Greetings, I am currently working with AB Studio 5000 and utilizing a PowerFlex 755T drive to control a conveyor to a specific set point. The set point is inputted on a panel in Feet/Minute (FPM), while the drive can be controlled in RPM (0-1500 rpm) or in Hz (0 - 60Hz). In order to convert FPM to RPM, the formula used is RPM=(FPM∗12)/(π∗Diameter). To display the feedback from the drive, the RPM needs to be converted to FPM for visualization on the panel (FPM= RPM* Diameter * π). Is there a simpler method for this conversion, or must I continue using these formulas? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help. Best regards, Frederik
Don't stress about calculating circumference and diameter - simplify with a single multiplier and a hand-held tachometer. Set your desired feet per minute (FPM) and tach the belt to find the right RPM for the drive. Adjust the FPM by multiplying it with a coefficient until your tachometer matches your set point (SP). Repeat the same process in reverse to get feedback. This method streamlines the process and ensures accuracy in belt speed adjustments.
Thank you for providing the response. I have created two options for on-site selection, allowing users to choose their preferred method.
Hi Frederik, Your current conversion methods are fundamentally correct and precise. Software-wise, it may get intricate, but mathematically that is the conversion. If you desire a simpler way, you could possibly streamline the process by creating a conversion function in your PLC code. This function can accept the FPM as input, carry out the computation, and output the RPM. This way, you can call the function whenever needed in the code, making your program cleaner and less complicated. Additionally, the same method could be used to reverse the process for feedback display. Remember to consider drive efficiency and slip, if applicable.
Hi Frederik, Your method to convert between FPM and RPM is mathematically correct. As of today, these conversion formulas are the most straightforward way to get your desired output considering your equipment settings. However, since you're programming this calculation directly into AB Studio 5000, you can keep this conversion clean by defining it as a custom function in the software, allowing you to call it whenever it's needed. You'd be implementing the same formulas, just behind the scenes, making your overall coding cleaner and easier to read. Hope this helps! Cheers!
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Answer: - To convert FPM to RPM, you can use the formula RPM = (FPM 12) / (π Diameter). For the reverse conversion, FPM = RPM Diameter π.
Answer: - While the formulas mentioned are commonly used for conversion, you can explore automation or scripting options in your control system software to simplify the conversion process.
Answer: - The PowerFlex 755T drive typically operates in RPM or Hz, so converting the setpoint from FPM to RPM or Hz is necessary for control purposes.
Answer: - You can convert the RPM feedback from the drive to FPM using the formula FPM = RPM Diameter π, and then display this value on the control panel for visualization.
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