PositionServo 941 by Lenze-AC Tech Works Wonders with Wood

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KVAL, a highly specialized manufacturer of door cutting machinery was searching for a better servo drive to improve the cost and performance of its milling machines. A local automation distributor introduced them to the Lenze-AC Tech PositionServo. The challenge was to find a cost competitive drive that would fit the existing profile and yet work with legacy servomotors and resolver feedback.

The solution was found in the PositionServo 941 designed specifically for resolver feedback. The PositionServo 941 was fitted directly to an existing machine and tested immediately in ‘torque mode’. The drive performed beautifully from the first application of power and led to substantial orders soon after. KVAL is recognized as a leader in the design and manufacturing of precision-engineered door machining and millwork equipment. Increased competitiveness within the millwork industry has forced many smaller companies to become more specialized. As a result, KVAL had to alter the design and configuration of many of its machines, the ease-of-use and programming of the PositionServo 941 meant that it was a simple solution to varying machine requirements.

Compatibility with the existing machine set-up was very important and since Lenze-AC Tech PositionServo products are designed to work effectively with the widest range of motors, feedback and machine control systems, it was no problem to fit in with components from three other manufacturers. Cost is an inevitable pressure for any machine manufacturer and KVAL is no different, the fact that the PositionServo provides solid precision performance, but without a price premium sealed the deal.

PositionServo Benefits:

• Works with existing servo motors

• Easy programming

• Resolver or encoder feedback

• Solid technical support

• Rugged performance in harsh environments

• Tight positioning control with

scalable emulated encoder output

Heat Transfer Boxes & Systems: A Breeze with the AC Tech MCH Series

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Epsilon Industries is a supplier of integrated air and fluid side-heat transfer systems including factory built penthouses with mechanical/electrical systems; complete heat transfer packages and refrigeration systems. “One reason for the success of the ‘packaged’ mechanical systems concept,” says Epsilon Sales & Marketing VP, Brad Hughes, “is customers realize they can decrease the total cost and meet their deadlines by utilizing our specialized, highly trained technical staff.” To regulate pumps, chillers and air handlers, Epsilon uses MCH Series drives from Lenze – AC Tech.

What led Hughes to choose the MCH Series? “Our choice of variable frequency drives is a good example of how closely we look at anything that can be done better.” As he explains, “These Lenze – AC Tech drives offer a couple of advantages that make a lot of sense to us, one is the automatic transfer to bypass; the others are the disconnect option, and the on-site warranty.” The automatic-transfer-to-bypass option allows the motor to transfer from drive operation, and continue across the line in bypass mode.

Say there’s an external condition that creates a problem with variable frequency drive operation; like transient voltage harmonics from the utility causing the drive to trip off on a fault. The MCH drive can be configured to attempt several restarts, but if the condition will not clear, the automatic-transfer to-bypass function will transfer from drive operation to line power, without any human intervention. If the drive did not have this capability, an experienced, trained operator would have to be on hand to ascertain there was a problem, and then he would have to manually put the drive into bypass mode.

“Utilizing the MCH drive is a way for us to make sure we maintain uninterrupted service, no ifs or buts,” summarizes Hughes. Once again, dependability under demanding circumstances and assuring their customers that the systems are going to offer top performance is a crucial aspect of Epsilon’s market success. Epsilon has found a niche and is taking full advantage of it. Hughes counts on Lenze – AC Tech relating “Demystifying drives is the first step towards making them an integral part of our clients’ design. When we don’t need an expert to understand them, we can really count on them, and move on.”

MCH Series Benefits:

• Automatic Transfer to Bypass Option

• Automatic Disconnect Option

• Keypad Select for HOA (Hands Off/Auto)

• PID Setpoint Control

• Variable Torque Drive

• NEMA 12 Enclosure Available

• RS-485 MODBUS Communication

• Proven Performance & Reliability

Additional I/O Modules Available on SMVector Inverters

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Lenze-AC Tech announces the release of Additional I/O Modules for SMVector NEMA 1 and NEMA 4X Inverters.

