Overview
The KB Electronics KBMM full-wave variable speed DC motor control, now with SMT construction, offers the ultimate in reliability and performance at an affordable price for shunt wound and PM motor applications. The control contains a unique, super-fast Direct-Fed current limit circuit that helps protect the SCR power bridge against direct shorts, and reliability is further enhanced through the use of high-surge 25A SCRs with AC line and armature fusing.
Three models are offered: the KBMM-125 operates on 115 VAC, the KBMM-225 operates on 230 VAC with 90 or 180 VDC motors, and the KBMM-225D is jumper selectable to operate on either 115 or 230 VAC input with 90 or 180 VDC motors. The rating of any model can be extended to 1.5 HP at 115V or 3 HP at 230V through the use of KB’s optional Auxiliary Heat Sink.
Key Features
The KBMM is fitted with KB’s exclusive Plug-in Horsepower Resistor, which eliminates the need to recalibrate IR Comp and Current Limit when the control is used across motors of different horsepower. The control’s versatility is confirmed by an extensive list of standard features, including selectable armature or tachometer feedback, and adjustment trimpots for Min Speed, Max Speed, IR Comp, Current Limit, and linear Accel/Decel.
Auto Inhibit eliminates surging during rapid AC line switching, while pulse transformer triggering provides cogless operation at low speed. Superior noise rejection circuitry eliminates false starts and blown SCRs. Enable (N/C) and Inhibit (N/O) functions provide electronic switching of control output. The output voltage of the control is a linear function of potentiometer rotation, and the KBMM can also be used in a voltage following mode by supplying an isolated analog input signal to terminal P2(+) and F-.
Compact in size at only 4.30 x 3.64 x 1.25 inches, the KBMM is designed to easily replace competitive speed controls and is supplied with a 5 kΩ remote potentiometer and QD terminals.
Accessories
A wide range of optional accessories is available for the KBMM. The Auxiliary Heat Sink doubles the horsepower rating of the control, while the Barrier Terminal Board converts the quick-connect terminals to a barrier terminal block with PC board mounted line and armature fuse holders. The SI-6 Signal Isolator provides isolation between non-isolated signal sources and the KBMM, and the Run/Brake Module is used for applications requiring rapid stopping of the motor.
Further options include the Barrier Terminal Accessory Kit for use with the Auxiliary Heat Sink, a Dial Plate and Knob Kit for speed position indication, a Finger-Safe Cover that converts the control to IP-20 standard, a DIN Rail Mounting Kit, and a range of RFI filters complying with CE Directive 89/336/EEC. As with other KB DC controls, the correct Plug-in Horsepower Resistor and fuse must be selected to match the connected motor’s horsepower and armature voltage.
Common Applications
The KBMM is used across a wide range of industrial applications, including conveyors, packaging machines, exercise equipment, pumps, feeders, and screening and printing equipment, wherever compact, affordable and reliable variable speed DC motor control is required.
Selection Considerations
Selecting the correct KBMM model starts with confirming the available AC supply voltage and whether dual voltage operation is required (KBMM-225D). From there, the motor’s horsepower and rated current determine whether a standard model is sufficient or whether the optional Auxiliary Heat Sink is needed to achieve the required power rating. The correct Plug-in Horsepower Resistor and fuse size must then be selected based on the motor’s horsepower and armature voltage range, and the feedback type — armature or tachometer-generator — should be confirmed for the application.
Motordrives Australia can help confirm the right KBMM model, Plug-in Horsepower Resistor and any required accessories based on your motor’s horsepower, voltage and current rating.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies and supports the KB Electronics KBMM range for Australian machine builders and maintenance teams. For assistance with model selection, horsepower resistor matching or accessory selection, contact our team with your motor’s horsepower, voltage and current rating.





