The 6SL3520-0XM01-1AB0 is a 1.1 kW SINAMICS G115D distributed frequency converter in the FSA frame, AB0 I/O configuration. The G115D's integrated Category C2 EMC filter — built into every FSA drive — handles conducted emissions compliance at the machine level. For the machine builder, this means the drive contributes to CE marking under the EMC Directive without requiring an external line filter, provided installation guidelines for cabling and grounding are followed.

What does the integrated Cat C2 filter mean for CE marking?

EN 55011 (CISPR 11) defines two emission categories for industrial equipment: Class A (industrial environment) and Class B (residential/commercial environment). Category C2 corresponds to Class A — the drive is compliant for use in industrial premises supplied from a dedicated transformer. For the machine builder integrating a G115D into a conveyor system, the integrated C2 filter simplifies the EMC compliance path: conducted emissions on the supply side are already within Class A limits when the drive is installed with shielded motor cable and proper grounding per the operating instructions. Radiated emissions are controlled by the sealed aluminum enclosure. The machine builder still bears responsibility for the complete system's EMC compliance, but the drive-level filter removes the need for a separate external line filter in most industrial installations.

What installation practices ensure the EMC filter works as designed?

Three installation details determine whether the integrated filter performs to specification. First, the motor cable must be shielded and the shield must be terminated 360° to the drive's metal cable gland at the drive end and to the motor frame at the motor end — pigtail shield connections defeat the filter. Second, the drive's PE terminal must connect to the machine's earth grid with a conductor as short as possible; the G115D mounting bolts to a grounded metal machine frame usually satisfy this. Third, the PROFINET cable must be separated from the motor cable by at least 200 mm over parallel runs. When these three conditions are met, the integrated C2 filter reliably achieves Class A conducted emission limits for motor cable lengths up to 25 m.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the end customer requires Class B (Category C1) compliance?

Category C2 (Class A) covers industrial environments. If the conveyor system will be installed in a residential, commercial, or light-industrial setting — for instance, a distribution center sharing a transformer with office buildings — the machine may need to meet Class B limits. In that case, add an external Category C1 filter on the supply side of the G115D and reduce the motor cable length to the minimum practical distance. Siemens offers external filters for the G115D series; the filter must be sized for the drive's input current rating.

Does the AB0 I/O variant affect EMC performance?

No. The I/O suffix (AA0, AB0, AF0) affects only the control terminal layout — the power stage, EMC filter, and enclosure are identical across all three variants. EMC compliance depends on the installation practices described above, not on the I/O configuration.