• Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
  • Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
  • Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
  • Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
  • Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
20P21AD035RA0NNN — PowerFlex DC Drive Detailed Specifications, Product Introduction, Applications, Advantages, Series Information and Related Models 1. Product Overview The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is a 35 A P……
Allen Bradley 20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex AC Drive
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20P21AD035RA0NNN — PowerFlex DC Drive

Detailed Specifications, Product Introduction, Applications, Advantages, Series Information and Related Models


1. Product Overview

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is a 35 A PowerFlex DC drive designed for industrial applications that require controlled operation of DC motors.

This model is rated for a 480 VAC-class, three-phase input, with a 35 A armature current rating and a nominal 20 HP / approximately 15 kW motor power class.

It is a two-quadrant, non-regenerative DC drive, making it suitable for conventional industrial machinery where controlled forward and reverse operation may be required, but continuous regenerative braking is not the primary operating requirement.

The drive uses a 6-pulse input configuration, an IP20 / NEMA/UL Type Open enclosure, and Frame A construction. It is supplied with a blank front cover rather than a local HIM operator interface, and the standard configuration does not include a communication module.

The model also incorporates conformal coating, which provides additional protection to the electronic circuitry in suitable industrial environments.

With its 35 A current capacity, the drive is positioned above the smaller 10 A, 14 A, 19 A and 27 A versions in the same general DC-drive family and is suitable for medium-to-larger industrial DC motor applications.


2. Brand and Series

Item Specification
Brand Allen-Bradley
Product family PowerFlex
Series PowerFlex DC
Product category Industrial DC Drive
Model 20P21AD035RA0NNN
Drive type DC motor drive
Current class 35 A
Motor power class 20 HP / approximately 15 kW
Input voltage class 480 VAC
Nominal input voltage 460 VAC
Input phase Three-phase
Input configuration 6-pulse
Motor operation Two-quadrant
Regenerative operation Non-regenerative
Enclosure IP20
Enclosure type NEMA/UL Type Open
Frame Frame A
Cooling Air cooled
Conformal coating Yes
Operator interface Blank plate / no standard HIM
Communication module None included as standard

The PowerFlex DC series is intended for industrial DC motor control, particularly where an existing DC motor and mechanical system remain in service.


3. Main Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Model 20P21AD035RA0NNN
Brand Allen-Bradley
Series PowerFlex DC
Product type Industrial DC Drive
Motor type DC motor
Input voltage 480 VAC class
Nominal input voltage 460 VAC
Input frequency 50/60 Hz
Input phase 3-phase
Input type 6-pulse
Armature current 35 A
Motor power 20 HP
Motor power Approximately 15 kW
Motor operation Two-quadrant
Regenerative operation No
Field supply Single-phase regulated
Enclosure rating IP20
Enclosure type NEMA/UL Type Open
Frame size Frame A
Cooling Air cooled
Conformal coating Yes
HIM Blank plate / no HIM
Communication No communication module
Digital inputs 8 × 24 VDC
Digital outputs 4
Analog inputs 2
Analog outputs 3
Feedback capability DC tachometer / encoder capable
Approx. height 425 mm
Approx. width 279 mm
Approx. depth 425 mm
Approx. dimensions 425 × 279 × 425 mm
Approx. weight (kg) Approx. 14.2 kg
Approx. weight 31.3 lb
Mounting arrangement Cabinet / panel installation
Cooling arrangement Forced-air / air cooled
Typical motor capacity 20 HP-class DC motor

The dimensions and weight above are suitable for preliminary product comparison and cabinet planning. Actual installation drawings and required clearances should be considered for final mechanical design.


4. Product Introduction

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is designed to provide controlled electrical power to compatible industrial DC motors.

Its main purpose is to convert incoming three-phase AC power into controlled DC power for the motor armature while providing control functions for motor speed, current, acceleration, deceleration and operating direction.

The 35 A current rating gives this model a useful position for applications where a smaller DC drive is insufficient but a substantially larger industrial drive is unnecessary.

A 20 HP-class DC motor can be found in many types of industrial machinery, including conveyors, material-handling equipment, rollers, feeders, machine tools, processing equipment and production machinery.

