SINAMICS S120 Modular Drive for High-Precision Multi-Axis Motion Control (0.12–4500 kW)
The modular SINAMICS S120 drive system delivers high-performance motion control for industrial factories and mechanical equipment applications. Featuring flexibly configurable components and coordinated functions, it enables customized solutions including high-performance single-axis drive systems with vector or servo capabilities, and coordinated multi-axis drive systems. Users benefit from superior performance, enhanced productivity, and exceptional flexibility.
Core Product Features
| Feature Category |
Key Advantages |
| Modular & Highly Flexible Design |
- Fully modular components (power module, control unit, rectifier unit, brake unit optional separately)
- Supports single-axis/multi-axis configuration, scalable to 64-axis coordinated control
- Compatible with vector, servo, and torque control modes (switchable on demand)
|
| High-Performance Motion Control |
- Precise position/speed/torque triple-loop control, positioning accuracy up to ±0.01°
- Dynamic response time < 1ms, supporting complex motion functions (electronic cam, electronic gear, etc.)
- Multi-axis synchronization accuracy ≤ 1μs, meeting high-speed coordination requirements
|
| Full Power & Voltage Coverage |
- Power range: 0.12kW-4500kW (covers micro to large industrial equipment)
- Supports multi-voltage levels (200V-690V), compatible with 50/60Hz global power grids
- Adapts to asynchronous motors, synchronous motors, linear motors, etc.
|
| Deep System Integration Capability |
- Seamless integration with Siemens TIA Portal, supporting integrated configuration of PLC, HMI, and servo motors
- Compatible with real-time Ethernet (PROFINET IRT, EtherCAT), communication latency < 1ms
- Supports third-party PLC integration (Rockwell, Schneider) for hybrid control systems
|
| High Reliability & Protection |
- Operating temperature range: -25℃-60℃, supporting high-altitude operation (>4000m)
- Integrated multi-layer protection (overcurrent, overvoltage, overload, lightning protection), MTBF > 100,000 hours
- Optional IP54/IP65 protection class for harsh industrial environments
|
| Intelligent Operation & Energy Saving |
- Built-in fault diagnosis and predictive maintenance functions, supporting remote monitoring and parameter adjustment
- Energy regenerative rectifier unit, energy saving rate up to 15%-30% (compared to standard inverters)
- Multi-language interface (English, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, etc.), supporting SD card parameter cloning
|
| Safety Compliance & Certifications |
- Standard SIL 3/PLe safety functions (STO, SS1, SS2, SLS), compliant with IEC 61800-5-2
- Certified by CE, UL, cUL, ATEX, etc., meeting access requirements in EU/North America/Middle East
- Compatible with RoHS, REACH environmental standards, aligning with overseas green factory policies
|
Core Specifications
| Parameter Category |
Key Parameters |
Typical Value/Range |
Notes |
| Power Supply & Power |
Input Voltage (3AC) |
200-690 V |
Compatible with 50/60 Hz power grids |
| Power Range (S1 Continuous) |
0.12-4500 kW |
Dependent on module combination and voltage class |
| DC Link Voltage (Typical) |
~540 V (for 400 V grid); ~960 V (for 690 V grid) |
Regenerative models enable energy feedback to the grid |
| Control & Performance |
Control Modes |
Vector / Servo / Torque / V/f |
Switchable on demand; supports multi-axis coordination |
| Maximum Axes (Coordinated Control) |
64 axes |
Dependent on control unit and bus system |
| Dynamic Response Time |
< 1 ms |
Typical value; configuration-dependent |
| Multi-Axis Synchronization Accuracy |
≤ 1 μs |
Under real-time Ethernet |
| Positioning Accuracy |
±0.01° |
Dependent on feedback system and motor |
| Core Functions |
Electronic Cam / Electronic Gear / Synchronized Axes / Cam Disk |
Suitable for precision motion control |
| Communication & Integration |
Industrial Buses |
PROFINET IRT, EtherCAT, PROFIBUS |
Supports real-time control |
| Software Platform |
TIA Portal |
Integrated configuration with PLC and HMI |
| Feedback Interfaces |
Drive-CLiQ, Encoder Interfaces (Incremental/Absolute) |
Compatible with linear motors / torque motors |
| Environment & Protection |
Operating Temperature (No Derating) |
0-40 °C |
Derating required for 40-55 °C |
| Protection Class (Cabinet-Mounted Modules) |
IP20 |
IP54/IP65 optional for distributed modules |
| High-Altitude Adaptability |
> 4000 m |
Derating required based on altitude |
| Relative Humidity |
5%-95% (non-condensing) |
Compliant with industrial environments |
