Improved compatibility between variable-speed drives (VSDs) and web control platforms has been achieved through a collaboration between industrial solutions provider BMG and irrigation equipment company Agrico.

The companies have managed to enable farmers and industrial users across Africa to integrate pumping and motor control capabilities.

BMG Synergy VSDs external sales support in the Cape region Conroy Bosman says collaboration between the two companies, supported by on-site testing, confirmed the compatibility of BMG’s Synergy PI500 VSDs with the Agrico Pump Controller ecosystem.

He says the integration allows for access to performance data and energy management functions.

Bosman adds that the combined system is suited to irrigation schemes and agro-industrial plants, where pumping systems account for a significant share of energy use. The combination of the Synergy VSDs and Agrico's remote monitoring platform is intended to reduce energy consumption, simplify system management and improve reliability.

He notes that remote access to real-time operating data supports operational decision-making, while integrated protection and automation functions help reduce downtime. “In one installation, an irrigation customer recorded energy cost savings of nearly 20% and eliminated unnecessary pump stoppages during the peak season,” he says.

He elaborates that the Synergy PI500 inverter range is designed for motor applications requiring vector-control capability for synchronous, asynchronous and permanent-magnet motors. Automatic tuning and control algorithms maintain stable torque and speed regulation across a wide operating range.

The integration also allows users to remotely manage Synergy VSD installations using the global system for mobile communications or Ethernet, with access to real-time operating data, fault notifications and scheduling functions.

Agrico's web control platform provides cloud-based operation, monitoring and protection for starter and drive systems and supports a range of compatible VSD brands, including the Synergy PI500 series.

The Agrico Pump Controller can manage up to nine pumps on a single manifold when connected to a VSD configured as the master drive. Features including dynamic energy optimisation, section control and multi-pump coordination are available when used with a Synergy drive to provide pressure control and power management. Users can also configure automated triggers, receive SMS or call alerts for critical events and perform remote firmware updates.

The Synergy PI500 inverter incorporates wide input-voltage tolerance, a protective coating against dust and moisture, and an advanced cooling system to extend service life. It also includes electromagnetic compatibility compliance, with built-in protection against overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent and overheating.

Optional peripherals include braking units, reactors and programmable logic controller  function cards, while communication is supported through RS485 and Modbus RTU for integration with Agrico controllers. The Synergy PI500 VSD series also supports hybrid alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) voltage supply from solar and State-owned power utility Eskom sources when installed in a BMG hybrid enclosure, which incorporates advanced cooling functions and DC-to-AC interference mitigation.

BMG provides technical support, training and repair services for the Synergy PI500 range, supported by stockholding of units up to 400 kW. Agrico provides web control help desk support for connectivity and system configuration.