Available for the NEMA 1 and 4X SMVector models, the Additional I/O Modules are available in two configurations (ESVZAL0, ESVZAL1). The modules supplement the standard I/O functions by providing 1 programmable form C relay output (ESVZAL0) or 1 programmable form C relay output and 2 programmable digital inputs (ESVZAL1).

The I/O module does not add to the overall size of the SMVector inverter as it fits right into the SMVector inverter terminal cover allowing for easy field installation. SMVector inverters that are fitted with an additional I/O module option will no longer have the capability of accommodating an optional communication module. “The additional I/O module is great for applications requiring a relay and/or more digital inputs.” says Steve Dextraze, Inverter Product Manager at Lenze-AC Tech. “The two extra digital inputs are just that – supplementary – and allow the drive to be configured for several application specific tasks such as multiple preset speeds, electronic braking and motor jogging.”

The SMVector inverter drive provides all the features required by demanding applications, including four modes of operation – V/Hz, Enhanced V/Hz, Vector Speed, and Torque – plus high starting torque, auto-tuning, advanced low-speed control and dynamic speed regulation. The SMVector is designed to be truly a global product, with an input voltage ranging from 120VAC 1-phase to 600 VAC, 3-phase, plus the Electronic Programming Module or EPM, a removable chip that is the drive’s memory and allows a customer to program multiple drives in just seconds.

Lenze-AC Tech develops, manufactures, markets and supports a complete range of motion control solutions, including servo drives and motors, clutches and brakes, gears and gear motors and variable frequency AC motor drives. Lenze-AC Tech’s portfolio of AC Drive products extends from some of the world’s smallest sub-micro drives up through large, 500 HP.

Lenze Product of the Year – PositionServo

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For three years running, Lenze-AC Tech products have been recognized by Plant Engineering. In 2006, the SMVector Nema1 familyof AC drives and in 2007, the SMVector Nema 4x family of AC drives were both chosen by a panel of industry experts as a finalist for the Plant Engineering magazine Product of the Year Award.

In 2009 the PositionServo with MotionView set-up and Configuration tool embedded within the drive (eliminating the need for external software) so impressed the Plant Engineering Magazine’s readers that they voted it the winner in the servo product category.

Criteria for finalists
Product of the Year is a prestigious award bestowed by Plant Engineering magazine. The recipients are manufacturers who have come up with the best ideas to make plant operation better and smarter.

The process
Plant Engineering subscribers who have buy/specify responsibilities are invited to cast an electronic vote to choose the finalists. The votes are then tabulated to pick gold, silver and bronze winners in each category.

Lenze-AC Tech Announces EtherNet/IP for SMVector

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Lenze-AC Tech announces the release of EtherNet/IP as an optional communication protocol for the SMVector Drive. According to Mike Bailey, Product Sales Manager at Lenze-AC Tech, the SMVector AC Drive can seamlessly operate on an EtherNet/IP network with the addition of a simple plug-in communication module. “Other network protocols are also available as option modules including CANopen, DeviceNet, Profibus and Modbus RS-485,” states Bailey.

EtherNet/IP is a member of the DeviceNet and ControlNet family of Common Industrial Protocols (CIP) developed by Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation – ROK). As a member of the CIP family, EtherNet/IP can utilize the same set of pre-defined common objects, thus making communication between devices from different manufacturers much easier.

According to Lenze-AC Tech company officials, Lenze-AC Tech worked together with Allen-Bradley engineers to ensure complete product compatibility. “We first added EtherNet/IP to our PositionServo Drive and since then, our customers have been looking for EtherNet/IP for their AC Drive Solutions,” says Bailey, and he adds, “Allen-Bradley remains the largest implementer of EtherNet/IP, with most applications in the packaging and automotive markets; providing Allen-Bradley compatibility and multiple communication options for all of our products allows our customers to choose the fieldbus that best fits their automation application as well as their physical network.” Bailey explains that EtherNet/IP is a popular industrial network solution because it can support a nearly unlimited amount of nodes, can be used on a single point connection for configuration and control and permits devices to send and receive messages simultaneously.

