Mining, Petroleum and Gas | Aerospace | Manufacturing | Crane Systems | Safety and Training | By Casey Cummins | Jan 08, 2024
The crane and hoist industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in technology. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) play a pivotal role in this transformation, offering numerous benefits to material handling operations:
1. Enhanced Safety
Safety in material handling is paramount. VFDs, by their nature, offer features like sway control, which automatically counteracts load swing. This function lets crane operators focus on load engagement/disengagement rather than minimizing load swing, hence improving safety. Features like these are standard in advanced VFDs, such as the IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5, further bolstering workplace safety.
2. Energy Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of using VFDs is their energy-saving potential. By adjusting the power supply frequency and voltage to the motor, VFDs optimize energy consumption. Some of the latest drives, like the IMPULSE 5, are extensively tested for efficient power use in demanding conditions, ensuring reduced energy costs.
3. Prolonged Equipment Life
VFDs regulate the start and stop cycles of motors, reducing the wear and tear on the machine components. This not only ensures that the machinery operates efficiently but also extends its lifespan. Plus, certain drives come with benefits like anti-shock, which stabilizes loads by minimizing rapid torque increases.
4. Superior Control and Precision
VFDs provide improved control over crane speed and torque. This precision is essential, especially in operations that require fine-tuned movements. Simplified operations, like those provided by the high-resolution keypad of the IMPULSE 5, make diagnostics and adjustments more straightforward.
5. Improved Productivity
With VFDs in place, machinery can operate at optimal speeds, leading to more efficient cycles and reduced downtime. The speed adjustments ensure that operations run smoothly, contributing to improved productivity levels. Features like Ultra-Lift, found in some VFDs, monitor motor torque and adjust motor speed to operate at peak performance, further enhancing throughput.
6. Enhanced Connectivity and Diagnostics
Modern VFDs offer advanced connectivity options, bridging the gap between machinery and facility networks. They provide feedback, like preventative maintenance monitors, which can be crucial for scheduling proactive maintenance. For instance, the IMPULSE Series 5 drives' compatibility with tools like IMPULSE®•Link 5 allows easy maintenance and monitoring of multiple drives, ensuring equipment runs efficiently.
7. Cost Savings
Last but certainly not least, VFDs lead to significant cost savings in the long run. By reducing energy consumption, minimizing equipment wear, and decreasing downtime, these devices offer a substantial return on investment. Plus, features like weight measurement can replace costly alternatives like load cells, leading to further savings.
New Magnetek-brand IMPULSE Series 5 Variable Frequency Drives are designed to serve as the intelligent foundation for overhead cranes and hoist systems. This recorded webinar provides a detailed look at the new IMPULSE·G+/VG+ Series 5 VFDs and their proper application for overhead cranes.
This webinar covers:
In the world of material handling, the right technology makes all the difference. While VFDs offer an array of benefits, choosing the right one, like Magnetek's IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5, can further enhance the safety, efficiency, and productivity of your operations. Always ensure you are updated with the latest in VFD technology to get the most out of your investment.
Best-in-class Yale YK electric wire rope hoists, now available with standard VFD control that includes overspeed and direction detection, offer increased lifetime of wearable components, like motors, wire rope, and brakes. But when you do need to change brake components, like the torque springs, the process is simple.
The CM Lodestar VS is now available with Intelli-Connect™ Mobile technology. Intelli-Connect Mobile enables quick and easy programming, maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting of the Lodestar – all from a tablet or smartphone.
How does it work? Using the Intelli-Connect Mobile app, you can wirelessly access detailed information right from the plant floor, without the need to attach a programming cable. Intelli-Connect Mobile is available as an option on all new Lodestar VS units or in a retrofit kit for units already in service.
Casey Cummins is a Magnetek Controls Product Manager at Columbus McKinnon Corporation. He started with the company in 2011. Prior to moving into a management roll, Casey worked on embedded firmware development and electrical design. Also, Casey actively serves on the AIST crane committee. Outside of engineering life, he is fascinated by the modern space race and astrophysics, and also has a goal of hiking all the US national parks.
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