| Safety & Certifications |
Safety Functions |
STO, SS1, SS2, SLS |
Standard SIL 3/PLe; compliant with IEC 61800-5-2 |
| Core Certifications |
CE, UL, cUL, ATEX |
Suitable for EU/North American markets and explosive environments |
| Environmental Standards |
RoHS, REACH |
Meets green factory requirements |
| Structure & Heat Dissipation |
System Structure |
Rectifier Unit + Control Unit + Power Module + Optional Brake Unit |
Modular combination; scalable on demand |
| Heat Dissipation Method |
Forced Air Cooling / Water Cooling |
|
Configuration Types
| Configuration Type |
Core Component Composition |
Installation Method |
Power Range |
Overseas Typical Application Scenarios |
Core Adaptation Value |
| Cabinet-Mounted Centralized Configuration |
Common rectifier unit (Basic/Active/Regenerative), Common DC bus, Multiple power modules (MM/SM/GM), Control unit (CU320-2 PN/DP), Optional brake unit |
Cabinet-mounted |
0.12-4500 kW |
Automotive welding lines, machine tool machining centers, multi-axis assembly lines for electronic equipment (mainstream configuration in European/North American OEM factories) |
- Multi-axis shared DC bus enables 15-30% energy savings (regenerated energy mutual utilization)
- Centralized heat dissipation and maintenance, adapting to standardized equipment room layouts
- Supports 64-axis coordination to meet high-end production line synchronization requirements
|
| Distributed Configuration |
Distributed rectifier unit (book-type/wall-mounted), Distributed power modules, Control unit (CU320-2 PN), DC bus connected via cables/fiber optics |
Wall-mounted/near-load installation |
0.12-250 kW |
Logistics sorting lines, warehouse AGVs, construction machinery (decentralized production scenarios in Southeast Asia/North America) |
- Reduces cable length, lowering installation costs and electromagnetic interference
- Drives loads locally, suitable for renovation of old factories with limited space
- IP54/IP65 protection grade, resistant to dust and humid environments
|
| Single-Axis Drive Configuration |
Integrated power module (including rectifier + inverter), Control unit (CU320-2 PN/DP or simplified CU), Built-in brake resistor (for low power) |
Cabinet-mounted/wall-mounted |
0.12-150 kW |
Standalone equipment (packaging machines, pumps/fans, small machine tools), single-machine production lines in SMEs |
- Compact structure, reducing cabinet space occupation
- No complex bus design, shortening installation and commissioning time by 40%
- Controllable cost, meeting budget needs of overseas SMEs
|
| Book-Size Configuration |
Book-size rectifier unit (6SL3330 series), Book-size power module (6SL3210/3220 series), Control unit (CU320-2 compact type), Side-mounted heat dissipation module |
Cabinet stacked installation |
0.12-250 kW |
Precision electronic equipment, medical devices, small automated production lines (high-precision manufacturing scenarios in Japan/South Korea/Europe) |
- Stacked design increases cabinet space utilization by 50%
- Lightweight (single module ≤15kg), facilitating high-altitude installation and maintenance
- Low electromagnetic interference (EMC Class A), complying with strict EU standards
|
| Regenerative Feedback Configuration |
Active regenerative rectifier unit (6SL3330-6TE41 series), Power modules (MM/SM), Control unit (CU320-2 PN), Energy feedback filter |
Cabinet-mounted |
11-4500 kW |
Large machine tools, mining equipment, port cranes (high-energy-consumption projects in North America/Australia) |
- Energy feedback efficiency up to 98%, reducing annual energy costs by 20-30%
- No need for brake resistors, reducing heat dissipation pressure and maintenance costs
- Stabilizes grid voltage, adapting to unstable overseas power grids
|
| Explosion-Proof Configuration |
Explosion-proof rectifier unit (ATEX certified), Explosion-proof power module (IP66 protection), Flameproof control unit, Special heat dissipation and sealing design |
On-site/cabinet-mounted |
11-1500 kW |
Petroleum and chemical industry, mining, gas processing (explosion-proof scenarios in the Middle East/Europe) |
- Complies with ATEX/IECEx certifications, meeting access requirements for overseas explosion-proof areas
- Sealed and dustproof design, withstanding flammable and explosive environments
- Remote monitoring function, reducing safety risks for on-site personnel
|
Selection Recommendations
Regional Adaptation Priority
Europe/North America (high-end manufacturing): Prioritize "Cabinet-Mounted Centralized + Regenerative Feedback Configuration" to meet energy efficiency regulations and multi-axis synchronization needs.
