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Dufew Electric CBU Series Braking Chopper provides external dynamic braking control for variable frequency drives used with braking resistors. It monitors the DC bus voltage and activates the IGBT circuit when regenerative energy raises the bus voltage above the preset braking level, directing excess electrical energy to the braking resistor for heat dissipation. Available for 220V, 380V, and 690V drive systems, the CBU series can be configured according to braking power, duty cycle, DC bus voltage, and installation requirements.
A braking chopper is the switching component of a dynamic braking system. It does not dissipate regenerative energy by itself; instead, it controls the connection between the DC bus and braking resistor.
During motor deceleration, the motor can operate temporarily as a generator. The resulting regenerative energy flows back to the DC bus and causes the bus voltage to increase. When the voltage reaches the chopper's operating threshold, the IGBT switching circuit conducts and directs the energy to the braking resistor.
When the DC bus voltage falls below the release threshold, the chopper switches off.
This operating cycle allows the braking resistor to absorb regenerative energy and helps prevent excessive DC bus voltage during deceleration or overhauling operation.
Main Functions
- Controls the discharge of regenerative energy through the braking resistor
- Limits DC bus voltage rise during dynamic braking
- Provides rapid switching during regenerative conditions
- Supports external braking for drives requiring higher braking capacity
- Provides protection for the chopper and braking circuit
- Allows multiple units to be connected in parallel for higher braking requirements
The actual braking performance depends on the drive system, motor inertia, load characteristics, braking resistor, braking frequency, and required deceleration time.
Operating Principle
The CBU Series uses an IGBT-based switching circuit connected to the DC bus of the variable frequency drive.
The operating sequence is:
Motor Deceleration → Regenerative Energy → DC Bus Voltage Rise → Chopper Turns On → Energy Flows to Braking Resistor → Energy Dissipated as Heat
The chopper continuously monitors the DC bus voltage rather than relying on a separate external controller.
When the bus voltage exceeds the configured operating threshold, the IGBT conducts and transfers regenerative energy to the resistor. When the voltage returns to the appropriate range, the switching device turns off.
This control method is particularly useful for applications in which the regenerated energy is too large or too frequent for the drive's internal braking circuit.
Technical Parameters
Parameter
Specification
System Voltage
220VAC / 380VAC / 690VAC
Braking Voltage for 220V System
DC340 / 360 / 380 / 400 / 420V ±10V
Braking Voltage for 380V System
DC630 / 660 / 690 / 730 / 760V ±10V
Braking Voltage for 690V System
DC1140V ±10V
Control Method
Automatic DC bus voltage monitoring
Hysteresis
≤10V
Parallel Response
≤1ms
Fan Start Temperature
Approx. 45°C
Overtemperature Protection
Approx. 85°C
Fault Output
Relay contact: 0.6A/250VAC, 2A/30VDC
Protection Rating
IP20 or higher
Flame Retardant Grade
UL94 V-2
Applicable Standard
GB/T 12668
Note: The final braking voltage, model, and electrical configuration should be confirmed according to the selected product and drive system.
Control and Protection
The CBU Series integrates the switching and protection functions required for an external dynamic braking circuit.
DC Bus Voltage Monitoring
The control circuit continuously monitors the DC bus voltage. When the voltage reaches the configured braking threshold, the IGBT switching circuit conducts to transfer regenerative energy to the braking resistor.
Fast Switching
The chopper responds to changes in DC bus voltage without requiring an external control system. For parallel configurations, the specified synchronization response is within 1ms.
Adjustable Braking Voltage
Different braking voltage levels are available for 220V, 380V, and 690V drive systems. The appropriate setting is determined by the drive's DC bus voltage and the selected CBU model.
Integrated Protection
Depending on the product configuration, protection functions include:
- DC bus overvoltage protection
- Braking circuit short-circuit protection
- Overtemperature protection
- Fan fault protection
- Fault relay output
Protection conditions can disable the braking output and provide a fault signal to the external control system.
Thermal Management
The CBU Series uses forced-air cooling for applications requiring higher braking frequency or power.
The cooling fan starts at approximately 45°C module temperature, while the specified overtemperature protection point is approximately 85°C.
