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The Small Drive with a Big Impact: The PowerFlex 40P
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2025-04-23

The Small Drive with a Big Impact: The PowerFlex 40P

The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 40P AC drive delivers big capabilities in a compact footprint. Built as an enhanced version of the PowerFlex 40, this drive adds powerful features like closed-loop control, Category 3 Safe-Off functionality, and position control. It’s designed to bring advanced motor control to a variety of industries—automotive, textiles, beverage, and more—while saving space and simplifying integration.


Overview and Power Ratings

  • Power Range: 0.4 kW to 11 kW (0.5 HP to 15 HP)

  • Voltage Classes: 240V, 480V, 600V

  • Applications: Ideal for OEMs and end-users in industries requiring compact, high-performance drives


Mounting Flexibility and Enclosures

  • NEMA 1/IP30: Panel-mount configuration for standard protection

  • NEMA 4/IP66: Flange-mounted for use with enclosures, reduces panel size by up to 75%

  • Zero Stacking: No spacing required for ambient temps up to 40°C; minimal spacing needed up to 50°C

  • DIN Rail Mounting: Quick and secure for B-frame drives

  • Filter Options: EN55011 Class A and B external filters available for all ratings


Simplified Setup and Control

  • External HIM (Human Interface Module): Allows quick programming

  • Resident DSI Connection: Supports PC-based programming

  • RS485 Port: Integrated for networked communication

  • SCM Module: Enables DF1 protocol controllers to connect

  • Display: 4-digit readout, 20 status LEDs, and reset button


Performance Highlights

Sensorless Vector Control

  • Precise torque and speed control throughout speed range

Autotune Feature

  • Automatically adjusts to motor characteristics for optimal performance

Dynamic Braking

  • Built-in brake transistor for economical braking via resistors

Overload Capacity

  • 150% overload for 60 seconds

  • 200% overload for 3 seconds

Quiet Operation

  • Adjustable PWM up to 10 kHz for noise reduction

Closed-Loop Capability

  • Encoder feedback improves speed regulation and precision


I/O and Configuration Options

  • Digital Inputs: Two semi-programmable (Start/Stop) + five fully programmable

  • Relay Output: One programmable Form C

  • Opto-Isolated Outputs: Two available

  • Analog Output: 0–10V or 0–20mA (DIP switch selectable)

  • Analog Input: Voltage or current, isolated and bipolar for precise zero-cross control


Communication Protocols

  • Integrated RS485

  • Supported Networks:

    • DeviceNet

    • EtherNet/IP

    • PROFIBUS DP

    • LonWorks

    • ControlNet

  • Wireless Access:

    • DSI Wireless Interface Module enables Bluetooth device integration


Application-Focused Features

Material Handling

  • Integrated encoder, position control, and StepLogic for conveyors and palletizers

Textile and Fibers

  • Firmware supports up to 500Hz with traverse and synchronized input ramps

  • Optimized for ring spinning and drafting machines

Automotive

  • Embedded encoder reduces sensor cost

  • Meets EN954-1 safety standards

Beverage Production

  • Zone control for safety and flexibility

  • Real-time adjustments for recipe changes


Safety & Ride-Through Features

DriveGuard Safe-Off

  • Built-in Category 3 Safe-Off via relay board (EN954-1 compliant)

Half-Line Voltage Operation

  • Ensures output during brownouts or low voltage scenarios

Enhanced Inertia Ride-Through

  • Protects against power loss disruptions

Common DC Bus Support

  • Internal precharge control improves efficiency in shared DC bus systems


Why PowerFlex 40P?

With 66 available configurations, the PowerFlex 40P is one of the most adaptable compact drives on the market. Its superior control features, programmable logic, and wide protocol support make it a top choice for users seeking high performance in space-constrained systems.

Looking to purchase or upgrade your PowerFlex 40P? Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271

 

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