Kinetix 3: The Compact Servo Drive for Small-Scale Automation Operations

The Kinetix 3 series from Allen-Bradley offers compact, high-performance servo drives tailored for small-scale automation operations. Designed for industrial applications, these drives ensure reliable and efficient motor control across a range of power, voltage, and environmental conditions. In this article, we will discuss features like thermal memory, multiple HMI options, motor overload protection, and indexing capabilities, as these features of Kinetix 3 drives are equipped to handle various automation needs. Compliant with global safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards, the Kinetix 3 delivers flexibility, precision, and durability, making it an ideal solution for systems such as assembly lines, conveyors, and packaging operations.

Features of Kinetix 3

Power Range

The Kinetix 3 servo drive provides a modest yet effective solution for various applications. It is specially designed for small-scale automation operations. It can handle many servo motors with an output power range of 0.6 to 9.9 Amps RMS or 50 to 1500 Watts, guaranteeing accurate control in systems requiring different power levels. Because of its adaptability, it is perfect for devices like tiny assembly lines, conveyors, and packing systems. Because of its small size and dependable performance, producers may meet changing operational demands without sacrificing productivity.

Voltage Range and Phases

The Kinetix 3 servo drive is designed to satisfy the various power needs of automation systems on a small scale. It guarantees a steady and effective power supply for a range of applications by operating throughout the AC input voltage range of 220 to 240 volts. With compatibility for 1-phase, dual-phase, and 3-phase voltage phase combinations, this modular servo drive may be used in a variety of settings and power infrastructures. The Kinetix 3 offers reliable performance and accuracy, whether it is used in straightforward single-phase settings or more intricate multi-phase ones. Its compatibility with various power systems reduces installation difficulties, which enables smooth integration into current automation frameworks. The Kinetix 3, which is made for small operations, guarantees energy efficiency and adaptability, enabling enterprises to achieve dependable and affordable automation.

Thermal Memory and HMI Options

One notable feature of the Kinetix 3 servo drive is its thermal memory, which uses predictive algorithms to estimate motor temperature based on operating conditions. This ensures precise motor protection and minimizes downtime caused by overheating. The thermal memory is only operational while control power is applied; it is not retained during power loss, a consideration for specific operating environments. The Kinetix 3 servo drive integrates advanced technologies to optimize control and reliability in small-scale automation.

To improve usability, the Kinetix 3 is preinstalled with a variety of human-machine interface (HMI) options, such as digital, analog, and Modbus HMIs. These HMIs enable real-time monitoring, simplified configuration, and easier troubleshooting, giving operators intuitive control. The drive also seamlessly integrates with existing automation systems, utilizing technologies such as RSLogix 500 software for effective commissioning and maintenance. The Kinetix 3 offers reliable motor protection and a range of interface options to meet the demands of contemporary automation.

Software Compatibility and Motor Overload Protection

To protect motor operation, the Kinetix 3 has solid-state motor overload protection, which conforms with UL 508C requirements. This sophisticated safeguard uses thermal algorithms to anticipate motor temperature under various loads to minimize overheating and prolong motor life. Additionally, protection and flexibility are improved by technologies like real-time monitoring and support for external thermistors. The Kinetix 3 is a great option for small and effective automation because of its dependable motor protection and user-friendly software compatibility, guaranteeing steady performance even in difficult settings.

Indexing Capabilities

The Kinetix 3 series delivers outstanding indexing capabilities. With up to 64 I/O points for precise control in a variety of automation applications, it is perfect for applications requiring complex indexing because of its large point count, which enables fine-grained modifications. The Kinetix 3’s adaptability guarantees efficiency and versatility, whether it is utilized for assembly lines, material handling, or packaging, offering the best results in small-scale automation settings.

