Overview
The KB Electronics KBMA Series is a Hybrid Drive that combines a digital AC drive with a simple analog interface. It is designed to provide variable speed control of three-phase AC motors from a single-phase 115/230 VAC supply, without requiring programming or commissioning. The drive is housed in a rugged aluminium NEMA 1 / IP 50 enclosure and is built to be installed and running in under 10 minutes.
The range covers two models — the KBMA-24D and the KBMA-24DF — both rated from 1/8 through 1 horsepower with jumper selectable horsepower settings, and both delivering a 230 VAC three-phase output with 200% starting torque. The KBMA-24DF adds a built-in Class A (CE) RFI/EMI AC line filter for installations where line filtering is required.
Key Features
The KBMA Series uses sensorless flux vector control with static auto-tune to provide strong speed regulation and smooth motor torque across the full speed range, with automatic energy saving at light loads. Electronic Inrush Current Limit (EICL) protection eliminates harmful inrush current at power up, while ride-through provides smooth recovery to the previous set speed after a momentary power loss.
Protective features include undervoltage and overvoltage protection, short circuit protection at the motor, stalled motor trip protection, and regeneration protection to prevent nuisance tripping caused by rapid deceleration of high inertial loads. A Run/Fault relay output can be used to signal equipment status, warnings or fault conditions, and the drive provides holding torque at zero speed to resist motor shaft rotation when stopped.
Basic, programmable trimpot adjustments are provided for minimum speed, maximum speed, acceleration, deceleration, current limit and slip compensation. An optional Forward-Stop-Reverse switch is available as a drive option for motor reversing and stop functions.
Customisation For OEMs
KB Electronics can work with OEMs to provide a custom KBMA drive solution that is ready to use “out-of-the-box.” Customisation options include pre-calibrating or pre-programming a stock control, adding a custom label or branding, custom software, PLC functions or designing a new control. GFCI software is also available with factory programming, allowing the equipment to operate with Ground Fault Circuit Interruption breakers or outlets.
Common Applications
The KBMA Series Hybrid Drive is used across a wide range of industrial and OEM applications, including conveyors, pumps, blowers, fans, packaging and food processing equipment, HVAC systems, machine tools, mixers, indexers, door and gate openers, dumbwaiters, and other equipment that benefits from controlled motor speed and soft start torque.
Selection Considerations
Selecting between the KBMA-24D and KBMA-24DF depends primarily on whether a built-in Class A (CE) RFI/EMI AC line filter is required for your installation. Both models share the same horsepower range, input/output ratings and protection features, so the decision generally comes down to the line filtering requirement of the application or site.
Motordrives Australia can help confirm the right KBMA model based on your motor’s horsepower, the available supply voltage and any RFI/EMI filtering requirements for the installation.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies and supports the KB Electronics KBMA Series for Australian machine builders and maintenance teams. For assistance with model selection, jumper configuration or trimpot adjustment, contact our team with your motor’s horsepower, supply voltage and application details.
