The ABB ACS850 is a single-drive variable frequency drive (VFD) designed for industrial applications. Positioned as a practical, next-generation alternative to the high-end ACS800 series, it addresses common challenges in legacy system retrofitting, such as limited installation space and insufficient logic processing capabilities.
Compared to traditional cabinet-style drives, the ACS850 features a smaller footprint and supports side-by-side rail mounting, saving valuable space inside electrical cabinets.
The unit features ABB’s signature black casing, which is durable and dirt-resistant, making it well-suited for dusty factory environments.
Equipped with a front-facing control panel featuring physical buttons and a large LCD screen, the drive offers intuitive parameter monitoring and a smooth, straightforward operating process.
The terminal cover is securely designed; once opened, it reveals an organized internal wiring layout, allowing electricians to complete wiring quickly and simplifying on-site commissioning.
1. The ABB ACS850 utilizes ABB’s proprietary Direct Torque Control (DTC) technology, delivering rapid dynamic motor response and high-precision speed and torque control—achieving excellent performance even without an external encoder.
2. Designed for heavy-duty standalone control, it handles fluctuating loads effectively in applications such as mixing, conveying, and extrusion.
3. Features built-in function block programming capabilities to handle complex on-site logic; it can manage specific equipment logic tasks independently of an external PLC, making it ideal for legacy system retrofitting projects.
|
Comparison Item |
ACS800 |
ACS850 |
On-Site Work Notes |
|
Product Positioning |
High-end series, previous generation flagship |
Practical successor to ACS800 |
ACS850 is positioned as the direct replacement pathway for ACS800, not a high-end upgrade platform -1 |
|
Control Technology |
Direct Torque Control (DTC) |
Direct Torque Control (DTC) |
Both share the same core DTC technology; motor performance comparable -3 |
|
Control Unit |
RDCU control unit |
JCU control unit |
Not interchangeable; control units are different |
|
Control Panel |
CDP312R (included in standard configuration) |
ACS-CP-U (optional, not standard) |
Need to order control panel separately or use a compatible panel; interface differs from ACS800 |
|
Incoming Reactor |
Standard built-in for all frame sizes (R2–R8) |
Built-in for frame sizes C–G2; A–B require external option |
Verify if external reactor is needed for smaller frame sizes |
|
Brake Chopper |
Standard for R2, R3; optional for R4–R8 |
Standard for frame sizes A–D; optional for E0–G2 |
Verify brake chopper availability based on frame size -1 |
|
EMC Filter |
Regional specifications vary |
Not included in standard; optional |
Must explicitly order EMC filter option if required |
|
Protection Rating |
R2–R6: IP21; R7–R8: IP00 |
IP20 (standard) |
IP rating differs; cabinet environment should be re-evaluated |
|
Cable Entry/Exit |
Bottom-in, bottom-out (R2–R6); Top-in, side-out (R7–R8) |
Top-in, bottom-out (all frame sizes) |
Wiring route requires re-planning — entry/exit directions differ -1 |
|
Terminal Definitions |
Specific to RDCU platform |
New terminal assignment |
Must verify and rewire point-by-point; cannot reuse original wiring directly |
|
Parameter Structure |
Parameter groups (traditional structure) |
New parameter architecture |
Cannot directly copy parameters; must reconfigure based on motor nameplate and process data |
|
Built-in Logic |
Requires external PLC or RDCO for master-slave |
Built-in function block programming |
Some logic tasks can be migrated into the drive, potentially saving an external PLC |
|
Master-Slave |
Requires RDCO option + fiber optics |
External wiring only; built-in support |
Significantly simplifies master-slave installation -1 |
|
STO (Safe Torque Off) |
Optional |
Standard feature |
Safety function included by default; verify if existing safety circuit needs adjustment -1 |
|
Power Range |
Up to 560kW, R8 and below |
Corresponds to ACS800 500V and below, ≤560kW |
Selection is based on rated current, not direct model number matching -1 |
Important Notes:
Not "Plug-and-Play" : Although ACS850 is the practical successor to ACS800, it is not a direct drop-in replacement. Physical dimensions, terminal assignments, and parameter structures all differ.
Model Matching Method : Use rated current as the primary matching criterion, not model numbers.
Parameter Migration : ACS850 supports Parameter Backup mode, allowing parameter sets to be uploaded to the control panel and downloaded to compatible drives.
The ABB ACS850 is typically installed inside electrical cabinets. Performing the following basic maintenance can effectively extend the unit's service life:
1. Ensure clear ventilation paths within the cabinet and regularly clean dust from the drive's air vents to prevent overheating alarms caused by obstructed airflow.
2. Periodically tighten high-current input and output terminals to prevent overheating faults caused by loose or oxidized connections.
3. If fan noise increases abnormally, it usually indicates bearing wear; simply replace the fan assembly. The unit's design allows for easy fan removal and installation during on-site maintenance.
4. Ensure the unit is protected against dust and moisture; the storage and operating environments should be free from condensation and corrosive gases.
5. We recommend regularly recording key data such as operating current and temperature to help anticipate potential faults.
Yueyang Tongtu specializes in the supply of automation spare parts and offers the following technical support:
- Expertise in drive product selection and matching: Upon receiving model details, we verify motor parameter compatibility based on the customer's specific on-site load characteristics.
- Pre-configuration support: To meet specific process requirements, we can assist with parameter pre-setting before shipment, allowing the equipment to be put into operation immediately upon power-up and shortening the on-site commissioning cycle.
- Comprehensive coordination: We facilitate communication regarding models, quality, delivery schedules, and pricing, while aligning delivery plans with project timelines. - We can coordinate with the customer's designated receiving agent for Cash on Delivery (COD) arrangements, ensure timely shipment according to orders, and assist with the coordination required for equipment acceptance.
A: In terms of performance, it can replace high-end ACS800 models; however, it is not a direct "plug-and-play" replacement. There are differences in parameter structures and terminal definitions between the old and new models. On-site work requires verifying wiring and migrating process parameters. We can assist with the initial model selection and verification process.
A: We supply brand-new, complete units sourced through official channels. They come with the latest firmware version and include all original manuals and accessories; we do not supply refurbished or modified equipment.
A: Yes. If the customer provides motor nameplate data and process requirements, we can perform pre-configuration before shipment. Once the equipment arrives on-site, only a simple verification is needed before trial operation.
A: When not in use, the equipment should be stored away from areas with high humidity, condensation, or heavy dust, and protected against moisture and dust. For long-term storage, we recommend periodically powering on the unit to prevent moisture buildup.
A: Please provide the complete drive model number, motor power and voltage specifications, on-site load type, and the project location. We will then provide a corresponding quote and estimated delivery time.
Address
No. 324, Hubin Street, Nanhu New District, Yueyang City, Hunan Province, China
Tel
Need an urgent price quote or stock confirmation for hard-to-find PLC or DCS components? Fill out our quick inquiry form below with your target part numbers, required quantities, and project timeline. Our sales engineering team monitors all inquiries 24/7 and will deliver a detailed commercial quote within 30 minutes.
We specialize in sourcing rare, allocated, and obsolete automation hardware that standard commercial channels cannot supply. Provide us with your exact model specifications—such as Allen-Bradley 1756-L73, Siemens 6ES7, or Honeywell 51402573-100—and our team will immediately scan our global inventory network to find your parts.
At Yueyang Tongtu, we make component procurement fast and stress-free. Submit your RFQ today to benefit from our factory-direct pricing, guaranteed original hardware, and fast global express delivery options.