The drive can also be useful in retrofit projects where an existing DC motor remains mechanically sound and the machine operator wants to replace or modernize the drive without completely redesigning the machine.


5. 35 A Armature Rating

The most important electrical characteristic of the 20P21AD035RA0NNN is its 35 A armature current rating.

The armature current rating determines the amount of current the drive can deliver to the motor under the applicable operating conditions.

Compared with a 27 A model, the 35 A version provides additional capacity for larger motors and heavier loads.

This makes it appropriate for applications in the approximate range of:

20 HP / 15 kW / 35 A-class DC motor systems

However, motor selection should not be based only on horsepower.

The following motor nameplate information should always be checked:

  • Armature voltage
  • Armature current
  • Field voltage
  • Field current
  • Horsepower
  • Base speed
  • Maximum speed
  • Feedback type
  • Duty cycle

The actual motor armature current is especially important when determining whether a 35 A drive is suitable.


6. 20 HP / Approximately 15 kW Power Class

The drive is intended for a 20 HP-class DC motor, equivalent to approximately 15 kW.

This makes it suitable for larger industrial machinery than the 10 HP and 15 HP configurations.

Typical machinery in this range may include:

  • Heavy conveyors
  • Industrial rollers
  • Material feeders
  • Processing equipment
  • Printing equipment
  • Textile machinery
  • Paper machinery
  • Machine tools
  • Material-handling systems
  • Production-line machinery

The exact motor compatibility depends on the motor’s electrical characteristics and the application’s operating conditions.


7. Three-Phase 480 VAC Input

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is designed for a 480 VAC-class three-phase industrial supply.

The nominal system voltage associated with this configuration is approximately 460 VAC.

Three-phase industrial power makes this drive suitable for conventional manufacturing and process-control environments.

Typical installations may be found in:

  • Manufacturing plants
  • Processing facilities
  • Industrial production lines
  • Material-handling systems
  • Machine shops
  • Paper-processing facilities
  • Textile facilities
  • Printing environments
  • Metal-processing machinery

8. Six-Pulse Input Configuration

The drive uses a 6-pulse input configuration.

This is a conventional architecture for industrial DC drives.

The six-pulse arrangement is widely used in industrial power conversion because it provides a practical method of converting three-phase AC input power into controlled DC power.

For replacement applications, the six-pulse configuration is particularly relevant when the original machine already uses a conventional DC drive architecture.


9. Two-Quadrant Operation

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is a two-quadrant drive.

This means it is designed primarily for controlled motoring operation rather than full four-quadrant regenerative operation.

Two-quadrant operation can be suitable for machinery where the motor operates primarily in a motoring condition.

Typical applications include:

  • Conveyors
  • Feeders
  • Pumps
  • Fans
  • Roll drives
  • Processing equipment
  • Machine tools
  • Production machinery

If the application repeatedly forces the motor to absorb large amounts of mechanical energy during braking, a regenerative configuration should be considered instead.


10. Non-Regenerative Operation

This model is a non-regenerative DC drive.

The distinction is important because not every DC motor application has the same braking requirements.

For a conventional conveyor, for example, the motor normally supplies mechanical power to move the load.

For a high-inertia winder or hoist, however, the mechanical load can drive the motor during deceleration or lowering.

In such applications, energy can flow back toward the drive.

Therefore, applications involving substantial regenerative energy should be evaluated carefully before selecting the non-regenerative 20P21AD035RA0NNN.


11. Regenerative vs. Non-Regenerative Applications

Application Type 20P21AD035RA0NNN Suitability
Standard conveyor Excellent
Material feeder Excellent
Roller drive Very suitable
Pump Suitable
Fan Suitable
General production machinery Very suitable
Printing equipment Suitable
Textile machinery Suitable
High-inertia winder Requires evaluation
Unwinder Requires evaluation
Hoist Requires detailed evaluation
Frequent regenerative braking Not the preferred configuration
Four-quadrant operation Use a regenerative configuration instead

12. Field Supply

The model uses a single-phase regulated field supply.

The field circuit is an important part of a DC motor control system.

The field establishes the motor’s magnetic field, which directly influences the motor’s operating characteristics.

