Centraction selects IP65 sensorless vector drives

Lenze SMV sensorless vector frequency inverters have improved performance and reduced costs on centrally installed vacuum cleaner systems that are used on commercial premises. The inverters change the pump speed according to the load, thereby saving energy, particularly when loads are low. In addition, the IP65 enclosure of the SMV meant that no panel was needed, which reduced the costs of the installation.

Centraction's centralised industrial vacuum cleaner systems comprise a suction unit, cyclone separator, controls and a drive; a ducting system connects the centralised suction unit to distributed vacuum points. Such systems are used in hotels, offices, public buildings and ships. Lenze's office in Sweden was asked to offer alternative drives for motors up to 13.5kW that could respond rapidly to changing loads, and also pick up motors that are already spinning, which is something the previous non-vector drive struggled to cope with.

The Lenze SMV inverter is a sensorless vector drive and had no problem in responding quickly to demand signals. Control was performed in an interesting and cost-effective way: the integrated PID function in the inverter, with a 0-10V input, was linked to the analogue output that gives a 0-10V signal proportional to the load. This elegant concept meant that no external sensor was required for feedback to the PID control function, thereby saving money for Centraction.

In addition, the SMV benefited from an IP65 ingress protection rating. This means that, unlike the previous IP20-rated drive employed on the application, it does not require a separate control enclosure in the majority of environments in which the vacuum cleaners are used. The ability of the drive to offer its own built-in protection against dust, dirt, debris, atmospheric moisture and low-pressure water jets means that the SMV achieves cost reductions for the manufacturer. These come from savings on the enclosure itself, and on the cost of wiring and installation time.

Lenze SMV inverters are available to suit motors from 0.2kW up to 22kW. Even the larger sizes have full IP65 protection from dust and low-pressure water jets. The vector design gives fast response, impressive low-speed operation and comes with sophisticated auto-tuning. Options include a lockable isolator to aid maintenance, and a face-mounted speed potentiometer.

Follow the link for more information about the Lenze IP65 SMV sensorless vector frequency inverters.