Servo drives solve pressing issues

Emerson By Michael Jermann/ Assistant Editor

When PennEngineering, a global leader in fastening solutions, designed the Pemserter, a new-generation, servo-driven fastener insert press, they used Emerson’s Unidrive M servo drives as the primary drive mechanism. The press would allow operators to install fasteners without needing to hold onto the workpiece. The Pemserter ensures the system delivers accurate forces and limit distances.

As the concept for a new press design was developed, PennEngineering worked with Emerson to see if the application was feasible. As the design process moved forward, the Pemserter team worked with Emerson and several outside contractors to develop the hardware and software requirements for the press. Ultimately, the Unidrive M was chosen for its onboard Ethernet and ability to integrate machine logic and motion control without the need for a PLC.

The drives enable and disable the motors on the fly to transfer control from one motor to the other with seamless motion control. PennEngineering’s ISS feature automatically detects and calculates ideal pressing forces up to 16,000 lbs. based on a proprietary algorithm. The upgrade to Unidrive M servo drives makes the press a RoHs II-compliant system, a key requirement in Europe.

Emerson
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