At the recent SPS/IPC/Drives show in Germany, SEW-Eurodrive unveiled an “electronic motor” that combines an IE4 permanent field synchronous motor, drive electronics and, optionally, high-efficiency gearing, to produce a drive system that can cut energy costs by up to 50%. The DRC integrated motor needs just one four-wire cable for both power and communications, cutting installation costs by up to 60%, SEW claims.

The fanless motor (above) will be available initially in two sizes with torque ratings of 7.2Nm (1.5kW power rating) and 2.6Nm (0.55kW). It will offer a 250% overload capacity and a speed control range of 1:2,000.

SEW says that the integration and co-ordination of the three drive components in an IP65/66 housing will lead to long, reliable service lives and high system availabilities. The motor has been designed for use anywhere in the world and will operate from 380–500V, 50/60Hz supplies.

For simple or standalone applications, versions with binary controls and AS-i communications are available. For more sophisticated uses, the motor can be supplied with SEW`s CAN-based SBus system. Bevel, helical or parallel-shaft gearboxes can be mounted directly via the flange and 380– 380-500V output shaft. The motor is also available in a brake-motor version.