Cost-Efficiency Through Reliable Backplane Power
In industrial automation, power supply failures can lead to costly production stoppages. The Allen-Bradley 1746-P1 SLC 500 power supply is designed to minimize such risks by providing stable backplane power to the chassis. Its robust specifications, including a 42-watt input power rating and built-in fuse protection, help ensure continuous operation and reduce unplanned maintenance expenses.
Technical Specifications and Their Cost Implications
The 1746-P1 operates on an input voltage of 120 to 220 Volts AC with a frequency range of 47 to 63 Hertz. This wide voltage tolerance allows the same unit to be used across different regions, reducing inventory costs for facilities with multiple sites. The internal current capacity of 2 Amps at 5VDC and 0.46 Amps at 24VDC supports a variety of SLC 500 modules without overloading, preventing premature failures that would require replacement.
The power supply delivers an output voltage range of 18 to 30 Volts DC, which provides flexibility for user-power applications. Its inrush current is limited to 20 Amps, reducing stress on upstream circuit breakers and lowering the risk of nuisance trips. These features contribute to a lower total cost of ownership by extending equipment life and reducing downtime.
Application Scenarios for the 1746-P1
In a typical manufacturing line, the 1746-P1 powers a SLC 500 chassis controlling conveyor systems. The 2A backplane current at 5V ensures that multiple input and output modules operate reliably, even under continuous duty cycles. For batch processing plants, the 24VDC user output can power small sensors or actuators, eliminating the need for a separate power supply and simplifying wiring.
Another common use is in material handling applications where the 1746-P1 is installed in a remote I/O rack. Its operating temperature range of 0 to 60 degrees Celsius allows it to function in unconditioned environments, such as warehouses, without additional cooling costs. The unit's weight of 2 pounds (0.9 kilograms) makes it easy to install and replace, reducing labor time during maintenance.
Compatibility and Integration
The 1746-P1 is designed for use in a 1746 chassis, which is the standard backplane for SLC 500 systems. It provides backplane power to all modules in the rack, including processors, discrete I/O, and analog modules. The power supply includes a fuse protection feature using a 1746-F1 or equivalent fuse, which guards against short-circuit conditions and prevents damage to expensive modules.
For integration, the input jumper must be set before applying power to avoid hazardous voltage exposure. This simple step ensures safe installation and reduces the risk of injury, which can lead to costly worker compensation claims. The unit's dimensions of 5.5 x 2.3 x 5.7 inches allow it to fit into standard enclosures without requiring custom modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1746-P1
What is the input power requirement for the 1746-P1?
The 1746-P1 requires an input voltage of 120 to 220 Volts AC at a frequency of 47 to 63 Hertz. Its input power is rated at 42 Watts, which helps keep energy costs low while providing sufficient power for the backplane.
Can the 1746-P1 be used in high-temperature environments?
Yes, the 1746-P1 has an operating temperature range of 0 to 60 degrees Celsius. However, when the temperature exceeds 55 degrees Celsius, the current capacity is derated by 5% to maintain reliability. This derating ensures long-term performance without overheating.
What is the CPU hold-up time for the 1746-P1?
The CPU hold-up time is 20 milliseconds at full load and 3000 milliseconds at no load. This feature allows the SLC 500 controller to continue scanning the program and I/O data for a short period after a power drop, preventing data loss and reducing the need for costly reprogramming.
Conclusion
The Allen-Bradley 1746-P1 SLC 500 power supply offers a cost-effective solution for powering industrial control systems. Its technical specifications, such as the 42W input power and 2A backplane current, directly contribute to lower operational costs by improving reliability and reducing downtime. For facilities looking to maintain legacy SLC 500 systems, the 1746-P1 remains a dependable choice. Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with Petro Auto Tech before ordering.
