Slimline motor controllers create space in enclosures

10-01-2018

Small drives for machines and equipment are typically powered up to 9.0 A and are protected by conventional motor circuit breakers. However, when space in the enclosure is limited, it is very difficult to find room for significant numbers of protective components.

Rittal’s new motor controllers for its RiLine Compact power distribution system offers a sophisticated solution.

To help engineers, Rittal has also produced a 3D configurator that reduces the time required to generate Compact RiLine busbar systems.

Following the successful launch of the busbar system “RiLine Compact” at the beginning of the year, Rittal is now expanding the product range.

Until now, the small 125-A-max busbar system consisted entirely of shock-hazard-protected boards, which form the basis of the system, along with assembly components such as connection adapters for busbar infeed and component adapters for the easy set-up of switchgear and protection devices produced by other manufacturers.

Rittal will shortly be launching new motor controllers into the range. These can be fitted directly and easily onto the board in a one-step installation, to minimise the time and effort spent on wiring.

A compact solution for small spaces

Rittal offers motor controllers in three staggered current ranges: 8 A/2.4 A/8 A. These combine the functions of direct starter and reversing starter within one single device.

Its slimline profile - just 22.5 mm wide - is particularly impressive and frees up around 50 percent more space compared to the standard 45 mm-wide switching device in the range, and as much as 75 percent more space compared to the 90 mm-wide reversing combinations.

Hybrid technology to impress

The three-phase motor controller is a high-performance hybrid switching device with a current monitoring function, offering a longer lifespan and low-loss operation.

The principle behind it is simple: first, the electronics are switched on using the input signal, and then the mechanical contacts takeover for the duration.

The motor controller also provides diagnostics, which to detect internal and external errors. The operating statuses and error messages can then be evaluated through the four different illuminated LEDs.

3D Configurator

To help engineers, Rittal has also produced a 3D configurator that reduces the time required to generate Compact RiLine busbar systems.

A series of easy to follow steps produces detailed drawings, the ability to select component adaptors, and a bill of materials https://www.rittal.com/com_en/riline/konfigurator/#/6.

Further information at www.rittal.co.uk and www.friedhelm-loh-group.com or on twitter @rittal_ltd.