During commissioning, the following values should be checked against the motor:

Motor Field Parameter Importance
Field voltage Must match the motor requirement
Field current Must remain within the permitted range
Field wiring Must be correctly connected
Field loss protection Should be configured appropriately
Field weakening Must be evaluated for the motor
Maximum speed Must remain within motor limits

Correct field configuration is essential for reliable operation.


13. Feedback Capability

The PowerFlex DC platform supports feedback arrangements such as:

  • DC tachometer feedback
  • Encoder feedback

Feedback can be especially useful when the machine needs stable speed under changing load conditions.

For example, if the load on a conveyor changes suddenly, the motor’s natural speed can vary.

A feedback system allows the drive to compare actual motor speed with the commanded speed and make appropriate corrections.

This can improve:

  • Speed regulation
  • Process consistency
  • Product quality
  • Acceleration control
  • Load response
  • Machine performance

14. Standard I/O

The drive provides a useful collection of standard I/O.

I/O Type Quantity Typical Function
24 VDC Digital Inputs 8 Start, stop, enable, direction, reset, interlocks
Digital Outputs 4 Run, ready, fault, status
Analog Inputs 2 Speed reference or process reference
Analog Outputs 3 Speed, current, feedback or process values

This allows the drive to be integrated with conventional industrial control systems.

A PLC can provide start, stop, speed and direction commands through the available control interfaces.


15. No Standard Communication Module

The standard 20P21AD035RA0NNN configuration does not include a communication module.

This configuration can be appropriate when the drive is controlled through hardwired I/O.

A conventional control architecture might use:

PLC → Digital/Analog I/O → DC Drive → DC Motor

This approach can be useful for existing machines where the original control system already uses discrete signals and analog references.

Where network-based control is required, an appropriate communication option can be evaluated separately.


16. Blank Front Plate

The model is supplied with a blank plate rather than a standard local HIM operator interface.

This makes sense for systems where the machine operator does not need to control the drive directly from a local keypad.

Instead, the drive can be controlled through:

  • PLC
  • Operator station
  • Pushbuttons
  • External analog reference
  • Machine controller
  • Industrial control system

This configuration can also reduce unnecessary operator-interface hardware when the drive is installed inside a control cabinet.


17. IP20 Enclosure

The drive uses an IP20 enclosure.

This means it is intended for installation in a protected electrical cabinet or suitable industrial enclosure.

It is not intended to be installed directly in an exposed outdoor environment.

The installation should protect the drive against:

  • Water
  • Direct moisture
  • Condensation
  • Conductive dust
  • Excessive contamination
  • Mechanical impact
  • Harsh environmental conditions

The cabinet should also provide adequate ventilation and heat removal.


18. Conformal Coating

The model includes conformal coating.

Conformal coating provides an additional protective layer over electronic circuitry.

This can be beneficial in industrial environments where electronic equipment may encounter:

  • Humidity
  • Dust
  • Airborne particles
  • Industrial contaminants
  • Production-related contamination

Conformal coating does not mean that the drive can be exposed directly to water.

The IP20 enclosure still requires a properly protected installation.


19. Frame A Construction

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN uses Frame A construction.

Frame size is important when planning a replacement or designing a control cabinet.

It affects:

  • Mounting arrangement
  • Cabinet space
  • Cooling requirements
  • Cable routing
  • Maintenance access
  • Service clearance
  • Terminal access

The approximate dimensions are:

425 mm × 279 mm × 425 mm

The approximate weight is:

14.2 kg

These values should be considered when evaluating an existing cabinet.


20. Dimensions and Weight

Mechanical Parameter Specification
Model 20P21AD035RA0NNN
Frame Frame A
Height Approx. 425 mm
Width Approx. 279 mm
Depth Approx. 425 mm
Dimensions Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm
Weight (kg) Approx. 14.2 kg
Approx. weight 31.3 lb
Enclosure IP20
Enclosure type NEMA/UL Type Open
Cooling Air cooled
Installation Protected cabinet
Mounting Panel/cabinet installation

For a final cabinet layout, additional clearance should be provided around the drive for ventilation, wiring and maintenance.


