Lenze expands its 3200 C controller program with double the performance

Photo by Lenze SE

In modern mechanical engineering, there is an emerging trend that is currently experiencing a considerable boost due to the rising demand for more flexible modes of production: machines are increasingly becoming modular. However, anyone who want to modularise needs technology that can be used without it taking up too much space. In the end, it is only thanks to the decentralised control cabinet that a module really becomes independent. For this reason, Lenze has expanded its 3200 C controller platform. The performance of the new motion control units for DIN rails has been boosted thanks to their new processors. Double the performance means more computing power for the control of more coordinated axes – for robot cells, for example. Because the new controllers also literally keep a cool head – i.e. result in reduced heat losses, control cabinets can be made without fans or expensive air-conditioning devices.

The advantages of modularisation can only be exploited if the control functions of a machine are distributed to the individual modules and encapsulated in their own control cabinet. A module should be independent and standardised and be capable of being combined with any number of other modules. In mechanical engineering, every increase in modularity unavoidably results in fewer central control cabinets. After all, what use are compact and high-performance handling and manufacturing modules if the production hall is later packed out with rows of elaborate control cabinets? What is needed are slimline housings that contain automation technology and are not only small but also provide sufficient performance without air-conditioning or fans. With precisely these requirements in mind, Lenze has now extended its 3200 C controller program. The automation specialist is thus bringing controllers to the market that support the consistent modularisation of machines and can be used to automate even complex machine modules such as robot cells.

Air conditioners in control cabinets cost money – initially when they are purchased and later when it comes to the operating costs. What is hardly noticeable when central control cabinet solutions are being costed looks much less attractive when independent machine modules are being planned due to the increasing quantities. The new controllers from Lenze are so efficient when it comes to controlling complex motion functions that there is very little power loss. The 3200 C controllers work without active fan-based cooling and are thus maintenance-free and very robust at the same time. In view of all this, the specialist in Motion Centric Automation has also designed the i700 servo inverters for multi-axis applications without a fan. If heat is not generated, it does not have to be dissipated. This is an advantage that signifcantly reduces costs. The result is a complete package that consists of an inverter and controller and does not require any maintenance.

For more information, please visit http://www.lenze.com.

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