When designing the new Powerdrive variable speed drives, the engineers at Leroy Somer wanted keep components and wiring to a minimum, make them easy to install and commission. Covering the range from 45-675KW, Powerdrive is modular with air or liquid cooling and offers open- or closed-loop vector or simple V/F control. The individual inverter, rectifier, cooling and electronic modules provide accessibility and the front-panel-mounted HMI interface and optional remote keyboard simplify reading and writing the main parameters. Posted on the Enhanced Capital Allowance list, Powerdrive can be ordered already set up for most major applications, allowing commissioning to be achieved with eight parameters. According to the company’s press release, there is automatic auto tuning at the first start up and all the parameters can be saved to the patented Xpresskey with one click of a button. Multi-lingual, PC-based commissioning software provides a motor database, user help and a setup wizard. The drive also tests itself at low voltage on initial switch on to avoid irreparable damage in the event of shorts or earths on motor phases. Drives are less susceptible to power disturbances thanks to new technology developed in collaboration with EDF. Powerdrive’s enclosures are to IP21 or IP54 and there are a host of options such as filters, encoders, units for most Fieldbus technologies, dynamic breaking and emergency-stop features.