Drives with centrally controlled servo motors are commonly used in end-of-line packaging. However, in applications with large inertia or long travel distances – for example palletising, stabilising or handling – they are usually not mandatory. Decentralised drive solutions, such as those with controlled asynchronous motors, are an efficient and economical alternative in this context, according to a new white paper by Nord Drivesystems.
Decentralised drive solutions achieve similar kinematic properties and, due to their higher internal inertia, ensure better regulation and motion control with heavy loads.
The use of decentralised frequency inverters with 'closed-loop control' also results in enormous cost savings. Depending on the system type and application, cost benefits of up to 50 per cent are possible.
As stated in the report, the packaging industry is experiencing an average annual sales growth of four to six per cent worldwide and is subject to constant change.
Product and process innovations ensure sustainability and competitiveness. Cost efficiency, sustainability, resource conservation, and digitalisation are the most important drivers here.
End-of-line packaging is still characterised by conventional rigid production lines, however, demands on productivity and flexibility increasingly call for modular and decentralised concepts.
Issues such as energy consumption, space requirements, and handling also play an increasing role, and drive technology can make an important contribution to this.
In summary, the following can be said: asynchronous motors with decentralised frequency inverters and encoder feedback via absolute or incremental encoders enable highly economic and precise positioning applications, as well as dynamic movement of large, heavy packaging units.
This makes the technology a real solution for application fields such as end-of-line packaging, where heavy loads and high forces are the norm. When used with decentralised frequency inverters, components such as control cabinets and wiring are also eliminated and the setup effort is significantly lower.
Furthermore, space saving is an important advantage of this decentralised approach. All in all, significant cost savings of up to 50 per cent are possible.
As one of the world's leading complete suppliers of electrical, mechanical, and electronic drive technology, Nord Drivesystems is a strong, reliable partner for the packaging industry.
For end-of-line packaging, the company implements modular drive concepts that are precisely configured to specific application and customer requirements. The modular system, special expertise, extensive industry knowledge, the wide range of standardised components and customer-specific solutions from Nord are essential factors of success for economic and efficient drive solutions – contributing to the reduction of total cost of ownership.
Nord Drivesystems also offers powerful solutions in the adjacent areas of intralogistics conveyor and process technology, such as those within the food and beverage industry.
To dig a little deeper into the subject, download Nord's latest white paper here.
