All over the world, industrial end-users are demanding energy-efficient machines and equipment to significantly reduce operating cost and reduce their carbon footprint (CO₂ emissions).  By using demand oriented electromechanical energy, users are able to take vital steps in the right direction achieving those goals. Speed-controlled induction motors in variable speed pump drives for example can reduce electricity consumption by up to 80 percent in comparison to fixed-displacement drive applications. The EFC 3610 and EFC 5610 frequency converters from Rexroth address these potentials simply and economically. Scalable in performance and functionality features, the drives can be integrated into a wide range of automation environments with simple commissioning and open interfaces.

The intelligent frequency converters control speed as demanded, thus significantly reducing the energy consumption of pumps, compressors and fans. The frequency converters commonly known as variable frequency drives (VFD), AC drives or variable speed drives (VSD) can be integrated into many types of applications and machines as compact units for speed and torque control. Together with permanent magnet motors, the frequency converters increase energy efficiency and the adaptive pulse adjustment of the PWM frequency, minimizes motor noise at the same time. Integrated energy counters measure actual consumption and capture valuable information for the energy usage optimization of machines and systems.

Commissioning without a PC

With the integrated control panel, commissioning can be done easily without external programming devices or a PC. From there, the user can start auto-tuning and enter, change or backup parameters. With switchover options between parameter sets and integrated PID control to increase flexibility as well as extensive connectivity options like Multi-Ethernet interface option (Sercos, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, and Modbus/TCP), designated fieldbus options  (Profibus DP and CANopen) and additional I/O options, the devices are suitable for most machine applications.

The removable LED operator display panel shows all operating variables and has an integrated copy function. This accelerates the commissioning of several frequency converters with the same or similar parameter set and reduces the work required when exchanging equipment or in series production.

PC-based commissioning and diagnoses

The integrated mini-USB programming interface in conjunction with the free downloadable Rexroth IndraWorks Ds software tool, is used for easy commissioning via start-up wizard, monitoring and diagnoses or simple back-up, archive and restore parameters with any PC.

The drives have analog inputs and outputs, which can be configured as voltage or current interfaces. Digital inputs/outputs make simple direct coupling with a PLC possible. The assembly work required is significantly reduced by the integrated brake chopper and mains filter as well as time-saving installation technology using plug-in terminals and an attachment option on standard DIN rail.

Open interfaces for universal application

The EFC 3610/5610 frequency converters from Rexroth can be easily integrated into an automation network via Sercos, available through the optional Multi-Ethernet interface or other resident protocols like EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, and Modbus/TCP.  Modbus RTU interface is included as standard on the devices, other fieldbus options available are Profibus DP and CANopen. With the integrated sequence control with 16 levels, independent sequences can be parameterized. The protection function for pump operation and motor temperature monitoring protects the system during critical process conditions.

The new EFC3610 frequency converter series cover the power range from 0.4 to 22 kW or 0.5 to 30 hp, while the EFC5610 provides an expanded range up to 90 kW or 125 hp and safe torque off (STO). In addition to the freely definable V/f (V/Hz) operation, the EFC 5610 also offers vector control for an optimal torque curve. In heavy duty mode, the overload capacity can be maintained at up to 150 percent for 60 seconds. The high-torque EFC 5610 frequency converter also offers an optimal start torque of 200 percent at 0.5 Hz.