Posted to News on 27th May 2009, 14:24
Drive Solution Designer tool helps to save energy
Approximately one-third of all electricity generated in the UK is consumed by industrial electric motors. Often associated with the motor are other components that influence the energy used; for example, a complete drive assembly can consist of an electric drive, a motor, gearbox and mechanical components such as belts and pulleys. New dimensioning software from Lenze identifies the energy used throughout the drive train and provides the information necessary to reduce it. At the end of the process, an energy certificate records the predicted costs and the CO2 equivalent.
The Drive Solution Designer (DSD) software is an expert tool that enables the complete drive system to be optimised. It is based on 17 real-life applications such as conveyors, hoists, fans, pumps and wheeled trolleys. Each element in the drive train, such as the motor and the gearbox, can be changed from a list of mechanically possible alternatives. Results can be compared side by side in terms of performance and costs.
DSD presents the energy consumption and relevant costs for each element as well as the total for the whole drive. Costs are based on an input value for a kW.h and the time period to be considered, which is usually one year. The equivalent figure for CO2 generated is also displayed. By using this process it is easy to compare the results from different drive components, and optimise the system to achieve a satisfactory payback period. The program can even look at the effects of adding energy-saving components such as a mains regeneration unit.
One of the outputs of the DSD tool is an Energy Certificate that is specific to the application. This can be used as evidence for claiming tax benefits and is valuable documentation to help the sale of machinery. Customer support for the DSD dimensioning software is readily available from Lenze's engineers. Follow the link for more information about Drive Solution Designer.
