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Eurocard-format servo drive offers versatile platform for high-performance machinery

* a 3:1 peak-to-continuous output current rating supports high-acceleration linear motors
* digital filtering allows OEMs to combat mechanical resonance, for higher productivity

October 12, 2004 --- Baldor has released a single-Eurocard drive for brushless AC servo motors, offering a compact and modular platform for building industrial motion control systems.

Capable of providing a 5Arms continuous output, the new EuroFlex servo amplifier incorporates advanced features to improve machinery performance. These include a peak output capability of three times continuous current - supporting the demands of high-acceleration linear motors - advanced control of the power stage using space vector modulation for higher motor speeds, and user-programmable digital filtering to combat mechanical resonances.

Operating from a 18-56VAC or 25-80VDC bus, EuroFlex is suited to low voltage applications such as those found in the medical and semiconductor processing sectors. Accepting a ±10V analogue command signal, it can be configured to operate in current or velocity mode. An additional step-and-direction interface makes the module an ideal upgrade for stepper motor based equipment that requires higher performance or closed-loop control.

The drive supports sinusoidal commutation with encoder feedback. By controlling the IGBT power amplification devices using space vector modulation instead of the more usual carrier-based pulse width modulation, EuroFlex allows users to run servo motors at typically 15% higher speeds with reduced switching losses and harmonics – which can translate directly into extra machine throughput.

An RS485 interface is provided for set-up and diagnostics. This communications port may be used for setting speed and current demands directly - rather than through the analogue input. In addition, EuroFlex supports a simple host communications protocol (HCP) that allows control and diagnostics from a host such as a Baldor Mint-compatible motion controller, PC or PLC. An RS232 port is optionally available.

The drive is configured using Baldor's free Windows-based software, Mint WorkBench, which provides auto-tuning capabilities and diagnostics. From this tool suite, designers can set up filtering functions built into the drive's DSP (digital signal processor), to implement custom notch and/or low-pass filters. This advanced functionality can combat problematic mechanical resonances in the machine's mechanics – supporting stiffer control for optimal dynamic response and enhanced productivity. The digital filtering may be configured and tested in minutes, using graphical dialogue screens and integrated test algorithms.

Another useful feature for OEMs is EuroFlex's ability to store up to four different axis gain settings, selectable via two binary inputs on the drive's DIN41612 connector. This makes it easy to swap drives in multi-axis systems, even where different gain terms are used on different axes. This feature simplifies equipment commissioning, and is especially useful for minimizing downtime during maintenance or repair.

EuroFlex is implemented on a 100x160mm single-Eurocard form factor. In conjunction with Baldor's compatible multi-axis motion controller, NextMove-ES, this provides OEMs with a flexible control solution for building 19-inch, 3U-high Eurorack systems.

Baldor offers a range of compatible rotary and linear motors for use with EuroFlex, and a similar packaged variation of the drive - MicroFlex - for OEMs building panel-mounted motion control systems.

For More Information:

Visit the EuroFlex product page

Contact Baldor