Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 G120 High Power Safety VFD with Filter System 37A 18.5kW

The Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 G120 High Power Safety VFD, a robust variable frequency drive with integrated filter system, offers superior motor control and safety integration for demanding industrial applications. Boasting a 37A rating and 18.5kW power capacity, this unit excels in energy efficiency and precise speed regulation. Its High Power Safety functionality ensures a reliable and secure operational environment, crucial for preventing accidents and minimizing downtime in complex machinery. The integrated filter system further enhances performance by mitigating electromagnetic interference (EMI), guaranteeing smooth operation even in electrically sensitive settings. This drive is engineered for reliability, efficiency, and advanced safety, making it a premier choice for industries requiring high-performance motor control solutions.

Product Specifications

| Feature                  | Specification                               |

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

| Model                    | Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1                  |

| Series                   | SINAMICS G120 (High Power Safety)           |

| Rated Current (I_N)      | 37 A                                        |

| Rated Power              | 18.5 kW (25 HP)                             |

| Input Voltage            | 380-480V 3-phase                            |

| Output Voltage           | 0-480V 3-phase                              |

| Protection Class         | IP20                                        |

| Integrated Filter        | Yes, Class A filter                         |

| Safety Integrated        | Yes (STO - Safe Torque Off)                 |

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

| Communication Options    | PROFIBUS DP, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP          |

| Ambient Temperature      | -20°C to +50°C (derating above 40°C)        |

| Dimensions (H x W x D)   | Varies by frame size, consult documentation |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 stands out in the industrial automation market due to its comprehensive safety features and advanced control capabilities. Its High Power Safety designation signifies the integration of Safety Integrated functions, notably Safe Torque Off (STO), which provides a reliable means to prevent unexpected equipment startup and safeguard personnel during maintenance or emergency situations. This drive's ability to achieve precise motor control via advanced vector control algorithms enhances operational efficiency and reduces wear on machinery, positioning it as a premium solution for applications where accuracy and reliability are paramount. The inclusion of an integrated Class A filter is a significant advantage, simplifying installation by reducing the need for external filtering components and ensuring compliance with stringent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards, a key differentiator for complex industrial environments.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens G120 High Power Safety VFD is exceptionally well-suited for a broad spectrum of demanding industrial applications. Its robust performance and safety features make it ideal for pump and fan control in water treatment plants, HVAC systems in large commercial buildings, and material handling systems in logistics and warehousing, where precise speed control and energy savings are critical. In manufacturing, it finds application in conveyor systems, mixers, extruders, and other machinery requiring dynamic torque control and reliable operation. The integrated safety functions are particularly valuable in automated production lines and packaging machinery to ensure operator safety and compliance with industrial safety regulations. Industries such as automotive manufacturing, food and beverage processing, and general industrial automation benefit significantly from its reliable performance and integrated safety capabilities.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 into existing or new systems requires careful planning, particularly concerning power, control, and safety wiring. The drive is designed for straightforward installation within standard control cabinets, requiring adequate ventilation to maintain optimal operating temperatures. Power connections must adhere strictly to the specified voltage and current ratings, using appropriately sized conductors and protective devices. The integrated Safety Integrated function, specifically STO, necessitates proper wiring to the safety control system or emergency stop circuitry, ensuring that the safety signal path is correctly implemented and tested as per safety standards. Commissioning involves parameterization through the Siemens control panel (HMI) or via a fieldbus connection using software like STARTER. Essential parameters to configure include motor data, ramp times, control modes, and safety function settings. For advanced integration, leveraging PROFINET or PROFIBUS enables seamless communication with PLCs and other intelligent devices, allowing for remote monitoring, diagnostics, and control.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