Southeast Asia/Latin America (SMEs): Prioritize "Single-Axis Drive + Distributed Configuration" to balance cost and installation convenience.
Middle East/Africa (harsh environments): Prioritize "Distributed + Explosion-Proof Configuration" to adapt to high temperature, dust, and explosion-proof requirements.
Cost vs. Efficiency Balance
Multi-axis scenarios (≥8 axes): Centralized configuration is more energy-efficient (bus energy sharing) with lower long-term operating costs.
Single-machine/decentralized loads: Distributed configuration has lower installation costs and more flexible future expansion.
Mainstream Model List
| Category |
Article Number |
Description (English) |
Key Specs |
Target Markets |
| Control Units |
6SL3040-1MA00-0AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 CU320-2 DP |
PROFIBUS DP, multi-axis, 24 VDC |
EU, NA, SEA |
| 6SL3040-1MA01-0AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 CU320-2 PN |
PROFINET, multi-axis, 24 VDC |
EU, NA, Global |
| 6SL3040-1LA00-0AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 CU310-2 DP |
PROFIBUS DP, single-axis |
EU, SEA, LATAM |
| 6SL3040-1LA01-0AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 CU310-2 PN |
PROFINET, single-axis |
EU, NA, Global |
| Line Modules |
6SL3130-6TE21-0AA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Smart Line Module |
3AC 380-480 V, 600 V DC, 10 A |
EU, NA, SEA |
| 6SL3130-7TE21-6AA4 |
SINAMICS S120 Active Line Module |
3AC 380-480 V, 600 V DC, 27 A, regenerative |
EU, NA, AUS |
| 6SL3330-6TE41-3AA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Smart Line Module |
3AC 380-480 V, 510-650 V DC, 1300 A, 630 kW |
EU, NA, Industrial |
| 6SL3330-6TG35-5AA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Smart Line Module |
3AC 500-690 V, 675-930 V DC, 550 A, 450 kW |
EU, AUS, Industrial |
| Motor Modules |
6SL3120-1TE15-0AA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Single Motor Module |
DC 600 V, 3AC 400 V, 5 A |
EU, SEA, LATAM |
| 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 |
SINAMICS S120 Single Motor Module |
DC 600 V, 3AC 400 V, 18 A |
EU, NA, SEA |
| 6SL3120-2TE21-0AD0 |
SINAMICS S120 Double Motor Module |
DC 600 V, 3AC 400 V, 9 A/9 A |
EU, NA, Machine Tools |
| 6SL3320-1TE35-0AA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Power Module |
3AC 400 V, 250 kW, cabinet-mounted |
EU, NA, Heavy Industry |
| Auxiliary & Safety |
6SL3054-0CG01-1AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 CompactFlash Card |
V2.6, for CU, Drive-CLiQ |
Global |
| 6SL3055-0AA00-5BA3 |
SINAMICS S120 Sensor Module SMC20 |
Encoder evaluation, Drive-CLiQ |
EU, NA, Precision |
| 6SL3050-0DE10-0AA0 |
SINAMICS S120 Safety Integrated Module |
Safe Torque Off (STO), Drive-CLiQ |
EU (CE/ATEX), NA (UL) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Installation & Environment
High salt spray in Southeast Asian ports causes frequent tripping after installation -- how to resolve?
