A new range of compact servo-drives has been launched by Control Techniques targeting the general machinery automation market.
The Digitax ST range comprises four models – Base, Indexer, EZ Motion and Plus. The drives are compatible with Control Techniques’ range of click-in function and communication modules, which allow them to be easily customised without special tools. The target applications for this range are servo applications requiring high peak torque, high dynamic response, fast installation and start-up, and ease of integration.
The ST BASE model is designed to operate with a motion controller (or PLC or PC), connected using either digital communications such as SERCOS and EtherCAT or analogue signals. The unit can be configured using the optional keypad, SmartCard or CTSoft – an intuitive drive configuration tool that is included with every drive. Typical applications include packaging, pick-and-place, gluing machines, material handling, X-Y tables and profiling machines.
The ST INDEXER is designed for simple standalone applications using its onboard motion controller to perform accurate, high speed point-to-point positioning. The Indexer is particularly easy to set up using the sequential function chart (SFC) graphical programming language defined by the IEC 61131-3 standard. Typical applications include indexing tables, fast conveyor positioning, cut-to-length lines, punching or dispensing machines and transfer units.
The ST EZ Motion unit utilises the PowerTools Pro PC programming software to guide the user through the drive, I/O and motion configuration for indexing and synchronised motor applications. High level software features help reduce development time. Motion configurations such as travel limits, queuing and gearing are easily accomplished using easy to complete forms and drag-and-drop functionality. Users can quickly and easily achieve a precision servo solution for indexing tables, pick-and-place, packaging, high-speed labelling machines, dancer arm loop control and rotary knife control.
The top of the range Digitax ST PLUS features a full functionality motion controller optimised for high performance machine cells which require drive-to-drive networking, cam profiling or synchronised motion (including virtual master). The on-board drive-to-drive networking links multiple axes and allows close integration with devices such as HMIs, PCs, I/O and other drives in the system.
Using SyPT Pro software, the drive’s advanced motion features are configured in a flexible IEC6113-3 style development environment using PLCopen motion function blocks. SyPT Pro can protect designers’ intellectual property by preventing end-users from accessing the source code.
The ST PLUS is the choice for applications such as printing and packaging machines, synchronising conveyors, flying shear or rotary knife cutting and winder traverse for textile and cable machines.
All four models are geared towards saving development time, offer easy-to-use supporting software and a wide range of option modules. The latter include modules for connectivity to industry-standard fieldbus networks and Ethernet systems, feedback from a wide range of encoders, resolvers and additional I/O extensions. A total of 23 option modules are currently available and this number will grow as new technologies enter the automation market.
Innovative mechanical design reduces installation time with quick attachment to DIN rail systems, a sturdy cable management system and pluggable control terminals which enable looms to be easily prepared and wiring time reduced.
Automatic motor set-up, Autotune and SmartCards that can safely store drive parameters and motion programming also contribute to reduced commissioning time.
Digitax ST operates successfully with all makes and types of AC servomotors, including linear motors, and with almost any type of feedback device. All four units are matched to Control Techniques’ Unimotor FM (Flexible Motor) servomotors. This is a unified 200/400 V range spanning powers from 0,75 to 73,2 Nm. The motors have IP65 protection, a wide range of shaft variants and flange dimensions including IEC and Nema configurations, a choice of feedback options and other factory fitted options which include integral brakes and servo-gearboxes.
For more information contact Bill Tedd, Control Techniques Southern Africa, +27 (0)11 462 1740, [email protected], www.controltechniques.com
| Tel: | +27 11 462 1740 |
| Fax: | +27 11 462 1941 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.nidecautomation.com |
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