Frequency Inverters: Improving AC Motors Productivity

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Variable frequency inverters are used for electronic speed control of AC induction motors. The needs of the market are wide and varied, and we offer a broad range of standard products for everything from simple speed control to complex; each with a wide range of functionality, small physical size and exceptional performance. Our drives are reliable, flexible to apply, easy to commission, and meet the highest standards of quality. Lenze-AC Tech provide solutions to fulfill nearly any inverter requirement in the power range between 0.25 and 400 kW.

SMV Standard Enclosure

  • NEMA 1 (IP31)
  • 120V – 600V
  • 0.33 to 30HP ( 0.25 – 22kW)
  • Open-loop Vector, V/Hz

Washdown Enclosure

  • NEMA 4X (IP65)
  • 120V – 600V
  • 0.33 to 30HP ( 0.25 – 22kW)
  • Open-loop Vector, V/Hz

Integral Disconnect

  • NEMA 4X (IP65)
  • Integral Motor & Drive Disconnect
  • 0.33 to 10HP ( 0.25 – 7.5kW)
  • Open-loop Vector, V/Hz

MC Series

  • 120-590V
  • 00.25 to 150 Hp (0.18-110kW)
  • NEMA 1 (IP31), NEMA 4(X) (IP65), NEMA 12 (IP54)
  • V/Hz

MCH Series

  • 200-590V
  • 1.0 to 250 Hp (0.75-185kW)
  • NEMA 1 (IP31), NEMA 4(X) (IP65), NEMA 12 (IP54)
  • V/Hz

Lenze – AC Tech offers many other products including but not limited to servo drives, gearmotor drives, and more. To learn more about additional Lenze – AC Tech products please contact us.

Lenze-AC Tech Announces Release of Nema 4x AC Drive up to 30HP

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SMVector frequency inverter – NEMA 4X (IP65)

Lenze – AC Tech’s most technically advanced inverter drive continues it’s tradition of innovative compact inverter design. The performance and flexibility make the SMVector an attractive solution for a broad range of AC Motor applications and with several communications protocols available, networking drives and components into a system solution can be done now or in the future.

The SMVector NEMA 4X (IP65) is available in two enclosure materials – for indoor only use and for indoor/outdoor use. These rugged enclosure options are ideal for many industries including food / beverage, waste water, chemical metering and processing, and pharmaceuticals.

The power ranges of the SMVector in NEMA 4X include:

  • 120/240V – 1Phase Input, up to 1.5 HP (1.1kW)
  • 200/240V – 1 or 3 Phase Input, up to 3.0 HP (2.2 kW)
  • 200/240V – 3 Phase Input, up to 30 HP (22 kW)
  • 400/480V – 3 Phase Input, up to 30 HP (22 kW)
  • 480/600V – 3 Phase Input, up to 30 HP (22 kW)

The SMVector Series can be used with 3-phase AC induction motors and is available in NEMA 1 (IP31) , NEMA 4X (IP65) ¹ and NEMA 4X (IP65) ¹ with an integral disconnect switch. Filtered input versions of the SMV are available in NEMA 4X (IP65) models for compliance with the CE EMC directive.

Programmable digital and analog I/O allow the drive to be configured for many application specific tasks such as multiple preset speeds, electronic braking and motor jogging to name a few. Like all Lenze – AC Tech sub-micro drives, the SMVector uses EPM Memory technology for fast and efficient programming.

Technical documentation for the SMVector Series Drive, and all AC Tech brand drives, is available in our Technical Library.

¹ type 4X (IP65) enclosures are available for either indoor use, suitable for most indoor industrial environments; or indoor/outdoor use that offers UV protection and has higher impact strength at low temperatures.

