Overview
The KB Electronics KBRG is a full-wave regenerative drive capable of operating DC PM or shunt motors in a bidirectional mode. Its 4-quadrant operation provides forward and reverse torque in both speed directions, allowing the control to maintain constant speed with overhauling loads while providing rapid instant reversing and controlled braking. Because of its excellent controllability and response time, the KBRG can replace servos in many applications.
Two models are offered: the KBRG-240D, rated 1 HP at 115 VAC and 2 HP at 230 VAC, and the KBRG-225D, rated 1.5 HP at 115 VAC and 3 HP at 230 VAC. The control is factory set for armature feedback, providing up to 1% load regulation over a motor base speed of 50:1, though tachometer feedback is available if superior regulation is required. By resetting mode jumper J7 to the “TRQ” position, the KBRG can be changed from a speed control to a torque control.
Key Features
The drive contains a variety of selectable jumpers and adjustment trimpots to allow custom tailoring for exact requirements. For example, jumper J6, when placed in the “TCL” position, provides adjustable timed current limit from 1 to 15 seconds, protecting the motor and control by shutting the drive down after the preset time has elapsed.
The KBRG can be operated with either a two or three wire start/stop circuit, or started directly from the AC line. A set of dedicated relay contacts is provided, activated via the start/stop circuit, which can be used to turn corresponding equipment on or off, or to sound an alarm if the drive stops. An array of LEDs indicates the drive’s mode of operation and serves as a diagnostic tool.
KB’s exclusive Auto Inhibit circuit provides safe, smooth starting during rapid cycling of the AC line, while the Overspeed Protect Circuit prevents failure of the power bridge in extreme overhauling conditions. Reliability is further enhanced with a high speed current limit circuit, along with armature, AC line and control circuit fusing, and MOV transient protection. A 5K remote potentiometer and full operating instructions are supplied with the drive.
Drive Options
A range of optional accessories is available for the KBRG. The Bipolar Signal Isolator (SI-4X) provides isolation for non-isolated signal sources, the 4-Quad Accel/Decel board adds independent acceleration and deceleration control, the Multi-Speed Board provides discrete preset speeds, and the PID Board adds process control capability. A NEMA-1 enclosure and a dedicated Operator Panel are also available for the KBRG-225.
Common Applications
The KBRG is used across applications requiring precise bidirectional speed or torque control, including conveyors, indexers, packaging machinery, textile equipment, positioners, feeders, converting machinery and web control, particularly where overhauling loads, rapid reversing or controlled braking are part of the application requirement.
Selection Considerations
Selecting between the KBRG-240D and KBRG-225D depends on the required horsepower and current rating at your available AC line voltage — the KBRG-225D offers a higher rating across both 115 and 230 VAC operation. Applications requiring tighter load regulation should consider tachometer feedback, and applications needing torque rather than speed control can use the jumper selectable torque mode. Where additional process control, signal isolation or operator interface is required, the relevant optional board or panel should be specified.
Motordrives Australia can help confirm the right KBRG model and any required accessories based on your motor’s horsepower, voltage and bidirectional control requirements.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies and supports the KB Electronics KBRG range for Australian machine builders and maintenance teams. For assistance with model selection, jumper configuration or accessory selection, contact our team with your motor’s horsepower, voltage and application details.





