Motion Control & Drives


Decentralised drive technology

June 2024 Motion Control & Drives

Leading automation giant, SEW-EURODRIVE is set to enhance a US-based vehicle manufacturing plant with its cutting-edge decentralised drive technology from the Generation C range.

This advanced technology will be incorporated into a brand-new storage and retrieval system at this automotive manufacturing facility. The primary objective is to streamline the supply of vehicle bodies to the existing manufacturing unit in a bid to meet the soaring demand for vehicles, and to bolster the plant’s production capacity.

Highlighting the significance of securing the order, Gqeberha branch manager, Phillip Steyn says that the company has a solid track record in supplying drive technology solutions to the automotive industry. “We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to innovation, and our drive technology solutions continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency, precision and reliability of manufacturing processes within the automotive sector,” he says. “Whether it’s providing advanced gearmotors, precision control systems, or customised automation solutions, we contribute significantly to the industry’s ability to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market.”


Steyn points out the strong global support network of SEW-EURODRIVE, which offers unparalleled logistical flexibility. This ensures optimal shipping strategies, including some drives being shipped directly from Germany to the US, while others are directed to the company’s facility in Gqeberha. “We have strategically planned our deliveries in phases, tailored to the project’s requirements. Project completion is scheduled for September 2024,” he adds. “It’s noteworthy that this particular vehicle manufacturer relies consistently on SEW-EURODRIVE’s drive technology for all its global facilities.

Specifically for this project, over 300 units from the Generation C range will be incorporated, and this decentralised technology will facilitate independent and collaborative operations of the drives, positioned on or near the motor in the field. “These units have been meticulously designed to resonate with the fast-paced dynamics of the automotive sector, ensuring a seamless process flow and top-tier production efficiency,” Steyn says. The decentralised drives will be integrated with SEW-EURODRIVE’s Digital Data Interface platform and state-of-the-art servo technology for peak energy efficiency.

He elaborates on the advantages of decentralised technology over its centralised counterpart, underscoring its sustainability and consistency. “All products in our decentralised range share a uniform controller and interface, enhancing user experience and flexibility, with reduced spare parts inventory.”

The end users also stand to gain significantly. They can expect quicker and cost-effective installations, faster maintenance response times and minimal disruptions, paving the way for uninterrupted productivity.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Osterwalder launches multi-plate, fully electric powder press
Motion Control & Drives
Osterwalder Technology has launched the MPneo 480, a 480 kN fully electric multi-plate powder press with up to six cross-pressing modules. Designed for hard metals, ceramics and advanced engineered materials, the press supports complex geometries and offers optional

Read more...
Ground helical racks for superior precision and durability
Motion Control & Drives
KHK USA has announced its ground helical rack series, engineered for smooth operation, high torque transmission and long-lasting performance in precision motion systems. The racks are designed for demanding environments such as machine tools, high-speed automation equipment and precision positioning systems.

Read more...
SpinDrive launches Magma X100 active magnetic bearing controller
Motion Control & Drives
SpinDrive has launched the Magma X100, a new active magnetic bearing controller platform for applications up to 150 kW. The platform brings oil-free, frictionless bearing technology to mobile machinery, semiconductor equipment and other high-speed rotating equipment at a cost comparable to conventional bearing solutions.

Read more...
Sealed split spherical roller bearings deliver rapid installation and reduced downtime
SKF South Africa Motion Control & Drives
SKF Cooper sealed split spherical roller bearings combine a split design with premium engineering to enable rapid installation and simplified maintenance, reducing mean time to repair by up to 70% and keeping operations running in sectors from mining to food and beverage.

Read more...
Inclination sensors for motion control
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers Motion Control & Drives
The JBC dynamic inclination sensor from ifm offers accurate angle measurement in the most demanding conditions, filtering out motion disturbances such as vibrations, shocks and vehicle dynamics to deliver reliable inclination values via IO-Link or programmable switch outputs.

Read more...
DriveRadar and AI provide smarter maintenance in tough mining conditions
SEW-EURODRIVE Editor's Choice
SEW-EURODRIVE’s DriveRadar system has already embedded AI into predictive maintenance for African mining operations. Jonathan McKey explains how the system monitors external conditions, interprets data and tells operators exactly how much longer a drive can run safely before intervention becomes necessary.

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...
Drives cut energy use by up to 30% amid rising costs
Motion Control & Drives
Rockwell Automation’s PowerFlex 755TS variable frequency drives are delivering energy reductions of 10 to 30% in Africa’s industrial operations, with adaptive control and predictive maintenance features that cut downtime by up to 50%.

Read more...
Proportionate specification for hazardous locations
Motion Control & Drives
As automation spreads deeper into processing, handling and transport operations, motors are increasingly required to operate in spaces that sit on the edge of hazardous zones.

Read more...
Keep your turbines spinning
Motion Control & Drives
No turbine is immune from wear and tear. Unexpected downtime or poor performance can quickly degrade its value and lifespan, but strategically maintained turbines can deliver decades of performance.

Read more...









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.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved