Siemens 6SL3330-7TE32-1AA3 132kW ALM Active Power Module

In industrial automation, high-power drive applications demand strict stability, efficiency, and energy management from power supply systems. The Siemens SINAMICS S120 Active Line Module (ALM) — specifically the chassis-type 6SL3330-7TE32-1AA3 — is engineered to meet these exacting needs. This high-performance solution does more than supply clean, stable DC bus voltage for multi-axis drive systems: it actively regenerates braking energy back to the plant grid. This dual capability enhances process quality and cuts operational costs significantly, making it an ideal power source for green, efficient heavy-duty manufacturing.

1. Core Product Positioning & Technical Specification Analysis

As a member of the SINAMICS S120 family designed for high-power scenarios, the 6SL3330-7TE32-1AA3’s core mission is efficient electrical energy conversion. Unlike its compact booksize counterparts, it features a chassis-type design — a self-contained power unit that requires mounting in a control cabinet or rack. This design delivers far superior heat dissipation and supports a much higher power rating.

1.1 Core Technology & Performance Parameters

Product Model: 6SL3330-7TE32-1AA3

Module Type: Active Line Module (ALM)

Design Form: Chassis type

Input Voltage: 3-phase AC 380–480 V ± 10%, 50/60 Hz

Output Power: 132 kW (at 400V AC input)

Rated Output Current: 209 A

Regulated DC Link Voltage: 600 V DC (rated)

Cooling Method: Forced-air cooling

Key Technology: IGBT active front end, full regenerative operation

1.2 Key Feature Interpretation

Full Regenerative Energy Feedback

Unlike basic line modules that dissipate braking energy as heat, this ALM uses IGBT active front-end technology for bidirectional power flow. During motor deceleration or overhauling loads, it can fully, efficiently feed generated regenerative energy back to the factory grid — where it powers other equipment. This translates to significant energy savings, especially for applications with frequent start-stop cycles (e.g., heavy-duty cranes, centrifuges, test benches).

Stable DC Link & Superior Power Quality

The module maintains a highly stable DC link voltage, immune to grid fluctuations. This creates an ideal operating environment for all connected motor modules, ensuring they deliver full torque even during line voltage sags. For high-end manufacturing processes (e.g., precision rolling, large machine tools), this guarantees process stability and product consistency. Additionally, its near-sinusoidal input current keeps the line-side power factor close to 1.0, eliminating the need for external power factor correction capacitors and drastically reducing grid harmonic pollution.

Forced-Air Cooling & System Integration

Given its high power density, the module uses forced-air cooling for efficient heat dissipation — ensuring reliability under heavy loads. It integrates seamlessly into the SINAMICS S120 control system (e.g., with a CU320-2 Control Unit) via the DRIVE-CLiQ interface, enabling automatic configuration, comprehensive condition monitoring, and real-time fault diagnostics.

2. Application Scenarios & Value Proposition

This 132kW ALM is the preferred choice for heavy industrial applications, where its value shines in demanding operating conditions:

2.1 Heavy-Duty Material Handling

In port container cranes, large gantry cranes, or mine hoists, frequent lifting and lowering generate massive regenerative energy. The ALM recycles this energy, cutting total energy consumption and avoiding the high temperatures caused by braking resistors.

2.2 Large Centrifugal Equipment & Test Platforms

For large mill drives (cement production), compressors (petrochemical plants), or chassis dynamometers (automotive industry) — where drive systems need rapid deceleration — the ALM’s regeneration capability directly reduces electricity costs and improves system dynamic response.

2.3 Process Industry Stability Assurance

In continuous process industries (e.g., paper, metallurgy), voltage fluctuations can cause production line stoppages or product scrap. The ALM’s stable DC link acts as a “buffer,” isolating the drive system from grid disturbances. This significantly boosts the Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and operational reliability of the entire production line.

In-Depth Expansion: Selection and System Planning for Chassis-Type Power Modules

Selecting high-power drive components requires more than reviewing model specs — it demands designing the entire drive system architecture.

1. Why Choose a Chassis-Type Design at This Power Level?

When drive system power exceeds ~90kW, the chassis-type design outperforms booksize models:

Booksize modules mount side-by-side and share a common cooling duct, which limits heat dissipation capacity.

Chassis-type modules are standalone power units with dedicated, more powerful forced-air cooling systems. This delivers higher cooling efficiency, supports greater single-unit power output, and offers more flexible layout options.

2. Key Considerations for System Design

Integrating a high-power ALM like the 6SL3330-7TE32-1AA3 requires meticulous system-level planning:

Essential Peripheral Component (AIM)

This ALM must be paired with a corresponding Active Interface Module (AIM). The AIM integrates the input line reactor, pre-charge circuit, and EMC filter — all critical for the ALM’s safe start-up, stable operation, and compliance with electromagnetic compatibility standards.

Comprehensive Protection & Coordination

Per local electrical codes, suitable circuit breakers or fuses must be installed on the line supply side to provide short-circuit and overload protection. Additionally, system grounding and shielding must strictly follow Siemens’ installation guidelines to ensure noise immunity and personnel safety.

Engineering & Commissioning Tools

The entire S120 drive system (including this ALM) is configured, parameterized, and commissioned using Siemens’ SINAMICS Startdrive software within the TIA Portal platform. This integrated engineering environment simplifies commissioning and ensures consistent system-wide parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the main difference between this 132kW ALM and a booksize ALM?

Key differences are power rating, cooling, and construction:

Booksize ALMs: Lower power, internal air cooling (reliant on system ducts), compact for side-by-side multi-axis mounting.

This chassis-type ALM: 132kW high power, independent forced-air cooling, standalone cabinet-style unit — superior for heavy-duty, high-power applications.

2. Can multiple such ALMs be used in one production line?

Yes, but it needs detailed system design. Typically, one master ALM handles base load power and regeneration for a common DC bus. Rarely, multiple ALMs are configured for different line sections (complex coordination required). A more common approach: one high-power ALM supplies multiple motor modules across lines or an area.

3. Does energy regeneration harm the factory power grid?

No — a well-designed ALM improves grid quality. Its unity power factor and sinusoidal input current reduce harmonics. Regenerated energy is clean, 50/60 Hz power that other loads on the same transformer can use, lightening the grid’s burden. Ensure the grid’s short-circuit capacity can accept the feedback.

4. How to maintain the forced-air cooling system in harsh environments?

The cooling system has replaceable air filters — regular cleaning is key. In dusty environments, shorten cleaning intervals or use self-cleaning filters. Monitor fan status and temperature alarms for predictive maintenance, avoiding overheating downtime.

5. Can this module work with third-party motors/drives?

Theoretically, its DC link can power DC-dependent devices. Practically, use it within the SINAMICS S120 ecosystem — only then can you access full protection, coordinated control, and diagnostics via DRIVE-CLiQ/Startdrive. Third-party integration loses these advantages and introduces risks.