Automation Direct GS2 Series Frequency Inverter Specifications and Selection

Automation Direct GS2 series AC frequency converter: comprehensive analysis of its technical specifications and application selection

In the field of industrial automation, AC frequency converters are the core equipment for achieving motor speed regulation and energy-saving operation. The GS2 series frequency converter from Automate Direct is a versatile universal drive that inherits the advantages of the GS1 series and adds advanced features such as dynamic braking, PID control, and a detachable keyboard. The GS2 series has become an ideal choice for many OEMs and system integrators due to its rich I/O interfaces, flexible communication options, and wide power coverage range. This article aims to deeply interpret the specifications of the GS2 series frequency converter, systematically elaborating on its technical characteristics, model system, accessory selection, and application points, providing engineers with a professional and detailed technical reference.

Part 1: Product Overview and Core Features

1.1 Product positioning

The GS2 series frequency converter is positioned as a high-performance, cost-effective universal AC drive. It uses IGBT power devices and sine pulse width modulation (PWM) technology to provide stable motor control performance. Compared with the GS1 series, the GS2 has added dynamic braking circuits and integrated PID control functions, making it more advantageous in applications that require rapid braking or process control. Its detachable keyboard comes with a speed potentiometer, greatly facilitating on-site debugging and operation.

1.2 Core Technical Characteristics

The technical characteristics of the GS2 series frequency converter reflect its comprehensive capability as a modern universal drive:

Control method: Adopting simple Volts/Hertz (V/Hz) control, suitable for most applications with constant or variable torque loads such as fans, pumps, and conveyors.

High performance output: The starting torque can reach up to 125% at 0.5 Hz and 150% at 5 Hz, ensuring sufficient driving force during low-frequency starting. The overload capacity is 150% of the rated current for one minute, which can cope with short-term impact loads.

Comprehensive protection function: Built in electronic overload protection and stall prevention function, effectively protecting the motor and driver from damage. The DC braking function can provide additional braking force during the stopping phase.

Flexible control and adjustment: Provides adjustable acceleration/deceleration ramps and S-curve settings to make the start stop process smoother. The automatic torque compensation and automatic slip compensation functions can maintain stable motor speed during load changes.

Rich I/O interfaces: equipped with 1 analog input and 6 programmable digital inputs, 1 analog output and 2 programmable relay outputs. These I/O points can be flexibly configured for various control functions, such as multi speed, jog, fault reset, etc.

Three sets of jumping frequencies: allowing the setting of three frequency jumping points, effectively avoiding mechanical resonance frequencies and protecting equipment.

1.3 Typical application scenarios

The application range of GS2 series frequency converters is very wide, mainly including:

Conveyor system: precise control of material flow is achieved by adjusting the speed.

Fans and pumps: achieve energy-saving operation and replace traditional throttle valve control.

Compressor: Adjust the speed according to demand to improve energy efficiency.

HVAC system: used for speed regulation of equipment such as wind cabinets and cooling towers.

Material handling: speed regulation of equipment such as mixers and mixers.

Part 2: Complete Model Specification System

The GS2 series frequency converter offers a power range from 0.2 kW to 7.5 kW, covering multiple voltage levels such as 115V, 230V, 460V, and 575V, to meet the power supply needs of different regions and equipment.

2.1 Model Naming Rules

The models of GS2 series frequency converters follow a unified naming convention, starting with "GS2-" followed by voltage level code and power code. For example:

GS2-10P2: Refers to 115V class, 0.2kW (1/4 HP) drive.

GS2-22P0: Refers to 230V class, 2.2kW (3 HP) drive.

GS2-47P5: Refers to 460V class, 5.5kW (7.5 HP) drive.

GS2-52P0: Refers to 575V class, 1.5kW (2 HP) drive.

2.2 115V Class (GS2-1xxx)

This type of driver is suitable for single-phase 100-120VAC input power supply, and the output three-phase voltage is proportional to the input. Mainly used for low-voltage applications in North America and other regions.

Power range: 0.2 kW (1/4 HP) to 0.75 kW (1 HP).

Model: GS2-10P2, GS2-10P5, GS2-11P0.

Rated output current: from 1.6A to 3.7A.

Weight: Approximately 3.5 to 3.6 pounds.

Power consumption: 24W to 46W (at full load).

2.3 230V Class (GS2-2xxx)

This type of driver is the most commonly used model, supporting single-phase or three-phase 200-240VAC input, and outputting three-phase voltage corresponding to the input. Single phase input models can be used in situations where only single-phase power is available.

Power range: 0.4 kW (1/2 HP) to 5.5 kW (7.5 HP).

Model: GS2-20P5（0.4kW）、GS2-21P0（0.75kW）、GS2-22P0（1.5kW）、GS2-23P0（2.2kW）、GS2-25P0（3.7kW）、GS2-27P5（5.5kW）。

Rated output current: from 2.5A to 25A.

