B&R Expands Motion Portfolio with Compact X20 Drive Series for Precision Automation
The introduction of the X20 drive series marks a strategic pivot toward modularity in the industrial landscape. As machine builders face increasing pressure to reduce the physical footprint of their control cabinets without sacrificing performance, B&R’s new hardware addresses this by housing two full motion axes within a chassis measuring a mere 27.5 mm in width. This density is particularly advantageous for decentralized automation architectures where space is at a premium. The drives are capable of managing power outputs from basic wattages up to 1 kW, making them an ideal fit for diverse tasks ranging from simple positioning to high-torque rotations in pharmaceutical and packaging environments.
One of the standout features of this series is its versatility in motor feedback and control. B&R has incorporated a wide array of encoder options, including the ability to run in encoderless mode, which simplifies wiring and reduces the total cost of ownership for entry-level machine designs. This flexibility allows engineers to tailor the drive's behavior to the specific precision requirements of the task at hand. Furthermore, the seamless integration into the existing B&R ecosystem means that these drives benefit from the same high-level programming tools and diagnostics as the company's larger servo drive families.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the X20’s design philosophy. The inclusion of integrated Safe Torque Off (STO) functionality, certified to SIL 3 standards, ensures that the hardware meets the most stringent international safety regulations for human-machine interaction. By embedding safety directly into the drive's hardware, B&R eliminates the need for redundant external components, further enhancing the drive's value proposition for cost-effective automation. This combination of high-density performance and rigorous safety protocols positions the X20 series as a primary driver for innovation in mechatronic systems and smart factory deployments.
Written by: Marcus Thorne, a senior automation strategist with over fifteen years of experience in motion control engineering and the deployment of integrated PLC architectures across the European manufacturing sector.