New Decentralised Motor Control System from Eaton

The Rapid Link 4.0 range includes direct-on-line and reversing motor starters with electronic motor protection for 0.3-3kW and variable speed drives with four ratings up to 2.2kW. All models in the range have the same fixing arrangements and dimensions, which greatly simplifies both plant design and equipment installation. In addition, the standardised design means that fitting a variable speed drive unit in place of a direct-on-line starter – or vice-versa – is a straightforward task, allowing changes in user requirements to be accommodated readily and inexpensively.

The compact square housings used by Rapid Link 4.0 allows power and motor cables to enter from either side or from the bottom, and the unit to be rotated on the same fixing holes which means that the units can always be mounted in the most convenient position and orientation.

All units in the range have the option of a lockable switch disconnector, giving fast and safe isolation from the electrical power source. A further option, available for variable speed drive models, is an integrated brake chopper which eliminates the need for the installation of additional modules should breaking of the motor be required.

Motor starter units in the Rapid Link 4.0 range incorporate electronic control, enabling them to achieve an exceptional life of 10 million operating cycles at 3kW. The units are suitable for duty cycles of up to 3,000 starts per hour, and can be used at temperatures up to 55ºC without de-rating.

The variable speed drive units in the range are available with ratings of 0.75, 1.1, 1.5 and 2.2kW, and all models can be set by the user to operate in either Voltage Frequency control or Speed Control mode. The units incorporate a quick-stop function and with its onboard intelligence it can be programmed with cyclical sequences, reducing the processing needed by the PLC.

Rapid Link 4.0 motor control units from Eaton’s Electrical Sector incorporate the latest AS-I 3.0 protocol, which provides a wide range of communication options between the PLC and the units. In addition to standard control functions, these options include transmission of diagnostic information such as motor current as well the transfer of operating parameters and set frequencies.