Technical Q&A: trends and developments in drives

Drives perform different tasks for customers in numerous settings who are starting to demand IIOT compatibility, better data manipulation, more efficiency, and greater process control. The Engineer sought the opinions of experts in this field to find out how they will deliver on these demands.

AT: We’re seeing a continuing demand from our customers for process control and reliability. We work closely with customers to help them choose the right drive, so they can reach their goals to reduce downtime and maximize productivity. Another key trend is energy efficiency, both to contain costs and to reduce emissions that contribute to climate change. Today, one-third of global electricity is converted into motion by electric motors. By 2040 the number of motors in the world is set to double. Typically, a variable speed drive in combination with high efficiency motors will cut energy consumption by 30 per cent to 50 per cent.