Versatile compact power controllers launched

Designed specifically to provide accurate and dependable control for process heaters, Omron’s versatile new G3PW thyristor-type single-phase power controllers offer phase and optimum cycle control from the same unit, and can even be switched between these modes of control whilst in operation.

The controllers are compatible with 4-20 mA and 0-5 V analogue input signals and they support phase-angle, voltage and voltage-squared proportional output modes.

Available with ratings of 20 A, 45 A and 60 A, all models of G3PW controllers feature compact construction, and are only 70% of the width of their predecessors. In addition, they can be mounted side by side with minimal airflow gaps (a 20 mm gap is required for 60 A models), further reducing the panel space they require.

The units feature an integral keypad for easy set up, and they have a large seven-segment display that can be used to monitor parameters such as input value, output value and phase angle. Soft-start and soft-stop functions are supported by all models, as are SSR short-circuit detection and cumulative run-time monitoring with a run-time exceeded alarm feature.

The units feature an integral keypad for easy set up, and they have a large seven-segment display that can be used to monitor parameters such as input value, output value and phase angle. Soft-start and soft-stop functions are supported by all models, as are SSR short-circuit detection and cumulative run-time monitoring with a run-time exceeded alarm feature.

In addition to all of the features of the standard units, the constant-current models offer user-configurable heater burnout detection, which, for optimum accuracy, is based on heater resistance rather than load current. They also offer current limiting, over-current monitoring and the option of showing output current on the integral display.

Constant-current models are equipped with an RS-485 serial communications port that allows remote set up and monitoring, as well as facilitating their use with advanced modular temperature controllers such as those in the Omron EJ1 range.

All Omron G3PW power controllers are designed for use with single-phase supplies of between 100 V and 240 V, and all carry the CE marking. The G3PW has recently been awarded UL approval and from May 2010 the UL mark will be available on the product.