EFC 3600 Variable Frequency Drive for energy-efficient process control

Variable speed control for electronic drives is a main factor for increasing energy efficiency in machine engineering. With the EFC 3600 variable frequency drive series, Bosch Rexroth  offers the economic benefits for general automation, material handling and pumps, fans and compressors, which had up to now been operated continuously and inefficiently.

The EFC 3600 variable frequency drive (VFD) by Bosch Rexroth complements the existing product portfolio including the Fe and Fv frequency converters as well as the highly dynamic IndraDrive platform. The EFC 3600 improves the process control through integrated PID controllers as well as through a sequence control system with eight steps. The settings enable an energy efficient operation of equipment and machines at their optimal operating point. Due to its high intermittent overload capacity of up to 200 percent as well as the high initial torque of up to 150 percent, the EFC 3600 can be used for a wide range of applications with the most varying requirements. The freely scalable V/Hz characteristic allows load-dependent adjustment of the voltage/frequency curve, which ensures a longer motor service life.

The EFC 3600 can be connected to other automation topologies via optional Modbus or PROFIBUS fieldbus interfaces or via digital and analog inputs and outputs. The EFC 3600 is offered covering the performance spectrum from 400 W to 4 KW (0.5 horsepower to 5 hp). Due to the integrated brake chopper and mains filter, additional peripheral devices are not required. The EFC 3600 complies with the EMC directives for industrial applications.

The simple program structure and easy parameter input provide for quick commissioning and start-up without the need for a PC. Harmonized parameters apply to all converters of the series. With the removable control panel function, the user can quickly configure several electronic frequency converters. This also reduces integration- and downtime in case of system expansion or in case of replacement. The service technician would simply use the control panel and copy the existing parameters to the new device.

Due to its compact design which is complemented by the pluggable I/O terminals and optimized cooling concept, a gapless side-by-side and space-saving installation is possible. For devices up to 0.75 kW (1 hp), cooling fans are not required and subsequently are supplied without fan. Devices with performance level 1.5 kW (2 hp) and higher are supplied with integrated fans that can be easily accessed without requiring tools for maintenance. The EFC 3600 complements Rexroth’s frequency converter series Fe and Fv, which cover the performance spectrum up to 90 kW (125 hp).

About Bosch Rexroth:
Economical, precise, safe, and energy efficient: drive and control technology from Bosch Rexroth moves machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile Applications, Machinery Applications and Engineering, and Factory Automation to develop innovative components as well as tailored system solutions and services. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drives and controls, gear technology, and linear motion and assembly technology all from one source. With locations in over 80 countries, more than 31.100 associates generated sales revenue of approximately €5.4 billion (~CDN $7.838 billion) in 2015.
To learn more, visit www.boschrexroth.com.

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in 2015. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company’s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group’s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is “Invented for life.” Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com, twitter.com/BoschPresse.

In the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial drives and control technology, power tools, security and communication systems, packaging technology, thermotechnology, household appliances, healthcare telemedicine and software solutions. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com, www.bosch.com.mx and www.bosch.ca.