A high-tech drive solution that automates drive applications, is said to be ideal for optimising or expanding existing automation systems or for implementing new automation projects where flexibility, rapid deployment and cost-effectiveness are key.

SEW-EURODRIVE’s new-generation MOVI-C all-in-one modular drive solution was recently launched at the Electra Mining Africa 2022 exhibition.

MOVI-C is a suite of products that automates drive applications, whether simple or very complex, and offers a number of productivity benefits to users. The solution can be used in a range of applications where processes and operations need to be automated, such as production lines or packaging operations. “It can be applied to any situation where the speed, acceleration and torque and position of drives needs to be regulated and controlled,” says SEW-EURODRIVE MAXOLUTION engineer Dylan Enslin.

The drive solution can be used to implement standards-based single-axis or multi-axis applications or customised and/or particularly complex motion control applications or automation solutions.

“Generation C is a big step up from its predecessor Generation B, with better control, higher efficiency, added flexibility and a much-improved interface,” says Enslin.

MOVI-C has four main components – MOVISUITE engineering software; MOVI-C Controller, advanced control technology; MOVIDRIVE inverter technology for motor control; and MOVIGEAR and MOVIMOT decentralised drive technology. SEW-EURODRIVE notes that together these components represent a single end-to-end modular automation system, with no requirements for add-ins from third parties.

The company explains that all the components can be fully integrated into any automation design, fieldbus technology or network standard. In addition, MOVI-C is compatible with protocols from Profibus and Industrial Ethernet through to Modbus, Profinet and EtherCat, enabling freedom of configuration related to communication technology.