Evaluating Drive Technologies: Panasonic and Allen Bradley – Features, Benefits, and Trade-offs

Drive technologies are one of several industries that have undergone significant change due to the speedy growth of technology. Businesses worldwide always evaluate various driving technologies to increase operational effectiveness, productivity, and sustainability. This article explores Allen Bradley and Panasonic, two well-known manufacturers of drive technology, and contrasts their offerings, functionalities, and suitability for diverse applications. Panasonic, a well-known international company, holds a strong position in the drive technology field, and offers a variety of solutions for many industries. Their drives have a solid reputation among manufacturers for durability, precision, and energy efficiency. Rockwell Automation’s well-known brand Allen Bradley, which uses cutting-edge drive technology, is noted for performing admirably in demanding industrial environments. Due to its cutting-edge features, which include simple integration with industrial automation systems and high-performance motor control, Allen Bradley drives have developed a reputation for dependability and adaptability. To highlight the benefits and drawbacks of these two industry leaders’ drive technology, this article contrasts them. By doing this, it will assist organizations in selecting the appropriate drive solutions for their operations.

Here we will have a technical comparison of some of the features of both drive technologies incorporated by these brands. Moreover, we will look at their benefits and certain tradeoffs.

Communication Protocols:

Drive technologies rely heavily on communication protocols to enable smooth interaction with industrial automation systems. EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology), a high-performance, real-time industrial Ethernet standard, is one of the protocols that Panasonic drives support. In order to provide exact and synchronized communication between drives and other automation equipment, EtherCAT uses a distributed clock synchronization method and a processing-on-the-fly paradigm. For instance, Panasonic drives employing EtherCAT can precisely locate and coordinate numerous axes in a multi-axis motion control system, assuring precise motions. The CIP (Common Industrial Protocol) suite, which includes protocols like EtherNet/IP and ControlNet, is supported by Allen Bradley drives. Drives and other industrial network equipment may communicate in real-time thanks to the Ethernet-based EtherNet/IP protocol. EtherNet/IP enables coordinated device control and high-speed data interchange through control and packets. For example, The Panasonic FP-XH module with Modbus TCP/IP capability exhibits its communication skills in an automated manufacturing facility. The Modbus TCP/IP protocol, a popular industrial communication standard for connecting devices in a network, is smoothly integrated with the FP-XH module. The Allen Bradley ControlLogix module with EtherNet/IP compatibility displays its communication capabilities in a process automation system. The EtherNet/IP protocol, a widely used industrial Ethernet-based protocol for real-time control and communication in industrial automation systems, is smoothly integrated with the ControlLogix module.

Dynamic Braking:

Drive technologies must include dynamic braking because it enables the controlled slowdown of motors

and the release of additional regenerated energy. Panasonic drives use dynamic braking resistors and regenerative braking devices to discharge extra power generated during motor deceleration. This is done by calculating regeneration energy, which is then transmitted to the resistors used for dynamic braking to avoid voltage spikes and safeguard the drive system. Allen Bradley drives, on the other hand, employ regenerative braking modules. Using dynamic brake resistors, these modules turn surplus regenerative energy into heat. The motor and drive system can operate safely and dependably because of the regulated deceleration and energy loss during this process. For example, in a high-speed servo motor application, the MINAS A6 drive’s integrated DBU module ensures precise and safe deceleration of the motor, providing rapid and accurate motion control. Moreover, in a conveyor system with fluctuating loads, the PowerFlex 750 drive with the DBC module offers smooth and controlled deceleration of the motor, preventing overvoltage situations and maintaining the integrity of the drive system.

