ABB drives down size and cost of variable-speed motor drives

ABB has launched a range of variable-speed drives for motors from 370 W to 7.5 kW. These drives are said to be much smaller than compatible drives of these ratings. For example, the 5.5 kW model is 25% smaller than the Telemecanique ATV31 and 58% smaller than the Siemens MM440 with the same output. They are aimed at systems integrators, panel builders, OEMs and end users. Drives are available for single- and 3-phase operation. For ease of installation, all drives from the smallest to the largest are the same height and depth. Only width varies between sizes, so they can be mounted side by side on a DIN rail. No extra space is needed for air circulation, and they can even be mounted with one side to the back of the cabinet. Prices are described as ‘competitive’, with the 5.5 kW 3-phase model 2.5% below its nearest competitor and up to 19% less than comparable products from other manufacturers. Features include ABB’s FlashDrop technology, which enables parameters to be uploaded in a couple of seconds without powering the drive. Operating parameters can be downloaded to a drive from a hand-held FlashDrop unit.

Related links:

• www.abb.co.uk/energy