Limited Warranty

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Precision Electric, Inc., 1508 West Sixth Street, Mishawaka, IN 46544 will, for a period of
one year from the “first day” into service or 12 months from the “date of delivery”,
whichever is less, guarantee rebuilt equipment from any material and/or workmanship
defect caused as a result of damage incurred during the rebuild process.

Precision Electric, Inc. will upon receipt of a warranty evaluation complaint from the
customer, pick up the unit at the customers plant, or pay for freight to have the unit
shipped to Precision Electric, Inc., disassemble the unit, perform a cause of failure
analysis, and report to the customer at “no charge”.

If cause of failure is determined by Precision Electric, Inc. personnel to be a material
and/or workmanship defect, the unit will be restored to original rebuilt condition and
delivered to the customers destination. This work will be completed at “no charge”.
Work performed under the provisions of this warranty will be limited to only procedures
necessary under the description of “work performed” on the original customer invoice
copy. Any work that is required that was not performed during the original rebuild and
listed on the original invoice will be at the customers expense.

Precision Electric, Inc. will not be liable for events or failures that occur beyond their
care, custody, and control. The customer will be liable for any cost as a result of a
warranty evaluation complaint that was a result of an event not related to material and/or
workmanship defect. Work to the unit will not be performed without prior customer
approval should the failure be determined to be a “Non-Warranty” repair.

To enforce the Warranty agreement, Precision Electric, Inc. should be notified verbally
via telephone or in writing via mail, fax, or email within five days of the first day into
service date. The one year warranty will begin on the first day into service. If Precision
Electric is not notified by any of these methods, then the warranty period will begin from
the day that the rebuilt unit was delivered to the customer as show on the packing list.

Lenze-AC Tech Announces Release of the Nema 4X Terminal Cover with Potentiometer

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SMV-N1-pot-zoom

Lenze-AC Tech announces the release of the NEMA 4X Terminal Cover with Speed Potentiometer.

This Lenze-AC Tech product can replace most Hitachi Variable Frequency Drive models SJ200, L100 and L200 series products.

In addition, the following AC Tech-Lenze SMV new HP Ratings are also availabe in NEMA 4X. These models are available in the Indoor Version Only (without disconnect or filters):

15HP & 20HP (200/240V, 3ph input)

15HP, 20HP, 25HP & 30HP (400/480V, 3ph input)

15HP, 20HP, 25HP & 30HP (600V, 3ph input)

Other options for the SMVector include:

Removable Keypad Options Additional Form C Relay Output Module Additional I/O Module (includes 1 Form C relay and 2 Digital Inputs) EtherNet/IP, CANOpen, PROFIBUS DP, DeviceNet and Modbus Communication Options.

SMVector frequency inverter – NEMA 4X (IP65) with Integral Disconnect

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smvdisconnect

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The most technically advanced inverter drive continutes Lenze AC Tech’s tradition of innovative compact drive design. The performance and flexibility make the SMV an attractive solution for a broad range of AC Motor applications and with several communications protocols available, networking drives and components into a system solution can be done now and in the future.

The SMVector with intregal Disconnect is available in a rugged in a Nema 4X (IP65) indoor enclosure ideal for many industries ideal for food / beverage, waste water, chemical metering and processing, pharmaceuticals and more. The intregal disconnect switch offers the ability to isolate the motor for maintenance and supervising. Also, the disconnect switch handle is lockable and is made of red and yellow materials for high visibility.

The power ranges for the SMVector in Nema 4X with Intregal Disconnect include:

120/240V 1PH input up to 1.5HP (1.1Kw)

200/240V 1 or 3PH input up to 3.0HP (2.2kW)

200/240V 3PH input up to 30HP (22kW)

400/480V 3PH input up to 30HP (22kW)

480/600V 3PH input up to 30HP (22kW)

The SMVector Series can be used with 3-phase AC induction motors and is available in NEMA 1 (IP31) , NEMA 4X (IP65)  and NEMA 4X (IP65) with an integral disconnect switch. Filtered input versions of the SMV are available in NEMA 4X (IP65) models for compliance with the CE EMC directive.

