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Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. Launches FR-E800 Series of Variable Frequency Drives

May 08, 2020 by Stephanie Leonida

Mitsubishi Electric Automation introduces its new series of variable frequency drives with multi-purpose inverter and more.

Mitsubishi brings in a new generation of drive technology that is one of the first to include a corrosion alert system and AI-based diagnostic functions. The compact, energy-saving drive has been designed to be highly precise, enhance speed control, allow quick set-up and commission, and improve system safety. 

 

A New Multi-Purpose Inverter

As one of the world’s smallest class inverter with high functionality, it offers users unique features and benefits including:

  • Environmental resilience with an operating temperature of -20oC to 60oC (-5 to 140oF) and a conformal coated control card able to withstand harsh environments.
  • Inverter-to-inverter linking which allows controllers to connect multiple variable frequency drives (VFDs) to create small-scale systems. This set-up can be done using selected Ethernet protocols. 
  • A dual overload rating for achieving a high-level of performance in smaller frame sizes with light duty and normal duty overload current ratings. 
  • A safety integrity level (SIL) 3 of the IEC 61508 standard for functional safety.
  • A corrosive gas environment detection circuit that helps to detect any corrosive gases including hydrogen sulfide. This detection system notifies the operator when the production environment needs improvement (for coated models (-60) only), and so mitigates any potential equipment downtime.
  • AI fault diagnosis enabling direct diagnosis of any system faults for rapid troubleshooting.  

 

Switching Between Protocols

In addition to the above features and benefits, the new inverter series provides easy switching between Ethernet protocols. It is able to support open industrial networks such as CC-Link IE TSN, Ethernet/IP, BACnet/IP, and MODBUS/TCP.

 

vfd

The FR-E800 Series variable frequency drive. Image used courtesy of Mitsubishi

 

Networks are able to be supported without any options. This means that inverters can be used on the existing network and compatibility with various systems can be kept in good order. Depending on their unique system, users can choose an appropriate Ethernet protocol group. This capability will not only enable energy saving but also improve productivity for various facilities and infrastructure. 

The device’s integrated AI-based diagnostic functions enable users to analyze any factors affecting downtime like overcurrent in order to allow efficient and effective measures to be put into place quickly to reduce downtime. Overall, this enhancement of predictive maintenance is invaluable for boosting productivity and maintaining operational longevity.

 

Operational Control With Ease

One of the key features of the device is the built-in 2K Step PLC, which allows users to save panel space, create a custom set-up, and reduce system set-up times.

This unique capability provides users with an easy way to manipulate operation patterns including monitor outputs, inverter movements at signal inputs, signal outputs at particular inverter statuses, and more. Users can carry out an entire system set-up through the use of this inverter alone. 

Mitsubishi’s new inverters are ideal for industries such as food and beverage, packaging, material handling, water and pumping, and any other industry where the use of permanent magnet motors are being encouraged to improve energy efficiency.