Modular compact servo drives with intelligent M8 and M12 connection technology Jenaer Antriebstechnik GmbH manufactures tailored drive solutions and systems for a large number of different markets.
Customer profile
Jenaer Antriebstechnik GmbH (JAT), a drive technology specialist based in Jena, Thuringia, Germany, has been developing and manufacturing tailored drive solutions and systems for a large number of different markets – each with their own specific requirements – for more than 28 years. With more than 160 employees, the family-owned company is a well-established force on the market.
The PCB simplifies the entire manufacturing process; the interfaces of the motor configuration levels can be combined
The solution
To keep manufacturing work to a minimum and flexibility to a maximum, JAT decided to use two-piece M8 and M12 connectors from Phoenix Contact. “The huge variety of versions, number of positions, and codings enabled our developers to integrate all of the optional configuration levels of the new servo drive system on just one PCB, the option module”, explains Hertwig. “This not only saves space in the motor, but also reduces manufacturing and mounting costs”.
The basic device consists of various modules. Depending on the requirements, either low- or high-position motors with flange dimensions of 80 mm or 86 mm are used. With the multi-position motor concept, the motor can provide high torque, even at 1,500 rpm. This, in turn, can eliminate the need for individual gear levels, or even the entire gearbox system. In this way, not only are the device costs reduced – the tolerances can also be tightened, which results in higher precision. Furthermore, because this concept has one less mechanical part that can fail, maintenance effort is also reduced. This, again, increases system availability.
The huge variety of versions, number of positions, and codings enabled our developers to integrate all of the optional configuration levels of the new servo drive system on just one PCB, the option module.
Intelligent motors support intelligent machines with suitable cable connection technology
Even with the basic configuration, the customer has several digital inputs and outputs available for connecting sensors and actuators to the machine. “Without the M8 and M12 connectors, this flexible concept would not have been possible”, says Hertwig. “The range of sensors and actuators that can be connected can be extended at any time, whenever necessary”.
Depending on the performance class, the motors are either operated with 60 V DC protective extra-low voltage or, by connecting up to an additional high-voltage module, from the grid with 230 V AC or 325 V DC. Here too, metric circular connectors from Phoenix Contact provide support. “When making the selection, key factors such as performance, reliability, and robustness were decisive”, says Hertwig, explaining his decision. “This is because our motors always have to work reliably, even under the harsh conditions that often prevail in industrial use”.
Products M8 and M12 circular connectors
Phoenix Contact offers metric circular connectors for industrial automation in a variety of designs: from small to large, straight or angled, molded or for on-site assembly. The wide-ranging portfolio offers versatile solutions for transmitting signals, data, and power.