Overview
The KB Electronics KBMK Series is a fully digital AC drive built around CSP (Common Sense Programming), an interface that organises parameters into intuitive groups so the drive can be commissioned without requiring specialist programming experience. It provides variable speed control of three-phase AC motors from a single-phase 115/230 VAC supply and is housed in a rugged aluminium NEMA 1 / IP 50 enclosure, built to be installed and running in under 10 minutes.
The range covers two models — the KBMK-24D and the KBMK-24DF — both rated from 1/8 through 1 horsepower and delivering a 230 VAC three-phase output with 200% starting torque. The KBMK-24DF adds a built-in Class A (CE) RFI/EMI AC line filter for installations where line filtering is required.
Key Features
The KBMK 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. A digital display with LED status indicators shows drive frequency, direction, mode and fault conditions, and a built-in potentiometer provides the quickest way to change motor speed directly at the drive.
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. The Jog-Local/Remote function sets the drive to jog mode or switches between local keypad and remote operation, and an On/Off AC line switch disconnects the AC line. 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 multi-function output relay 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.
Drive Options
The optional IODA input/output multi-function board adds up to 17 points of additional I/O for integration with PLCs and other control systems. An On/Off AC line switch is also available as a drive option for disconnecting the AC line at the drive.
Customisation For OEMs
KB Electronics can work with OEMs to provide a custom KBMK 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 allows the equipment to operate with Ground Fault Circuit Interruption breakers or outlets.
Common Applications
The KBMK Series Digital AC 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 programmable motor speed control and soft start torque.
Selection Considerations
Selecting between the KBMK-24D and KBMK-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. Applications requiring additional I/O for process or PLC integration should also consider the optional IODA multi-function board.
Motordrives Australia can help confirm the right KBMK model based on your motor’s horsepower, the available supply voltage and any RFI/EMI filtering or I/O requirements for the installation.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies and supports the KB Electronics KBMK Series for Australian machine builders and maintenance teams. For assistance with model selection, CSP parameter setup or I/O board configuration, contact our team with your motor’s horsepower, supply voltage and application details.
