Electrical switching & drive systems & components


Energy efficient conveyor drive units

Second quarter 2006 Electrical switching & drive systems & components

Nord's two stage helical bevel units, distributed exclusively throughout southern Africa by Bearing Man's electric and geared motors division, Power Drives, have recently been installed at major airports in South Africa. These drive systems are designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of baggage conveying systems within airline storage systems.

"Baggage handling equipment at international airports is designed to meet the excessive demands placed on it. We believe modular conveyor layouts are preferred as they bridge considerable distances between the check-in counters, departure/arrival gates and baggage claim areas," says Cliftin Bower, Nord product manager for Power Drives. "Nord's decentralised technology, which integrates mechanical drive components and electronics components into compact units, provides highly efficient and reliable customised drive solutions that reduce operative and service costs."

Nord's two stage helical bevel gear units are designed to replace inefficient conventional worm drives. As energy costs increase, it is recommended that volume users of mechanical drives, such as airport baggage handling systems, consider this new technology, as cost savings can be achieved without having to spend more on capital investment.

These drive systems, which ensure the efficiency of baggage conveying systems, can be automated and adapted to the specific installation space and exact requirements. Because of the modular design, these systems are easy to expand or upgrade and replacement components are readily available.

The Nordac decentralised drive systems consist of a two stage helical bevel geared motor and an SK 300E frequency inverter. This inverter is principally a modular frequency inverter as well. Several customer interface options are available which include Profibus, DeviceNet or CanBus. This means it is possible to integrate this equipment into an existing system, without having to purchase new PLC equipment. Nord SK 300 E drives comply with EMS standards and can be exposed to a wide temperature range. This range is resistant to emulsions and includes explosion-proof types for use in hazardous locations where inflammable substances are used.

Nord drives have been selected for their high level of reliability in demanding applications. The efficient Unicase design of these geared motors includes bearing seats that are integrated into a single piece gearcase and no sealing surfaces that can deflect under the effect of torque or radial forces. A complete range of Nord components and accessories is available at the Power Drives branch network of nearly 100 outlets. A technical advisory and support service is offered throughout southern Africa.

For more information contact Cliftin Bower, Bearing Man, +27 (0) 11 620 1613.





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