Lenze extends motion controller platform for decentralised control cabinets
In modern machines there is an emerging trend for more flexible modes of production: machines are increasingly becoming modular. Suiting decentralised control cabinets, Lenze has upgraded its 3200C controller platform. The performance of the new DIN rail mounted motion control units has been boosted with new processors. Up to double the processing speed means more computing power for the control of more co-ordinated axes, for example robot cells. Because the new controllers use less current than before, heat losses are minimal so the control cabinets can be made without expensive cooling systems.
The 3200C platform is a range of controllers for PLC logic, motion and visualisation. Dimensions are compact suiting DIN rail mounting and I/O modules are available to plug directly to the side. The upgraded Intel® Atom™ processors run at a frequency of 1.91 GHz allowing faster processing of more complex motion systems. However the extra performance comes without any increase in costs.
Interfaces are available for EtherCAT, PROFINET, PROFIBUS and CANopen using standardised software to IEC 61131-3, PLCopen and Lenze PLC Designer based on CoDeSys 3. An internal UPS where retain variables are stored in the buffer memory requires no maintenance.
To take advantage of modularisation, machine designers need to utilise independent and standardised control panels. Small size is important and here both the compact dimensions and the construction without cooling fans of the 3200C range come into play. As the heat generated is minimal, cabinet cooling systems may not be required, saving on size and cost. A matching drive range for synchronous and asynchronous motors, the Lenze i700, is also available suiting multi-axis applications without requiring a cooling fan. If heat is not generated, it does not have to be dissipated. This is an advantage that significantly reduces costs. Furthermore the absence of cooling fans, and no batteries for the 3200C controllers, means no maintenance is required.
