Modular servo family makes multi-axis easier

Lenze has developed a family of multi-axis servo drives and motors designed to be easy to program and install. The ECS family uses centralised power supplies to feed axis drives with ratings from 6-64A. The system is intended for use with machines containing 3-24 axes.

To simplify the process of configuring and commissioning, the system is pre-configured for applications such as speed and torque control, positioning, speed linking and co-ordinated multi-axis operation. These functions can be adapted using IEC 1131-3 languages.

The modular design minimises cabling and allows the power supplies and axis drives to be mounted side-by-side. Energy is exchanged dynamically via a DC bus link, saving energy when some of the drives are operating in a regenerative mode. The axis modules can survive overloads of 200-300%. Synchronised speed and torque setpoints are transferred via an integrated bus said to provide microsecond accuracy at cycle times of less than 1ms.

The drives are fitted with two CAN connectors, one of which can be connected to a motion controller such as a CNC, PLC or PC, while the other is used for peripherals such as I/O or HMIs. A third port position is available for other buses, such as Profibus or DeviceNet, or for modules such as keypads.

Options include safe standstill operation in accordance with EN 954-1 category 3, touch probe positioning and motor brake monitoring.

The matching MCS synchronous servo motors use a novel stator winding created by combining individual coils in a "single element pole" design. The compact machines are said to offer a significant increase in power density and low moments of inertia. The MCS motors offer peak torques from 2.4-190Nm in frames from 60-190mm square.