New perspectives with i-series motec decentralized drives
New generation of frequency inverters convinces with digital functions and energy efficiency. Increasing demands on energy efficiency and transparency of installations pose new challenges for the industry.
Automation specialist Lenze offers an intelligent, cost- and energy-efficient solution with the i-series motec decentralised frequency inverters.
The main beneficiaries are machine builders and operators from intralogistics, the automotive industry and the production of consumer goods. In the public domain, the increasing digitalization of industry is taking on an important place.
Peter Blatter, Head of Product Management Inverters at Lenze, says: “Digitalization also offers scope for sustainable innovations in drive technology. In the i550 and i650 motec frequency inverters, we use intelligent technologies and extensive connectivity. This opens up new benchmarks for efficient production processes.”
Digital in every way
With its digital functions, the frequency converter takes on multiple tasks at once: It acts as an efficient sensor in the system, collects data and reliably transmits it to higher-level IIoT platforms and edge systems in a standardized manner. The motec’s connectivity accelerates and facilitates ongoing production processes. This is thanks to Lenze’s Drives DataHub software, which enables direct access to important drive data via numerous communication interfaces. The integrated IO-Link master in particular provides machine operators with high-quality information about the drive technology. The sensor data analyzed in real time paves the way for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. “This gives customers a comprehensive overview of the condition of their machine, enables them to plan service and maintenance actions in advance and thus saves time and money,” Blatter explains.
Before and during commissioning, the decentralised frequency converter makes an essential contribution to an improved value chain, as important product data can be viewed at any time. The digital nameplate supports asset management standards and can be read out via a smartphone or directly via the frequency converter. This gives machine operators quick and easy access to relevant data such as product code, CAD files and spare parts information.
Energy efficient through and through
A key lever for energy savings is the integrated regenerative unit of the motec. Operators can rest assured that regenerative energy is not lost in brake resistors, as the motor automatically feeds it back into the grid without any additional hardware costs. In addition, the frequency converter controls synchronous motors completely without sensors. The compact drive package consisting of gear unit, motor and inverter proves to be particularly energy-efficient. In combination, the three components ensure a minimal CO2 footprint for the application. The savings are particularly noticeable in intralogistics, as conveyor belts are sometimes kilometres long and thousands of drives are in use – and that adds up.
In addition, functions such as “VFC eco” and “PROFIenergy” improve the energy balance of the system. If the EASY System Designer from Lenze is also used, an optimal design of the system is guaranteed. The intelligent software prevents oversizing and leads to energy savings of up to 30 percent compared to previous designs.
Powerful, easy to use, safe
The connectivity of the frequency converter supports the entire system and simplifies the process chain from the start thanks to the new pluggable M12 push-pull cable technology. Blatter emphasizes: “There is no way to connect an inverter faster and more reliably.” Voltage-free parameterization, simple menu navigation and practical factory settings are other notable features that simplify commissioning.
With the integrated positioning, the motec also masters dynamic motion control that could previously only be achieved by a servo controller. This opens up new applications for the frequency converter and creates further potential for cost savings. In addition, scalable, integrated safety levels from “STO” to “Extended Safety” with functions such as “SLS” to “Safety over Ethernet” lead to comprehensive protection of the machine and guarantee constant productivity. “All in all, our customers have the opportunity to solve decentralized safety applications without sensors, quickly and in a space-saving manner,” adds Blatter.