Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD with Safety for Industrial Machinery 12.5A 5.5kW

The Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is a sophisticated solution engineered for precise speed control and enhanced safety in industrial machinery. This drive offers significant advantages, including integrated safety functions, robust performance for demanding applications, and seamless integration into automation systems. With a rated current of 12.5A and a power rating of 5.5kW, it is designed to optimize energy consumption and improve the operational efficiency of a wide range of industrial equipment. The G120 platform's modular design also facilitates easy customization and maintenance, ensuring long-term operational reliability and adaptability.

Product Specifications

| Parameter             | Specification                                         |

| :-------------------- | :---------------------------------------------------- |

| Manufacturer          | Siemens                                               |

| Product Series        | SINAMICS G120                                         |

| Article Number        | 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1                                    |

| Rated Power           | 5.5 kW                                                |

| Rated Current         | 12.5 A                                                |

| Input Voltage         | 380-480V 3 AC                                         |

| Output Frequency      | 0-600 Hz                                              |

| Protection Class      | IP20                                                  |

| Dimensions (H x W x D)| 297 mm x 170 mm x 176 mm                                |

| Ambient Temperature   | -20°C to +50°C                                        |

| Control Type          | Vector Control, V/f Control                           |

| Integrated Safety     | Yes (STO, SS1, SLS, SSM, SBC)                         |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD stands out in the industrial automation market due to its advanced integrated safety features, which are crucial for modern machinery compliance and operator protection. Its robust vector control capabilities ensure precise torque and speed regulation, even under fluctuating load conditions, making it ideal for applications requiring high dynamic performance. The G120's modular architecture allows for flexible configuration, accommodating various motor types and communication protocols, thereby enhancing its versatility and competitive edge. This drive is positioned as a premium solution for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators seeking reliability, efficiency, and advanced functionality for critical industrial machinery.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens G120 VFD is highly effective in various industrial applications demanding precise motion control and integrated safety. It is frequently deployed in conveyor systems for accurate material handling and speed synchronization. Furthermore, its robust performance makes it suitable for pump and fan applications, enabling significant energy savings through precise speed adjustment based on demand. The drive also excels in machine tool applications, where consistent torque and accurate positioning are paramount for precision machining operations. Its integrated safety functions are particularly valuable in packaging machinery, robotics, and automated assembly lines, ensuring safe operation during maintenance or emergency stops.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD involves connecting the power module, control unit, and operator panel, often utilizing a Booksize format for compact installations. Proper wiring of power and control terminals is essential; the drive supports standard three-phase AC input and output connections. For commissioning, utilizing the Siemens Starter software or the drive's integrated keypad allows for parameter configuration, including motor data, control modes (e.g., V/f or vector control), and safety function setup. When implementing safety features like Safe Torque Off (STO), ensuring adherence to relevant safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849-1, IEC 61508) and proper external wiring to safety relays or controllers is critical for functional safety compliance.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD requires understanding its operational parameters and safety protocols. The drive's intuitive operator panel or PC-based commissioning software facilitates setup and monitoring. Key risk mitigation strategies include ensuring correct installation in a suitable environment (IP20 rated, within specified temperature ranges), performing regular maintenance checks on connections and ventilation, and adhering to load limits to prevent overheating or component stress. Common fault codes, such as F0001 (overcurrent) or F0002 (overvoltage), indicate specific issues that can often be resolved by adjusting parameters, verifying motor compatibility, or checking the power supply. Proper utilization of the integrated safety functions, like STO, significantly reduces risks associated with unexpected machine starts.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens SINAMICS G120 platform, including the 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 model, offers excellent scalability and long-term value through its modular design and compatibility with wider Siemens automation ecosystems. Users can easily upgrade or expand functionality by swapping control units or adding communication modules for integration into PROFIBUS, PROFINET, or EtherNet/IP networks. This adaptability ensures that the drive can evolve with changing production requirements and seamlessly connect with other intelligent devices for IIoT and Industry 4.0 initiatives. The drive's robust construction and Siemens' commitment to product longevity contribute to a lower total cost of ownership, making it a strategic investment for maintaining and enhancing industrial machinery performance over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD?

This VFD offers integrated safety functions that enhance operational security. It provides precise motor control for optimal performance and energy efficiency. Its modular design allows for flexible configuration and straightforward maintenance.