Weight: 3.5 pounds to 8.5 pounds.

Power consumption: 34W to 255W (at full load).

2.4 460V Class (GS2-4xxx)

This type of driver is suitable for three-phase 380-480VAC input and is the standard choice for 380V/460V systems in industrial applications.

Power range: 0.75 kW (1 HP) to 7.5 kW (10 HP).

Model: GS2-41P0（0.75kW）、GS2-42P0（1.5kW）、GS2-43P0（2.2kW）、GS2-45P0（3.7kW）、GS2-47P5（5.5kW）、GS2-4010（7.5kW）。

Rated output current: from 2.5A to 17A.

Weight: 3.5 pounds to 8.5 pounds.

Power consumption: 73W to 255W (at full load).

2.5 575V Class (GS2-5xxx)

This type of driver is suitable for three-phase 500-600VAC input and is mainly used in regions such as Canada where 575V voltage is used.

Power range: 0.75 kW (1 HP) to 7.5 kW (10 HP).

Model: GS2-51P0（0.75kW）、GS2-52P0（1.5kW）、GS2-53P0（2.2kW）、GS2-55P0（3.7kW）、GS2-57P5（5.5kW）、GS2-5010（7.5kW）。

Rated output current: from 1.7A to 12.2A.

Weight: 3.3 pounds to 7.3 pounds.

Power consumption: 30W to 211W (at full load).

Part Three: Installation, Wiring, and Accessories

3.1 Environmental Requirements and Installation

Environmental temperature: The normal operating ambient temperature is -10 ° C to 40 ° C. If the ambient temperature reaches 50 ° C, the carrier frequency should be reduced to below 2.1 kHz and the output current should be reduced to 80% or lower.

Installation direction: It should be installed vertically inside the control cabinet to ensure good heat dissipation of the heat sink.

Size: The external dimensions of the low-power model (up to 2.2kW) are 151.0 x 100.0 x 140.5 mm, while the size of the higher power model increases accordingly.

3.2 Wiring specifications

Main circuit wiring: The manual provides detailed terminal wiring diagrams, including the connection methods for input power (R/L1, S/L2, T/L3), motor output (U/T1, V/T2, W/T3), braking resistors (B1, B2), and DC reactor/DC power input (+1,+2, -) terminals.

Control circuit wiring: It is recommended to use twisted pair shielded wires or shielded wires for control signal lines, and thread them into independent metal conduits. The shielding layer should only be grounded at the driver end to avoid ground loop interference caused by grounding at both ends.

Grounding: The frequency converter must be reliably grounded. The manual specifically states that for painted installation panels, the paint should be scraped off below the star washer to ensure a good grounding connection.

3.3 Key Accessories

The GS2 series has a complete accessory system, making it convenient for users to select and match according to their application needs

AC reactor: used to suppress harmonics, improve power factor, and protect frequency converters from power surge impact. According to whether the input power is single-phase or three-phase, and the power level of the driver, there are corresponding models (such as LR-20P5-1PH, LR-20P5, etc.).

Braking resistor: used to consume the regenerative energy of the motor and achieve fast braking. The manual provides the corresponding brake resistor models for each power level (such as GS-20P5-BR, GS-21P0-BR, etc.). For high-power 575V drivers, multiple resistors may need to be used in series or parallel.

EMI filter: used to suppress electromagnetic interference generated by frequency converters and meet electromagnetic compatibility requirements. The EMI filter models for 230V class drivers are 20DRT1W3S, 32DRT1W3C, 40TDS4W4B, etc.

RF filter: The RF220X00A model filter can be used for various voltage levels.

Fuse kit: Provides fuse kits for single-phase and three-phase inputs (such as GS-20P5-FKIT-1P, GS-20P5-FKIT-3P) for easy on-site installation and maintenance.

DIN rail mounting adapter: The GS2-DR02 adapter can be used to mount low-power drives onto standard DIN rails.

Detachable keyboard and extension cable: GS2-KPD is a spare keyboard, and GS-CBL2-1L/3L/5L is a keyboard extension cable with lengths of 1 meter, 3 meters, and 5 meters, supporting remote operation.

Ethernet communication module: GS-EDRV100 is a DIN rail mounted Ethernet communication module that enables GS2 drivers to connect to Ethernet networks.

Part Four: Communication and Networks

The GS2 series frequency converter is equipped with a standard RS-232/RS-485 serial communication interface, which supports Modbus RTU protocol and has a communication speed of up to 38.4 Kbps. This enables the GS2 driver to be easily integrated into automation systems for remote monitoring and control.

4.1 Communication accessories

USB to RS-232 adapter: The USB-R232 adapter is used to connect the USB port of a PC to the RS-232 port of a driver, making it easy to configure parameters using GSoft software.

USB to RS-485 adapter: The USB-485M adapter is used to connect the USB port of a PC to the RS-485 network of a driver.

