Danfoss Upgrades Diagnostics and Coms for AutomationDrive VFD

New updates to the VLT AutomationDrive EZ FC 321 VFD provide new communication protocols, condition monitoring and diagnostic functions, and algorithms for increasing energy efficiency.

News December 08, 2024 by Damond Goodwin

Danfoss has recently announced a number of updates to the popular line of VFDs, the VLT AutomationDrive EZ FC 321. These updates consist of software features, building on the reliable hardware of the existing product catalog. Upgrades include algorithms for energy savings and condition monitoring, diagnostic tools for better troubleshooting, and additional communication protocols.

The enhanced VFD offers easy configuration to limit downtime.

The enhanced VFD offers easy configuration to limit downtime. Image used courtesy of Danfoss

Many of these updates are now included as standard features, meaning that users can focus on fewer criteria during the drive design and selection process. Danfoss hopes to provide its customers with a simple drive that ships quickly and is easy to stock, ensuring the VFD is available when they need it most. Plug-and-play convenience also helps to reduce downtime when there is an issue with the VFDs during their service lifetime.

Features of the VLT AutomationDrive EZ FC 321

The drive now comes with condition-based monitoring, or CBM, which can provide insight into equipment failures before they occur. The VFD has this CBM integrated as a standard feature for permanent magnet and asynchronous motors, removing the need for extra time-consuming configuration processes.

The entire AutomationDrive lineup features a modular design, offering a wide range of built-in standard features that can be easily expanded with plug-and-play options for additional functionalities and field bus connections. It also includes Safe Torque-Off (STO) as a standard safety feature, which can be implemented through hardwired safety measures.

The device comes with predefined groups for common applications like conveyors, pumps, fans, and mechanical brake setups through an application called the Smart Start Wizard. With these pre-configured settings, users can quickly get machines up and running, helping to boost productivity and reduce setup time. In addition, printed circuit board protection ensures drives come standard with 3C2 (IEC 60721-3-3) up to 100 HP.

The upgraded VDF from Danfoss can provide users with condition-based monitoring capabilities.

The upgraded VDF from Danfoss can provide users with condition-based monitoring capabilities. Image used courtesy of Danfoss

The VLT AutomationDrive EZ FC 321 is simple to install and operate through its intuitive graphical control panel for simple setup and commissioning. It requires minimal maintenance and offers users a high-end control solution that ensures a quick return on investment while maintaining a competitive total cost of ownership.

Danfoss has worked to provide a reliable performing VFD across all industrial environments and grid voltages, including 690 V. Depending on the model, enclosures are available up to NEMA 4X, while integrated DC chokes and RFI filters in all models help safeguard installations by reducing harmonic distortion and electromagnetic interference. Every drive is fully load-tested before leaving the factory so users can be sure they have dependable equipment.

A VFD Designed for Efficiency

Danfoss hopes the VLT AutomationDrive EZ FC 321 will be known for its versatility and reliable performance for years to come. It was designed to support a broad range of industrial processes and delivers excellent control and energy efficiency. For some, the new features of the VDF will become an essential component in their automation systems and preventative maintenance regimens.

The VFD is optimized to enhance the performance of electric motors in various applications, such as pumps, fans, and compressors, ensuring smooth, efficient operation in both new and existing installations.