AC motor drives are standard in many facilities for automating machine use. Ideally, the motor drive you select to replace older models must handle loads and make your facility more energy-efficient. Consider focusing selection efforts on the following criteria.
1. Load Capability
Before you consider drives at all, you need to examine your current machine workload to determine what's necessary. If each machine operates at maximum speed and power, you need an AC motor drive that won't fail in those conditions. In fact, this may have been the reason your last motor drive actually failed. Looking at machine FLA (Full Load Amp) plates and researching peak currents will result in a drive decision that ensures good function.
2. Speed Control
Having a motor drive that allows you to control speeds both in person and remotely can be critical. When motors need to be slowed to facilitate better functioning of the entire system, being able to do that rapidly prevents delays and problems with other system components.
3. Safety Features
Whether a drive has its own safety features or permits you to program simple executions to catch certain flags, you need to know each product's safety features and abilities during the shopping phase. It could be, for instance, that the drive automatically detects current changes or a distinct function that prevents overload.
4. Heat-Saving Measures
Industrial machines and equipment tend to generate constant heat, often at high temperatures. Your motor drive needs to offer some protection for itself and the machines; many models automatically shut down at a specific heat level. Oversize or bigger drives should also be considered to be able to better handle the regular temperatures of your facility.
5. User-Friendliness
Many drive models feature keypads, programmable components and other features that are good for particular applications. However, you need to clearly understand what's necessary for your own workplace. In fact, you must be especially certain that all the new tech features and options won't confuse the workers on the floor who will be working with the AC motor drive. Before purchase, it's wise to have some workers try out a motor drive you're considering. It must be easily workable and somewhat familiar to them unless a manufacturer will be training people how to maximize use of the machine. If it's not user-friendly, you may indeed need to continue the drive search.
Your drive will have an important job in the facility. For that reason, these things to consider are key when purchasing one. Contact businesses like Automated PT for more information.