Mining, Petroleum and Gas | Aerospace | Manufacturing | Crane Systems | Safety and Training | By Casey Cummins | Feb 18, 2020
Variable frequency drives, or VFDs, are a type of AC motor controller that drive an electric motor by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to it. VFDs are also commonly known as variable speed or adjustable speed drives, AC drives, micro-drives or inverters – depending on the industry or application.
In the material handling industry, variable frequency drive controls are often used in electric hoists as well as in overhead cranes and lifting systems. Drives are designed around a microprocessor, which allows for the creation of programmable functions for specific applications.
Magnetek VFDs are designed for crane and hoist applications with various performance and safety features. A few of these features include:
This online course includes discussions of basic principles and operation of Magnetek’s industry-leading IMPULSE® AC variable frequency drives for crane applications.
Course Designers: Jon Walters, Mike Mizzell, Dennis Hankes
The CM Lodestar VS is now available with Intelli-Connect™ Diagnostics and Analytics technology. Intelli-Connect enables quick and easy programming, maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting of the Lodestar – all from a tablet or smartphone.
How does it work? Using the Intelli-Connect Mobile and Mobile+ apps, you can
wirelessly access detailed information right from the plant floor, without the need to attach a programming cable. Intelli-Connect is available as an option on all new Lodestar VS units or in a retrofit kit for units already in service.
Casey Cummins is a Magnetek Controls Product Manager at Columbus McKinnon Corporation. He started with the company in 2011. Prior to moving into a management roll, Casey worked on embedded firmware development and electrical design. Also, Casey actively serves on the AIST crane committee. Outside of engineering life, he is fascinated by the modern space race and astrophysics, and also has a goal of hiking all the US national parks.
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