Flexible performance
Efficient, reliable production starts with the right setup. Built-in configuration control helps prevent incorrect setups during manufacturing, supporting consistent quality from the start. Flexible process integration makes it easier to adapt to varying production requirements, while fast assembly helps improve throughput and reduce production time.
| Challenges | Features & Functions | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Application-specific logic often requires external controllers or custom hardware. | Drives with adaptive programming let users create tailored functions without external controllers. | Greater application flexibility, reduced need for additional automation hardware, and faster adaptation to site-specific requirements. |
| Commissioning and troubleshooting are slowed by the need to physically simulate signals. | Drives allow service engineers to force digital or analog inputs and outputs during setup or troubleshooting. | Faster testing, easier diagnostics, and reduced commissioning time without extensive external test equipment. |
| Fixed motor flux can waste energy when the motor is lightly loaded. | Drives can automatically adjust motor flux to match the real load demand. | Improved motor efficiency, reduced losses, and lower energy costs especially during partial-load operation. |
| Generic fault codes slow down troubleshooting and may be unclear to site personnel. | Drives can be configured to show user-defined fault messages instead of generic error codes. | Faster fault identification, clearer operator response, and reduced downtime during service events. |
| Motors waste energy when running under partial load or inefficient excitation levels. | ABB drives use the Energy Optimizer function to automatically minimize motor iron losses without sacrificing performance. | Reduced energy consumption, lower operating costs, and maintained process performance. |
| Operators struggle to interpret generic parameters, codes, or status messages on the drive display. | Drives can show user-defined alpha/numeric text on the local display. | Clearer local operation and faster troubleshooting, reducing dependency on manuals or specialist support. |
| Refrigeration compressors require application-specific control to maintain efficiency and reliability. | Drives with dedicated firmware are optimized for refrigeration compressor applications. | Improved compressor control, better energy efficiency, and more reliable refrigeration system operation. |
| Simple automation tasks require extra controllers, wiring, and engineering effort. | Drives with integrated PLC logic can handle simple automation tasks without an external controller. | Lower system complexity, reduced component cost, and faster commissioning for basic control sequences. |
| Standard motor control may not support very high-speed applications reliably | Drives with specialized control modules can manage motors running at very high speeds. | Stable high-speed operation, improved process performance, and reduced risk of control instability or equipment damage. |