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Rexroth enters off-the-shelf drives market
Published:  11 June, 2013

Bosch Rexroth is entering the market for off-the-shelf variable frequency drives for the first time in the UK, with a range of general-purpose drives with initial ratings from 370W–4kW. Until now, the company has specialised in supplying tailored drive systems.

The new drives will be available from the online distributor, The Inverter Drive Supermarket, based in Gloucestershire.

“The new EFC 3600 series marks the first time that we have entered into the low-cost, high-volume drives and controls market,” says Bosch Rexroth automation specialist, Paul Streatfield. “This has been made possible by advances in technology, which mean that we can now provide intelligent drives that can be adapted for a wide range of applications.

“Our experiences at the higher end of the market have helped us create a series of variable frequency drives that, as well as reducing energy usage and prolonging operational efficiency, are quick and easy to install,” he adds. “All of this comes with the added reassurance of being a Rexroth product, meaning they can be considered highly reliable and able to deliver optimal functionality as standard.”

The new drives incorporate PID (proportional integral derivative) control and an eight-step sequence control system. They have an intermittent overload capacity of up to 200%, as well as being able to deliver up to 150% of initial torque, allowing them to be used for both heavy-duty and energy-saving applications. They have integrated brake choppers and mains filters, reducing the need for additional components.

The drives can be mounted side-by-side without needing gaps between them. Versions up to 750W do not need fans, while those above 1.5kW have built-in fans that can be accessed easily, without tools, for cleaning or replacement.

Rexroth's EFC 3600 drives are available off-the-shelf

A simple programming structure with easy parameter inputs allows quick commissioning without needing a PC. A removable control panel with a memory and copy function lets users configure multiple drives quickly.

Optional interfaces are available for Profibus and Modbus. The drives have plug-in terminals for digital and analogue I/O.

The EFC 300 range complements Rexroth’s existing Fe and Fv frequency converters, which are available in ratings up to 90kW.