Upgrade SIMOREG 6RA70 DC Drives to Parker DC590P via Profibus Communication

The Siemens SIMOREG DC Master 6RA70 speed controller was once a “legend” in steel, cement, packaging, and paper production lines. However, this product line has now been discontinued by the manufacturer, making spare parts scarce and expensive.

Currently, the most optimal and cost-effective solution is upgrading the SIMOREG 6RA70 system with the Parker DC590P. This article will share practical experiences and core considerations when executing this system upgrade over a Profibus-DP communication network connected to an S7-300 PLC.

Why choose the Parker DC590P to upgrade your SIMOREG 6RA70 system?

The Parker DC590P is a DC drive series featuring a wide power range, exceptionally high power stage (Thyristor) durability, and especially flexible programming capabilities via Function Blocks. Compared to completely replacing the entire DC motor with an AC motor system (which incurs massive costs), keeping the existing motor and simply upgrading the controller to the Parker DC590P helps businesses:

  • Save up to 60% on investment costs.

  • Minimize installation time and production downtime.

  • Easily configure and master the technology through dedicated software.

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In the picture is a 270-Amp Parker DC590P unit replacing the Siemens SIMOREG DC Master 6RA70, featuring Profibus-DP network communication with an S7-300 PLC.

Technical Challenges in Upgrading to the Parker 590P

Upgrading from Siemens to Parker is not a simple “plug-and-play” replacement. It requires high-level engineering expertise to handle major challenges in communication and software configuration:

1. Configuring Profibus Parameters on the Parker 590P Using DSELite Software

The legacy system utilized a CBP2 card and configured network addresses via Siemens parameters. When switching to the Parker 590P, you must equip the unit with a Profibus communication card (Part Number: 6055-PROF-00).

Key Takeaway: The entire station address (Node Address) setup and data connection configuration (Mapping) on the Parker DC590P must be performed using DSELite software on a computer. The programmer must master how to connect and download the configuration from DSELite to ensure the drive correctly recognizes the network card.

2. Differences in Data Mapping Logic (I/O Mapping)

While Siemens utilizes predefined, fixed command memory areas (such as K3001, K3002…), Parker adopts an “Open” architecture (Free Mapping). The programmer must use DSELite software to map and link the incoming data words from the PLC to the appropriate functional tags of the Parker DC590P (such as Run, Start, Enable, and Trip Reset).

3. The Speed Scaling Pitfall

This is a very common error that can easily cause a new DC drive to trigger a SPEED ERROR fault or operate at incorrect and dangerous speeds if handled without experience:

  • Siemens SIMOREG: Defines 100% speed as a value of 16384 (4000 Hex).

  • Parker 590P: Defines 100% speed as a value of 10000 (0.01% resolution).

A qualified programmer will choose to calibrate the scaling factors directly on the Parker drive via DSELite to “emulate” the exact response of the legacy Siemens controller. This approach keeps the existing S7-300 PLC code intact without requiring deep interventions into the factory’s current control program.

A Professional 3-Step Procedure for DC Drive Control Panel Upgrades

To ensure a seamless upgrade project, programmers must strictly adhere to the following workflow:

  1. Back up Legacy Data: Use DriveMonitor software to upload and archive all parameters from the SIMOREG 6RA70 prior to dismantling.

  2. Reconfigure PLC Hardware: Import the Parker GSD file into Step 7 or TIA Portal. Redefine the new Profibus station with I/O memory areas (PZD Words) identical to the legacy station.

  3. Configure Parameters via DSELite: Connect a computer to the Parker 590P using DSELite software to set the Profibus address matching the PLC, input the motor parameters (Rated Current, Field Voltage, Field Current…), and perform an Autotune.

Contact Our Professional DC Drive Control Panel Upgrade Services

Upgrading from SIMOREG to the Parker 590P demands hands-on field experience and high standards of system safety management. If your business is experiencing faults with a SIMOREG 6RA70 system or needs a backup upgrade plan, contact us today.

We are committed to delivering the most optimal solutions:

  • Complimentary Site Survey & Upgrade Consultation: Comprehensive assessment and tailored solutions for your system upgrade.

  • Highly Experienced Automation Engineers: A team of field-proven experts fully proficient in DSELite software.

  • Genuine Equipment Supply: Providing 100% genuine PARKER DC590P drives and 6055-PROF-00 communication cards with long-term warranties.

  • 24/7 Technical Support: Ensuring a smooth handover with stable, seamless, and high-performance system operation.

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