WEG previews a new generation of drives

The Brazilian motor-maker WEG used the recent SPS/IPC/Drives show to preview a new generation of inverters, before their full launch later this year. The CFW-11 inverters will initially span ratings from 0.75-45kW, but there are plans to expand the family up to 1.6MW.

The drives will offer a choice of closed- or open-loop vector, voltage vector, or V/f control. They incorporate a patented "optimal flux" feature, designed to minimise motor losses.

The drives include four "plug-and-play" expansion slots which automatically recognise accessories such as I/O, encoder and communications modules, and configure the drive appropriately. Planned comms modules include CAN, Profibus DP, DeviceNet, Ethernet/IP and Anybus.

Another option is an IEC 61131-3-compliant PLC module which avoids the need for an external PLC. The module will include analogue and digital I/O as well as two encoder interfaces, and can act as an electronic gearbox.

DC link inductors connected symmetrically to the DC link terminals will ensure compliance with the IEC 61000-3-12 harmonics standard without needing external reactances.

More details on the WEG drives will be revealed when they arrive in the UK in a few months` time.