Product Description
The Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 is a single-axis digital AC positioning servo drive from the Allen-Bradley 1398 ULTRA Plus series. Unlike the multi-axis Kinetix 6000 series, the 1398 series are standalone drives designed for flexible and high-performance single-axis applications. The “PDM” in the part number stands for Positioning Drive Module, indicating that this drive combines both the servo drive functionality and integrated positioning control capabilities within a single unit. This integration simplifies motion control architecture for single-axis machines, reducing the need for a separate motion controller for basic positioning tasks.
The Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 is designed for 1-Phase, 115-240V AC nominal input power and provides a continuous output current of 10 Amperes (rms/phase) and a peak output current of 20 Amperes (rms/phase). It delivers a continuous output power of 2 kW. This drive is suitable for controlling a wide range of brushless AC servo motors, including Allen-Bradley’s F-Series, H-Series, and N-Series motors. Its “ULTRA Plus” designation highlights its integrated positioning features, often programmed using the Windows-based GML (Graphical Motion Language) Ultra software, allowing for complex motion profiles and master/follower operations without an external motion controller.
Product Parameters
The Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 possesses the following key technical specifications:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Drive Series | 1398 ULTRA Plus (Positioning Servo Drive) |
| Drive Type | Digital AC Servo Drive, Single-Axis Positioning Module (PDM) |
| Input Voltage | 115-240V AC RMS Nominal (88-265 Volts), 1-Phase, 50/60 Hz |
| Continuous Output Current | 10 Amperes / Phase (rms) |
| Peak Output Current | 20 Amperes / Phase (rms) |
| Continuous Output Power | 2 kW |
| Peak Shunt Power | 4.5 kW |
| Continuous Shunt Power | 50 W |
| Control Modes | Positioning, Velocity, Torque |
| Integrated Motion Control | Built-in positioning capability with GML Ultra programming |
| Program Memory | Multiple application programs stored in 32K transferable memory |
| Feedback Support | Compatible with various brushless AC servo motors (F-Series, H-Series, N-Series) |
| Communication | Two (2) RS232 / RS422 combo ports (for PC/operator terminal), SCANport |
| Braking | Built-in shunt regulator (internal shunt resistor) |
| Mounting | Panel mount (fits in a 30 cm / 12 in. deep NEMA enclosure) |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | Approximately 36 cm (14.1 in) H x 25 cm (9.8 in) W x 10 cm (3.9 in) L |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 kg (14.33 lbs) |
| Operating Temperature | to $50^\circ$C ( to $140^\circ$F) |
| Storage Temperature | to $80^\circ$C ( to $176^\circ$F) |
| Relative Humidity | 5% to 95% non-condensing |
| Certifications | UL listed (typical for Allen-Bradley drives) |
| Programming Software | GML Ultra (Windows-based graphical software) |
Advantages and Features
The Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 offers several advantages and features, particularly for single-axis positioning applications:
- Integrated Positioning Control: The “PDM” design combines drive and positioning controller in one unit, simplifying system architecture and reducing hardware cost for single-axis motion tasks.
- Flexible Motion Profiles: Supports S-curve, trapezoidal, and complex motion profiles, along with electronic gearing and master/follower capabilities.
- User-Friendly Programming: Utilizes the graphical Windows-based GML Ultra software, offering an intuitive environment for programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
- High Performance: Provides precise control over motor speed, torque, and position with brushless sinusoidal commutation and on-the-fly motion profile generation.
- Broad Voltage Compatibility: Operates directly from 1-Phase, 115-240V AC, making it versatile for various regional power supplies without an external transformer (in USA).
- Built-in Shunt Regulator: Includes an integral shunt regulator to handle regenerative braking energy, reducing the need for external components for most applications.
- Diagnostic Capabilities: Features a bright, easy-to-read 4×20 vacuum fluorescent display, smart display of user messages, fault history, and real-time axis status monitoring.
- Automatic Tuning: Offers automatic velocity and position loop tuning, simplifying the setup and optimization process.
- Transferable Personality Module: Configuration settings can be stored in a transferable personality module, easing drive replacement without requiring full re-configuration.
- Robust Protection: Includes multiple protection circuits, motor and drive system thermal protection, and built-in solid-state soft start.
Application Areas and Application Cases
The Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 is well-suited for single-axis precision motion control applications in various industries:
- Packaging Machinery: Control of individual indexing conveyors, feeders, cut-to-length systems, label applicators, or capping machines where precise stop/start and positioning are critical.
- Assembly and Pick-and-Place: Driving individual robotic axes for precise component placement, dispensing systems, or small assembly stations.
- Printing and Converting: Single-axis control for print head positioning, web tension control (on a single roller), or precise cutting operations.
- Material Handling: Positioning of pallets, controlling a single lifting axis, or indexing parts on a workholding fixture.
- Textile Machinery: Precision control for individual spindles, winding/unwinding operations, or fabric cutting.
Application Case: A small manufacturing company upgraded its automated assembly line for electronic components. One critical station required precise, repeatable positioning of a robotic gripper to pick up a component from a tray and place it onto a circuit board. They chose the Allen-Bradley 1398-PDM-020 drive for this single-axis motion. Its integrated positioning capabilities meant they didn’t need a separate motion controller, simplifying the control architecture and saving cost. Using the GML Ultra software, engineers could easily program complex pick-and-place motion profiles, ensuring smooth acceleration and deceleration to prevent component damage. The drive’s 10A continuous output was well-matched to the compact servo motor, providing the necessary power and precision for rapid cycle times. The diagnostic display on the drive also helped operators quickly identify and resolve minor issues, minimizing downtime.