Environmental Specifications

For small-scale automation systems, the Kinetix 3 servo drive is built to perform dependably under a range of environmental circumstances. It can tolerate storage conditions between -25 and +85 °C (-13 to +185 °F) and operates effectively at ambient temperatures between 0 and 50 °C (32 and 122 °F). The drive is adaptable for worldwide deployment because of its 5–95% noncondensing relative humidity tolerance, allowing it to operate in various conditions. With derating, the Kinetix 3 can operate at elevations of up to 1000 meters (3281 feet) and up to 3000 meters (9843 feet), guaranteeing reliable performance in high altitudes. It is made to withstand stress and vibration, including vibrations between 5 and 500 Hz and 15 g, 11 ms half-sine pulses. Because of its strong specifications, the Kinetix 3 is a dependable option for demanding industrial settings, guaranteeing stability and performance under trying circumstances.

Compliance Standards

The Kinetix 3 servo drive satisfies strict certification and compliance requirements, guaranteeing dependability, safety, and worldwide applicability. In addition to providing integrated solid-state short-circuit and adjustable motor overload protection, it is c-UL-us certified and complies with UL 508 C safety requirements for both the United States and Canada. Despite the lack of branch circuit protection, installation safety is guaranteed by adherence to the National Electrical Code.

For European markets, the drive meets IEC 61800 3 and IEC 61800-5-1 requirements for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility, as well as the EMC Directive (2004/108/EC) and Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC). It satisfies KC registration requirements in Korea and the C-Tick standard for radiocommunications in Australia.

Example Modules

 2071-AP1

The Allen-Bradley 2071-AP1 is a small AC input servo drive in the Kinetix 3 series intended for effective industrial process control. It runs with an input current of 2.38 A and an output current of 1.1 A and is powered by a 240 V AC input for single-phase operation. FRS-R-2-½, FNQ-R-7-½, or LPJ-6 are suggested fuses for control power and FNQ-R-7 for input power.

The drive has RS-232 and RS-485 communication interfaces, an indexing mode for improved user control, and is optimized for a TL-A130P motor and a 100-watt power source. A 2.4 mm² (14 AWG) wire with an 8 mm (0.3 inch) strip length is needed. In order to ensure dependable and seamless functioning, users should refrain from terminating the B1 or B2 terminals, as they do not support shunt resistors.

2071-AP8

Designed for industrial process control, the Allen-Bradley 2071-AP8 servo drive from the Kinetix 3 series may operate in one or three phases and requires 240V AC input. It provides effective motor control with input currents ranging from 6.25A to 10.82A and output currents of 5A. The drive is designed for 800 watts of power with a TL-2540P motor and has 70 watts of shunt power for motor-stopping control. Solid-state motor overload protection with predictive thermal memory, an indexing mode with 64 I/O points, and RS-485/RS-232 communication connections are all included. The drive also ensures UL compliance by supporting external thermistor input for motor overload prevention.

2071-A15

A single-axis, three-phase indexing drive that is perfect for low-axis industrial applications is the Allen-Bradley 2071-A15 Kinetix 3 servo drive. It uses an AC input between 170 and 364 volts, producing a constant 9.9 amp output with 1.5 KW of power. It guarantees smooth operation with its automated motor identification and 20ms power-loss ride-through. The drive has an operating efficiency of 90% and supports a PWM frequency of 10 kHz. The 2071-A15 is a dependable, small motion control solution with Class CC/J fuses, short-circuit protection, and certifications including c-UL-us, CE, and KC. At elevations up to 3000m, its sturdy construction can tolerate 2G vibration and 15G shock.

Final Thoughts

Allen-Bradley’s Kinetix 3 series provides dependable performance in a variety of industrial applications and is an effective, small-scale automation solution. These servo drives provide optimal control and dependability with features like variable power and voltage compatibility, sophisticated thermal memory, strong motor protection, and user-friendly HMI choices. The Kinetix 3 is a great option for sectors including assembly, packaging, and material handling because of its versatility in various operating situations, worldwide compliance, and ease of interface with current systems. Its extensive feature set guarantees cost-effectiveness, longevity, and productivity in small-scale automation operations.

We at DO Supply carry hundreds of Kinetix drives just like these, all backed by our two-year warranty. If you are also wanting to breathe new life into your drive, we also offer a repair service to keep your drives running as healthy as ever. Give us a call today and we can take your automation solution to the next level!