Siemens Drives with Low Harmonic Content: A Comprehensive Guide

As enthusiasts and professionals working with drives and motors, we often encounter the challenge of minimizing harmonic distortion in our systems. Siemens, a renowned manufacturer of industrial automation systems, offers a range of drives designed to address this issue. This article will explore which series of Siemens drives are low in harmonic content and how to achieve even lower levels of distortion.

Introduction to Harmonic Distortion in Drives

Harmonic distortion is a common issue in drive systems, especially those using non-rectified or rectified power supplies. It occurs when the current waveform deviates from an ideal sinusoidal shape, leading to the generation of additional frequencies, or harmonics, which can cause unwanted effects such as increased energy consumption, overheating, and interference with other electronic devices. Low harmonic content drives significantly mitigate these issues by shaping the current waveform to be closer to a perfect sine wave.

Siemens Drives Known for Low Harmonic Content

The G150 Series

The Siemens G150 series is known for its advanced harmonic filters, making it a popular choice among industrial engineers. While standard configurations of G150 drives can introduce some degree of harmonic distortion, they can be supplied with input filters to significantly reduce this issue. These filters help to smooth the current waveform, thereby minimizing the generation of higher-order harmonics.

The S130, GM150, and GH150 Series

The S130, GM150, and GH150 series are built specifically to combat harmonic distortion. These drives can be supplied with multiple diode infeeds, allowing for the use of multiple transformers with different phase offsets. By combining these components, a 24-pulse rectification system can be easily achieved, further reducing harmonic content. This innovative approach not only minimizes distortion but also improves overall system efficiency and reliability.

The GH180 Series

Taking harmonic suppression to the next level, the GH180 series can be configured with up to 96 pulse rectification. This configuration results in an extremely low harmonic content, with most of the current waveform being a high-quality sine wave. The GH180 series is ideal for applications that require the highest levels of precision and consistency in performance. Siemens provides comprehensive literature and technical documentation to help users understand and implement these advanced drive systems effectively.

Benefits of Low Harmonic Content in Drives

By choosing Siemens drives with low harmonic content, you can enjoy several advantages:

Reduced Energy Losses: Lower harmonic distortion means less energy is wasted as heat, leading to more efficient operation and cost savings. Increased Motor and Component Lifespan: Reduced wear and tear on motors and other components due to lower operating temperatures and stress. Improved Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Lower harmonic content minimizes interference with other electronic devices, ensuring a clean and reliable power environment.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Siemens drive series is essential for achieving the desired low harmonic content in your industrial automation systems. From the versatile G150 to the highly advanced GH180, Siemens offers a range of solutions to suit various application needs. Whether you require a basic reduction in harmonics or the highest levels of precision, Siemens drives are equipped with the technology to meet your requirements.

References

Siemens Automation and Drive Product Literature
Specific Technical Support and Manuals for Each Drive Series