OMRON extends drive range with new high-performance R1 inverter

Many machine builders face two very different control challenges within a single machine: straightforward horizontal motion is one thing, but holding a heavy load steady on a vertical axis is another, as well as controlling motion precisely from zero speed the instant a brake releases. The R1 is purpose-built for that hard part of the job, supporting applications such as hoists, stacker cranes, press machines, winding machines, rolling mills and machine tools, alongside fans, pumps and compressors.

For customers already using OMRON's M1 inverter, moving up to the R1 requires no new training. The two products share the same parameter structure, terminal names and functions, and communication addressing, and use the same programming environment, including Sysmac Studio and Drive Programming customisation, so existing PLC programs and function blocks carry over directly.

Beyond raw power, the R1 is designed to reduce two of the most common sources of lost time on the plant floor: unplanned downtime and slow commissioning. Predictive maintenance features - including IGBT life warnings, cooling airflow alerts, and full traceback data - flag potential issues before they stop a line. A new multi-function keypad, available in 10 languages with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, lets technicians at any site commission and diagnose the drive without a language barrier.

The R1 comes with built-in STO SIL3 PLe functional safety as standard, removing the need for separate safety hardware, and is rated to withstand harsh industrial environments (IEC 60721-3-3, Class 3C2), with an optional mounting adapter for external, IP55-rated cooling. It features Modbus RTU connectivity as standard and is certified to CE, UL, cUL/CSA and RoHS2.