Operating the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 involves understanding its control interface and safety protocols. The drive offers multiple operational modes, including V/f control for simpler applications and advanced vector control for precise torque and speed regulation, even under varying loads. Risk mitigation is primarily addressed through its Safety Integrated STO function, which effectively removes power to the motor by disabling the output stages, preventing unintended rotation. Proper parameter configuration is vital; incorrect settings, such as exceeding motor nameplate data or improper ramp-up/down times, can lead to motor overload, overheating, or mechanical stress. Key fault codes, often displayed on the drive's operator panel or communicated via fieldbus, require prompt attention. For instance, "F0001 Overcurrent" typically indicates a rapid rise in current, possibly due to rapid acceleration, a short circuit, or motor issues, while "F0002 Overtemperature" suggests that the drive's internal temperature has exceeded safe limits, requiring checks on ventilation and load. Regular preventative maintenance, including checking connections and ensuring clean airflow, is crucial for reliable operation.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens SINAMICS G120 platform, to which the 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 belongs, offers significant scalability and long-term value through its modular design and integration capabilities. The drive can be expanded with various optional communication modules, allowing it to interface with a wide range of industrial networks like PROFINET, PROFIBUS, EtherNet/IP, and DeviceNet, ensuring compatibility with diverse automation architectures. This flexibility supports future upgrades and integration into evolving industrial control systems, including those incorporating Industry 4.0 principles and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions. The ability to easily swap control units or add functional modules without replacing the entire power module provides a cost-effective upgrade path. Furthermore, Siemens' commitment to backward compatibility and ongoing software support for the SINAMICS platform ensures that investments in this drive technology remain protected, facilitating seamless upgrades and maintaining operational efficiency over the product's lifecycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1?

This VFD controls motor speed and torque precisely. It also incorporates advanced safety functions for operational security.

It enhances energy efficiency by adjusting motor speed to the actual load demand. The integrated filter system ensures electromagnetic compatibility.

Its high power rating makes it suitable for demanding industrial applications requiring reliable and safe motor control.

How does the Safety Integrated feature work on this VFD?

The Safety Integrated STO function prevents unexpected motor startup. It achieves this by safely disabling the drive's output stages.

This feature is critical for personnel safety during maintenance or emergency situations. It ensures the motor cannot generate torque.

Proper wiring to emergency stop circuits or safety controllers is essential for its correct and safe operation.

What types of motors can be controlled by the 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1?

This drive is designed to control standard three-phase AC induction motors. It supports both squirrel cage and wound rotor types.

Advanced vector control enables precise operation for asynchronous motors. It can also be configured for V/f control applications.

Ensure motor specifications are within the VFD's rated power and current limits for optimal performance.

What are the advantages of the integrated filter system?

The integrated filter reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI). This ensures reliable operation in sensitive environments.

It simplifies installation by eliminating the need for external filter components. This saves space and reduces complexity.

Compliance with EMC standards is enhanced, preventing interference with other electronic equipment.

What are common applications for this high-power VFD?

It is ideal for pumps, fans, and compressors in industrial processes. Material handling systems and extruders also benefit.

Manufacturing, water treatment, and HVAC systems frequently utilize this drive. Conveyor systems and mixers are other key uses.

Any application requiring precise speed control and integrated safety is a good fit.

How is the Siemens 6SL3210-1KE23-8AF1 commissioned?

Commissioning typically involves connecting power and control wiring correctly. Motor data must be accurately entered into the drive parameters.

Parameterization can be done via the operator panel or engineering software like STARTER. Safety functions require specific configuration.

A thorough system test after setup ensures all functions operate as intended.

What communication protocols does this VFD support?

It supports popular industrial fieldbus protocols such as PROFINET and PROFIBUS. EtherNet/IP is also an option.

These protocols enable seamless integration with PLCs and SCADA systems. They allow for remote monitoring and diagnostics.

The selection of the communication module depends on the existing automation infrastructure.

How does the drive handle overloads?

The VFD has built-in overload protection based on motor parameters. It will trip if the motor exceeds safe current limits for too long.

It can be programmed with specific overload curves to match motor characteristics. This prevents premature tripping or damage.

Monitoring fault codes like F0001 (Overcurrent) is crucial for diagnosing overload issues.

What is the importance of the 37A rating and 18.5kW power?

These ratings define the maximum continuous current and power output. They determine the size and type of motor the VFD can control.

The 37A rating at 18.5kW ensures suitability for medium to heavy-duty industrial motor applications. It signifies robust performance.

Selecting a VFD with appropriate ratings is essential to prevent drive failure and ensure reliable motor operation.

Can this VFD be used for simple on/off motor control?

Yes, while optimized for variable speed, it can function in simple on/off modes. This is achieved through start/stop commands.

It can also be programmed with fixed speeds if variable control isn't consistently needed. The V/f control mode is often used for this.

Using a VFD for simple applications still offers benefits like soft start and overload protection.