Motor control for variable-speed pumps enables energy consumption reduction
7 February 2007
Power Electronics / Power Management
International Rectifier has introduced a sensorless sinusoidal motor control platform that delivers quieter operation and higher efficiency for variable-speed pump applications up to 300 W.
By effectively controlling pump operation over a wide range of flow requirements, variable-speed pumps can cut energy consumption by up to 50% it says.
The company's latest iMOTION integrated design platform consists of a mixed-signal controller, the IRMCF371, and companion intelligent power module for the power stage, as well as algorithms, development software, and design tools.
According to David Tam, vice president of IR's Energy-Saving Products, the iMOTION platform achieves higher reliability and system performance by better controlling system load changes. This improves control pump operations, and provides control over a wide range of load conditions as well as enabling smooth start-up conditions.
Mixed signal control
The IRMCF371 mixed-signal control IC for pumps integrates all the control and analog interface functions required for sensorless sinusoidal control of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMS) using DC link current measurements. Analog functions on the IC include differential amplifier, dual sample and hold circuits, and a 12-bit ADC to sample the low-voltage signal across the DC link shunt.
The IRMCF371 incorporates IR's patented motion control engine (MCETM), an algorithm editor that eliminates coding. An integrated 60MIPS, 8-bit, 8051 microcontroller enables application layer software development, operating independently from the MCE, and does not compete for system resources such as interrupts or internal registers. The embedded Analog Signal Engine integrates all the signal conditioning and conversion circuits required for single current shunt, sensorless control of a PMS motor.
Power stage
The IRAMS06UP60B is a compact, intelligent power module optimised for electronic motor control in appliance applications that features a three-phase inverter with IC driver in a compact single in-line (SIP1) package. The device includes a shutdown function and over-current protection for safe operation. Other built-in functions include current feedback via dedicated internal shunt resistors and a temperature sensing device.
Design tools
Design tools include communications software running on the 8051 microcontroller that gives the PC-based MCEDesigner software access to the control parameters and system variables in the shared memory. This allows modification of the controller set points and control loop gains and other constants without needing to modify or compile software.
Further reading:
Next-gen power meter
Electrocomp Express
Power Electronics / Power Management
The VT-PWR-LV is a next-gen Vista Touch power meter from Trumeter for single, split, and three-phase systems.
Read more...
Advanced PMIC for high-performance AI applications
ASIC Design Services
Power Electronics / Power Management
Microchip Technology has announced the MCP16701, a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC) designed to meet the needs of high-performance MPU and FPGA designers.
Read more...
New SiC power MOSFET
Future Electronics
Power Electronics / Power Management
STMicroelectronics’ SCT012H90G3AG is a robust, automotive-grade SiC MOSFET, engineered for demanding power electronics, featuring a 900?V drain-source voltage and exceptionally low on-resistance of 12?mO at 60?A.
Read more...
Fundamental motor control design challenges and solutions
Power Electronics / Power Management
Mouser Electronics has announced a new eBook in collaboration with Qorvo, featuring industry experts providing key insights into methods, power efficiency and integration solutions available for motor control applications.
Read more...
Power management IC for battery products
Power Electronics / Power Management
The nPM1304 PMIC complements Nordic’s nPM1300 PMIC with a highly integrated, ultra-low power solution and precision fuel gauging for small size battery applications.
Read more...
Powering Innovation eBook: Changing what’s possible
Power Electronics / Power Management
This exclusive read, entitled ‘Changing what’s Possible,’ delves into how power dense Vicor modules enable many world-changing innovations across various sectors.
Read more...
16-channel multicell battery monitor
Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
The ADBMS6830B is a multicell battery stack monitor that measures up to 16 series-connected battery cells with a lifetime total measurement error of less than 2 mV.
Read more...
Reliable redundancy with the Mibbo M3DN Series
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Designed for use with two parallel-connected power supplies, the M3DN Series allows for true redundancy, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.
Read more...
Automotive power-over-coax inductor
RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK has launched the ADL8030VA, a high-performance inductor designed specifically for power-over-coaxial applications.
Read more...
Rugged PSU for challenging conditions
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Built for rugged reliability, the Mibbo MFC Series delivers stable, efficient power in environments where moisture, dust, and temperature extremes are everyday challenges.
Read more...
printer friendly version