The new generation of decentralized Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) for efficient, future-proof machine concepts
In mechanical engineering today, compact machine architectures, reduced wiring effort, and fast, secure integration directly at the plant are key priorities. At the same time, there is a growing need for more functionality in the field, such as control intelligence, positioning tasks, and future-proofing—especially in light of regulatory requirements like the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
In addition, the i650 motec—a powerful all-in-one drive—combines an integrated Logic PLC, table positioning, and Ethernet-based safety in
a compact device. This creates an efficient, decentralized complete solution for faster integration, greater freedom in machine design, and a future-proof configuration. With the i550 motec and i650 motec decentralized drives for wall and motor mounting with a degree of protection IP66, Lenze offers a product family that meets these exact requirements and supports future-proof machines: reduced complexity, a wide range of variants, and high functional density.
- Decentralized VFD for wall and motor mounting (drive IP66, NEMA/UL Type 4X indoor)
- Reduction or elimination of control cabinet components – functions directly in the field
- Less wiring, quick mounting, easy commissioning (including lower EMC risk)
- Lower installation costs due to fewer external components
- i650 motec options: integrated Logic PLC (IEC 61131-3/CODESYS), table positioning, and extended safety functions via CIP Safety, PROFIsafe, FsoE
- Open communication: Support for common Ethernet protocols such as
- PROFINET
- EtherCAT
- EtherNet/IP
- Modbus TCP
- Four IO-Link ports with master functionality for easy data exchange between sensors and actuators
- Expandable with an extension box for added flexibility in wall-mounted solutions
- Energy-efficient system design with energy recovery and the EASY System Designer
- Designed for the future – ready for CRA-compliant machines and upcoming cybersecurity requirements
Less effort, greater cost-effectiveness—with decentralized drive technology from planning to operation
The i550 motec and the i650 motec reduce complexity throughout the entire machine lifecycle. Quick mounting and easy commissioning are the focus for both devices—supported by user-friendly tools and plug & play functionality thanks to standard connectors.
The i650 motec adds additional integrated functions that replace external components, simplify engineering, and reduce installation costs. M12 connectors further accelerate installation and service. Furthermore, the sensorless control of synchronous motors in the i650 motec opens up additional degrees of freedom for cost-effective and high-performance drive concepts.
i550/i650 motec: Sustainable efficiency through integrated energy recovery
Both drives support economical and sustainable machine operation. The integrated energy recovery unit feeds regenerative energy directly back into the mains without additional hardware, eliminating the need for a brake resistor. This saves energy, installation time, and costs. Additionally, the i550 motec and i650 motec meet the requirements of the Ecodesign Directive in accordance with EN IEC 61800-9-2.
When combined with the m550 motor and g500 gearbox, the result is a perfectly matched system designed to minimize the CO₂ footprint in efficiency classes IE5/IE6.
The Lenze EASY System Designer supports demand-based sizing, avoids oversizing, and can enable energy savings of up to 30%.
With the integrated Logic PLC, the i650 motec implements stand-alone applications for single or multiple drives directly in the field. This reduces the load on higher-level controllers, simplifies the system architecture, and supports self-sufficient, modular machine concepts.
The integrated table positioning reduces the need for an external PLC, is ideal for rotary tables, corner transfer units, and scissor lift tables, and expands the drive’s application range beyond traditional conveying tasks.
At the same time, the i650 motec—like the i550 motec—benefits from four IO-Link ports with master functionality for easy data exchange between sensors and actuators without additional hardware costs.
This enables the data to be used by higher-level systems, creates transparency, improves diagnostic capabilities, and supports high system availability.
For wall-mounted applications, the devices can be expanded with an extension box with a disconnect switch, optional overload or short-circuit protection, and operating elements. This provides additional flexibility for various machine designs and simplifies adaptation to application-specific requirements.
The i650 motec expands the product family with integrated safety functions for applications with increased safety and system integration requirements. Safety protocols such as PROFIsafe, FSoE, and CIP Safety are supported.
Since safety is integrated directly into the drive, additional safety components, wiring effort, and installation costs can be reduced. This minimizes sources of error and accelerates commissioning—even in existing automation systems. This creates a future-proof, bus-based safety architecture for modern decentralized machine concepts.
Drive technology developed for decentralized machine architectures
The i550 motec is a robust, efficient decentralized drive for classic drive applications such as materials handling technology, pumps, fans, or simple process applications.
The i650 motec is ideal for rotary tables, corner transfer units, and scissor lift tables, expanding the drive’s range of applications beyond traditional conveying tasks.
