Electrical solutions specialist Magnet Electrical – a subsidiary of Magnet Group – has extended its range of automation solutions with the addition of automation systems company Schneider Electric’s new Altivar ATV320 variable-speed drives (VSDs).

“This system, which improves a machine’s performance in diverse applications, has also been developed to optimise design and engineering costs for original-equipment manufacturers,” says Magnet’s Schneider product specialist Shalendra Barath.

Schneider’s Altivar machine range of VSDs – launched in May last year – meets “simple and advanced” application requirements for three-phase synchronous and asynchronous motors from 0.18 kW to 15 kW.

The Altivar ATV320 VSD – which combines safety, reliability and simplicity – is used for building more effective machines with greater reliability, at optimised costs.

“These drives provide continuous machine operation, even in harsh environments with elevated ambient temperature levels, dust, electrical interruptions and mechanical disturbances,” Barath explains, adding that the Altivar ATV320 complies with Chemical Environment 3C3 and Mechanical 3S2 drive standards.

The ATV320 can be used in packaging, materials handling, textile, material working, mechanical actuators and hoisting applications, and has the option of a compact and book design, which reduces the panel size and capital expenditure. The drive also has the added benefit of a guard door locking device included.

“Schneider drives also maximise machine operating time because production changes, maintenance, safety diagnostics and network configuration, as well as system integration, are accomplished quickly.”

Altivar ATV320 drives meet various machine throughput requirements, Barath adds, explaining that requirements include open-loop motor control with dynamic accuracy for start and stop applications and torque sensitive operations, even at low speed.

Closed-loop motor control, however, is offered for applications requiring velocity- sensitive operations or precise positioning. This system offers advanced connectivity with automation architecture through all common fieldbuses – even in real time – with fast-task cycle times.

The Altivar range was designed and tested at Magnet’s research and development centre in Pacy-sur-Eure, France, for easy integration with various machine layouts. The range reduces total machine costs during installation and throughout the life cycle of the machine.

“For simplified installation, book form factors and compact form factors reduce the machine footprint and allow for efficient space use, such as whether the machine is mounted in a frame or installed in an electrical cabinet,” Barath adds.

Fewer additional devices are needed to manage the machine safely and repeated sequential movements are managed within the drive.

Printed circuit boards are Class 3C3, coated in accordance with the open international standard for programmable logic controllers IEC 61721-3-3 to protect against corrosion in harsh environments. The drive maintains a thermal state, allowing for uninterrupted operation with ambient temperatures up to 60 ºC.

“Magnet supports the Altivar ATV320 range with a technical advisory and installation service throughout Southern Africa,” Barath concludes.