New regenerative power modules for frequency inverter range

Machines place specific demands regarding motors and generators on the drives used with them. The braking energy can either be thermally converted by means of resistors or returned to the power supply network via regenerative units. Regeneration of energy saves costs normally incurred for additional cooling, heat removal and braking choppers. It also means that less installation space is required. Savings in the planning of braking resistors and commutating reactors and in the area of energy consumption are made as well. The Sinamics G120 inverter series now has regenerative power modules in the form of the PM250 and the PM260.

With a nominal voltage of 400V, the PM250 in frame sizes C to F handles outputs from 5.5 to 75kW. The power module can also be used for STO, SS1, SLS and SBC safety applications. The PM260 for supply voltages of 690V is available in frame size D for 15kW with or without a Class A input filter. The integrated LC output filter ensures a clean sinusoidal current at the inverter output and enables cable lengths of up to 300m. The output filter allows the bearing currents to be lower which reduces wear on the motor and can be used with less winding insulation. The standard switch frequency of 16kHz ensures low-noise operation with a high level of efficiency and low heat generation.

Another characteristic of the PM260 is its innovative SiC semiconductor technology. It ensures that, although having the same power output, the inverter is more compact than comparable standard converters with an optional LC filter. Moreover, the PM260 Power Module can be used for STO, SS1, SLS and SBC safety applications.

Its innovative method of power regeneration is characterised by low harmonics, input currents and wiring cross-sections. As regenerative power modules, the PM250 and the PM260 can be combined with the control units within the Sinamics G120 inverter series and feature all the usual methods of open and closed-loop control as well as vector control, voltage-frequency control and Flux Current Control (FCC). In addition to the RS232 and RS485 serial interfaces, communication is possible via Profibus with Profidrive 4.0. Parameterisation is carried out using the Basic Operator Panel (BOP) or the "Starter" parameterising software. The required parameters can be loaded quickly and easily via a Micro Memory Card (MMC) or the BOP (cloning).

Further information is available at www.siemens.com/sinamics-g120