21. Main Applications

21.1 Conveyor Systems

The 35 A capacity makes the drive suitable for a wide range of industrial conveyors.

Possible applications include:

  • Belt conveyors
  • Roller conveyors
  • Assembly conveyors
  • Transfer conveyors
  • Packaging conveyors
  • Production-line conveyors
  • Material-handling conveyors

The drive can provide controlled acceleration and deceleration, which can reduce mechanical shock during starting and stopping.


21.2 Roller Drives

Roller applications often require controlled speed.

The drive can be used with suitable DC motors for:

  • Feed rollers
  • Process rollers
  • Paper rollers
  • Textile rollers
  • Material-handling rollers
  • Production rollers

The feedback capability can be particularly useful when accurate speed regulation is required.


21.3 Printing Machinery

DC motors have historically been used in many printing and web-processing machines.

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN can be considered for suitable DC motor applications such as:

  • Printing rollers
  • Paper feeders
  • Web handling
  • Auxiliary drives
  • Material feed systems
  • Processing rollers

For tension-critical systems, braking and regenerative requirements should be evaluated separately.


21.4 Paper Processing

The drive can be applied to suitable DC motors in:

  • Paper feed systems
  • Roll drives
  • Processing machines
  • Coating equipment
  • Material transport systems
  • Rewind-related machinery

Consistent motor speed can be important for maintaining product quality.


21.5 Textile Machinery

Textile machinery can require stable and adjustable motor speed.

Potential applications include:

  • Textile rollers
  • Feed systems
  • Spinning equipment
  • Winding machinery
  • Material transport
  • Processing lines

The suitability of a non-regenerative configuration depends on the actual load behavior.


21.6 Metal Processing

The 20 HP-class rating makes the drive appropriate for many medium-sized metal-processing applications.

Examples include:

  • Feed rollers
  • Material transfer systems
  • Processing equipment
  • Grinding-machine auxiliaries
  • Cutting machinery
  • Production equipment
  • Material-handling systems

21.7 Machine Tools

Suitable DC motors used in machine tools can also be controlled by this drive.

Possible applications include:

  • Grinding machines
  • Feed mechanisms
  • Cutting machinery
  • Specialized machine tools
  • Production equipment
  • Material-processing machinery

Where precise speed control is important, feedback selection should receive particular attention.


21.8 Pumps and Fans

The drive can also be used for suitable DC motor-driven pumps and fans.

Speed control can be useful when the process does not always require full motor speed.

For pumps, motor speed may be used to adjust process flow.

For fans, reducing speed can reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

The motor and load characteristics should always be evaluated before selecting the drive.


22. Advantages of the 20P21AD035RA0NNN

22.1 35 A Current Capacity

The 35 A armature rating is one of the most significant advantages.

It provides additional current capacity compared with smaller DC drive models.

This makes the model suitable for approximately 20 HP-class DC motors.


22.2 20 HP / 15 kW Capacity

The 20 HP rating places the drive in a useful medium industrial power range.

It is suitable for machinery requiring more power than typical 5 HP, 7.5 HP, 10 HP and 15 HP DC drive applications.


22.3 Industrial 480 VAC-Class Input

The three-phase 480 VAC-class input makes it compatible with common industrial electrical systems.

This is useful for production plants where three-phase industrial power is already available.


22.4 Regulated Field Supply

The regulated field supply supports controlled operation of compatible DC motors.

This is important for maintaining appropriate motor operating characteristics.


22.5 Feedback Capability

Tachometer and encoder feedback options provide flexibility for speed-sensitive applications.

This can be particularly useful in:

  • Roll drives
  • Feed systems
  • Printing machines
  • Textile machines
  • Processing machinery

22.6 Flexible I/O

The combination of digital and analog I/O makes the drive suitable for hardwired machine control.

This is useful when a PLC or external control system already exists.


22.7 Conformal Coating

Conformal coating adds another layer of protection to the electronics.

This can be advantageous in controlled industrial environments where airborne contamination and humidity are concerns.


22.8 Compact Frame A Construction

For a 35 A / 20 HP-class DC drive, the Frame A design provides a relatively compact mechanical arrangement.

