iC7 Danfoss Drives available at LED Controls

Traditionally, Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) manage motor speed and torque, while Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) take care of the decision-making and sequencing. Now, that line is blurring with built-in PLC functionality in Danfoss Drives - all available from LED Controls.

With this built-in logic, a Danfoss drive can react to sensors, execute event-based routines and make automatic adjustments independently. One device can manage both your motor control and the automation that supports it, cutting component count, reducing wiring and saving valuable panel space.

The Smart Logic Controller (SLC)

Many drives in the Danfoss VLT® range include the Smart Logic Controller (SLC) as standard.
The SLC is a small, event-driven control system built into the drive’s firmware. You can define a sequence of “if-this-then-that” actions so that the drive reacts intelligently to conditions such as pressure switches, temperature changes or alarm inputs.

It’s particularly valuable for HVAC, water and process industries, where the drive can:

  • Start a standby pump if the main one fails
  • Slow a fan when the filter is blocked
  • Trigger alarms or fault routines automatically
  • Run purge, drain or priming cycles

For many installations, this replaces the need for a small PLC, saving both cost and space while maintaining flexibility.

Danfoss VLT Range available from LED Controls

Danfoss Drives with SLC Built-In

Drive FamilySummary of PLC FunctionalityIdeal Use Cases
VLT® AutomationDrive FC 302Full SLC with event-based sequencing, timers and interlocks. Reduces need for small PLCs.Industrial automation, conveyors, HVAC.
VLT® HVAC Drive FC 102Event-driven logic for fan sequencing, filter monitoring and alarms.Building services, air-handling systems.
VLT® AQUA Drive FC 202Pump control with duty/standby rotation and pressure management.Water and wastewater systems.
VLT® Refrigeration Drive FC 103Handles compressor, condenser and temperature logic.Cooling and refrigeration.
iC2 Micro DriveIntegrated SLC for user-defined control, removing the need for small external controllers.Compact panels, pumps, fans.
VLT® Micro Drive FC 51Simplified SLC version for small machines and standalone fans.Low-power drives and OEM panels.

Danfoss iC7: The Intelligent Drive

The Danfoss iC7 Automation Drive pushes the concept of built-in logic further, combining exceptional motor control with advanced intelligence and connectivity.

This intelligence allows the iC7 to act not only as a motor controller but also as a data-gathering and decision-making device, meaning it fits perfectly into Industry 4.0 systems, reducing commissioning time and enabling remote monitoring.

While large or complex sites may still pair the iC7 with a separate PLC, the drive alone can manage sophisticated local control and condition-based maintenance routines.

Highlights include:

  • Application software built-in – configurable functions for motor control, energy optimisation and process logic.
  • Advanced motor control – automatic motor adaptation, precise sensorless operation and support for multiple motor types.
  • Connectivity and security – modular fieldbus cards (e.g. PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP) and encrypted communication.
  • Embedded sensing and diagnostics – the drive monitors load, vibration and temperature for predictive maintenance.
iC7 Danfoss Drives available from LED Controls

Benefits of Danfoss Drives with Built-In Logic

  • Fewer Components and Wiring
    • Because the logic runs inside the drive, you can often dispense with a separate PLC, I/O modules and extra cabling. The result is a neater, more compact control system that’s quicker to assemble.
  • Easier Commissioning
    • Inputs and outputs terminate directly at the drive. You can create and adjust logic routines using the drive’s built-in menus or software tools - no need for an external PLC environment.
  • Greater Reliability
    • If a site PLC or network connection goes down, the drive can continue running safely on its internal logic. This keeps vital processes such as pumps, fans or compressors online.
  • Faster Response
    • Actions triggered by faults, sensors or speed thresholds execute immediately inside the drive, avoiding any delay caused by network communication.
  • Ideal for Stand-Alone Operation
    • Danfoss drives are increasingly capable of managing local duties such as pump alternation, fan sequencing, and run-on timers without external control hardware.

When to Use a Separate PLC

You should still consider a dedicated PLC when:

  • Several drives or machines must coordinate together
  • Complex data logging, recipe handling or advanced HMI integration is required
  • The system needs centralised SCADA communication

For smaller, standalone applications, however, the built-in intelligence of Danfoss drives often provides all the control you need.

Explore Danfoss Drives at LED Controls

LED Controls stocks a complete range of Danfoss Variable Speed Drives featuring Smart Logic Controller technology and intelligent functionality.

If you’d like help selecting the best drive for your project, get in touch:
📞 01706 242050
📧 [email protected]
🌐 ledcontrols.co.uk