Figure 1: In conveyor systems, drive standardization can save up to 70% of total cost of ownership.
With the increasing number of drive units in factories, high-efficiency configurations can save up to 70% of the total cost of ownership. Therefore, Nord Drives Group offers three optimized configurations of high-efficiency variable frequency drive systems specifically for material handling and conveyor applications. These systems meet the typical needs of postal hubs, intralogistics applications, and baggage handling systems. Their standardized design also significantly simplifies processes such as procurement, engineering design, commissioning, and spare parts inventory. Furthermore, they are easy to install, operate, and maintain.
Compared to other methods, optimizing drive system models not only reduces energy consumption but also significantly reduces total cost of ownership (TCO). Therefore, drive system manufacturers need to provide feasible standardized products for specific industry applications. Optimizing product models simplifies the procurement process, including initial purchases and subsequent orders, while also making inventory management easier. Furthermore, it simplifies the planning and engineering design processes for drive system suppliers, OEMs, and end users. Of course, achieving standardization presents several challenges, such as selecting drive systems with fewer configurations that meet diverse task requirements, and avoiding excessively large product sizes. Therefore, drive system engineers need to conduct in-depth analysis of specific industry drive methods and application requirements. For many years, Nord Drives has been dedicated to developing efficient drive technologies for the internal logistics and airport industries. Based on its extensive industry experience, Nord has developed the LogiDrive product series, featuring three optimized models, for these industries. These models not only significantly simplify procurement, engineering design, system maintenance, and employee training processes but also significantly reduce the required spare parts inventory, saving up to 70% of the TCO for applications such as postal hubs, warehouses, and baggage handling systems.
Three extremely flexible models
The LogiDrive series provides drive solutions for conveyor systems hundreds of meters long. Its inverters can be daisy-chained, allowing drive systems to be connected with shorter power cables. Nord also offers product lines specifically tailored for intralogistics and airport technology, with three drive system models to meet all typical performance requirements. Furthermore, the IE4 ultra-efficient permanent magnet synchronous motors with power outputs of 1.1 kW, 1.5 kW, or 2.2 kW can be combined with high-efficiency two-stage helical bevel geared motors and configured into two drive systems with torque up to 260 Nm. The NORDAC LINK series inverters offer a wider speed range, higher overload capacity, and a variety of unique features. Their interfaces are compatible with all commercial communication protocols, including PROFINET, Ethernet POWERLINK, EtherCAT, and EtherNet/IP.
Figure 2: The field distributed system allows for easy adjustment of settings and operation switches.
User-friendly and highly efficient
The LogiDrive system utilizes pluggable coded connectors for quick and safe installation. Maintenance switches, key switches, and direction switches on the equipment allow for flexible setting or adjustment of individual drive shafts. Sensors and actuators can also be connected via M12 connectors. Furthermore, sensor data acquired by the inverter can be directly transmitted to higher-level systems, eliminating the need for wiring. Plug-and-play inverters and those with preset functions simplify maintenance and allow for easy replacement of drive system components. Thanks to its lightweight alloy housing, this compact drive system is 25% lighter than alloy steel drive systems, facilitating mobility. The LogiDrive system's IE4 ultra-efficient synchronous motor maximizes energy savings in frequently used light-load conveyor systems and significantly shortens the user's return on investment period.
Figures 3 and 4: The LogiDrive system, equipped with an IE4 ultra-efficient motor, enables a rapid return on investment in frequent partial-load applications.
Overall security
The LogiDrive system safely and efficiently drives horizontal, inclined, and vertical conveyors. Its load monitor automatically shuts down to protect the driven equipment in case of application failure. Nord also provides STO and SS1 safety functions compliant with EN 61800-5-2 for each drive shaft via TÜV-certified electronic modules. High-precision control is also achieved through field-oriented vector control. For example, in lifting applications, they provide full torque at zero speed while reliably transmitting the set speed even under load fluctuations. The standard inverter offers incremental and absolute encoder connection options, manages absolute and relative positioning and intelligent braking, and allows for position and distance programming via bus or directly on the equipment. Multiple drive systems can be synchronized in speed or position via master/slave control. With integrated PLC, PI controller functions, and various sensor interfaces, these systems can even drive autonomous modular equipment in large installations.
Figure 5: NORDAC demonstrates the main features of the NORDAC LINK series of field-distributed systems on YouTube, such as simple and flexible connectivity options.
in conclusion
Nord Drive Systems has extensive practical experience in conveyor technology and provides efficient drive systems to hundreds of intralogistics plants and airports worldwide. The company uses in-house manufactured drive components in large modular projects. Its energy-efficient geared motors are available in various energy efficiency levels for global applications. The Nord geared motor series includes a wide range of gear models, offering a broad range of torque and gear ratios. Its frequency converters also provide intelligent drive for plant equipment, ensuring high efficiency, especially under partial load conditions. Furthermore, this electronic drive system ensures highly flexible speed adjustment, requiring fewer specifications and gear ratios, significantly reducing the drive units needed for large equipment. The LogiDrive system is designed for airport and other logistics applications, greatly simplifying product model management and related costs.
