Downsizing motors in conveyor applications

Sept. 23, 2013

Conveyors and other material handling and packaging automation applications often require high starting torque but relatively low running torque. That usually means engineers must specify a large and costly motor to meet only occasional performance demands. Lenze’s new Smart Motor overcomes this headache and provides considerable versatility to the machine builder and user. 
The Smart Motor blends the simplicity of an ac motor with the technical benefits of an electronic drive control, explains Robert Gradischnig, electromechanical business development manager, Lenze Americas. It has been designed with special windings and dimensioned to provide 4X the starting torque of its continuous torque rating, often letting users specify a smaller motor. Two current versions have maximum torque ratings of 7 and 20 Nm.
It also gives packaging engineers a lot of flexibility. The unit’s constant speed can be steplessly set between 500 and 2,600 rpm. This reduces the number of different gearbox ratios, and the number of different drive versions, by up to 70%, says Gradischnig.
And with a Lenze app it is fully programmable from a smart phone, simplifying commissioning and diagnostics, he explains.
The Smart Motor complies with IES2 the top efficiency class for drive systems, while maintaining a small footprint. Among its standard functions, the Smart Motor enables speed switchovers and the ability to set individual start-stop ramps. Integrated ramps ensure smooth acceleration and deceleration to protect the system mechanics and product being handled. The Smart Motor features full motor protection, eco mode for energy savings, and digital outputs for speed selection, direction and status messages.
“By reducing the total number of different motors required for a given operation, our packaging customers can reduce the costs for engineering, documentation, procurement, and spare parts—key aspects in the value-added chain,” says Gradischnig.http://www.lenzeamericas.com
 

Sponsored Recommendations

Diaphragm Pump Technology Drives Industrial Washers

Jan. 23, 2025
Discover high-performance pumps and systems built to handle various gases, liquids, and chemicals with precision.

Harmonic Drive Actuators with Integrated Drive Technology

Jan. 17, 2025
Discover the future of motion control.In this video, we explore how integrated drive technology (IDT) from Harmonic Drive is revolutionizing the precision mo...

7 factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Gear Technology

Jan. 17, 2025
Choosing a drive involves several design factors that depend greatly on the task at hand. This top 7 list will guide you, whether your task requires precise and exact movements...

What are the Benefits of Actuators with Integrated Servo Drives?

Jan. 17, 2025
Actuators with Integrated Servo Drive Technology (IDT) simplify cable management, control hardware, and commissioning while achieving outstanding performance in a compact size...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!