Actual thermal performance depends on:
- Braking power
- Braking duty cycle
- Ambient temperature
- Cabinet ventilation
- Installation clearance
- Operating frequency
The chopper should be installed with sufficient ventilation and clearance according to the product installation requirements.
Model Selection
Model Example: CBU 4 030
Code
Description
CBU
Dufew Electric braking chopper series
4
Voltage class: 4 = 380V
030
Model designation according to the product series
The model should be selected according to the drive voltage, required braking capacity, braking duty cycle, braking resistor, and load characteristics.
Selection Parameters
Braking chopper selection should be based on the actual regenerative conditions of the drive system rather than motor power alone.
Selection Parameter
Engineering Consideration
Drive System Voltage
Determines the applicable DC bus voltage range
Motor Power
Provides a reference for the overall braking system size
Load Type
Hoisting, elevator, conveyor, centrifuge, and other loads have different regenerative characteristics
Load Inertia
Higher inertia generally produces more regenerative energy during deceleration
Deceleration Time
Shorter deceleration increases the instantaneous braking power requirement
Braking Frequency
Frequent braking increases thermal loading
Required Braking Power
Determines the required chopper and resistor capacity
Braking Resistor
Resistance value and power rating must match the braking circuit
Duty Cycle
Determines continuous and intermittent thermal requirements
Ambient Temperature
Influences heat dissipation and allowable operating conditions
Installation Conditions
Cabinet size, ventilation, and clearance affect thermal performance
Parallel Operation
Multiple units may be used when one chopper is insufficient for the required braking capacity
For engineering selection, the drive model, motor power, load type, deceleration time, braking frequency, and existing braking resistor specifications should be provided where available.
Typical Applications
Application
Braking Requirement
Elevators
Controls regenerative energy during downward travel and rapid deceleration
Hoisting Equipment
Handles regenerative energy generated when lowering loads
Cranes
Supports controlled deceleration of high-inertia and lifting loads
Centrifuges
Dissipates regenerative energy during rapid deceleration
Industrial Washing Machines
Suitable for systems with repeated acceleration and deceleration
Textile Machinery
Supports frequent braking cycles
Paper Machinery
Used where drive systems require controlled dynamic braking
Machine Tools
Helps manage regenerative energy during rapid stopping
Conveyor Systems
Applicable where load inertia produces DC bus voltage rise
Other VFD Systems
Suitable when the internal braking capacity of the drive is insufficient
The chopper should be selected according to the actual braking energy and duty cycle rather than motor power alone.
Braking Chopper and Braking Resistor
A braking chopper and braking resistor perform different functions and are normally used together.
Component
Function
Braking Chopper
Controls when regenerative energy is transferred from the DC bus
Braking Resistor
Converts the transferred electrical energy into heat
DC Bus
Provides the electrical path between the drive and braking circuit
The chopper controls the switching process, while the resistor absorbs the energy. Therefore, the resistance value, power rating, and duty cycle of the resistor must be compatible with the chopper and drive.
Parallel Operation
Multiple CBU units can be connected in parallel when the required braking capacity exceeds the capacity of a single unit. The parallel configuration uses the corresponding control interface to coordinate switching operation between the connected units and distribute the braking load according to the system design.
When configuring multiple units, factors such as total braking power, DC bus voltage, number of choppers, braking resistor configuration, wiring arrangement, braking duty cycle, and thermal conditions should be considered. The number of CBU units and the appropriate connection method should be confirmed according to the selected model, system parameters, and application requirements.
Installation Considerations
The braking chopper is connected to the variable frequency drive's DC bus and braking resistor according to the specified wiring diagram.
Before commissioning:
1. Confirm that the CBU voltage class matches the drive system.
2. Verify the DC bus polarity.
3. Confirm the braking resistor resistance and power rating.
4. Check that all terminals are correctly connected and tightened.
5. Provide adequate ventilation around the chopper.
6. Keep power and control wiring appropriately separated.
7. Connect the fault relay circuit where required.
8. Complete electrical inspection before energizing the system.
Installation should be performed by qualified electrical personnel in accordance with the product documentation and applicable electrical requirements.
Manufacturing and Quality Control
Dufew Electric manufactures power electronics components for industrial drive and power control applications, including braking resistors, braking units, reactors, filters, transformers, and related electrical components. The production process covers key stages from incoming material inspection and component assembly to electrical testing, protection function verification, final inspection, and packaging.
