Invertek does a deal with Gefran and launches IP55 drive

The Welsh drives-maker Invertek has signed an agreement to supply Gefran SIEI with badged versions of some of its products. The company has also launched an IP55-protected drive which, it claims, is the smallest in its class.

The deal with Gefran SIEI fills a gap for HVAC and single-phase drives in the Italian-owned company`s range. Gefran tested a variety of alternatives before choosing Invertek`s Optidrive Plus 3GV (which it will sell as the Quix_GV) and the Optidrive E (to be sold as the Quix-GF). The agreement follows earlier badging deals between Invertek and other suppliers including Moeller, FKI, Focus Dynamics, TB Woods and SEW Eurodrive.

Invertek`s new IP55 Optidrive Plus 3GV drive (above) comes in two frame sizes with outputs from 0.37-4kW. It resists low-pressure water, dust, dirt and chemicals and has a 40°C rating for hot and humid applications. It is available in switched versions (with local power isolators, potentiometer speed contro,l and a forward/reverse switch) as well as unswitched versions.

Like other Invertek drives, the IP55 models can be commissioned and monitored wirelessly from a handheld PocketPC.

According to Rhydian Welson, Invertek`s sales director, the IP55 drive is a response to market research which revealed a widespread demand for a drive of this type. "The result is a class-leading low-power drive that is easy to use, offers high performance and excellent reliability," he says.

The 3GV models use a patented open-loop technology that determines continuously the key characteristics needed for motor control and can deliver 100% torque at 0Hz, without needing feedback devices.