Uptake of the newly launched range of Hitachi Industrial SJ700B variable-speed drives (VSDs) has been positive to date, says electrical, automation and mechanical products and equipment supplier Elquip Solutions MD Mike Cronin.

He adds that the SJ700B VSDs are suitable for any industrial processes that use electric motors, such as assembly lines, “which must operate at different speeds for different products”.

“Where process conditions demand adjustment of flow from a pump or a fan, varying the speed of the drive will save companies significant amounts of money, as it reduces electricity consumption,” Cronin points out.

He notes that the SJ700B VSDs are used in several industries locally and globally, including in the steel, mining, chemicals and food and beverage sectors.
“Japanese multinational engineering and electronics conglomerate Hitachi’s Industrial SJ700B VSDs outperform its predecessor, the Hitachi L300P VSD with regards to performance levels, capabilities and functions. “ The new model is equipped with improved sensorless vector control algorithm, which allows for the SJ700B series inverters to develop 150% torque at 0.5 Hz up to 75 kW, and 120% torque at 0.5 Hz up to 160 kW,” he states.

Cronin adds that another key upgrade to the SJ700B VSDs is Hitachi’s easy sequence built-in programming function, which provides the functionality of a programmable logic controller.

Further, he highlights that the three-phase SJ700B VSDs are easy to operate, owing to the removable standard operator keypad, built-in Modbus remote terminal unit communication protocol, carrier frequency that is selectable up to 12 kHz for quiet operation and an automatic energy savings function for fan and pump applications, as well as a micro-surge voltage suppress function.

“The SJ700B VSDs are also compliant with European Union regulations, which restrict hazardous sub- stances in electrical and electronic equipment,” says Cronin, who adds that the VSDs’ ratings range from 7.5 kW to 160 kW.

He believes that there is significant potential for sales growth of the Elquip Solutions range of VSDs and motors, owing to companies increasingly implementing environment-friendly and energy efficient practices and technologies.

Meanwhile, Cronin says the company is committed to sourcing only high-quality, cost-effective products for its customers.

“We are living in highly challenging economic times and companies are always looking to save money, wherever possible. “However, they cannot afford to buy substandard equipment as quality assurance remains paramount to ensure that health and safety standards, and produc- tivity levels, are met,” he states.

Cronin points out that Elquip Solutions is also a distributor of power and automation technology group ABB’s motors and low- voltage products.

“The AF contactors range has proven to be popular, owing to its versatility,

” Cronin concludes.