CRADLE TO GRAVE •
This innovative DDI boasts a hybrid cable which is bespoke to SEW- EURODRIVE , connecting the motor to the variable speed drive ( VSD ).
‘ live ’ is that action can quickly be taken if important operating parameters are breached .”
The advanced features allow the SEW IOT Suite software to alert the user by email , WhatsApp or telephone call – and can even shut down the application to prevent any damage . The software interface can be employed on computer or as an app on a mobile phone , depending on how the user wants to monitor equipment .
“ The real time feedback from an application in the field also allows systems to be adjusted for optimal performance and efficiency ,” he says . “ For instance , the motor speed can be changed continuously according to the demands of the application , saving energy and potentially extending machine life .”
Importantly , the heightened sensitivity of the sensors means that users are alerted earlier , as they will pick up warning signs before human operators can hear or feel any indication of a problem .
Strydom highlights that the versatile system is suitable for
both centralised and decentralised automation architectures , providing flexibility for different installation requirements . The MOVISUITE ® engineering software is designed to be user friendly , so that it can simplify the planning , commissioning , operation and diagnostics functionality .
This DDI solution – which connects the drivetrain to the data system , delivering real time information on energy efficiency , application performance and condition monitoring is an important differentiator .
Wherever applications produce regenerative power , the regenerative power supply can harness the regenerative power and reutilise it by directing it back into the system or storing it in battery packs or capacitor banks .
“ The MOVI-C ® system can also be scaled to meet the specific needs of various industrial processes , whether these are singleaxis or multi-axis applications , with simple or complex motion control ,” he explains .
The Movi-C portfolio also includes preconfigured software modules , known as Movikits for the implementation of simple drive functions such as speed control and positioning , through to complex multiaxes motion control functions . An example is the Anti-Sway Movikit which is used to eliminate sway in overhead crane applications .
While MOVI-C ® has applications across the board , its powerful capabilities are well demonstrated in stacking and retrieval systems in industrial warehouses , he explains . This application includes both a travelling element ( sideways movement ) and a hoisting element ( up and down movement ).
“ Wherever applications produce regenerative power , the regenerative power supply can harness the regenerative powerand re-utilise it by directing it back into the system or storing it in battery packs or capacitor banks ,” he says .
In South Africa , the system is being used by global automotive manufacturers , and has also been embraced by the food and beverage sector . Strydom sees significant opportunities in the mining industry , including ventilation functions and plant activities using pumps that need more accurate control .
Source : supplied by SEW-EURODRIVE South Africa
Heightened sensitivity of the sensors means that users are alerted earlier , as they will pick up warning signs .
www . africanmining . co . za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • March 2025 • 33