WEG MW500 Decentralized Variable Speed Drive
For Decentralized Solutions, the VSD Wherever You Need It
WEG describes the MW500 as a high-performance frequency inverter used to control three-phase induction motors. Its IP66/NEMA 4X enclosure lets it be installed directly on the motor, including WEG W22 motors through the terminal box, or on a wall, which WEG says reduces cabling and panel costs. Gross Automation quotes MW500 drives and their accessories.
Drive Overview
1.3 to 16 A rated output current, for WEG motors from 0.37 to 7.5 kW (0.5 to 10 HP)
200-240 V single-phase (frame A) or 380-480 V three-phase (frames A, B and C)
V/F scalar, VVW voltage vector, sensorless vector, vector with encoder and VVW PM for permanent magnet motors; 0 to 500 Hz output
Built-in Functions
- STO (Safe Torque Off) and SS1 (Safe Stop 1) with the CFW500-SFY2 module, SIL 3/PLe per IEC 61800-5-2, EN ISO 13849-1, EN 62061, IEC 61508 and IEC 60204-1
- SoftPLC built-in PLC functions, programmed with WEG's free WPS software
- Braking IGBT on every model (braking resistor not included)
- Optional internal RFI filter (category C2) and optional built-in switch-disconnector
- PID controller, sleep mode, flying start / ride-through and up to eight preset speeds
Mounting & Enclosure
On the motor or on a wall; mounts directly onto WEG W22 motors using the terminal box fitting
IP66/NEMA 4X, protected against contact with internal parts and the ingress of dust or water
Up to 50 °C mounted on a self-ventilated motor at rated speed; 40 °C on a wall or with the safe stop (STO/SS1) module; above that, 2 % current derating per °C, up to 10 °C more (MW500 G2 user manual, p. 11); class 3C2 conformal coating as standard
Typical Applications
- Pumps and process pumps
- Mixers and bottlers
- Conveyor belts
- Compressors, fans and exhaust fans
- Dryers, washing machines and general machinery
Why a Decentralized Drive
Less Cabling, No Panel
Mounted on the motor, the MW500 saves space and cable. WEG says its high degree of protection does not require a panel, reducing installation costs.
Network Ready
Plug-in modules connect it to CANopen, DeviceNet, Profibus-DP, EtherNet/IP, Modbus-TCP and PROFINET IO, and every plug-in module has an RS485 Modbus-RTU port (WEG's US brochure adds BACnet).
Safety Functions
With the CFW500-SFY2 module on G2 models, STO switches off the torque-producing output (stop category 0) and SS1 ramps the motor down before STO (stop category 1).
Simple Set-Up
No keypad is needed to run it: an internal potentiometer sets the speed and LEDs show its status. A remote HMI connects through the M8 connector.
MW500 Options and Accessories
Plug-in Modules
The MW500 always uses one plug-in module: I/O expansion, encoder input, USB, RS232/RS485 or a fieldbus. WEG's US brochure lists the CFW500-IOS I/O module as standard.
STO/SS1 Module
The CFW500-SFY2 safety module is sold separately for MW500 G2 drives. It mounts on top of the drive, so another plug-in module can still be fitted.
Mounting Kits
Adapter plates for wall mounting (frames A, B and C) and for motor mounting (frames A and B) with 56 x 56 mm or 70 x 70 mm terminal boxes.
Remote HMI
CFW500-HMIR remote keypad or HMI-01 alphanumeric HMI, with cable sets from 1 to 10 m.
Sizing an MW500
WEG sizes the MW500 by current: the motor's rated current must be less than or equal to the drive's rated output current. The kW and HP figures in WEG's tables are reference values for WEG W22 four-pole induction motors.
- Frame A, B or C, with rated output currents from 1.3 to 16 A
- Terminal box code A56 or A70 to match the motor's terminal box (frame C fits 70 mm and 110 mm boxes)
- Options in the part number: internal RFI filter (C2) and switch-disconnector (DS)
- Rated currents apply at 40 °C on a wall or 50 °C on a self-ventilated motor, but 40 °C with the safe stop (STO/SS1) module; above the limit, derate the current 2 % per °C, up to 10 °C more (MW500 G2 user manual, p. 11)
What to Send Us
Motor Data
Motor frame, nameplate voltage and rated current, and whether it is a WEG W22 motor.
Mounting
On the motor or on a wall, and the ambient temperature at the drive.
Control & Network
The I/O, fieldbus and STO/SS1 safety functions you need.
MW500 Resources
MW500 G2 User Manual
WEG user manual 10010219069, 230 pages: English first, then Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese.
Download ManualMotor Mounting Check
Send your motor frame; we check it against WEG's MW500 motor and drive mounting tables for NEMA and IEC frames.
Request CheckApplication Review
Share your motor data and application for MW500 sizing and a quote.
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