Parker, the global provider of motion and control technologies, has extended the range of its variable frequency AC10 Compact Drive up to a power rating of 22 kW. With output power ratings which now range from 0.2 to 22 kW, the AC10 is “ideal for deployment in everyday motor applications and is now also suitable for customers who are looking to specify a compact yet feature rich drive in heavy duty applications.”

Any industrial designer seeking simple induction motor control with a high performing drive that is both compact and cost effective “should look no further than the AC10” according to Parker. Aside from the extended power rating, other newly introduced functionality includes PMAC (permanent magnet AC) control, fire mode and ‘fly catcher’ – a feature that recognises and matches the motor’s frequency upon start (this avoids the generation of EMF created by the motor on a fan or a pump turning without power after switching off).

“Customers can be forgiven for thinking that the AC10 possess qualities usually only associated with higher cost drives. The design enhancements follow closely on the heels of a recent upgrade that saw the introduction of an IP66/NEMA 4x rated enclosure for protection against the ingress of dust and water. This particular development makes the drive even more attractive to machine builders faced with designing systems for challenging operating environments.”

The company adds: “ultimately, the AC10 provides a no-fuss approach to general purpose industrial motor control applications across a wide range of industries, giving users the inherent energy-saving benefits associated with variable speed drives, as well as the improved reliability and extended service life advantages that come with smoother starting and stopping of regularly cycling loads. Among other features typically only found on higher specification drives, the Parker AC10 range provides sensor-less vector mode, three-phase 400 V supplies in all frame sizes, and a full 150% overload for 1 minute. In addition, the compact drive is designed to cut the time and effort needed to install, set-up and commission using its integrated keypad.”