Reaching the megawatt range with standard drives
Parallel connection of KEB drive controllers available
In some applications, the COMBIVERT F6 drive controllers from KEB Automation are subject to particularly high performance requirements. If the original power is not sufficient, parallel connection offers a practical solution. Up to three devices can be connected in parallel, achieving outputs in the megawatt range. In addition, plant and machine manufacturers benefit from another aspect: The newly available function can be easily implemented with standard components.
Shredders in the recycling industry, injection moulding machines or extruders in the plastics industry are among the classic applications that often have increased performance requirements. During shredding, for example, recyclable materials such as metal create resistance, so that cutting rollers must rotate with high force in order to perform their tasks reliably. Even though the COMBIVERT F6 drive controllers have a standard output of up to 450 kW, there are cases where the inherent performance limit is reached or where only limited installation space is available. The answer to the resulting challenges will be provided in future by the System of Parallel Operated Devices, or “SPOD” for short, from KEB Automation. The parallel connection has a modular architecture, enabling easy integration into existing machine concepts and flexibility in the design of the control cabinet.
Control unit is the core of the parallel connection
“Up to three drive controllers with housing size 8 can be connected in parallel to jointly supply an electric drive system”, says Timo Geisler, Product Manager Drives at KEB. “This achieves peak output powers of over one megawatt and optimises system availability.” In an SPOD system, several drive units operate synchronously and are controlled via a central control unit consisting of an F6 control board and an adapter board. The control unit coordinates the power electronics, communication with the machine control system and the distribution of load currents.
Cost efficiency is increased by the fact that no special components need to be purchased for the parallel connection; instead, standard drives and accessories can be used. This reduces costs and saves time, as there is no need for training or familiarisation with new products. Users also remain flexible in their choice of cooling option: both air and liquid cooling are possible with the parallel connection. They can also choose between a built-in or push-through version of the drives and the APPLICATION or PRO control card. “The performance is tailored to the individual requirements of the application. This is how we ensure maximum scalability”, says Geisler. KEB's parallel connection is also particularly service-friendly in maintenance-intensive environments. This is because the individual units in the system are compact, lightweight and quick to replace.
