Parker Presents the New AC Drive Controller AC20F as the Central Component of its Enhanced Drive Controlled Pump

The Industrial Systems Division Europe of Parker Hannifin has announced the launch of its new AC20F drive controller. The modular drive was specially developed for motor control in hydraulic applications. It is therefore also ideally suited to use in variable-speed hydraulic pump systems, such as the company’s Drive Controlled Pump (DCP).

The AC20F is already available in numerous power levels from 1.5 kW to 180 kW and thus covers a comprehensive range of applications. Despite its compact dimensions, the new drive controller offers a wide selection of ready-integrated functions, such as the sensor-less vector mode for controlling AC induction motors. Condition monitoring of hydraulic power units is also supported: oil level and temperature as well as the condition of the filter are automatically detected and, if necessary, lead either to a warning or even to the application being stopped.

The AC20F is particularly suitable as a drive controller for the enhanced DCP, Parker’s variable-speed hydraulic drive solution. Four operating modes are supported: in flow control (Q) mode, the AC20F sets the correct pump speed based on the specified flow rate. In pressure (P) mode, the drive controls pressure based on the control signal and feedback from a closed-loop pressure transducer. PQ mode combines these first two options. In addition, the AC20F also offers an electronic load compensated pump (eLCP) mode. With this load-sensing function, it is possible to combine the high dynamics of the throttle valve used with the efficiency and energy saving potential of the Drive Controlled Pump.

The range of functions of the new drive can be extended by numerous optional modules. For example, the I/O capability of the basic version can be extended with I/O option cards; the optional encoder feedback card allows an incremental encoder to be connected, thereby taking advantage of all the benefits of closed-loop vector control. In addition, the AC20F can be equipped with communication cards for fieldbus communication with open standards, including CANopen, PROFIBUS, PROFINET, EtherCAT and EtherNet/IP.

Another advantage of the AC20F is the Drive System Explorer (DSELite) configuration software from Parker. It is based on clear block programming and offers an intuitive user interface. This allows the user to configure and parameterise applications easily and conveniently without having to navigate through complicated menus.

This concept makes the new AC20F suitable for OEM machine builders who need a compact, cost-effective, and user-friendly drive for hydraulic applications, but do not want to compromise on performance.