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MOTION CONTROL FEATURE
FINDING THE RIGHT BALANCE
In demanding industrial settings, cranes must endure heavy loads and harsh conditions while also striving for energy efficiency. These requirements led Nedcrane to partner with motion drives manufacturer, WEG, to modernise the overhead crane system at Rail Port Brabant in Tilburg, Netherlands
C
ranes are often used in demanding environments where they must withstand heavy loads, harsh weather
conditions and rigorous use. In such an application, finding a balance between energy efficiency and environmental resilience involves selecting equipment that offers the necessary strength and durability. Nedcranes, which specialises in inspections,
repairs and complete overhauls including maintenance of port cranes, was tasked with modernising an overhead crane system at the Rail Port Brabant rail terminal. The project would involve dismantling an old crane, adjusting its track width and beam length and turning its cat around. The solution would involve replacing DC motors
with variable frequency drive (VFD)-driven AC motors for enhanced efficiency and performance. Understanding the need to determine indicators such as speeds, transmission ratios, pole pairs, magnetisation currents and required braking power, Nedcranes invited WEG to be its partner and supplier of motors and drives.
ENHANCED RELIABILITY A new hoisting solution was installed in which DC motors were replaced with VFD driven alternating current (AC) motors. Replacing DC motors with
VFD controlled AC motors offers several advantages, including improved energy efficiency, precise speed control, reduced maintenance needs and enhanced reliability. By varying the speed of the motor, VFDs enable smoother operation and better performance, while also allowing for more flexible and efficient power management. After identifying the
necessary loads, speeds and weather conditions such as wind and rain, WEG selected the most suitable motors from its portfolio. In total, four 30 Kilowatts (kW) motors for crane movement, two 22 kW trolley motors, a 7.5 kW motor for the lifting device and a 170 kW motor for the winch were provided by WEG. All motors, except for the winch motor, were equipped with gearboxes and mechanical brakes that are a standard safety requirement in the world of cranes. All motors are from the WEG W22 series, with IE3 Premium Efficiency rating. These have low noise, an important consideration since the Rail Port Brabant rail terminal is located near a residential area.
The ventilation system design of the W22 line
provides lower noise levels and allows a better distribution of the air flow over the motor, which minimises hot spots on the surface and increases reliability. The W22 line reduces energy consumption, offers excellent cost effectiveness and greater productivity.
THE RIGHT SOLUTION “In the crane market, you must find balance. Not only in terms of severity, energy, technology and costs, but also in terms of partners with whom you perform this type of large-scale projects. Fortunately, we found that in WEG solutions,” said Van Beijnen, senior project manager at Nedcranes. The collaborative effort between
WEG and Nedcranes stands as a testament to the power of innovation in addressing the challenges of the crane industry. By embracing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, the modernisation of the port’s overhead crane system enhances operational efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
WEG
www.weg.net
MAY 2024 DESIGN SOLUTIONS 29
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