Already in use among leading global manufacturers in South Africa, SEW-EURODRIVE’s innovative MOVI‑C® modular automation system offers a new level of flexibility, integration and efficiency to various industry sectors.
MOVI-C® is a modular automation system that includes all necessary components for drive and control solutions, from software to hardware.
The MOVI-C® range was formally launched in South Africa at the Electra Mining Africa exhibition in September 2024, introducing new possibilities for local industries.
Willem Strydom, SEW-EURODRIVE’s Manager Business Development Electronics, describes MOVI-C® as a modular automation system that includes all the necessary components for drive and control solutions, from software to hardware. He highlights that its modularity means it can be customised to meet the specific requirements of different applications and industries.
Customers have been attracted by the benefits the system offers, such as the seamless integration of all components, Strydom says, which ensures compatibility and reduces installation time. The technology also meets high energy efficiency standards, helping customers to reduce their operational costs and, at the same time, reduce their environmental impact.
“The modular system comprises cabinet inverters, decentralised field-mounted drives, motion controllers and the software, which all complement each other,” he says.
A key feature of the system is the MOVILINK® digital data interface (DDI), which connects the drivetrain to the data system – delivering real-time information on indicators such as energy efficiency, application performance and condition monitoring.
“This innovative DDI solution is an important differentiator for SEW-EURODRIVE, as there is nothing comparable from other players in the market,” says Strydom. It fits into the motor with no external or additional sensors and boasts a hybrid cable which is bespoke to SEW-EURODRIVE, connecting the motor to the variable speed drive (VSD). As well as carrying the power supply the cable carries the communications and condition monitoring data.
“The data generated and transmitted is key in facilitating predictive maintenance,” he explains. “Customers can monitor important indicators such as the temperatures and vibration levels in a motor and gearbox, and the value of getting this information ‘live’ is that action can be taken quickly if critical operating parameters are breached.”
The advanced features provide for the SEW IoT Suite software to alert the user by email, WhatsApp or telephone call – and, if need be, can shut down the application to prevent damage. The software interface can be employed on computer or as an app on a mobile phone, depending on how the user prefers to monitor the equipment.
“The real-time feedback from an application in the field also allows systems to be adjusted for optimal performance and efficiency,” Strydom says. “For instance, the motor speed can be changed according to the demands of the application, saving energy and potentially extending machine life.”
Importantly, the heightened sensitivity of the sensors means users are alerted earlier, as the sensors will pick up warning signs before human operators can hear or feel any indication of a problem.
Strydom highlights that the versatile system can be used for centralised or decentralised automation architectures, providing flexibility for different installation requirements. The MOVISUITE® engineering software is designed to be user friendly, so it simplifies the planning, commissioning, operation and diagnostics functionality.
“The MOVI-C® system can also be scaled to meet the specific needs of various industrial processes, whether these are single-axis or multi-axis applications, with simple or complex motion control,” he explains.
The MOVI-C® portfolio also includes preconfigured software modules, known as Movikits, for the implementation of simple drive functions such as speed control and positioning, through to complex multi-axes motion control functions. An example is the Anti-Sway Movikit, which is used to eliminate sway in overhead crane applications.
While MOVI-C® has applications across the board, Strydom says its powerful capabilities are well demonstrated, for example, in stacking and retrieval systems in industrial warehouses. Such applications include both a travelling element (sideways movement) and a hoisting element (up and down movement).
He adds that, “Wherever applications produce regenerative power, the regenerative power supply can harness that power and re-use it, directing it back into the system or storing it in battery packs or capacitor banks.”
In South Africa, the system is being used by global automotive manufacturers and has also been embraced by the food and beverage sector. Strydom sees significant opportunities in the mining industry, in ventilation functions for instance, and plant activities using pumps that need more accurate control.
For more information visit: www.sew-eurodrive.co.za
