EtherNet/IP Servo Drive From Rockwell Automation

The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 300 EtherNet/IP indexing servo drive provides machine builders and end users with the ability to standardize on a single communication network for easier commissioning, configuration and startup, according to Rockwell Automation.

With the new drive, the entire control solution – including HMI, programmable automation controllers, I/O and motion – can be connected over a standard EtherNet/IP network. With the ability to support up to five indexing types and 32 indices, the Kinetix 300 servo drive targets indexing tables, intermittent horizontal and vertical form/fill/seal machines, as well as simple sleevers, case packers and erectors.

“Many machine builders and end users are moving toward single network solutions,” said James Grosskreuz, product manager, Rockwell Automation. “By leveraging EtherNet/IP technology, the world’s leading industrial Ethernet, the Kinetix 300 servo drive can eliminate the need for a dedicated motion network while maintaining high-speed connectivity with excellent reliability.”

By combining the Kinetix 300 servo drive with the Allen-Bradley MP-Series or Allen Bradley TL Series motors, and the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix L23 or CompactLogix L32 controller, Rockwell Automation now delivers an option for machines that demand Rockwell’s Integrated Architecture system in a cost-effective package for low axis-count motion solutions. The drive can also work with an Allen-Bradley MicroLogix processor to help deliver a cost-effective component machine-level solution.

The Kinetix 300 drive integrates with Rockwell Software RSLogix 5000 software through a Kinetix 300 add-on profile. It also has drive-based web configuration tools. As a result, machine builders do not need to learn, load or maintain dedicated motion software.

To help protect personnel and increase productivity, the Kinetix 300 servo drive also comes equipped with safe torque-off functionality. With the safe-off capability, tasks such as machine setup, cleaning, removal of jams and other typical maintenance work that previously required power-down conditions can now be accomplished without removing power from the entire machine. Instead, drive output can be safely disabled, allowing faster machine restart and shorter machine downtime. In addition, components such as input contactors are not required, simplifying machine design and helping reduce both panel space requirements and overall system costs, says Rockwell.