Digipara Elevator Architect

DigiPara has launched its Elevator- architect plugin on the Autodesk Exchange Apps store for Autodesk® Revit® software. The plugin is designed to enhance and standardize the design process for creating 3D-elevator models and allows users to find the correct size and number of required elevators available for their building in their region and import them into an Autodesk Revit project. Optimized families, which include various types of elevators, allow users to create elevator groups within seconds. Elevator- architect is available as a free download and simplifies design workflow.

For more information, contact Karin Klingenberg of DigiPara at Augustinusstrasse 11 d, Frechen, Germany 50226; phone: (49) 0-2234-999-448-23; e-mail: karin.klingenberg@digipara.com; or website: www.digipara.com.

Yaskawa Releases P1000 Variable-Speed Drive

The Drives and Motion Division of Yaskawa America, Inc. has launched the P1000 variable-speed drive. The drive provides industrial fans and pumps with control for variable-torque loads through 500 HP and planned expansion through 1,000 HP.

The P1000 drive includes a multi-language LCD display with a real-time clock, parameter storage, fan and pump application presets and a portable USB copy unit. DriveWizard® computer software provides configuration, monitoring and trending functions by direct connectivity through the drive’s standard USB port. For applications requiring more functionality, the P1000 offers three expansion ports for additional inputs/outputs, feedback, and network communications, including DeviceNet, EtherNet/Internet protocol (IP), Modbus transmission control protocol/IP, Profibus-DP, PROFINET, BACnet and Lonworks.

P1000’s variable-speed control is energy efficient, and its 12-pulse version reduces harmonic demand from the power system, contributing to a cleaner environment. All materials used in the P1000 comply with the directive for Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS).

The P1000 drive is available in 200-240-VAC three-phase 50/60 Hz (up to 175 HP), 380-480-VAC three-phase 50/60 Hz (up to 500 HP) and 500-600-VAC three-phase 50/60 Hz (up to 250 HP) ratings. All ratings are available in a flange configuration that allows for mounting the drive with its heatsink out the back of any Type 12 enclosure. In addition, the P1000 carries agency certifications for major geographical regions.

For more information, contact Yaskawa at 2121 Norman Drive South, Waukegan, Illinois 60085; toll free: (800) 927-5292; fax: (847) 887-7310; or website: www.yaskawa.com.

Abb And Solvere Control Panels For Wind-Turbine Lifts

ABB Inc. is providing low-voltage power electronics to Belmont, North Carolina-based Solvere LLC for its electrical control panels used in wind turbines. The control panels will allow service-lift maker Hailo LLC in Elberton, Georgia, to build Accredited Elevator/Escalator Certification Organization (Underwriters Laboratories Inc. [UL])-compliant wind-turbine service lifts. The electrical control panels will enable service-lift safety, while maintenance personnel work up to 110 yd. in the air.

ABB is providing multiple low-voltage UL-listed components, such as safety relays, elevator-rated contactors, pilot devices and circuit breakers. The electrical control panels provide the service lift with UL elevator-control compliance and ASME A17.1 and A17.5 certification. The controls for powering the lift up and down are functional even in extreme weather conditions.

“Thanks to our collaboration with ABB, Solvere has been able to completely reengineer the design of the electrical control panel that powers these elevators,” said Vice President of Solvere Branch Bissette. Bissette continued:

“This was all done within an extremely critical timeframe. ABB’s expertise and reputation for engineering excellence, along with [its] low-voltage components, have given us the ability to gain instant credibility with our existing and future customer bases.”

Because these wind turbines are extremely tall, it is important for operators to have the ability to get up and down quickly in these service lifts. Allen Austin, manager of ABB Renewable Energy Industry and Low Voltage Products, said:

“We are pleased to partner with Solvere and Hailo in creating these … UL elevator-certified electrical control panels and Hailo’s groundbreaking service lift, providing the wind industry and its maintenance personnel with a new level of safety. This ‘safety net’ improves workers’ confidence and productivity, enabling the wind turbine to operate at a much higher rate of consistency and reliability, while also increasing energy output.”

For more information, contact Allen Austin of ABB at phone: (940) 235-2407, e-mail: allen.austin@us.abb.com or website: www.abb.us.