This can be useful when replacing an older drive in an existing cabinet.


22.9 No Unnecessary Operator Interface

The blank-plate configuration is appropriate for externally controlled machinery.

The drive can be integrated into a machine where the operator interacts with a central control panel rather than directly with the drive.


23. Main Advantages Summary

Feature Practical Advantage
35 A armature rating Suitable for larger DC motors
20 HP / 15 kW class Suitable for medium industrial machinery
460/480 VAC class Suitable for common industrial power systems
6-pulse input Conventional DC-drive architecture
Two-quadrant operation Suitable for standard motoring applications
Non-regenerative design Well suited to conventional loads
Regulated field supply Supports controlled DC motor operation
Feedback capability Useful for improved speed regulation
Flexible I/O Easy integration with hardwired control systems
Conformal coating Additional electronic protection
IP20 enclosure Suitable for protected cabinet installation
Frame A Compact industrial construction
Blank plate Suitable for external machine control

24. Five Recommended Models from the Same Series or Related Family

The following five models are useful comparison choices when selecting around the 20P21AD035RA0NNN.

Model Series Voltage Class Armature Current Approx. Power Operation Regeneration Dimensions Weight (kg)
20P21AD019RA0NNN PowerFlex DC 460/480 VAC 19 A 10 HP / 7.5 kW Two-quadrant No Frame-dependent Approx. 14
20P21AD027RA0NNN PowerFlex DC 460/480 VAC 27 A 15 HP / 11 kW Two-quadrant No Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm Approx. 14.2
20P21AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex DC 460/480 VAC 35 A 20 HP / 15 kW Two-quadrant No Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm Approx. 14.2
20P21AD045RA0NNN PowerFlex DC 460/480 VAC 45 A 25 HP class Two-quadrant No Frame-dependent Frame-dependent
20P41AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex DC 460/480 VAC 35 A 20 HP / 15 kW Four-quadrant Yes Frame-dependent Frame-dependent

The 20P41 configuration is particularly relevant when regenerative operation is required.


25. Recommended Model 1 — 20P21AD019RA0NNN

The 20P21AD019RA0NNN is a lower-current model in the same general product family.

Its approximate rating is:

19 A / 10 HP / 7.5 kW

It is appropriate when the motor’s current requirement is lower than that of the 35 A model.

Typical applications include:

  • Medium conveyors
  • Feeders
  • Rollers
  • Small processing machines
  • Printing equipment
  • Textile machinery

This model is useful when selecting a smaller drive can reduce system size and cost.


26. Recommended Model 2 — 20P21AD027RA0NNN

The 20P21AD027RA0NNN is the next smaller current class.

Its approximate rating is:

27 A / 15 HP / 11 kW

It is a particularly useful alternative when a 20 HP motor is not required.

The 27 A model can be considered for:

  • Medium conveyors
  • Feed systems
  • Roll drives
  • Printing machinery
  • Textile machinery
  • General industrial machinery

27. Recommended Model 3 — 20P21AD045RA0NNN

The 20P21AD045RA0NNN provides approximately 45 A of armature current.

It represents the next higher current class above the 35 A model.

Its approximate motor power class is:

25 HP

It is appropriate when:

  • Motor current exceeds 35 A
  • Motor power is greater than 20 HP
  • The machine has a heavier load
  • Additional current capacity is required

Typical applications can include:

  • Large conveyors
  • Heavy rollers
  • Processing equipment
  • Larger feeders
  • Industrial production machinery

28. Recommended Model 4 — 20P21AD052RA0NNN

The 20P21AD052RA0NNN is a higher-current configuration of the same general DC-drive family.

Its approximate current rating is:

52 A

Its approximate motor power class is:

30 HP

This model is more appropriate for larger industrial machinery where the 35 A and 45 A versions do not provide enough capacity.

Potential applications include:

  • Heavy-duty conveyors
  • Large rollers
  • Processing machinery
  • Material-handling equipment
  • High-load production machinery

29. Recommended Model 5 — 20P41AD035RA0NNN

The 20P41AD035RA0NNN is an important related model when the application requires regenerative operation.

It provides approximately:

35 A / 20 HP / 15 kW

but uses a regenerative architecture.

