provides the solution to common problems such as damage to motor insulation due to surge-voltages and electrolytic corrosion of motor bearings caused by shaft-voltage. Noise and leakage current is reduced up to 50%. This new technology provides low acoustic noise that is difficult to achieve with conventional designs. The low surge-voltage eliminates the need for surge voltage protection for the motor. Longer cable lengths can be achieved without the need for any chokes to be installed.

High-level control performance

The new control technique improves torque characteristics with 150% at 0,3 Hz for open loop vector control, providing improved control response with closed loop flux vector control using encoder feedback, more than 150% torque at zero speed is possible. The unique high speed current vector control provides excellent motor speed tracking of rapid speed reference changes (up to 40 Hz). Speed functions allow accurate control of output torque, protecting the machine from sudden load fluctuations. High-speed search is another feature that allows for rapid recovery after momentary power losses regardless of rotational direction. In addition to conventional dynamic auto-tuning, a new static auto-tuning is available in order to optimise the performance of the motor, by matching motor characteristics to the VSD.

Safety and protection functions include 5-level, high-precision, high-speed current control and IGBT protection functions which enhances overall VSD reliability. Continuous operation is ensured by suppressing nuisance over-current trips, restart after momentary power loss, stall prevention and fault retry options.

User-friendly and flexible

The Varispeed G7 is designed for and conforms to global environmental demands and standards. Energy saving features eases the burden on the environment. All models above 18,5 kW are equipped with DC reactors to improve the power factor and are supported by 12-pulse supply input, which when connected to a dual star-delta secondary transformer, reduces the harmonic current distortion factor to 12%.

The standard 5-line digital display programming and copy unit makes it simple to enter parameters and monitor drive performance values. The quick program mode allows for rapid basic setting of application parameters. The last changes can be checked at once by the verify mode. The 'modified constants' menu is a powerful diagnostics tool, which only displays parameters that are different to the initial factory settings.

The Varispeed G7 is modular, easy to install and commission. This is complemented by detachable control terminals and cooling fan units. Cooling of the unit is well managed by the facility to mount the drive with the heat sink and fan units protruding from the rear panel. The electronic section inside the panel does not require any additional ventilation and is contained in a dust free environment. This type of installation offers significant benefits regarding maintenance and heat problems normally associated with VSDs installed inside enclosures.

Global specifications and standards

All Varispeed VSDs are fully compliant with RS232/RS485Modbus communication protocols and supports optional communication interface cards such as Profibus DP, DeviceNet, Interbus-S, CC-Link, CANopen, ControlNet, and LONworks. All Varispeed VDSs comply with every major American and European certifications and are certified by UL/cUL and CE markings.

For more information: Varispeed, 011 466 0830, [email protected]



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Cutting-edge robotics and smart manufacturing solutions
Yaskawa Southern Africa Motion Control & Drives
Yaskawa Southern Africa made a compelling impact at this year’s Africa Automation and Technology Fair

Read more...
Medium voltage drive for enhanced energy efficiency and process optimisation
Schneider Electric South Africa Motion Control & Drives
Schneider Electric South Africa has unveiled its cutting-edge Altivar Process ATV6100 medium voltage (MV) drive range, designed to enhance energy efficiency and operational reliability across various industries.

Read more...
Powerful high-precision hexapod
Motion Control & Drives
With the HEX150-125HL, Aerotech is launching the latest generation of its hexapod technology. The compact six-axis positioner combines precise movements with high load capacity and simple integration.

Read more...
Servicing the electric motor sector
Motion Control & Drives
Hexagon Electrical has expanded its manufacturing and service capabilities to meet the growing demand for customised, high-performance specialised electric motors in heavy engineering, and hazardous industrial and mining applications.

Read more...
Control system for deep antenna
Rockwell Automation Motion Control & Drives
When a major university in South Korea set out to build a 21-metre deep space antenna, the researchers needed a control system that could track celestial objects with pinpoint accuracy, a level of precision they thought was out of reach. By partnering with Rockwell Automation, they discovered that the right technology and support could turn their vision into reality.

Read more...
Manufacturers should go PFAS-Free
igus Motion Control & Drives
igus continues to develop engineered plastics that are free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS-free) in response to mounting evidence of severe environmental and health hazards caused by the chemicals.

Read more...
South African paper producer partners with ABB
Motion Control & Drives
Neopak, a leading manufacturer of containerboard and paper products, has renewed its partnership with global technology company, ABB to upgrade the existing automation system at its Rosslyn Paper Mill in Pretoria.

Read more...
ABB supplies electromagnetic stirrer to world’s largest electric arc furnace
Motion Control & Drives
ABB has secured an order from Çolakoglu Metalurji. for an ArcSave electromagnetic stirrer to be installed on one of the world’s largest electric arc furnaces (EAF)

Read more...
Compact, powerful and green mini-picker
Motion Control & Drives
SkyJacks has introduced Jekko’s Mini Picker to the southern African market. This is a compact, highly versatile and environmentally friendly electric mini-picker that is set to redefine lifting capabilities across multiple industries.

Read more...
Redefining industrial lifting
Motion Control & Drives
The Konecranes S-series hoist redefines industrial lifting through its integration of a ground-breaking synthetic rope with smart features, a lifting capacity of 20 tons, and the ability to adapt to diverse girder configurations.

Read more...