Harmonic Mitigation:

Drives from Allen Bradley and Panasonic both use harmonic mitigation strategies to reduce harmonics produced by the drives. For instance, advanced active front-end (AFE) technology is used by Panasonic drives, such as the Panasonic MINAS A6 series, to reduce harmonics. Advanced power conversion methods and filtering algorithms are used by AFE technology to actively mitigate harmonics and ensure compliance with stringent power quality criteria. Panasonic drives efficiently eliminate harmonic distortion and lessen the burden on the power supply infrastructure by continually monitoring and adjusting the current waveforms. To reduce harmonics, Allen Bradley drives, such as the PowerFlex 755 series, use harmonic filters. These filters’ purpose is to dampen particular harmonic frequencies produced by the drive, lessening their effect on the power supply. Allen Bradley drives provide power quality and adherence to legal requirements by integrating harmonic filters into the drive system. This prevents excessive harmonics from impairing the grid’s stability and other associated equipment.

Diagnostic and Monitoring Capabilities:

Drive technologies must include diagnostic and monitoring capabilities because they enable real-time monitoring and analysis of drive performance and system health. The Panasonic FP0R series drive, with its integrated diagnostic and monitoring functions, exhibits its abilities in a sophisticated industrial automation system. An integrated digital operator is a feature of the FP0R drive that offers real-time feedback on drive status, parameter monitoring, and fault identification. The FP0R drive’s comprehensive diagnostic features, such as error code logging and event history tracking, let operators rapidly detect and resolve problems, minimizing downtime and enhancing system performance. However, The Allen Bradley Kinetix 5700 series drive, which features an integrated motion analyzer module, exhibits cutting-edge diagnostic and monitoring capabilities in a motion control application. Real-time monitoring of drive performance, motor health, and system dynamics is possible thanks to the motion analyzer module. The Kinetix 5700 drive offers thorough insights into the status of the motor and drive system with functions including vibration analysis, torque monitoring, and thermal imaging.

Benefits:

Drives from Panasonic and Allen Bradley provide a variety of advantages that support dependable and effective operation in industrial applications. The MINAS A6 series, a prime example of a Panasonic drive, offers cutting-edge control algorithms like Auto-Tuning and Adaptive Vibration Suppression, which optimize motor performance and improve system stability. The Auto-Tuning function of the MINAS A6 drive automatically modifies motor settings for accurate and effective operation, while Adaptive Vibration Suppression reduces vibrations to enhance system efficiency. If we talk about Allen Bradley drives, their PowerFlex 755 series has built-in safety features, including Safe Torque Off (STO) and Safe Speed Monitoring. STO stops the motor’s torque production, protecting the operator in times of maintenance or emergency. Drives from Panasonic and Allen Bradley prioritize energy economy, which lowers running costs and has a positive environmental impact. Allen Bradley drives, like the PowerFlex 525 series, use Intelligent Motor Control algorithms to optimize energy use and reduce power Consumption; Panasonic drives, including the FP0R series, use features like Energy Save Control and Sleep Mode to minimize power consumption during idle periods.

Additionally, Panasonic drives operate very well at high speeds, offering robust acceleration and deceleration characteristics necessary for applications needing swift and accurate motions. The FP-X series, which provides several communication ports for easy integration into various network designs, exemplifies the versatility of Panasonic drives. Multiple motor sizes and voltage ratings may be accommodated using Allen Bradley drives, such as the PowerFlex 750 series, which also offers scalability and adaptability, allowing for system customization and future extension. Allen Bradley drives come with sophisticated diagnostic and troubleshooting tools, and the Kinetix 5700 drive’s integrated Logix-based controller supports thorough troubleshooting, fault analysis, and historical data logging. Furthermore, motor protection is a priority for Allen Bradley and Panasonic drives. The PowerFlex 525 series includes defect detection algorithms, voltage and current monitoring, and motor overload protection to protect the motor and guarantee dependable performance. Finally, the drives have integrated programming and configuration software, including Connected Components Workbench from Allen Bradley and MEXE02 software from Panasonic, which makes drive setup, customization, and performance improvement simple.

