Lenze (www.lenze.com) has optimized its latest decentralized 8400 motec frequency inverter drives to allow plug-and-drive communication through real-time Ethernet networks.

The EtherCAT and PROFINET plug-in interfaces allow users to seamlessly integrate the all-new 8400 motec frequency inverter drives into current, high performing communication networks.

Aside from being power dense, the company’s 8400 motec drives are also energy efficient in controlling motion at the source. Featuring a robust mechatronic unit, the drives deliver excellent plant flexibility, making them ideally suited for use in applications found in plants covering large areas, such as in decentralized drive solutions within the power range of between 0.37 kW and 3 kW.

In addition, the 8400 motec inverter drives also feature a sophisticated design structure that comprises three modules, a communication unit, wiring unit and drive unit. The drive’s IP 65 protection rating and compact size allow users to screw mount it near the motor or outside the control panel directly. This effectively enables space savings and quick commissioning within the control cabinet.

Unlike conventional bus systems, which feature one data bundle for every separate node, Lenze’s 8400 motec frequency inverter drives eliminate the need for added hardware as well as an “interpreter” among various protocols. The integration of direct I/O connections to EtherCAT and PROFINET to the communication unit made the process of adding decentralized Lenze drives in the control system more simple.