Lenze sells microdrive via the Web

Lenze is to start selling small, low-end inverters via the Internet. It is entering the on-line sales market with a microdrive for controlling the speed of three-phase AC motors, made by its US subsidiary, AC Tech.

Lenze plans to sell the 0.25-2.2kW, 184-260V, inverters - called smd (smart micro drive) - for between £112 and £206. A 0.75kW version will cost £136.

The drive has a built-in RFI filter, eliminating the need for extra parts. A unique feature is a tiny memory module that holds all of the inverter`s settings, allowing it to be programmed remotely and for settings to be transferred easily from one drive to another.

The inverter can deliver 150% overload torque and offers slip compensation and voltage boost for enhanced dynamic performance.

The smd drive is similar - but not identical - to AC Tech`s SCN series. One difference is that the software controls are set up in line with Lenze`s other drives products.

AC Tech has just appointed a second UK distributor, Heat & Combustion Supplies, to sell its version of the drive in Wales and south-west England. AC Tech`s first UK distributor was Exico.