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Switching to the Magnetek® IMPULSE® VFD: A Guide to Upgrading Your Variable Frequency Drive

How To's | Power & Motion Technology | Crane Systems | By Casey Cummins | Jan 08, 2024


Many of our customers inquire about the simplicity of replacing their current variable frequency drive (VFD) with a Magnetek IMPULSE VFD. We're pleased to inform you that it's a straightforward process. With the introduction of the IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5 Variable Frequency Drives, the advantages of transitioning are more compelling than ever.

Whether you're using an older VFD or a contactor control, transitioning to an IMPULSE Series 5 VFD is smooth. Here's a step-by-step guide:

STEP 1: Selection

  • Selecting the appropriate IMPULSE VFD for your needs is easy. Just provide your motor's nameplate data and details about your crane, such as its motion and duty cycle. Our Columbus McKinnon experts will then assist you.
  • The IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5 is optimized for material handling applications, guaranteeing maximum efficiency and performance for crane operations.

STEP 2: Connection

  • The Series 5 VFDs can adapt to any field wiring needs. Regardless of your speed control method—stepped, stepless, or analog—we have a solution.
  • Easily connect digital, analog, or serial communications. And with the Series 5's built-in USB port, directly connecting to a PC for parameter adjustments is a breeze.


STEP 3: Configuration

  • Installation: Simply mount the VFD and identify the locations for power and control wires. The Series 5 also boasts a high-resolution keypad for easy diagnostics and user-friendly parameter menus.
  • Control Determination: Match your VFD control to the pendant or radio control you're using.
  • Programming: Setting up the IMPULSE VFD is easy. Define the crane component it manages, configure settings, and let the auto-tuning feature do the rest. The Series 5 offers numerous in-built software features to optimize your overhead crane system.

Benefits of the IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5 VFDs:

  • Safety: Features such as sway control, and collision avoidance promote safety and productivity. You can safely set up these VFDs with low voltage. The built-in USB also ensures secure PC connections.
  • Simplified Operation: With a clearer keypad, streamlined menus, and timestamp features, diagnosing, adjusting settings, and troubleshooting are quicker and more user-friendly.
  • Connectivity: The Series 5 VFDs support modern facilities by seamlessly integrating with diagnostic tools and network connections, fostering efficient maintenance and operation.
  • Reliability and Integration: Designed for the demanding environment of overhead material handling, these energy-efficient VFDs come with a three-year warranty and seamlessly integrate with leading Columbus McKinnon brands like Yale and Shaw-Box.
  • Customization: From personalized control panels to holistic crane solutions, the Series 5 VFDs can be adapted to meet your exact requirements.

WATCH: Introduction to IMPULSE®·G+/VG+ Series 5 Variable Frequency Drives

New Magnetek-brand IMPULSE Series 5 Variable Frequency Drives are designed to serve as the intelligent foundation for overhead cranes and hoist systems. This recorded webinar provides a detailed look at the new IMPULSE·G+/VG+ Series 5 VFDs and their proper application for overhead cranes.

This webinar covers:

  • Introduction of IMPULSE·G+/VG+ Series 5
  • Comparison to IMPULSE·G+/VG+ Series 4
  • Improvement Highlights
  • New Features
  • Available Accessories
  • Upcoming Product Updates
  • Documentation & Resources
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The IMPULSE®•G+/VG+ Series 5 Variable Frequency Drives offer all the benefits of a Magnetek VFD, while also equipping your crane system with cutting-edge VFD technology. They represent the future of crane performance, merging enhanced safety with streamlined operations. Don't delay – elevate your crane system's productivity and safety by upgrading today!

Start a Conversation with our VFD Crane Control Experts

 

Training Courses on Crane Drives

Whether you need training on crane operation, installation or maintenance, we have a course for you. We offer a wide variety of courses ranging from overhead crane and hoist inspection certification to mobile crane operator training applicable to professionals in almost any industry. We even offer a NCCCO Certification prep course for individuals interested in NCCCO Overhead Crane Operator Certification.

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Casey Cummins

Casey Cummins is a Magnetek Controls Product Manager at Columbus McKinnon Corporation. He started with the company in 2011. Prior to moving into a management roll, Casey worked on embedded firmware development and electrical design. Also, Casey actively serves on the AIST crane committee. Outside of engineering life, he is fascinated by the modern space race and astrophysics, and also has a goal of hiking all the US national parks.

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