2025-04-27

The Kinetix 6500 servo drives from Rockwell Automation are built to support the evolving demands of modern industrial automation. With features like a flexible network architecture, embedded safety, and modular construction, the Kinetix 6500 delivers scalable, future-ready motion control while enhancing plant efficiency. Here’s a deep dive into how it meets the needs of growing operations.

Enhanced Control and Simplicity with Integrated Motion on EtherNet/IP

Kinetix 6500 drives integrate Rockwell Automation’s EtherNet/IP network, featuring CIP Sync and CIP Motion technologies for real-time control and system-wide synchronization.

Key Benefits:

• Unified Network: Eliminates the need for a separate motion network, supporting a range of commercial and industrial devices.

• Standard Ethernet Protocol: Simplifies plant-wide network integration with unmodified Ethernet standards.

• Time Synchronization: Ensures coordinated motion and precise control across I/O and drive devices.

The Kinetix 6500’s network flexibility supports plant expansions without requiring proprietary systems, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.

Embedded Safety Features

Built-in safety capabilities allow Kinetix 6500 drives to reduce downtime while protecting operators.

Safe Speed Monitoring (S1):

• Monitors speed with capabilities like Safe Stop, Zero Speed Monitoring, Safe Limited Speed, and more.

• Web-based configuration for flexible I/O device setup.

• Certified to IEC 61508 SIL 3 and ISO 13849 PL e standards.

Safe Torque-Off (STO):

• Disables drive output without cutting main power.

• Simplifies wiring while lowering total cost of ownership.

• Enhances uptime and safety compliance.

Adaptable and Cost-Saving Modular Design

The Kinetix 6500 features a modular structure, allowing machine builders to:

• Swap control modules for evolving application needs.

• Reduce spare parts inventory.

• Speed up diagnostics and troubleshooting.

• Seamlessly upgrade to higher power ranges or advanced control types.

This modularity ensures long-term investment protection and adaptability to new technologies.

Comprehensive Connectivity and Network Resilience

Dual Ethernet ports enable advanced topologies such as:

• Device Level Ring (DLR): Single fault tolerance without extra switches.

• Hybrid Topology Support: Integrates multiple device types on one subnet.

• Extended Linear Segments: Longer device chains without centralized switches.

• Embedded Switch Technology: Eliminates the need for external switches.

These capabilities ensure superior resilience and efficiency for dynamic industrial setups.

Key System Components

• ControlLogix Controllers (L6X/L7X): Handle up to 100 motion axes per controller.

• Stratix Switches: Managed or unmanaged options support flexible network configurations.

Together, they deliver a robust, integrated motion system for scalable control solutions.

Built on a Proven Foundation

The Kinetix 6500 enhances the trusted performance of the Kinetix 6000 series with:

• Expanded device support via EtherNet/IP

• Modular upgrades for evolving plant needs

• Backward compatibility for leveraging existing infrastructure

Supported Motors and Actuators

The Kinetix 6500 supports a variety of motion solutions:

• Rotary Motors: MP-Series Low Inertia, Medium Inertia, Food Grade, Stainless Steel, and RDD-Series Direct Drive.

• Linear Motors: LDC-Series Iron Core.

• Linear Actuators: MP-Series Stages and Electric Cylinders.

This flexibility enables custom solutions for industries ranging from high-speed assembly to food processing.

Recommended Cabling

For optimal performance:

• Use Allen-Bradley Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Ethernet cables.

• Recommended part numbers include 1585J-M8CBJM series (up to 78 meters).

This ensures signal integrity and minimizes network interference.

Conclusion

The Kinetix 6500 offers a comprehensive, scalable motion control solution with embedded safety, modular flexibility, and seamless EtherNet/IP integration. Whether you're expanding your operations or modernizing existing systems, the Kinetix 6500 empowers your facility to meet today's needs and tomorrow's challenges.

Looking for Kinetix 6500 drives or expert guidance? Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271