2013 Product of the Year finalists: Electric Motors & Drives

Explosion-proof VFDs

The ACE Series of explosion-proof variable frequency drives (VFDs) feature a NEMA 7 enclosure with patent pending active cooling technology, allowing a traditional VFD to be housed inside the classified enclosure without the risk of overheating. The ACE Series are rated Class I, Divisions 1 and 2 for use in the most extreme hazardous environments, and the VFDs are designed to match the high requirements of pumps, compressors, fans, separators, and mixers in multiple process industries. ACE explosion-proof VFDs can be installed inside hazardous areas right next to the operation, eliminating expensive, complicated installations.

Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds Business
www.cooperindustries.com 

Explosion-proof motors

The XRI Series of severe duty NEMA premium explosion-proof motors feature Marathon Motors’ bearing current protection (BCP) system and provide maximum energy savings potential when used with VFDs. The XRI Series motors are UL listed and CSA certified for use in virtually any process application. The cast iron construction, epoxy interior and exterior paint, Max Guard insulation system, precision balance, and thermostats are other key features of the motor series.

Marathon Motors
www.marathonelectric.com 

Integrated servo drive, servo motor

The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5500 servo drive joins the Kinetix 350 and Kinetix 6500 drives to provide users with more options to match motion control needs. Integration motion control on EtherNet/IP eliminates the need for a dedicated motion network, reducing cabling by up to 60% and removing the need to create gateways to get information to or from secluded networks. Additionally, the Kinetix VP low-inertia motors’ winding technology and DSL encoder, connected with the smart-cable technology, allow power transmission and feedback communication to and from the Kinetix 5500 drive to take place on a single cable.

Rockwell Automation
www.rockwellautomation.com 

Compact ac drive

The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 ac drive helps machine builders and end users simplify equipment design and operation and speed installation and configuration. The drive features a modular design in power ranges from 0.5 to 30 hp or 0.4 to 22 kW at 100 to 600 V input. Its embedded EtherNet/IP, safety, USB programming, energy savings, and a variety of motor control options are ideal for machine-level and stand-alone applications or simple system integration. Suitable for a wide range of applications, including conveyors, material handling, compressors, fans, and pumps, the PowerFlex 525 provides a variety of motor control options to accommodate open- and closed-loop applications.

Rockwell Automation
www.rockwellautomation.com 

Stand-alone servo drive

Lexium 32i is an integrated stand-alone servo drive for machine and plant engineering. The drive combines the Lexium 32 servo controller and the Lexium BMH servo motor in a single unit. The Lexium 32i is installed directly in the machine as opposed to the control cabinet, reducing the installation effort and eliminating the need for shielded motor cables. The compact Lexium 32i is based on a strictly modular design which allows for the configuration of numerous individual drive versions with just a few components. Benefits include increased flexibility, simplified engineering, less wiring, and reduced energy costs.

Schneider Electric
www.schneider-electric.com 

Geared motors

The Simogear geared motor series features helical, parallel shaft, and helical bevel gear unit types with integral high-efficient and NEMA Premium-efficient motors. The series is especially well equipped to meet the requirements of modern conveyor systems, including those found in warehousing, logistics and distribution, airport handling, automotive manufacturing, food and beverage, and metals processing. The Simogear two-stage helical bevel unit, with a mechanical efficiency of up to 96%, averages 2% higher efficiency than competitive three-stage units. It is available in a wide range of rations, so it is ideal for replacing inefficient worm and spiroid units commonly found in conveying applications.

Siemens Industry Inc.
www.usa.siemens.com 

Single-axis compact drive

The Sinamics V20 is a single-axis drive for basic applications that features short commissioning times, easy operation, and excellent cost and energy benefits. The drive is available in four frame sizes that cover the performance range from 1/6 to 20 hp and is used to operate pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyor systems. The Sinamics V20 can be connected directly in-line and mounted as a push-through installation in addition to the conventional wall-mounting method. The integrated basic operator panel enables trouble-free on-site commissioning and operation. The Sinamics V20 features an electrically and mechanically rugged design, making the drive ideal for harsh environments.

Siemens Industry Inc.
www.usa.siemens.com 

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