AutomationDirect Releases New AC Drives, Line Reactors, and VFD Filters

AutomationDirect, a company specializing in automation and control products for industrial applications, has recently released some new products. The latest release includes new DURApulse GS30AC Drives, new line reactors, and VFD Output Filters. The company hopes these latest products will help give users new competitively priced options for their automation needs.

AutomationDirect’s New AC Drives

AutomationDirect has recently introduced the new DURApulse GS30 drives. The drives will feature advanced functionalities such as sensorless vector control, closed-loop flux vector control, and torque control modes. Their compact design facilitates their use in tight quarters, ensuring they will fit most applications.

The new DURApulse GS30 Drives feature a space-saving design, giving users more useable electrical cabinet space. Image used courtesy of AutomationDirect

This expansion of the GS30 series enhances the DURApulse family with internal tension control loops and expanded parameter options for enhanced versatility. In addition, optional EtherCAT and single or dual-port EtherNet/IP communication cards are available.

The GS30 drives from AutomationDirect can handle up to four independent induction motor (IM) parameter sets or control a single AC permanent magnet (PM) motor. The maximum size ranges include

• up to 3hp for a 230VAC single-phase input
• 50hp for a 230VAC three-phase input
• 100hp for a 460VAC three-phase input

A compact design helps to support zero-stack installation, a useful strategy for maximizing space efficiency. The drives also feature some functions normally only associated with more costly drives, like PID control, built-in PLC functionality, and STO capability.

New Line Reactors and VFD Filters

In June, AutomationDirect announced the release of more line reactors and VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) output filters. Input line reactors safeguard AC drives against transient overvoltage conditions often triggered by utility capacitor switching. They also mitigate the harmonics associated with AC drives, making them a recommended addition for all installations.

The latest line reactors fill the market need for smaller horsepower drives, including those in the ¼ to 10hp range.

The new line reactors and VFD output filters from AutomationDirect both include a starting price of $78. Image courtesy of AutomationDirect

Output line (load) reactors serve multiple purposes: They shield motor insulation from AC drive short circuits and protect against IGBT reflective wave damage. They can also improve motor efficiency by smoothing the motor current waveform, which often leads to cooler motor operation.

These reactors are particularly beneficial for non-inverter-duty motors and installations where the wiring length between the AC drive and motor is less than 100 feet. The output filters expand the current lineup to include a horsepower range of up to 350hp, and some models come with a UL Type 1 enclosure.

All of AutomationDirect's new devices should provide more control over voltages and loads, increasing efficiency and safety in industrial applications. Engineers can prevent disastrous harmonic convergence by choosing the right VFD filter and motor.