It can therefore be considered for applications such as:

  • Winders
  • Unwinders
  • High-inertia machines
  • Hoisting equipment
  • Frequent braking applications
  • Four-quadrant operation

If the application requires the motor to absorb and return substantial mechanical energy during operation, a regenerative model is generally a more appropriate direction than the non-regenerative 20P21 configuration.


30. Five Popular Models from the Same Brand

The following models provide useful comparison points within the broader drive portfolio.

Some are DC drives and others are AC drives.

AC-drive models should be considered modernization alternatives rather than direct electrical replacements because they normally require compatible AC motors.

Model Product Family Drive Type Voltage Class Current / Power Class Typical Application Dimensions Weight (kg)
20P21AD027RA0NNN PowerFlex DC DC Drive 460/480 VAC 27 A / 15 HP Medium DC machinery Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm Approx. 14.2
20P41AD035RA0NNN PowerFlex DC Regenerative DC Drive 460/480 VAC 35 A / 20 HP Regenerative DC machinery Frame-dependent Frame-dependent
25B-D017N104 PowerFlex 525 AC Drive 380–480 VAC Approx. 17 A class General AC motor control Compact frame Approx. 2–3
25C-D017N104 PowerFlex 527 AC Drive 380–480 VAC Approx. 17 A class Networked AC motor control Compact frame Approx. 2–3
20F1AG077AA0NNNNN PowerFlex 753 AC Drive 380–480 VAC Higher-power class Industrial AC applications Frame-dependent Frame-dependent

The AC models in this table are useful when considering a complete motor-and-drive modernization rather than a direct DC-drive replacement.


31. Comparison Between DC and AC Drive Modernization

Feature 20P21AD035RA0NNN Modern AC Drive
Motor type DC motor AC motor
Drive output Controlled DC Variable-frequency AC
Existing DC motor retained Yes Normally no
Direct DC replacement Yes, when correctly matched No
Motor replacement required Usually no Normally yes
Existing mechanical system Often retained Often retained
Existing feedback May be retained May require redesign
Retrofit complexity Lower Higher
Control redesign Usually limited Potentially substantial
Main benefit Preserve existing DC architecture Modernize to AC motor technology

32. Retrofit Applications

One of the strongest practical uses for the 20P21AD035RA0NNN is industrial retrofit work.

Many machines remain mechanically useful long after their original electronic drives become obsolete or unreliable.

Replacing the drive can sometimes allow the plant to retain:

  • Existing DC motor
  • Gearbox
  • Coupling
  • Mechanical transmission
  • Rollers
  • Conveyor structure
  • Existing machine frame
  • PLC
  • Operator station
  • Feedback device

This can significantly reduce the amount of mechanical modification required.


33. Typical Control Architecture

A typical industrial arrangement can be represented as:

Machine Controller → Drive I/O → DC Drive → DC Motor → Mechanical Load

If feedback is required:

DC Motor → Tachometer / Encoder → Drive

The machine controller can provide:

  • Start command
  • Stop command
  • Speed reference
  • Direction command
  • Enable signal

The drive can then manage the motor’s electrical operation.


34. Speed Control

Speed control is one of the primary functions of the drive.

The motor can receive a controlled speed reference through the appropriate input or external control system.

Possible speed-reference methods include:

  • Analog reference
  • PLC-generated reference
  • Preset speed
  • External operator station
  • Process controller
  • Automation system

When feedback is used, the drive can regulate motor speed more effectively under changing load conditions.


35. Acceleration and Deceleration

Controlled acceleration is important for many industrial machines.

If a large DC motor is connected directly to a machine without controlled acceleration, the sudden application of torque can cause:

  • Mechanical shock
  • Belt stress
  • Gearbox stress
  • Product instability
  • Excessive current demand

The drive can provide controlled acceleration and deceleration according to the machine configuration.

However, deceleration behavior must be evaluated carefully because the non-regenerative architecture has limitations when the mechanical load becomes an energy source.


36. Torque Control

The armature current of a DC motor is closely related to motor torque.

The 35 A capacity therefore provides substantial torque capability for compatible 20 HP-class DC motors.