Programmable digital and analog I/O allow the drive to be configured for many application specific tasks such as multiple preset speeds, electronic braking and motor jogging to name a few. Like all Lenze – AC Tech sub-micro drives, the SMVector uses EPM memory memory technology for fast and efficient programming.

Type 4X (IP65) enclosures are available for either indoor use, suitable for most indoor industrial environments; or indoor/outdoor use that offers UV protection and has higher impact strength at low temperatures.

Precision Electric 2009 Variable Frequency Drive of the Year

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It is no secret that the Lenze/AC Tech SMVector Series offers a wide array of functionality for an extremely competitive price. This year, Precision Electric has found it also to be the most reliable and handy drive for most applications. For this reason, the SMVector has been designated Precision Electric’s 2009 online Product of the Year.

The SMVector Series drives are unique in that every product is standard with either a Nema 1, Nema 4, or Nema 4x enclosure. The competitive price margin and standardized Nema enclosed chassis, as well as being a Sensorless Vector drive are a few of the reasons this product line has proven to be so successful. In fact, the SMVector series drive has been so successful that even the manufacturer has increased its’ product pricing and even with the price increase Precision Electric still maintains competitive pricing on all versions of Lenze/AC Tech’s SMVector drive.

The AC Tech/Lenze SMVector product has been designed for diversified applications such as mills, lathes, grinders, mixers, and other applications where high starting torque and/or full torque at full RPM is present. The SMVector drive is available in multiple Horsepower ranging from 0.33HP up to 30HP in Nema 1 Chassis, 0.33HP up to 10HP in Nema 4, and Nema 4x enclosures. Within a few months AC Tech and the Lenze group have announced that the SMVector will also be available up to 15HP in Nema 4 and Nema 4X enclosures.

Breaking the Swedish Language Barrier on an Automatic Foaming Machine

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About a week ago, I was given the opportunity to work on a startup with a customer who works in the world of automated foaming. As with any other job, the preliminary overview of the project is often where the scope of the project is determined. One of the most critical things a customer can possess is documentation to their machines, it reduced both the time and effort required on the engineering side of the startup.

In this particular case, however, all of the documentation was written in the Swedish language. The drive itself had extensive documentation in the form of manuals that were written in English, but there were no actual machine documents written in English.

The customer had taken the liberty to do a good chunk of translation regarding the essential documents, but as you know, even documentation written in the English language can be hard to understand if you weren’t one of the original engineers.

On projects such as these, I typically like to spend a day or two with my head completely in the program – in this case with the Google Translator at my side. The two most fundamental aspects I was looking for? The homing sequence and the foam gun sequence (as they desired changes to the way the gun operates).

This is the order of operations I took, and it may help some of you out in the future:

  1. Gather all of the documentation specific to the job.
  2. Gather the requirements of what the customer desires and write them down.
  3. Gather all of the tools that will help you break the language barrier (human translators or robot ones)
  4. Dig out the I/O list if it is included in the documentation (if it is not, build the list yourself manually)
  5. Translate that list to the proper language
  6. Cross reference your I/O list to your documentation to seek out a homing sequence in the program
  7. Use this as your starting point, as your homing sequence is typically the building block of your program.
  8. Next, target the section of the program (referencing the I/O related to it) the customer wants changes too or is having issue with.

This is an excellent starting point for any troubleshooting of PLCs or Motion Controllers outside of your language barrier.  After two days of research and properly building my own documentation – I was able to get the machine running (not without headaches of course) in about one 8 hour day.

Even though the documentation was in a completely different language, this job would have taken weeks had there been no documentation at all – this truly is a testament to the importance of having documentations for your systems – even if that documentation is in a completely different language.

Craig Chamberlin