Baldor has extended its range of three-phase AC motor drives compatible with the Ethernet-compatible Powerlink protocol, adding three higher power versions rated for continuous outputs from 21.5 to 33.5A. The new drives extend the significant system building advantages of Powerlink to a much wider range of continuous and heavy-duty applications, including printing, papermaking, converting, textiles, plastics and steel production.

Called MotiFlex e100, the three-phase AC drive range now offers eight choices of power output from 1.5 to 33.5A. For many of the applications targeted by this product release, the higher power versions will provide the means to bring large AC induction motors into the Ethernet Powerlink control network, such as those used on the main axes of web processes.

In addition to introducing the flexibility of high-speed Ethernet and TCP/IP connectivity into the higher power machine building sector, the drives' high degree of modularity, combined with novel design features, provides users with significant potential for saving costs.

MotiFlex e100 drives can be used in both centralized control and distributed 'intelligent drive' scenarios for example, in both cases with substantial savings in the electrical power components typically required.