PowerXL variable frequency drives: efficient and robust

Pluggable modules enable the PowerXL variable frequency drives to be incorporated quickly and simply into Eaton's SmartWire-DT connection and communication technology which completely eliminates the need for conventional control circuit wiring. The new drives give users from the machine building sector as well as from the materials handling and building services sectors an easy-to-install, operator-friendly and energy efficient option for driving devices such as pumps, fans, conveyor belts, cranes, winding machines, compressors or lifts.

Eaton's new PowerXL variable frequency drive series currently consists of two models: The DC1 Compact and the DA1 Advanced Machinery Drive. The DC1 is the basic model covering ratings from 0.37-11kW, and was developed for applications where robust design, availability and universal functionality are the main requirements. The DA1 series is designed for ratings from 0.75-250kW, and is suitable for the most demanding situations that require high performance. The PowerXL variable frequency drives also offer different open and closed-loop control methods. The DC1 controls the motor with U/f characteristics that enables an increased torque allowing the inverters to operate the motors at 150 per cent of the rated power for 60 seconds and at 175 per cent for 2 seconds.

The DA1 models also offer the user the possibility of Sensorless Vector Control (SLV) as well closed-loop control with a rotary encoder (CLV). In SLV mode the DA1 can even move from rest at a 200 per cent torque and without the use of an encoder. The DA1 series is provided with PLC functionality and offers, in addition to a standard integrated PID controller, the possibility of powerful options for different applications such as cranes, lifts, winding machines and compressors.

Ease of use was a prime objective in the development of the drives, and is facilitated by self-explanatory type codes, auto-tune functionality and convenient parameterisation (with only 14 standard parameters) which simplify configuration and commissioning. As well as programming via the keys on the device, or alternatively via a PC, the user can copy the parameter settings from one device to another quickly and simply using a Bluetooth PC stick with an RJ45 interface.

These PowerXL variable frequency drives come as standard with the Modbus RTU and CANopen fieldbus system. The user can connect other fieldbus systems such as Profibus, Profinet, DeviceNet, EthernetIP, EtherCat, Modbus TCP and BACnet easily via fieldbus modules. As an alternative to the fieldbus connection, the drives can also use the SmartWire-DT communication system. This makes it possible to not only parameterise the PowerXL frequency inverters centrally via the SmartWire-DT interface, but also to send them control commands and read diagnostic data from them. The device can also be controlled via a PROFIdrive profile which makes the full function spectrum of the PowerXL frequency inverters available.

Energy optimiser

With the focus on energy efficiency, the DA1 series supports both the standard three-phase motors that normally comply with the current IE2 and IE3 standard, as well as the highly efficient permanent magnet motors that are designed for the future IE4 standard. The devices also feature an energy optimiser that can automatically reduce the motor voltage with light loads.

Eaton's PowerXL frequency inverters supply full power up to ambient temperatures of 50degC (IP20). The company also offers the DA1 models up to 160kW with protection to IP55. All devices come with international approvals (CE, cUL, UL, C-Tick, Gost-R, RoHS, DNV) and with single-phase and three-phase voltage inputs of 115V, 230V and 400/480V are suited for global use.

Visitors to SPS/IPC/Drives in Nuremberg can obtain detailed information about Lean Solutions (Lean Automation, Lean Connectivity, Lean Power) as well as the new PowerXL variable frequency drives in Hall 9, Stand 371. Alternatively, further details can be found at www.eaton.eu/.