A conventional configuration is transformed into an ECO application simply by changing points 3 (infeed), 5 (auxiliary supply) and 7 (ECO Technology) of the graphic "Topology of SIMOCRANE ECO Technology for SC" (see below).

Topology of SIMOCRANE ECO Technology for SC

The selection steps for conversion to SIMOCRANE ECO Technology will now be explained. The numbers in the graphic above correspond to the numbers below. The description is limited to the ECO‑specific changes.
The crane configuration can, of course, involve selection from all SIMOCRANE products in accordance with requirements.

For details of the individual SIMOCRANE products as well as further configuration options, see Sections:

• SIMOCRANE Standard Technology
• SIMOCRANE CMS (Crane Management System)

Selection steps

1. Diesel engine

Use of ECO Technology demands that the load‑dependent speed of the diesel engine can be controlled in a closed feedback loop. For fast and flexible communication with the ECO system, use of a CAN bus is recommended. The diesel engine should be operated in a variable speed range.

2. Generator

A permanent‑magnet synchronous generator should be used due to its better properties over the entire performance range. This concerns torque motors that offer relatively high output at low speeds. This is possible thanks to lower engine speeds of the diesel engine. A typical straddle carrier selection comprises a synchronous generator with excitation (voltage controller or automatic voltage regulator (AVR)). This generator type can be used for the infeed only after a check for voltage interruptions. It may be necessary to install a reactor between the infeed and the generator. Please contact the supplier or Siemens Application Support for more information.

3. Infeed

For ECO, the infeed must be equipped with a SINAMICS S120 Motor Module. In combination with ECO Technology, the Motor Module generates a stable DC link, even when the generator voltage constantly fluctuates. Only SINAMICS S120 Motor Modules in chassis format have been tested and approved for this mode of operation. A Motor Module is selected for the infeed based on the same criteria as for the Basic Line Module (BLM), i.e. based on the total output and the current that is required for supplying the DC link loads.

4. Traction drives, hoists, traversing units and braking modules

When upgrading to ECO Technology, no criteria influence this motion package and the selection of the braking module.

5. Auxiliary supply 460 V AC/400 V AC/50 kVA/50 Hz

All the auxiliary loads must be connected after a converter with sinewave filter and transformer for 2‑phase (L+N) components. A SINAMICS S120 Motor Module in booksize or chassis format can be used as an auxiliary drive. The application example and the software included in the ECO Technology package supply the settings for operation of the Motor Module (inverter) as an auxiliary supply. To reduce voltage fluctuations in the system to a minimum, the converter must operate at a pulse frequency of 8 kHz or 4 kHz. This increase in pulse frequency should, as for temperature and IGBT checks, be taken into account in the calculation of derating for the drive.

Selection of the converter must take into account the constant (average) power/current consumption and the maximum power/current consumption of the connected loads for the purpose of handling the inrush current.

6. Controller, such as PLC, HMI with SIMOCRANE CMS installed and preparation for RCMS

When upgrading to ECO Technology, no criteria influence this selection.

7. SIMOCRANE ECO Technology

SIMOTION D4x5‑2 is used with SINAMICS Integrated V4.3 SP1 or higher, SINAMICS V4.5 or higher and the two licenses for Basic Technology and ECO Technology.

The basic components required for an ECO package are shown in the overview diagram below:

SIMOCRANE ECO Technology configuration for SC

Note:

Integration of an energy storage unit for the purpose of implementing a hybrid control strategy, i.e. storage and reuse of regenerative energy, is possible as an application. Please address any inquiries in this regard to our Application Support in the Cranes Department in Germany.