RS-485 communication distribution module: ZL-CDM-RJ12X4 and ZL-CDM-RJ12X10 are 4-port and 10 port RS-485 communication distribution modules used to create plug and play RS-485 networks and simplify multi driver networking.

Pre installed communication cables: The manual lists various pre installed communication cables, such as GS-RJ12-CBL-2, which are used to connect GS2 drivers to programming ports of PLCs such as DL05/06; GS-485HD15-CBL-2 is used to connect the 15 pin communication port between the driver and PLCs such as DL06/D2-260.

4.2 Software Support

GSoft: GSof driver configuration software, used for parameter setting, monitoring, and debugging of GS2 drivers.

KEPDirect: KEPDirect I/O or OPC Server software, used to integrate driver data into the upper computer monitoring system.

Part 5: Selection and Replacement Applications

The GS2 series frequency converter is not only the preferred driver for new projects, but also very suitable as a substitute for other brands of frequency converters. The specification sheet provides a detailed comparison table for replacing Hitachi drives.

5.1 Function Comparison

When replacing the selection, attention should be paid to the control modes supported by the original drive. The comparison table shows:

GS1 series: Only supports Volts/Hz control.

GS2 series: Supports Volts/Hz and PID control, suitable for applications that require process regulation.

DURAPulse (GS3) series: supports Volts/Hz, PID, sensor vector control, and full flux vector control, with the most comprehensive performance.

5.2 Hitachi L100/SJ100 Replacement

For the Hitachi L100 and SJ100 series (0.25 HP to 10 HP), the GS2 series is an economical and efficient replacement option.

230V class replacement:

0.25 HP (L100-002NFU) can be replaced with GS2-20P5 (0.5 HP) or GS3-21P0.

0.5 HP (L100-004NFU) can be replaced with GS2-20P5.

1.0 HP (L100-007NFU) can be replaced with GS2-21P0.

2.0 HP (L100-015NFU) can be replaced with GS2-22P0.

3.0 HP (L100-022NFU) can be replaced with GS2-23P0.

460V class replacement:

0.5 HP (L100-004HFU) can be replaced with GS2-41P0.

1.0 HP (L100-007HFU) can be replaced with GS2-41P0.

2.0 HP (L100-015HFU) can be replaced with GS2-42P0.

5.3 Hitachi SJ300 Replacement

For the SJ300 series with higher performance, GS2 can serve as an economical alternative for some applications, but GS3 (DURAPulse) series can provide a more complete control mode.

230V class replacement:

Replace 0.5 HP (SJ300-004LFU) with GS2-20P5.

Replace 1.0 HP (SJ300-007LFU) with GS2-21P0.

Replace 2.0 HP (SJ300-015LFU) with GS2-22P0.

Replace 3.0 HP (SJ300-022LFU) with GS2-23P0.

460V class replacement:

Replace 1.0 HP (SJ300-007HFU) with GS2-41P0.

Replace 2.0 HP (SJ300-015HFU) with GS2-42P0.

Replace 3.0 HP (SJ300-022HFU) with GS2-43P0.

Replacement precautions:

Power requirements: Some replacement drivers require a three-phase input power supply, and it is necessary to confirm whether the original application has a three-phase power supply.

Power matching: The replacement driver may have one level higher power than the original driver, and the output power can be limited by parameters to adapt to the original motor.

Mechanical dimensions: The physical dimensions, installation holes, and wiring terminal layout of the replacement driver may differ from the original driver and need to be confirmed before installation.

Part 6: Summary and Selection Suggestions

The GS2 series frequency converter is a versatile, cost-effective, and flexible universal AC drive. Its wide power range from 0.2 kW to 7.5 kW, multi voltage level selection, and rich control functions enable it to meet various application needs from simple speed regulation to complex process control.

Selection Recommendation

Select voltage level based on input power supply: specify the available power supply types (single-phase/three-phase) and voltage levels (115V, 230V, 460V, or 575V) on site.

Select the model based on the motor power: Select the matching driver model from the corresponding voltage level model table based on the rated power (kW or HP) on the motor nameplate.

Consider whether advanced features are needed: If the application requires PID control (such as constant pressure water supply, constant temperature control) or fast braking, the GS2 series is a suitable choice. If higher performance vector control is needed, the DURAPulse (GS3) series can be considered.

Choose appropriate accessories: Determine whether an EMI filter is needed based on the on-site electromagnetic environment; Select appropriate braking resistors based on the frequency of braking and braking requirements; Select communication adapters and cables according to communication needs.

Reference replacement guide: If you need to replace an existing Hitachi drive, you can refer to the replacement comparison table in the specification sheet to ensure correct selection.

In summary, the GS2 series frequency converters provide efficient, flexible, and cost-effective driving solutions for industrial automation with their comprehensive specification coverage and reliable performance. Engineers can make accurate selection decisions based on the technical information provided in this article and specific application requirements.