Combination of power measurement and data acquisition

The multi-channel-capable power meter for data acquisition and analysis is both highly precise and flexible like a data acquisition system (DAQ). It can be used to optimize industrial applications up to end-of-line testing as well as processes in research and development on stationary test benches.

The entire test bench is digitally mapped using highly customizable software including intuitive analysis tools. This digitalization using office computers eliminates the need for the device's own monitor and small operating elements. With the LK-601, all settings are made via an app on the PC. Measured variables and displays are also defined and measurements are started, monitored and analyzed. The resulting data no longer needs to be exported for analysis; inputs and results can be saved in a secure, reproducible manner.

Electrical and mechanical parameters can be recorded in parallel

Up to six electrical power phases, including high-frequency signals, can be examined and recorded simultaneously with the modular 19-inch system. Thanks to a sampling rate of 10 MS/s and a measurement deviation of less than 0.05 percent of the power value, high accuracy is ensured even with low power factors. The new dual motor card LK-MC 1 (sampling rate 200 kS/s, resolution 16 bit) also records mechanical motor signals such as speed, torque or angle with high precision in real time. A standard CAN interface enables the recording of temperature, acoustics and vibration.

"We combine the precise acquisition of different types of signals for analyzing electrical parameters with the pronounced variability of a DAQ," says Philipp Matuschek, head of the traditional company of the same name from Alsdorf (NRW). The retrofittable motor card, to whose two-in-one slot a load machine and the respective test object can be connected at the same time, also enables the analysis of mechanical signals without a time delay compared to that of the electrical measured variables. Developers and industrial researchers could use the optional card to determine and test control strategies and algorithms in real time - for example for field-oriented control of permanently excited synchronous motors. In this combination, the LK-601 ensures an accurate and reliable evaluation of the overall efficiency of motors and other drive systems, even with the most subtle changes. The "classic" version of the device without a motor card, on the other hand, can be used as usual for precise multi-channel electrical power measurement without rotating components.

For industry and research

The Power Analyzer was designed for everyday use in large-scale industrial applications, but has also proven itself in development and analysis processes in research laboratories. Classic oscilloscope functions such as frequency analysis have been integrated for their specific requirements; data measured at short intervals can also be displayed and recorded in real time. The typical limitations of a pure laboratory measuring device no longer apply. The absence of small operating and visualization components reduces the risk of errors and simplifies and speeds up testing processes.

Accuracy plus range of applications

In view of the variety of standard test benches on the market and the wealth of possible measurement tasks, the focus was specifically on customizability and flexibility in application, says company boss Matuschek. He sees particular practical benefits of the system for motor, frequency converter and drive system development, as well as for areas such as pumps, bearings and gears. Even developers and manufacturers of coffee machines, washing machines and other motor-driven household appliances have already shown interest. Research institutes and R&D service providers who use test benches to optimize existing drives or develop new ones would also benefit.

According to the company, Power Analyzer with and without a motor card is already being used by several industrial customers and universities, including RWTH Aachen University. ENGIRO GmbH is a long-standing user of the system. The Aachen-based company, which specializes in the production of electric drives for commercial vehicles for the agricultural and municipal sector, the construction and transport industry and the marine sector, has been using the device since 2019 for electrical testing of electric motors before delivery to the customer, for test measurements in development projects and for certification measurements of drive systems for road approval.