Feature

Reduce cabling by up to 80 percent with distributed servo drives

Reduced cabling requirements, smaller control cabinets, greater design freedom, lower machine complexity and higher overall equipment effectiveness are among the benefits of Kollmorgen's AKD-N distributed servo drives.

09/02/2014 14:18:40

Depending on the application, cable reductions of over 80 percent can be achieved, according to UK supplier, InMoCo.

Multiple AKD-N servo drives can be distributed around a machine in close proximity to individual motors, and connected back to a single central power module via a single cable. The hybrid cable provides dc axis connection, power, fieldbus communications (EtherCAT), I/O and safety (STO).

With a robust construction and IP67 rating, AKD-N servo drives can be freely mounted outside of control cabinets even in environmentally challenging applications. A single power module can supply up to 16 AKD-N servo drives, and enable connection of external components.

AKD-N servo drives cover power ratings up to 4kW. The drives are compatible with all motors in the Kollmorgen range with single- or dual-cable connection, including linear servo motors.

Remote I/O modules and fieldbus devices can be connected directly to each drive via optional additional EtherCAT ports.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.