Drives have built-in ATEX thermistor input

The Finnish drives-maker Vacon has developed an ATEX-certified thermistor input that is integrated into a drive, thus simplifying the use of drives with Ex motors and minimising the need for cabling.

The usual approach to supervise the temperature of motors located in potentially hazardous areas, is to use a separate thermistor relay and contactor. Vacon`s integrated thermistor input, which was developed in response to a customer request, complies with ATEX 94/9/EC.

If the drive detects an over-temperature in the protected motor, is stops feeding power to the motor immediately, avoiding further heating of the machine.

The thermistor input is available for Vacon`s NXP drives rated from 0.75kW-5MW, 380-500 and 525-690V. The company emphasises that the input does not allow the drives to be placed in a hazardous environment.