Select IP54+ protection modules, add dustproof and moisture-proof covers with forced cooling. Separate power and control cables, ground the shield at one end, and ensure ground resistance < 4Ω. Regularly clean cooling air ducts and filters to prevent overheating protection triggered by poor heat dissipation due to corrosion.
Extreme high temperatures in Middle Eastern deserts lead to frequent overheating shutdowns -- what solutions are available?
Prioritize water-cooled models. For air-cooled models, increase cooling clearance, add independent air ducts and temperature-controlled fans. Place cabinets in shaded areas to avoid direct sunlight. Adjust overload thresholds and derating curves, and operate at reduced loads during high-temperature periods to prevent long-term overheating under heavy loads.
What happens if mixing 480V (North American grid) and 400V (European grid) modules?
It will trigger overvoltage/undervoltage protection or even damage modules. Select line modules and power modules based on the target region's grid: 480V systems require matching line and power modules with corresponding rated voltages. Install input reactors and filters to suppress grid fluctuations and harmonics, complying with local grid standards.
How to install compliantly in explosive areas (e.g., Middle Eastern chemical plants)?
Use ATEX/IECEx certified modules, install drives in safe areas, and use explosion-proof motors and sensors on-site. Adopt sealed heat dissipation design to prevent dust and corrosive gases from entering modules. Wire in accordance with explosion-proof standards, use explosion-proof junction boxes and cable glands, and conduct regular explosion-proof inspections and maintenance.
Commissioning & Communication
Insufficient synchronization accuracy for multi-axis common DC bus in overseas automotive welding lines -- how to adjust?
Adopt CU320-2 + common DC bus configuration and enable PROFINET IRT communication. Configure electronic cam/electronic gear, optimize position loop and speed loop parameters to reduce dynamic response time. Check encoder wiring and shielding to ensure stable feedback signals. Commission single axes first, then connect them online, gradually increasing load and speed to verify synchronization accuracy.
Frequent disconnections or address conflicts with PROFINET communication in overseas machine tools -- what to do?
Check network topology: set terminal resistors to ON at both ends and OFF at intermediate nodes. Avoid duplicate IP addresses/device names and divide independent network segments. Use shielded twisted-pair cables and maintain sufficient distance from power cables. Upgrade firmware to a compatible version, optimize communication cycle and reconnection mechanism to reduce disconnection probability.
Excessive regenerative energy in port gantry cranes causes DC bus overvoltage tripping -- how to solve?
Use regenerative line modules to feed back regenerative energy to the grid. Equip brake units and brake resistors, calculate required resistance value and power to ensure timely energy release. Adjust deceleration time to avoid sudden energy surge during emergency stops. Install DC bus reactors to stabilize bus voltage and prevent overvoltage protection triggering.
Operation & Maintenance
Ground fault (F30021) reported on overseas sites -- how to quickly locate the issue?
After powering off, check if motor windings and cable insulation are damaged or grounded. Inspect if internal drive modules are damaged. Verify the reliability of the grounding system for loose connections or excessive ground resistance. Conduct single-machine operation tests to rule out external load grounding issues; replace motors or cables if necessary.
Slow overseas after-sales response -- how to quickly resume production after module failure?
Stock core spare parts (CU, Power Module, Fan, Brake Resistor) in advance. Establish a remote operation and maintenance system for remote diagnosis and commissioning via gateways like eWON. Train local maintenance personnel and provide Chinese/English commissioning manuals and fault troubleshooting procedures to reduce reliance on overseas after-sales.
Speed fluctuations caused by encoder signal interference in overseas machine tool sites -- how to handle?
Use twisted-pair shielded cables, ground the shield at one end, separate from power cables, and avoid parallel routing. Check if encoder supply voltage is stable and free of ripple. Adjust speed feedback filter parameters and extend fault delay time to reduce false alarms caused by interference. Replace with encoders with stronger anti-interference capabilities if necessary.