This is useful for applications involving:

  • Starting loads
  • Material handling
  • Feed mechanisms
  • Roll drives
  • Conveyor systems
  • Processing equipment
  • Machine tools

The current limit should always be configured according to the motor’s actual rating.


37. Important Motor Selection Parameters

Before selecting the drive for a motor, the following parameters should be recorded.

Motor Parameter Recommended Check
Armature voltage Must be compatible with drive output
Armature current Should be within the 35 A drive rating
Field voltage Must match the field supply requirement
Field current Must be compatible with the field circuit
Horsepower Approximately 20 HP class
Base speed Verify against application
Maximum speed Verify against motor limit
Feedback Check tachometer/encoder type
Duty cycle Check continuous/intermittent requirements
Starting torque Check application requirement
Braking Determine regenerative requirement
Motor insulation Evaluate motor condition
Brush condition Check before commissioning
Commutator Inspect before commissioning

38. Cabinet Design Considerations

The approximate drive dimensions are:

425 mm height

279 mm width

425 mm depth

The approximate weight is:

14.2 kg

The cabinet should provide additional room for:

  • Power cables
  • Control wiring
  • Feedback wiring
  • Ventilation
  • Mounting hardware
  • Service access
  • Heat dissipation
  • Terminal access

The drive should not be mounted so closely to other heat-producing components that the cooling airflow is restricted.


39. Maintenance Considerations

A reliable DC-drive installation depends on both the drive and the motor.

Regular inspection should include:

  • Cooling fan
  • Airflow
  • Electrical terminals
  • Power connections
  • Control wiring
  • Feedback wiring
  • Motor brushes
  • Motor commutator
  • Field circuit
  • Armature circuit
  • Grounding
  • Cabinet cleanliness
  • Fault history

For older DC motors, brush and commutator condition can be especially important.

A new drive cannot compensate for a severely worn or contaminated motor.


40. Selection Comparison by Current

Model Current Rating Approx. Power Class Typical Position
20P21AD010RA0NNN 10 A 5 HP Smaller motor
20P21AD014RA0NNN 14 A 7.5 HP Small/medium motor
20P21AD019RA0NNN 19 A 10 HP Medium motor
20P21AD027RA0NNN 27 A 15 HP Medium/large motor
20P21AD035RA0NNN 35 A 20 HP Larger motor
20P21AD045RA0NNN 45 A 25 HP Larger industrial motor
20P21AD052RA0NNN 52 A 30 HP Heavy-duty motor

The 35 A / 20 HP model is therefore a useful choice when a 27 A drive does not provide sufficient capacity but the machine does not require a significantly larger current class.


41. Quick Comparison of Related Models

Model Current Approx. Power Regenerative Recommended Use
20P21AD019RA0NNN 19 A 10 HP No Smaller DC motor
20P21AD027RA0NNN 27 A 15 HP No Medium DC motor
20P21AD035RA0NNN 35 A 20 HP No Main model
20P21AD045RA0NNN 45 A 25 HP No Larger DC motor
20P41AD035RA0NNN 35 A 20 HP Yes Regenerative application

42. Recommended Application Matching

Application Recommended Model Direction
10 HP conventional DC conveyor 20P21AD019RA0NNN
15 HP conventional DC machine 20P21AD027RA0NNN
20 HP conventional DC machine 20P21AD035RA0NNN
25 HP conventional DC machine 20P21AD045RA0NNN
20 HP regenerative machine 20P41AD035RA0NNN
Heavy high-inertia load Regenerative configuration should be evaluated
Simple conveyor Non-regenerative configuration
Standard feeder Non-regenerative configuration
Winder/unwinder Regenerative requirements should be evaluated
Hoist Four-quadrant/regenerative requirements should be evaluated

43. Important Advantages for Industrial Users

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN offers several practical advantages.

First, its 35 A current capacity provides a comfortable range for many 20 HP-class DC motors.

Second, its 480 VAC-class three-phase input fits common industrial electrical systems.

Third, the two-quadrant non-regenerative architecture is relatively straightforward for conventional motoring applications.

Fourth, the regulated field supply allows appropriate control of the motor field circuit.

