AC drive range covers all applications

WEG reckons it is offering the UK market the widest range of fully optimised motor/drive solutions with the launch of its own new range of AC inverter drives.

WEG reckons it is offering the UK market the widest range of fully optimised motor/drive solutions with the launch of its own new range of AC inverter drives.

The drives provide exceptional levels of functionality at very competitive cost, Vectrue CFW-09 versions combining V/F, sensorless vector and closed loop vector operating functions, and also a unique Optimal Braking function for high inertia loads, which allows braking torques typically five times that of DC braking.

The new CFW-08 and CFW-09 drives are 100% manufactured by WEG and complement the company's already highly successful range of high-efficiency motors.

They cater for OEM and user requirements at both the low end and high ends of the control market, offering high levels of functionality across the power range from 0.25 to 700kW.

The smaller drive in the WEG range, the CFW-08, is proof positive that users don't have to compromise on drive size, performance, ease of use or price.

Catering for single phase applications from 0.18 to 3.7kW, and three phase applications from 0.25 to 7.5kW, the highly compact CFW-08 integrates the latest DSP control and 16bit space vector modulation for optimum waveform generation and quiet operation.

The CFW-08 operates in two control modes, V/F and sensorless vector, and packs in a host of special features for the user, including "S" acceleration and deceleration ramps, local remote control, DC braking, torque boost, motor slip compensation, JOG, ride through, multispeed (up to eight speeds), maximum and minimum adjustable speeds, two skip frequencies, flying start and many more.

The first of the CFW-08's control modes, V/F, is suited to variable torque loads and includes a selectable energy saving feature, which reduces motor losses when operating at lower speeds.

This control mode also permits the drives to operate in multimotor applications where more than one motor is supplied by a drive.

The alternative operating mode, sensorless vector control, allows the drive to precisely control the speed and torque of a motor, enabling the CFWO8 to be used on demanding duties, such as extruders, conveyors and rewinders.

Extending the operating scope of the CFW08 range is a comprehensive range of options, providing maximum application flexibility.

These include Superdrive, WEG's own software program for drive control from a PC or PLC, and RS232 and RS485 communication modules The CFW-09 Vectrue inverter is the more highly functioned drive in the new WEG range, integrating selectable, V/F, sensorless vector and closed loop vector operation in a single product.

Essentially one drive for all types of applications, the CFW-09 offers high performance across the power range from 1.5 to 700kW, courtesy of its powerful 32bit RISC microprocessor.

The level of control provided by this unit ensures the fastest dynamic response and absolute control of speed and torque in the most demanding of applications such as winding/rewinding, mixing, dosing and forming.

In addition to its unique Vectrue technology, the CFW09 architecture also includes a unique Optimal Braking feature for applications that require reduced braking times or the stopping of high inertia loads.

Traditionally, conventional variable speed drives (VSDs) have relied on dynamic braking resistors to dissipate excessive heat regenerated in their DC links under braking.

In contrast, Optimal Braking provides sufficient braking performance to eliminate the need for the resistor in the majority of applications.

This results not only in cost savings but also enables highly dynamic performance drive systems with braking torques of about 5 times that of typical DC braking systems.

The CFW-09 is equally at home in standalone drive applications or as an intelligent "node" in high-speed factory communication networks.

To assist easy network integration, the drive is supported by a range of optional, plug-in Profibus DP, DeviceNet and Modbus RTU fieldbus modules.

Where more simplified communication is required RS232 serial interface kits are provided, and optional I/O expansion boards include an RS485 serial interface, not to mention isolated analogue inputs/outputs, 14bit ADCs and DACs, encoder input and output and digital I/O.

Complementing the operation of the CFW-09 is WEG's optional Superdrive software, for on/off line programming with a PC, and a detachable smart keypad.

The keypad is language selectable and offers users complete flexibility, providing programming, intelligent operator interface facilities, fast orientated start-up and copy functions - for program/parameter transfer from drive to drive, in a single unit.

The intelligent keypad is basically designed to make the task of the OEM and user faster, easier and more transparent.

It is assisted in this respect by the CFW-09's self-tuning feature, which automatically matches the drive to the motor and load, relieving the user of the task of entering a motor map.

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