How to Determine Revolution Count in PowerFlex 525 Variable Frequency Drive with Encoder

Question:

Is it possible to obtain the revolution count in a PF525 variable frequency drive? The VFD is operating in velocity mode, but I also require the revolution count for certain specifications. The encoder, which is connected and set at 1024 pulses per revolution, currently only provides the encoder speed in RPM. While I can manually calculate the count through numerical integration in the PLC, I am hoping for a simpler and more efficient solution.

Top Replies

Registers D388 and D389 are crucial for storing the distance traveled in revolutions from a home position. D388 stores the high value left of the decimal, while D389 stores the low value right of the decimal. These registers require the encoder to be in use in order to actively store data. Utilizing the encoder for velocity vector mode is a suitable application for these parameters. It is important to implement a Home routine in conjunction with these registers for optimal performance.

In the world of automation, registers D388 and D389 play a crucial role in storing the distance traveled in revolutions from a set home position. D388 holds the high value (on the left of the decimal), while D389 stores the low value (on the right of the decimal). For these parameters to effectively store data, the encoder must be utilized for a specific purpose, such as velocity vector mode. It is important to integrate this set of parameters with a Home routine for optimal performance. During previous attempts at using these registers, I encountered some challenges. I struggled to home via the Ethernet connection and faced firmware-related issues. These problems arose when I was using early firmware versions like 1.x and 2.x shortly after the drives were released. I am hopeful that any bugs I experienced have been resolved in the past three years.

Thank you for your responses. I have been able to access and view the parameters, including units traveled. However, the only way I have found to reset the homing is to cycle power. I have not been able to locate a parameter to set the home position and start counting from the beginning. Although there is parameter A561 [Home Save], it only allows for saving or resetting the home position during power down. Do you have any suggestions for implementing homing and resetting the units traveled value effectively?

To optimize your system, consider utilizing A560 (Enhanced Control Word) as a datalink and utilizing bit 3 (Pos Redefine) to reset the values of d388 and d389 to zero. Remember that this process is level-sensitive and must be reset before d388/389 begin incrementing again. Keep in mind that d388 will stop incrementing once it reaches 64000.

My attempts to use the PF for revolution counts were unsuccessful. As a solution, we decided to parallel the encoder feedback signal to a high-speed counter module. This method proved to be more effective in accurately tracking revolutions.

From my understanding, the PF525 VFD doesn't directly provide the revolution count data. Your option of numerical integration in the PLC, although not ideal, is a common method. The PLC, being designed for control procedures, could handle the task effectively. Simplifying your calculations could come down to a more efficient PLC program. However, for a more direct route, consider an external high-speed counter module or a motion controller - both of these can provide direct revolution count. They may add to the cost but would streamline your process.

Yes, you can definitely access the revolution count from the PF525 if you configure it properly! Since your VFD is already in velocity mode and you've got your encoder set up, you might want to check if there’s a parameter in the drive’s settings that allows you to directly read the total revolutions or if it can be set to output such data. Some models might have a built-in function for tracking total revolutions or a related operating mode. If not, using the PLC for numerical integration is a reasonable workaround, but if you need a more streamlined approach, consider looking into any add-on modules or external counters that can interface with the VFD to automate this counting for you. It could save you time in the long run!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Can the PowerFlex 525 VFD provide revolution count information directly?

Answer: - No, the PF525 VFD does not provide revolution count information directly. It only outputs encoder speed in RPM.

FAQ: 2. Is there a way to obtain revolution count using the encoder setup in the PF525 VFD?

Answer: - The encoder connected to the PF525 VFD can be set up with a specific number of pulses per revolution, such as 1024 pulses per revolution. However, it does not inherently provide revolution count information.

FAQ: 3. What is the suggested method for determining revolution count in a PF525 VFD setup?

Answer: - While the VFD itself does not provide revolution count, one possible solution is to perform numerical integration in the PLC based on the encoder pulses received to calculate the revolution count manually.

FAQ: 4. Are there any alternative or more efficient ways to obtain the revolution count in a PF525 VFD setup?

Answer: - As of now, manually calculating the revolution count through numerical integration in the PLC seems to be the most straightforward solution. The VFD does not offer a direct output for revolution count.

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