Fifth, the feedback capability allows the drive to be used in applications where speed regulation is more demanding.

Sixth, the standard I/O provides a practical way to integrate the drive with existing machine-control systems.

Seventh, the conformal coating provides an additional level of protection for the electronics in appropriate industrial environments.

Finally, the Frame A construction provides a relatively compact mechanical package for its power class.


44. Product Specification Summary

Specification Value
Catalog Number 20P21AD035RA0NNN
Brand Allen-Bradley
Series PowerFlex DC
Drive type DC Drive
Input voltage 480 VAC class
Nominal voltage 460 VAC
Input phase 3-phase
Input type 6-pulse
Armature current 35 A
Motor power 20 HP
Motor power Approx. 15 kW
Motor operation Two-quadrant
Regenerative No
Field supply Single-phase regulated
Enclosure IP20
Enclosure type NEMA/UL Type Open
Frame Frame A
Cooling Air cooled
Conformal coating Yes
HIM Blank plate
Communication module None included
Digital inputs 8 × 24 VDC
Digital outputs 4
Analog inputs 2
Analog outputs 3
Feedback Tachometer / encoder capable
Height Approx. 425 mm
Width Approx. 279 mm
Depth Approx. 425 mm
Dimensions Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm
Weight (kg) Approx. 14.2 kg
Approx. weight 31.3 lb
Main applications Conveyors, rollers, feeders, printing, textile, paper, machine tools, processing machinery
Main strength 35 A / 20 HP-class DC motor control

45. Final Product Assessment

The 20P21AD035RA0NNN is a strong choice for industrial applications requiring a 35 A, 20 HP-class DC motor drive.

Its combination of 480 VAC-class three-phase input, 35 A armature capacity, 20 HP / approximately 15 kW motor rating, two-quadrant operation, regulated field supply, flexible I/O, feedback capability, IP20 construction and conformal coating makes it suitable for a broad range of industrial machinery.

The model is particularly valuable for machines where an existing DC motor remains in service and the objective is to maintain the existing mechanical arrangement while using a capable modern DC drive.

Typical applications include conveyors, rollers, feeders, printing machinery, paper-processing equipment, textile machinery, machine tools, material-handling systems and general industrial production equipment.

The most important selection point is the 35 A armature rating. The motor’s actual nameplate current, armature voltage, field voltage and field current should be checked before installation.

For applications with a smaller motor, the 19 A or 27 A versions may provide a better match.

For larger motors, the 45 A or 52 A versions may be more appropriate.

For applications where substantial energy is returned to the drive during braking, a regenerative 35 A configuration should be considered rather than the non-regenerative 20P21 configuration.

From a practical engineering perspective, the 20P21AD035RA0NNN is best viewed as a medium-power industrial DC motor controller for conventional two-quadrant applications, particularly where dependable speed and torque control are required without converting the existing machine from DC motor technology to AC motor technology.


46. One-Table Quick Reference

Category Details
Model 20P21AD035RA0NNN
Brand Allen-Bradley
Series PowerFlex DC
Product category Industrial DC Drive
Input 460/480 VAC class, 3-phase
Input configuration 6-pulse
Armature rating 35 A
Motor rating 20 HP / approximately 15 kW
Operating mode Two-quadrant
Regenerative Non-regenerative
Field Single-phase regulated
Enclosure IP20 / NEMA/UL Type Open
Frame Frame A
Cooling Air cooled
Conformal coating Yes
Operator interface Blank plate
Communication None included
Digital inputs 8
Digital outputs 4
Analog inputs 2
Analog outputs 3
Feedback Tachometer / encoder capable
Dimensions Approx. 425 × 279 × 425 mm
Weight (kg) Approx. 14.2 kg
Main application Industrial DC motor control
Suitable machinery Conveyors, rollers, feeders, printing, paper, textile, machine tools and processing equipment
Main advantage High-capacity 35 A / 20 HP-class DC motor control
Best application type Conventional industrial motoring
Alternative for smaller motor 20P21AD027RA0NNN
Alternative for larger motor 20P21AD045RA0NNN
Alternative for regenerative application 20P41AD035RA0NNN



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