Trade-offs:

When choosing the best drive for certain industrial applications, compromises between Panasonic and Allen Bradley drives must be taken into account. Making decisions based on unique needs and objectives necessitates an understanding of these trade-offs. A compromise with Panasonic drives, like the MINAS A6 series, is that there are less compatible adapters and peripherals available than with Allen Bradley drives. Although Panasonic drives have outstanding performance and functionality, their selection of compatible accessories, communication modules, or specialty modules may be somewhat more constrained than Allen Bradley drives’ wide-ranging ecosystem. The system’s overall flexibility and expandability may be impacted by this. However, a trade-off of Allen Bradley drives, like the PowerFlex series, is that they may be more expensive initially than Panasonic drives. Drives from Allen Bradley are renowned for their dependability, breadth of functionality, and cutting-edge capabilities, but this frequently comes at a premium price point. Given that Allen Bradley drives may demand a larger upfront investment than Panasonic drives, it is crucial to carefully assess the application’s unique requirements and financial limitations. The intricacy of the programming is another trade-off to take into account. Drives from Panasonic, like the FP-X series, frequently use exclusive programming languages or software, which might mean a longer learning curve for people who aren’t familiar with the company. Conversely, Allen Bradley drives, such as the PowerFlex series, frequently uses the widely used Rockwell Automation programming environment, which may provide a more natural programming experience, especially for users who are already familiar with Rockwell Automation products.

Allen Bradley drives often have a bigger international footprint and a broader network of distributors and service providers compared to Panasonic drives when it comes to availability and support on a global scale. In terms of having access to technical assistance, spare parts, and maintenance services in different areas of the world, this may be a big benefit. When it comes to smooth integration with systems or devices made by other companies, Panasonic drives may have restrictions. In contrast to Allen Bradley drives, which provide greater compatibility and support for a variety of industry-standard protocols, they may not be as compatible with certain third-party devices or proprietary protocols even though they do support standard communication protocols. The PowerFlex family of Allen Bradley drives, for example, are recognized for their sophisticated diagnostic capabilities. They provide capabilities like condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, allowing for proactive maintenance, quick issue finding, and effective troubleshooting. While Panasonic drives do offer some basic diagnostic functions, they might not be as comprehensive as those found in Allen Bradley drives. Furthermore, because Allen Bradley drives often have longer product life cycles and ongoing support, assuring the availability of spare parts and technical help for prolonged durations, long-term availability and support might be seen as a compromise. In contrast, Panasonic drives could have shorter life cycles for particular product lines, which might have an impact on long-term upkeep and availability.

In conclusion, it is critical to assess the advantages, drawbacks, and appropriateness of certain industrial applications when comparing drive technologies from Panasonic and Allen Bradley. A variety of drive systems with special features and functionality are available from both vendors. Precision motor control is a strength of Panasonic drives, such as the MINAS A6 series, which uses cutting-edge algorithms like Field-Oriented Control (FOC) for accurate speed and torque management. Additionally, they enable communication standards like EtherCAT, enabling multi-axis systems to regulate motion precisely. High-speed performance, integrated diagnostics, and monitoring features, all of which are prioritized by Panasonic drives, allow for effective troubleshooting. On the other hand, drives from the PowerFlex series of Allen Bradley are renowned for their toughness and versatility in difficult industrial conditions. Advanced diagnostic and monitoring features, including built-in motion analysis modules and connectivity with the Rockwell Automation environment, are present in them. With features like Safe Torque Off (STO), Allen Bradley drives place a priority on safety. They also provide scalability, flexibility, and interoperability with a variety of communication protocols, including EtherNet/IP. There are compromises to take into account, however. Allen Bradley drives offer more interoperability within the Rockwell Automation environment and support for industry-standard protocols, whereas Panasonic drives may have limited compatibility with third-party devices and proprietary protocols. Although they offer a comfortable programming environment for Rockwell Automation users, the initial expenses and programming complexity of Allen Bradley drives may be more significant. Due to their wide network of distributors and service providers and their global presence, Allen Bradley drives may be more readily available and supported.

This entry was posted on August 14th, 2023 and is filed under Allen-Bradley, Selection Guide, Technology. Both comments and pings are currently closed.