The use of virtual design tools — motion-design software and related products — by mechanical, electrical, and control engineers receives the spotlight in this enlightening Control Engineering article. Using simulation software (or mechatronic design programs) is gaining favor, we learn, as a means to virtually prototype motion-control systems, and then "right-size" them. Case studies are offered up to illustrate the cost benefits. For example, an engineer at a garage-door manufacturer performed motion-application simulation to right-size the motor and drive. Compared to his initial system design, the engineer avoided use of an oversized gearbox and other unnecessary components, and therefore cut energy use in half.

The FN3258 series is extremely compact with a slim filter design which allows a trouble-free installation with minimal available mounting space. FN3258 filters ensure compliance with Class A limits according to EN 55011 up to 50 m cable length and contribute significantly to meet conducted emission limits according to Class B.

Unlike competitors who use simple and unreliable power supply circuitry, the LGC400 utilizes a transformer based power supply to minimize power dissipation and motor voltage drift. Capable of running a wide range of motors without the need to purchase cumbersome power resistors, the LGC is the superior and logical choice.

Celeroton presents the new CC-100-1000, a highly compact single PCB converter solution with a power output of 1 kW. It allows sensorless control of synchronous and asynchronous motors with rotational speeds up to 500,000 rpm. With a footprint of only 37.7 sq in., this device targets applications with limited space but high control requirements.

Stock model 0794 is ideal for use in bi-directional applications such as conveyors, packaging machines, food processing, and medical equipment. The filtered DC output allows for longer brush life and wider speed range. NEMA 1/IP,-20. cURus. RoHS.

• Input: 115 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 1-phase
• Output 0-130 VDC, up to 5/8 HP

A motion-logic controller's firmware upgrade addresses integrated safety for quick and powerful diagnosis and troubleshooting. It also adds Open Core Engineering support so OEMs can integrate smartphones into the automation process, and an extensive library of virtual cams ready for velocity-acceleration-position-time optimization — for packaging/palletizing applications.

TechBriefs describes laser-etching systems designed to handle unique customer requirements, enabled by using repeatable and adjustable motion systems. One customer's solution involves etching large batches of parts using only one setup. Another, for marking round parts, requires z-axis control for laser focusing and a rotary indexer.

Along with detailing the reasons why engineers specify variable-speed drives (energy savings, controlled starting current etc.), this Plant Engineering article delves deeply into how to select the right VFD for the application. Learn, for example, when to use a bypass contactor or external braking resistor, and how to size a VFD based on maximum motor demands.

This 5 min. instructional video from GalcoTV introduces a single-phase motor controller designed to ensure reliable starting and control. The drives, explains our host, find use on shaded pole or permanent-split capacitor motors in variable-torque, direct-drive fan, and centrifugal-pump applications. Motor-data programming receives plenty of attention, highlighted by close-up views of the control panel.

Need a precision speed pot, or simple way to synchronize multiple motors? Dart has the answer with Digital Drive Accessories. These solutions solve issues like repeatable motor speed settings and motor speed coordination for Master/Slave motor applications. Only available from Dart, your source for Innovation In Control.

ABB Drives offers a wide range of low voltage AC motors with improved energy efficiency and lifecycle value. ABB has long advocated the need for efficiency in motors, and high efficiency products have formed the core of its portfolio for many years. Learn more...

Engineers tasked with designing a next-generation fastener-insertion press selected as the heart of their drive system an AC servo drive tailored to manufacturing automation applications. Earning the drive its new job, as reported by DesignWorld: onboard Ethernet, and "seamless motion control" without the need for a PLC.

Five retrofitted 690 V regenerative drives have optimized control of fume-exhaust fans in the melt shop of Tata Steel. Energy consumption by the steelmaker's fume-extraction system had been reduced by more than 30%. Also, according to EngineerLive, maintenance costs have been dramatically reduced, since servicing the originally specified 3.3 kV water-cooled motors required special certification.

A manufacturer of friction-feeder systems used to insert leaflets into packaging increases machine speed by 50% and doubles positioning accuracy, with no notable increase in machine price. The key enabler of this new "price-performance benchmark" is a stripped-down servo drive. Engineers stripped the drive of its casing and "expensive system-level connectors," and modified its firmware.

eDrive Online profiles a recently expanded line of EtherCat plug-in digital node and sub-node drives. The four new drive models presented include two (node and subnode) rated 18-80 VDC input, 20 A continuous and 40 A peak output; and two rated 40-175 VDC input, 10 A continuous and 20 A peak. Read up on the technology that enables four-axis-servo-motion control from a single node.

The Moog AirMax™ P28 series of fans and blowers provides excellent output power per unit volume with the use of compact, high energy 3-phase brushless DC motors and efficient airfoil design. The motor utilizes high energy magnets to provide the blower with the necessary torque to provide maximum airflow in minimum space.

Boston Gear has installed hundreds of thousands of DC drives for virtually every application imaginable. In fact, Boston Gear DC drives are the cornerstone of the Boston Gear electrical product line. With single regenerative and non-regenerative styles available, there is a drive available to suit every need.

This part of IEC 61800, available now from IHS, specifies electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for power drive systems (PDSs). These are adjustable speed AC or DC motor drives. Requirements are stated for PDSs with converter input and/or output voltages (line-to-line voltage), up to 35 kVac rms. PDSs covered by this standard are those installed in residential, commercial, and industrial locations.

For more information on IHS standards, visit us here.

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