Over the past 15 years, three strategic acquisitions have transformed Sumitomo Drive Technologies into a broader drive technologies specialist, giving customers access to gears, motors and variable frequency drives through a single organisation. Part of Sumitomo Heavy Industries, the business now brings together technologies and expertise from Sumitomo Cyclo Drive, Hansen Industrial Transmissions, Lafert Group and Invertek Drives. Collectively, these brands cover the principal elements of industrial power transmission, from mechanical gearing and electric motors to electronic speed control. The company’s engineering heritage stretches back 100 years to the invention of cycloidal gear technology. That foundation remains central to its product range today. Cycloidal gearing is valued in demanding applications for its high torque capacity, low backlash and smooth, quiet operation, while Hansen Industrial Transmissions adds large industrial gearbox capability for heavy-duty duties. Lafert Group contributes high-performance and customised electric motors, and Invertek Drives supplies variable frequency drives developed using current power-electronics and control technologies. Together, the four brands allow Sumitomo Drive Technologies to address complete drive trains rather than individual components in isolation. This integrated approach is increasingly important for machine builders and end users. Gear systems convert power into usable torque, motors provide controlled and repeatable movement, and variable speed drives regulate motor behaviour to match actual operating demand. When these elements are selected as a coordinated package, designers can simplify system architecture, improve reliability and achieve better overall performance. There are also potential gains in energy efficiency. Correctly matching the gearbox, motor and drive to the application can reduce unnecessary losses and avoid oversized equipment. Variable frequency drives can further improve efficiency by allowing motors to operate at the speed required by the process, rather than running continuously at full output. Although each brand offers general-purpose products, the portfolio also includes equipment developed for specific sectors and operating conditions. Invertek Drives, for example, provides dedicated VFD ranges for applications including lifts, HVAC systems, pumps, cranes and hoists. This application-led development helps customers access functionality suited to their industry without relying on a generic drive platform. The broader portfolio also gives customers flexibility when projects span multiple sites, sectors or markets. A machine builder can engage with one group while drawing on technologies developed by several specialist manufacturers. This can encourage more consistent specification, documentation and communication throughout a project, while helping to reduce the integration risks that may arise when components from unrelated suppliers are selected, commissioned and supported independently. Product breadth, however, is only one part of the proposition. Each company within the group retains specialist teams with detailed knowledge of its technology and markets. Many employees have spent substantial periods working within their respective businesses, giving customers access to practical experience as well as product expertise. Collaborative projects begin with a clear assessment of the customer’s objectives, operating conditions and commercial priorities. Engineers from the relevant brands can then identify the most suitable combination of gearing, motors and drives for the installation. That process is intended to move customers away from selecting unrelated, off-the-shelf components and towards a solution in which the individual elements are designed to work together. It can also reduce the engineering burden for OEMs, particularly where an application involves demanding torque, speed, efficiency or control requirements. For customers, the result is a more tailored drive package backed by specialists across mechanical and electrical disciplines. By combining established technologies within one organisation, Sumitomo Drive Technologies aims to provide a clearer route from initial specification through to an integrated system, while helping users improve productivity, reliability and return on investment. ADVERTORIAL Sumitomo Drive Technologies | +44 (0) 1482 790340 | smuk.customerservice@shi-g.com | emeia.sumitomodrive.com/en-gb One source for complete drive solutions Further information about Sumitomo Drive Technologies EMEIA is available at emeia.sumitomodrive.com/en-gb
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