Siemens introduces Sinamics S220 drive system

Siemens has introduced the Sinamics S220 drive system for industrial applications. Built on the Sinamics S120 platform, the system includes the new CU320-3 control unit and is part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio. It is designed to support simulation, analysis and connectivity features for integration into digital workflows and to improve system performance in production environments.

Multi-axis control unit CU320-3

The Sinamics S220 system is built around the new CU320-3 control unit. It can operate up to 12 axes on a single control unit, allowing higher integration in multi-axis drive systems.

A built-in multicore processor provides computing capacity, while the Drive-Cliq-Express interface supports data transfer at 1 Gbit/s. A test pulse method using three voltage sensors per axis enables sensorless control intended to approach encoder-level performance while also supporting energy efficiency and system robustness.

Digitalization and engineering workflow

The Sinamics S220 was developed for digital industrial environments. Its field data capabilities support data collection for Industry 4.0 applications, and the X128 interface enables high-frequency data transmission for functions such as predictive maintenance.

The system integrates with the TIA Portal and supports virtual commissioning through DriveSim Designer. New assistants and an undo function are intended to simplify engineering tasks. The Smart Drive Interface is available either as a compact panel on the CU320-3 or as a remote version, SDI Pro, with a larger display and web server. A Smart WiFi adapter is also available for remote access.

Flexibility and scalability

The Sinamics S220 is available in a range of configurations for industrial applications. At launch, air-cooled motor modules in book-size and chassis formats are offered for 3AC 380 to 480 V systems. Rated current ranges from 3 A, or 1.1 kW, to 1,518 A, or 900 kW, and the system can be expanded through up to eight parallel connections.

For power supply, regenerative active infeeds from 210 kW to 921 kW are available and can also be scaled through parallel connection. Siemens is also introducing air-cooled universal modules that can operate as motor modules or active line modules. Six devices cover the available functional and performance range for spare parts needs and changing application requirements.

Safety and cybersecurity

The Sinamics S220 includes an updated safety architecture that reduces the safety cycle from 12 ms to 4 ms. This allows faster response times in safety-related functions. Automatic background tests are designed to support continued operation, and offline-parameterizable safety functions are intended to simplify engineering.

The drive is SIL 3 certified for all operating states and was developed using a secure development process based on IEC 62443-4-1. Integrated security functions include user and access control, encrypted drive data and integrity and authentication checks for firmware and configuration data. Together with other machine-level measures, these functions are intended to improve resilience against cybersecurity risks.

Sustainability and trade show display

Siemens describes the Sinamics S220 as a drive system that combines compact design with environmental performance considerations. The smaller footprint can help reduce required floor space, while Industrial Edge applications allow users to capture and visualize energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. An ISO 14021-certified environmental product declaration documents the product’s environmental performance across its lifecycle.

The Sinamics S220 drive system will be demonstrated at the Automate trade show in Chicago from June 22-25, 2026, at Booth 1214.

For more information, visit siemens.com.