Knorr-Bremse PowerTech introduces new Converters for Industrial Applications: Small, customized and functional from Day One

Demand is constantly increasing for low power affordable compact power converters for use in electrical drive technology and energy conversion. Previously, Knorr-Bremse PowerTech only offered converters with 100 kW or more for this purpose. Now a newly developed, modular expandable product platform is also available for power ratings as low as 50 kW – an attractive option for applications requiring lower power – those like energy storage, grid compensation or component test rigs for diverse industries. Reliable, compact grid and drive converters are a must-have wherever large amounts of electrical energy are needed, produced and converted: in rail vehicles, energy generation and storage systems and a wide variety of industrial applications, as well as high dynamic motor and gear test benches. Knorr-Bremse PowerTech’s range offers forward-looking solutions for the broad spectrum of tasks involved in energy conversion.

The new power converters deliver compact dimensions by eliminating the conventional control cabinet and and overhead fans.  The result is an optimized two-cabinet system consisting of a distributor cabinet, power cabinet, integrated control technology, door mounted cooling fans and simplified connection panels.

The functional partitioning of the cabinets allows for easy expansion of the power. Extra space is reserved in the power cabinet above the top power module for an additional power module.  Beneath this is space for additional intermediate circuit capacitors or output chokes, if required. The distributor cabinet has space for larger contactors or filters, which are accommodated for by the mounting panels.

All interfaces and components are directly accessible through the front doors for convenient commissioning and servicing. In addition, components are arranged in several assembly levels, some of which can be pivoted. The cabinets are easily integrated into customer cabinet systems since minimal access space is needed in front of the door and in the rear next to the air outlets. This design has already been used by HIGHVOLT Prüftechnik Dresden GmbH, the global leader in high voltage test systems and measurement equipment in a mobile test station for mobile tranformer testing.  In this system, the PowerTech converters are fully integrated into the overall system.

The total system that allows simple expansion, the small dimensions and modular design ensure flexible areas of application and perfectly timed completion of projects. It is not surprising that the new PowerTech converters were quickly supplied and are already in use – with many more orders underway.

Knorr-Bremse PowerTech is the merger of two leading power supply companies under the umbrella of the Knorr-Bremse Group. More than 500 employees at four sites on three continents work together to pioneer solutions for energy conversion. The Knorr-Bremse PowerTech portfolio includes converter products and electronic equipment for a broad spectrum of rail vehicles as well as energy production, storage, industrial applications and high end dynamic test rig applications.

The Knorr-Bremse Group is the world’s leading manufacturer of braking systems for rail and commercial vehicles. For more than 110 years now the company has pioneered the development, production, marketing and servicing of state-of-the-art braking systems. In the rail vehicle systems sector, the product portfolio also includes intelligent entrance systems, HVAC systems, power conversion systems, control components, and windscreen wiper systems, as well as platform screen doors, friction material, driver assistance systems and control technology. Knorr-Bremse also offers driving simulators and e-learning systems for optimum train crew training. In the commercial vehicle systems sector, the product range includes complete braking systems with driver assistance systems, as well as torsional vibration dampers, powertrain-related solutions and transmission control systems for enhanced energy efficiency and fuel economy.

Contact:

Knorr-Bremse PowerTech (PCS Power Converter Solutions GmbH)
Am Borsigturm 100
13507 Berlin
http://www.kb-powertech.com

Sabine Matthes
Marketing & Project Management BU Industry
Tel: +49 30 297725 202
Fax: +49 30 297725 102
E-Mail: sabine.matthes@kb-powertech.com