Description
- ELAU MC-4/11/10/400 | Schneider PacDrive Legacy Drive
2. At-A-Glance Executive Brief
- Model: ELAU MC-4/11/10/400
- Brand: ELAU (now part of Schneider Electric)
- Series: PacDrive MC-4
- Part Type: Servo Drive / Single-Axis Motion Controller
- Core Function: Controls servo motor speed, torque, and positioning within PacDrive automation systems.
- Key Specs:
- Three-phase 380–480 VAC power input.
- 10 A continuous output current.
- 25 A peak current for 1 second.
- 24 VDC control supply.
- Supports SERCOS-based PacDrive motion architectures.
- Rated motor output approximately 6.9 kVA.
3. Product Introduction
Structure B — Technical Direct
Installed inside an ELAU PacDrive motion control cabinet, the MC-4/11/10/400 operates as a single-axis servo drive module integrating power electronics, motor regulation, and axis control functions. The unit connects with PacDrive controllers through the motion network and provides controlled current output to compatible servo motors.
In field deployments, these drives are commonly found in packaging machinery, automated assembly equipment, and high-speed production systems where synchronized motion is required (—especially where multiple servo axes operate together). Before replacement, verify motor compatibility, firmware revision, SERCOS communication settings, and shared DC bus configuration. A physically matching drive does not guarantee correct axis operation without the original machine parameters.
4. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ELAU |
| Current Manufacturer Ownership | Schneider Electric |
| Model | MC-4/11/10/400 |
| Alternative Part Number | MC41110400 |
| Product Type | Servo Drive / Motion Controller |
| Series | PacDrive MC-4 |
| Input Voltage | 3-phase 380–480 VAC |
| Input Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Control Voltage | 24 VDC, approx. 1 A |
| Continuous Output Current | 10 A |
| Peak Current | 25 A (1 second) |
| Rated Motor Power | Approx. 6.9 kW |
| Output Voltage | 0–480 VAC |
| Output Frequency | Up to 600 Hz |
| Communication Interface | SERCOS fiber optic interface (system dependent) |
| DC Bus Voltage | Approx. 530–680 VDC |
| Cooling Method | Internal temperature-controlled fan |
| Mounting Type | Cabinet / panel mounting |
| Protection Rating | IP20 |
| Approximate Dimensions | 69 × 310 × 260 mm |
| Approximate Weight | 3.4–3.6 kg |
ELAU MC-4/11/10/400
5. Application Scenarios & Pain Points
With vs. Without comparison:
Without a functioning MC-4/11/10/400, a PacDrive machine may lose axis synchronization, generate servo faults, or stop production. With a correctly matched replacement drive, motion control can be restored after parameter verification and commissioning.
- Packaging Machinery: Controls servo axes for filling, sealing, labeling, and indexing systems where cycle timing may require millisecond-level coordination.
- Food Processing Equipment: Supports synchronized mechanical movements in automated production lines.
- Material Handling Systems: Provides controlled acceleration and positioning for conveyors and transfer mechanisms.
- Robotics and Assembly Machines: Maintains repeatable axis movement for automated handling operations.
- Legacy PacDrive Installations: Helps maintain existing ELAU systems where migration to newer Schneider platforms is not immediate.
In cabinets operating near 45°C or above, inspect ventilation paths carefully. Excessive heat can shorten the service life of power semiconductors, cooling fans, and DC bus components.
6. Common Error Codes & Diagnostic Symptoms
Symptom/Code: Servo Axis Not Ready / Drive Enable Failure
→ Diagnosis: Possible DC bus issue, control voltage loss, communication fault, or internal drive diagnostic shutdown.
→ Action: Verify power supply, controller communication, and replace the MC-4/11/10/400 if internal failure is confirmed.
Symptom/Code: Overcurrent Fault During Acceleration
→ Diagnosis: Motor parameter mismatch, mechanical overload, damaged motor cable, or failed power output stage.
→ Action: Check motor wiring and machine mechanics before replacing the servo drive.
Symptom/Code: SERCOS Communication Fault
→ Diagnosis: Fiber optic communication interruption, incorrect network configuration, or interface hardware failure.
→ Action: Inspect fiber connections and replace the drive if communication hardware is defective.
7. Cross-Reference & Lifecycle Migration
- Compatible Platform: ELAU PacDrive MC-4 motion control systems.
- Related Identification:
- MC-4/11/10/400
- MC41110400
- VDM01D10AQ00 reference
- Replacement Considerations:
- Verify connected motor type.
- Confirm controller compatibility.
- Save axis parameters before removing the original unit.
- Firmware Requirement: Firmware compatibility must be checked when replacing older MC-4 units. Motion controller software may require matching drive firmware.
- Migration Status: Legacy / Limited Availability
For spare stock management, keep documented drive parameters, motor identification data, and machine backup files. A replacement servo drive without axis configuration can require extended commissioning time.
8. Field Engineer’s Tech Notes (Anti-Pitfall Guide)
- Do not disconnect motor cables immediately after shutdown.
The DC bus can retain hazardous voltage after power removal. Confirm discharge status before touching power terminals. - Check SERCOS fiber connections carefully.
Fiber contamination or damaged connectors can appear as drive hardware failure. Clean and inspect the optical interface before replacing the module.
9. Strict QA & Testing SOP
A professional inspection process for ELAU MC-4/11/10/400 should include:
Step 1 — Incoming Inspection
- Verify model marking and serial label.
- Confirm housing condition.
- Inspect power terminals, motor connectors, and fiber interface.
- Record hardware revision.
Step 2 — Electrical Verification
- Check DC bus behavior.
- Verify 24 VDC control supply response.
- Inspect for abnormal resistance or visible component damage.
Step 3 — Functional Test
- Install on a compatible PacDrive test platform.
- Confirm controller communication.
- Verify enable signal.
- Test simulated motor axis response.
Step 4 — Parameter Verification
- Compare firmware version.
- Verify motor configuration.
- Confirm axis settings.
Step 5 — Packaging Control
- Place the drive inside ESD protective packaging.
- Add shock protection for shipment.
- Attach inspection records.
Test videos, inspection photos, and functional verification reports are available for quality review.
10. Buyer’s FAQ (Dynamic Q&A)
Q1. Can the ELAU MC-4/11/10/400 be hot-swapped?
A: No. Servo drives should be replaced only after controlled shutdown, DC bus discharge confirmation, and machine safety isolation procedures.
Q2. “How do I verify this is an original ELAU MC-4/11/10/400?”
A: Check the ELAU label, part number, serial information, hardware revision, connector condition, and supplier inspection documentation.
Q3. Does this servo drive include the machine’s motion parameters?
A: No. The hardware does not contain the complete machine application. Axis parameters, motor data, and controller configuration must be restored from the machine backup.
Q4. Is the MC-4/11/10/400 still actively manufactured?
A: The MC-4 family is considered a legacy PacDrive product line. Availability is mainly through existing stock, repair channels, and specialized automation spare suppliers.
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