Driving performance forward

INVERTEK DRIVES’ new Optidrive E4 has been developed with these pressures firmly in mind. Building on the strong foundations of the well-established Optidrive E3, the new E4 opens the door to applications where enhanced safety functions, tighter process control and advanced connectivity are becoming essential.

Unveiled at SPS 2025 in Nuremberg, the E4 represents a strategic expansion of the Optidrive family. Importantly, Invertek stresses that the E4 does not replace the E3. The E3 remains a core, high-volume drive within the portfolio, valued for its simplicity, reliability and ease of use. Many OEM and end-user applications simply don’t require additional functionality. The Optidrive E4 sits alongside it as a more capable option where those demands do exist. 

Immediate torque removal

A key difference between the two drives is the introduction of Safe Torque Off (STO) as standard on the E4. This feature, absent on the E3, is increasingly sought after in applications where machinery and operator safety must meet higher compliance thresholds. STO allows immediate torque removal without cutting power to the drive, creating a safer, faster method of stopping motion when required. 

For machinery builders and process operators working in sectors such as materials handling, chemical processing, food production and automated packaging, STO provides an added layer of protection that can simplify overall system design and safety certification.

Beyond STO, the E4 incorporates advanced motor-control algorithms that support both induction and permanent-magnet motors. This allows smoother operation, improved torque delivery at low speeds and greater overall energy efficiency. For conveyors, mixers, pumps, fans and a wide range of high-duty industrial equipment, the result is tighter speed regulation and more stable performance under varying load conditions.

Networking performance

Connectivity has also advanced. As more process environments shift to digitally integrated systems, the E4 offers expanded communication options and improved networking performance. Real time data access helps maintenance teams make earlier and more informed decisions, reducing downtime and supporting predictive maintenance strategies.

Physical durability remains a core consideration. Many process applications involve abrasive materials, fluctuating temperatures, wash-down environments or heavy-duty operating cycles. The E4’s improved thermal design and robust enclosure options help ensure consistent performance, even under challenging conditions.

Rhydian Welson, Invertek’s Sales and Marketing Director, said the addition of STO and other enhancements reflects customer feedback and the evolving nature of process environments. 

“The Optidrive E3 will continue to be one of our most important products. It’s simple, reliable and ideal for a huge range of standard applications. But we know that some customers need more, such as higher-end safety features like STO, greater connectivity and improved motor control. The E4 delivers those capabilities without losing the straightforward setup people value in the Optidrive range. It’s about giving customers a choice, not forcing a shift.”

The introduction of the Optidrive E4 comes at a time when industries are placing greater emphasis on efficiency, performance and safety. By strengthening the Optidrive portfolio rather than reshaping it, Invertek is offering a broader, future-focused solution – with the E4 bringing enhanced capability and a modernised safety profile to more demanding process applications.

www.invertekdrives.com