AUTOMATING DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR EFFICIENCY , RELIABILITY
• CRADLE TO GRAVE
All images supplied by SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa
AUTOMATING DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR EFFICIENCY , RELIABILITY
MOVI-C ® is a modular automation system that includes all necessary components for drive and control solutions , from software to hardware .
Already in use by leading global manufacturers in South Africa , SEW-EURODRIVE ’ s innovative MOVI C ® modular automation system will bring a new level of flexibility , integration and efficiency to a wide range of sectors .
The range received its formal public launch in South Africa at the Electra Mining Africa exhibition , opening exciting opportunities for local industries , according to Willem Strydom , the company ’ s manager Business Development Electronics .
“ MOVI-C ® is a modular automation system that includes all necessary components for drive and control solutions , from software to hardware ,” says Strydom . “ Its modularity means that it can be customised to meet the specific requirements of different
applications and industries .”
Customers have been attracted by benefits such as the seamless integration of all components , he explains , which ensures compatibility and reduces installation time . The technology also meets high energy efficiency standards , helping customers to reduce their operational costs while minimising their environmental impact .
“ The modular system comprises cabinet inverters , decentralised field mounted drives , motion controllers and the software , which all complement each other ” he says .
A key feature of SEW-EURODRIVE ’ s offering is the MOVILINK ® digital data interface ( DDI ), which connects the drivetrain to the data system – delivering real time information on indicators such as energy efficiency , application performance and condition monitoring .
“ This DDI solution is an important differentiator for us as there is no other player in the market who currently has this offering ,” says Strydom . It fits into the motor with no external or additional sensors , and boasts a hybrid cable which is bespoke to SEW- EURODRIVE , connecting the motor to the variable speed drive ( VSD ). The cable carries not only the power supply , but also the communications and condition monitoring .
“ The data generated and transmitted is vital in facilitating predictive maintenance ,” he explains . “ Customers can monitor vital signs such as the temperatures and vibration levels in a motor and gearbox ; the value of getting this information
32 • African Mining • March 2025 www . africanmining . co . za