VFD Conveyor Systems

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Automatic conveyors are used to transport and sort materials. Automatic VFD conveyor systems areinstalled as part of a storage or logistics system or may be used between the machining stations of factory plant and equipment. In the case of unit loads, the speeds of individual conveyor sections must be aligned with the flow of material. In comparison, bulk materials are conveyed continuously.

Typical applications include

  • Roller conveyors
  • Chain conveyorstant movement
  • Belt conveyors
  • Screw conveyors

Continuous VFD conveyor systems support constant movement. Their speed depends on the materials being transported and the process conditions. Defined acceleration and braking ramps prevent materials tumbling or slipping during stopping and starting. VFD conveyor systems are used when variable speed is required for industrial conveyor systems.

On conveyor VFD systems, torque is determined on the deformation work and churning work of the belt conveyor. The proportion of potential energy is also taken into account from a need to overcome height differences. Acceleration is not a primary concern, as the drives change speed gradually. In the case of conveyor sections used to transport unit loads (from which individu al units are discharged and sorted), the speed of the material must be varied in accordance with specific requirements. That is why dynamic torque loads also need to be taken into account within this context. As a result, servo drives are often used in such situations.

The sensor signals (from photoelectric barriers or limit switches) that are neces sary for the purpose of monitoring and controlling the volume flow are processed by higher-level controls or directly by the inverter.

 

Lenze VFD Conveyor Systems And Solutions

The driving force behind a conveyor is the geared motor. Fixed speed motors are either controlled via a contactor or a distributed motor starter. To facilitate soft starting, Lenze’s electronic motor starter, starttec, can be used to raise motor voltage gradually by means of a ramp. If variable speeds are required, there will be a need for precise acceleration, braking and positional accuracy when stopping. In this case, VFD conveyor systems using variable frequency drives are the ideal solution. Lenze’s 8200 vector and 8200 motec frequency drives can be connected to field buses. This minimizes wiring and cabling to the controller. The decentralized Lenze 8200 motec frequency drivesshould be installed outside the control cabinet and directly on the machine frame or on the motor in place of the terminal box. This means that the VFD conveyor systems can be tested easily prior to delivery, thereby reducing installation and commissioning times. This results in cost savings, especially when you consider the layout concept, which allows loop-through wiring of the power and control cables.

Lenze VFD conveyor systems and servo drives are designed for high dynamic performance applications. The servo motors can be combined with the complete Lenze range of gearboxes and this means that they can be adapted perfectly to the requirements of any conveyor section. To learn more about Lenze VFD Conveyor Systems, visit the Lenze Website. For Lenze VFD drive repair and replacement quotes, contact Precision Electric.