Depending on the product configuration, quality inspection may include electrical connection inspection, insulation resistance testing, dielectric strength testing, switching function verification, protection function verification, cooling fan inspection, terminal inspection, and dimensional inspection. These procedures are applied according to the product design and applicable technical requirements.
Product-specific technical documents and test records can be provided according to project requirements to support product evaluation, quality verification, and system integration.
Certifications and Standards
The CBU Series is manufactured according to the applicable requirements of GB/T 12668. Dufew Electric also maintains relevant ISO and CE certifications within its quality and product compliance system.
Applicable certification and technical documents should be confirmed according to the specific model and order.
Dufew Electric Power Electronics Manufacturing
Dufew Electric manufactures power electronics components for industrial drives, power control, and power quality applications. Its product portfolio covers braking, resistor, reactor, filter, and transformer solutions, including Braking Resistors, Braking Choppers, Braking Units, Input & Output Reactors, DC Reactors, EMI Filters, dv/dt Filters, Sine Wave Filters, Harmonic Filters, Transformers, and Industrial Resistors.
For projects requiring multiple electrical components, Dufew Electric can coordinate related product specifications according to the application, electrical ratings, installation conditions, and system requirements.
Why Choose Dufew Electric
Application-Based Selection
Product selection considers DC bus voltage, braking power, load characteristics, braking frequency, resistor specifications, and duty cycle.
Power Electronics Manufacturing
Dufew Electric's product range covers braking, resistor, reactor, filter, and transformer applications for industrial electrical systems.
Project-Specific Configuration
Electrical ratings, braking voltage, dimensions, cooling arrangements, and parallel configurations can be evaluated according to project requirements.
Production and Testing
Manufacturing includes component inspection, assembly control, electrical testing, protection-function verification, and final inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does a braking chopper do?
It monitors the DC bus voltage of a variable frequency drive and switches the braking circuit when regenerative energy causes the voltage to rise. The regenerative energy is then transferred to a braking resistor for dissipation.
Q2: What is the difference between the chopper and the braking resistor?
The chopper controls when the braking circuit is switched on and off. The resistor absorbs the transferred electrical energy and converts it into heat. The two components work together in a dynamic braking system.
Q3: When is an external braking unit needed?
An external unit may be necessary when the drive's built-in braking capacity cannot handle the required regenerative energy, particularly with short deceleration times, high-inertia loads, frequent braking, or overhauling loads.
Q4: Can it be used with different drive brands?
Yes, provided the drive has compatible DC bus terminals and voltage characteristics. The electrical specifications should be checked before connection rather than selecting solely by motor power.
Q5: Can multiple units operate in parallel?
Yes. Multiple units can be used when the required braking capacity exceeds the rating of one unit. The number of units, resistor arrangement, wiring, and control configuration should be determined from the required braking duty.
Q6: How should the braking resistor be selected?
The resistance value and power rating should be determined from the DC bus voltage, required braking power, braking energy, braking frequency, and duty cycle. The resistor must also comply with the drive and braking circuit requirements.
Q7: Does the unit require software commissioning?
No software commissioning is normally required because the switching operation is controlled automatically by DC bus voltage. Before operation, wiring, polarity, resistor specifications, cooling, protection connections, and insulation should be checked.
Q8: What information is required for selection?
Provide the drive model, system voltage, motor power, load type, deceleration time, braking frequency, load characteristics, braking resistor specifications, and installation conditions. These parameters can be used to determine the appropriate electrical configuration.
Product Selection & Technical Support
Dufew Electric CBU Series Braking Choppers are used in variable frequency drive systems to control regenerative energy during deceleration, lowering, and other overhauling conditions.
Selection should consider DC bus voltage, braking power, braking resistor characteristics, duty cycle, load conditions, and installation requirements. Dufew Electric also supplies braking resistors and related power electronics components for industrial drive systems.
For product selection, customers can provide the drive voltage, motor power, load type, deceleration time, braking frequency, and braking resistor specifications.
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Looking for reliable power electronics components? Contact Dufew Electric, a professional manufacturer and supplier in China, for customized resistors, braking systems, reactors, transformers, and power solutions tailored to your industrial applications.
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