The drive's vector control ensures excellent dynamic response and torque accuracy, crucial for demanding industrial applications. Built-in safety features like STO simplify machine safety integration and reduce the need for external safety components. Its robust construction guarantees reliability in harsh industrial environments.

Users benefit from reduced downtime and improved productivity due to the drive's reliability and ease of maintenance. The Siemens ecosystem ensures compatibility and long-term support for evolving automation needs.

What safety features are included in the 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 drive?

The drive includes Safe Torque Off (STO) functionality to prevent unintended motor startup. It also supports Safe Stop 1 (SS1) and Safe Operating Stop (SOS).

Other integrated safety functions include Safe Speed Limit (SLS) and Safe Maximum Speed (SMS). The drive also offers Safely Limited Increment (SLI) for precise positional safety.

These functions help meet stringent machine safety standards, such as ISO 13849-1 and IEC 61508, ensuring worker safety and regulatory compliance.

How is the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 VFD commissioned?

Commissioning is typically done using the Siemens Starter software or the drive's built-in keypad. The process involves configuring motor parameters and control settings.

Essential steps include setting up the drive's voltage, frequency, and current ratings to match the connected motor and application requirements. Safety functions must also be parameterized and tested.

Proper commissioning ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and adherence to all safety protocols, preventing potential operational issues.

What type of motor control does the 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 support?

This VFD supports advanced vector control for precise torque and speed management. It also offers a standard V/f control mode for simpler applications.

Vector control provides superior dynamic performance and accuracy, essential for servo-like applications and those with rapidly changing loads. The V/f control is simpler to set up and suitable for centrifugal loads.

The drive's flexibility in control modes allows it to be adapted to a wide range of motor types and application dynamics, maximizing operational efficiency.

What are the typical applications for this Siemens G120 VFD?

This VFD is ideal for applications requiring precise speed and torque control, such as in machine tools and robotics. It is also widely used in conveyor systems and material handling equipment.

Its energy-saving capabilities make it a strong choice for pump and fan applications in HVAC and process industries. The integrated safety features are beneficial for packaging and assembly machinery.

The drive's robustness and versatility allow it to be deployed in diverse sectors, including automotive, food and beverage, and general manufacturing.

How does the modular design of the SINAMICS G120 benefit users?

The modular design allows for easy replacement of components, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Different control units and interface modules can be swapped to adapt to specific needs.

Users can customize the drive by selecting specific power modules and control units, offering flexibility for various power ratings and communication protocols. This ensures the drive meets exact application requirements.

This adaptability extends the product's lifespan and allows for future upgrades, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term industrial operations.

What are the power and current ratings of the 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1?

This specific model has a rated power output of 5.5 kW. It is designed to handle a rated current of 12.5 Amperes.

These ratings make it suitable for medium-duty industrial applications where precise speed control of motors within this power range is required. It ensures efficient operation without overloading.

The drive's specifications allow it to be effectively integrated into machinery that demands consistent performance and reliability for motors up to 5.5 kW.

What communication protocols can this G120 drive use?

The SINAMICS G120 platform supports various industrial communication protocols, often via optional communication modules. Common protocols include PROFINET and PROFIBUS.

EtherNet/IP and DeviceNet are also often supported, enabling integration into diverse automation networks. The choice of protocol depends on the specific control unit and installed communication adapter.

This broad compatibility ensures seamless integration into existing plant control systems and facilitates advanced network communication for monitoring and diagnostics.

What is the IP rating of the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1?

The Siemens 6SL3210-1KE21-3UF1 G120 VFD has an IP20 protection rating. This means it is protected against solid objects greater than 12.5 mm, such as a finger.

An IP20 rating indicates that the drive is not protected against water ingress. Therefore, it should be installed in a clean, dry environment, typically within a control cabinet.

Proper enclosure in a control cabinet is essential to safeguard the drive from dust, moisture, and physical damage, ensuring its reliable operation and longevity.

How does this VFD contribute to energy efficiency?

The VFD enables energy savings by precisely controlling motor speed according to the actual load demand, rather than running at full speed constantly. This is particularly effective for pumps, fans, and compressors.

By adjusting the motor speed, the drive significantly reduces energy consumption compared to fixed-speed operation, leading to lower electricity bills and a reduced carbon footprint.

The drive's advanced control algorithms optimize power factor and minimize losses, further enhancing overall energy efficiency and contributing to sustainable industrial operations.