One of its highlights is ‘safe brake management’, which consists of Safe Brake Control (SBC) and Safe Brake Test (SBT) with test cycle monitoring.“This enables the drive controller to fulfil the requirements of the soon to be released EN 16090-1 and is based on a publication of the German Social Accident Insurance (Deutsche Gesetzliche Unfallversicherung, or DGUV)”, explains Stober’s drive controller accessories product manager, Markus Frei. “The DGUV trade publication forms the basis for the draft standard DIN EN ISO 16090-1:2016-02, where the topic of protecting vertical axes is described in a standard for the first time.”
In addition to the Safe Torque Off (STO), Safe Stop 1 (SS1) and Safe Stop 2 (SS2) stop functions, SE6 also enables functions for safe movement and safe motion monitoring. The Safely Limited Speed (SLS) and Safe Speed Range (SSR) functions ensure that the drive does not exceed the configured velocity limit values.
Safe Direction (SDI) monitors the configured direction of motion, and Safely Limited Increment (SLI) limits the increment reliably. Safe Operating Stop (SOS) monitors an active stop.
The issue of real-world suitability took priority during development together with Pilz-Safe Automation and as a result, all safety functions can be used up to SIL 3, PL e (category 4).
Meanwhile, Control Techniques has revived the Commander name and green colour for a new family of general-purpose variable-speed drives (VSDs).
The Commander C200 and C300 drives will span ratings from 0.25-132kW and are claimed to have among the smallest footprints in their class, making them attractive to machine-builders and OEMs.
These drives – the sixth generation – will replace CT’s earlier Unidrive M200 and M300 VSDs and are based on the same technology platform as the Unidrive M. They include V/Hz, open-loop vector and enhanced open-loop rotor flux control modes, and have built-in anticondensation motor heater functions.
The Commander C200 version is aimed at general applications, and includes functions designed to make setup and installation as easy as possible. Commander C300 adds a dual Safe Torque Off (STO) input for applications requiring safety. It complies with SIL 3/Pl e.
Both models have on-board Codesys-based PLCs which comply with IEC 61131-3, avoiding the need for an external controller and saving on cost and space when installing the drives in a system or cabinet. They are compatible with CT’s plug-in option modules, which include support for Profinet, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, EtherCat, DeviceNet and CANopen communications.
There are two built-in autotune procedures to simplify set-ups, and all of the parameters needed to set up around 80% of general-purpose applications are shown on the front of the drive, avoiding the need to refer to a manual.
