Autonics Launches Modular SPRS Multi-Channel Power Controllers

Autonics has expanded its industrial heating control portfolio with the modular SPRS Series multi-channel power controllers. Designed for scalable temperature-control applications, the platform combines interchangeable power modules, advanced control methods, built-in diagnostics, and support for major industrial Ethernet protocols. With features such as power distribution control, comprehensive monitoring, and flexible single- and three-phase configurations, the SPRS Series helps machine builders simplify system design while improving reliability and maintenance efficiency.

The new SPRS Series modular power controller. Image used courtesy of Autonics

Modular Architecture Improves Flexibility

The SPRS series uses a modular design, so the control and power sections can be installed separately. This lets users replace just one power module instead of the whole controller, which helps lower maintenance costs and reduce downtime. Its compact size means you can mount several units close together, making it a good fit for panels with limited space. Autonics offers four power module sizes with current ratings from 25 A to 600 A so that users can handle both small heating jobs and large industrial processes.

Supports Both Single-Phased and Three-Phased Control

The SPRS platform supports several power configurations so that engineers can use single-phase, dual single-phase, or three-phase control with the same controller family. By combining three power modules with one control module, you can achieve three-phase power control. This gives machine builders more flexibility when designing heating systems for different equipment sizes. Using a single controller platform can also make inventory management easier and reduce engineering work across different machine models.

For applications that need steady and accurate output, the controller offers phase control, including standard phase control and feedback options like constant voltage, constant current, and constant power. The series also supports variable and fixed cycle control, which help extend heater life and reduce electrical disturbances in resistive heating systems. For simpler needs, conventional ON/OFF control is available. These expanded control options make the SPRS series useful for many industrial heating processes without needing different controller families.

Power Distribution Function Helps Reduce Peak Demand

A key feature of the SPRS series is its built-in power distribution control. When several power controllers run at once, large current spikes can happen if many heaters turn on together. The SPRS series solves this by spreading out the output timing across connected modules, which reduces overlapping current peaks and lowers the overall peak power demand. For facilities with many heating zones, this feature can help manage power use and reduce stress on electrical systems.

Support Major Industrial Communication Networks

The SPRS series works with common industrial communication standards like EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, CC-Link, and RS485. This makes it easy to add to existing automation systems for centralized setup and monitoring. The controller also has a four-line, 11-segment LCD that shows real-time information so that operators can check key electrical values like current, voltage, output percentage, temperature, resistance, and frequency right on the device.

In addition to monitoring, the SPRS offers several diagnostic features like alarm history, PI control, self-diagnosis, and input voltage monitoring. These tools give maintenance teams useful information for troubleshooting and preventive care. To protect the controller and connected heating equipment, the platform also includes protection and alarm features such as heater break detection, fuse break detection, and overcurrent protection. This helps maintenance teams spot issues early.

A Scalable Platform for Industrial Power Control

With scalable hardware, built-in diagnostics, various control methods, and industrial networking, the new controllers are a good fit for users needing solutions for reflow ovens, industrial furnaces, plastic processing machines, and battery processing equipment. They work well for both new systems and upgrades to existing heating equipment.