AC Drive provides embedded control in compact design.

Rockwell Automation May 25, 2006

Press Release Summary:

Offering application flexibility, basic positioning, and Category 3 Safe-off functionality, PowerFlex 40P AC Drive can act as independent position controller for simple time, digital input or communications-based index positioning applications. It features encoder or pulse train input, allowing configured closed loop control for speed regulation, basic position control, or other pulse inputs for motor control. Power ratings range from 0.4-11 kW in voltage classes of 240, 480, and 600 V.

Original Press Release:

New Component Class AC Drive from Rockwell Automation Provides Closed Loop Control and Category 3 Safe-off Functionality

Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40P AC drive provides embedded control and Category 3 safety protection in a cost-effective compact design

MILWAUKEE, May 22, 2006 - OEMs and end users who require space savings and easy-to-use AC drives that can provide application flexibility, basic positioning and Category 3 Safe-off, have a new cost-effective option with the introduction of the
Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40P AC drive from Rockwell Automation.

The PowerFlex 40P AC drive features encoder or pulse train input, allowing configured closed loop control for improved speed regulation, basic position control, or other pulse inputs for motor control. "The PowerFlex 40P AC drive is an excellent solution for automation customers requiring basic or simple positioning," said Paul Nolden, program manager, Standard AC Drives, Rockwell Automation. With the use of the StepLogic function, the PowerFlex 40P AC drive can act as an independent position controller for simple time, digital input or communications-based index positioning applications, eliminating the need for a separate position controller. "The PowerFlex 40P drive reduces change-over time by allowing the drive to control the application position parameters," said Nolden.

The PowerFlex 40P drive also features an optional DriveGuard safety relay providing a certified solution that meets EN954-1, Category 3 (Safe-off and protection against restart). "This is the first drive in its class to offer a safety solution inside the product, reducing external hardware costs and simplifying wiring," said Nolden. "Safe-off allows the user to shut down a section of an application for maintenance, keeping the remaining sections running, without removing power to the drive and I/O." With the DriveGuard option, Category 3 Safe-off combines safety and productivity with zone control and cost savings by reducing components.

The PowerFlex 40P also includes specific features that expand the PowerFlex family's capabilities for the textile and fibers industry. "With specific features like P-Jump, traverse, speed ratio over communications and Common Bus configuration, and output frequency up to 500Hz, the PowerFlex 40P AC drive is a perfect solution for low-cost fiber and textile applications," said Nolden. The PowerFlex 40P drive also comes in a plate drive version that reduces the cabinet size by allowing the drive to be mounted to an external heatsink.

PowerFlex 40P AC drives are cost-effective alternatives for speed control or basic positioning of applications such as diverters, smart conveyors, packaging machines, palletizers and drafting machines, as well as fibers spinning applications such as ring spinning machines and synthetic fiber spinning machines.

The drive, available globally, is available in power ratings from 0.4 to 11 kW (0.5 to 15 HP) and in voltage classes of 240, 480 and 600 volts. The drive can also be purchased through the Rockwell Automation Essential Components Catalog, which can be requested at www.rockwellautomation.com/components.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 21,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
For more information on the PowerFlex 40P drive please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, (800) 223-5354, ext. 1902.

All reader inquiries should be directed to the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, (800) 223-5354, ext. 1902.

Allen-Bradley, PowerFlex, DriveGuard and StepLogic are trademarks of Rockwell Automation Inc.

Media contacts:
Kristin Stelling
Rockwell Automation
(262) 512-7132
kmstelling@ra.rockwell.com

www.rockwellautomation.com