Allen-Bradley 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN System-Ready AC Drive for 1336 Plus II Architecture

Allen-Bradley 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN System-Ready AC Drive for 1336 Plus II Architecture

The Allen-Bradley 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN is a 2HP (1.5kW) AC variable frequency drive engineered specifically for deployment within the 1336 Plus II control system architecture. Rather than functioning as a standalone component, this drive is designed to operate as an integrated execution-layer element within a layered automation hierarchy — coordinating with upstream PLCs, I/O modules, communication gateways, and HMI platforms to deliver consistent, scalable, and maintainable motion control across industrial environments.

In modern industrial control architectures, the drive layer is not isolated. The 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN interfaces directly with ControlLogix or CompactLogix processors via hardwired I/O or DeviceNet communication, enabling the CPU to issue speed references, direction commands, and fault-reset signals in real time. This tight integration between the control layer and the execution layer is what defines a system-ready drive — one that participates in the full signal flow from sensor input through logic processing to motor actuation.

System architects deploying this drive alongside a 1756-L71 ControlLogix controller or a 1769-L30ER CompactLogix processor will find that the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN supports the same DeviceNet network topology used across the broader 1336 Plus II platform. This allows the drive to share a common communication backbone with 1756-DNB DeviceNet bridge modules, 1769-SDN scanner modules, and other network-connected field devices — reducing wiring complexity and enabling centralized diagnostics from a single RSLogix 5000 or Studio 5000 project environment.

At the I/O layer, the drive accepts analog speed reference signals (0–10V or 4–20mA) and discrete control inputs compatible with standard 1756-IB16 or 1769-IQ16 digital input modules. This signal compatibility ensures that existing I/O wiring infrastructure can be retained during drive replacement or system expansion, minimizing downtime and engineering rework. The drive’s onboard fault relay output can be wired directly to a 1756-OB16 or equivalent output module, enabling the PLC to monitor drive health and trigger automated fault-response routines.

Power supply integrity is critical in any drive-based system. The 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN operates on a 200–240VAC single-phase or three-phase input, and system designers should ensure that the upstream power distribution panel includes appropriate branch circuit protection and line reactors to suppress voltage transients. When deployed alongside a 1336-MOD-HA2 harmonic filter or a 1321-3R line reactor, the drive’s input power quality is maintained within the tolerances required for long-term reliable operation — particularly in facilities where other large motor loads share the same distribution bus.

For human-machine interface integration, the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN supports parameter monitoring and control via the 1336-GM1 remote operator interface or through an upstream PanelView Plus 7 HMI connected to the ControlLogix backplane. Operators can monitor output frequency, motor current, DC bus voltage, and fault history without accessing the drive enclosure directly — a significant advantage in high-voltage or restricted-access panel environments. This HMI-layer visibility supports both real-time operational oversight and post-fault diagnostic review.

Redundancy and fault tolerance are increasingly important in continuous-process industries. While the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN is a single-drive unit, system architects can implement hot-standby redundancy by pairing it with a bypass contactor circuit and a second drive unit on a shared motor bus. This configuration, common in water treatment pump stations and HVAC air handling units, ensures that a drive fault does not result in process interruption. The bypass logic can be managed by the ControlLogix CPU using standard ladder logic rungs, with the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN’s fault relay providing the trigger signal for automatic switchover.

Architecture Specification Table

Coordinated Control System Design

A complete 1336 Plus II-based control system integrates multiple hardware layers that must be selected and configured as a unified architecture. The 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN occupies the execution layer, but its performance is directly dependent on the quality of the components above and below it in the system hierarchy.

At the control layer, a 1756-L71 ControlLogix processor or 1769-L30ER CompactLogix controller provides the logic engine that generates speed setpoints and monitors drive feedback. These CPUs communicate with the drive either through a 1756-DNB DeviceNet bridge module mounted in the ControlLogix chassis or through a 1769-SDN DeviceNet scanner in a CompactLogix expansion rack. The DeviceNet network allows the drive to be polled cyclically, with speed reference and control word transmitted in each scan cycle.

At the I/O layer, 1756-IB16 digital input modules and 1756-OB16 digital output modules handle discrete signals such as run/stop commands, fault acknowledgment, and drive-ready status. Analog speed references are typically sourced from 1756-OF8 analog output modules, providing a 4–20mA signal that the drive converts to a proportional output frequency. This analog-digital hybrid I/O architecture is common in legacy system upgrades where existing field wiring must be preserved.

For power conditioning, a 1321-3R line reactor installed upstream of the drive reduces input current harmonics and protects the drive’s rectifier bridge from voltage spikes. In facilities with long cable runs between the drive and motor, an output reactor or dV/dt filter should be added to limit reflected wave voltage stress on motor windings — a consideration particularly relevant when the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN is used with older NEMA B motors not rated for inverter duty.

At the human-machine interface layer, a PanelView Plus 7 terminal connected to the ControlLogix Ethernet/IP network provides operators with a graphical display of drive status, output frequency, and alarm history. Parameter changes can be made remotely through the HMI without requiring a laptop or handheld programmer at the drive location — a significant advantage in large panel installations where physical access to individual drives is restricted.

Application in Layered Automation Systems

The 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN is deployed across a wide range of industrial sectors where variable-speed motor control is required within a structured automation architecture.

In water and wastewater treatment facilities, the drive controls pump motors in filtration, aeration, and chemical dosing systems. Its ability to accept a 4–20mA flow setpoint from a process controller and modulate pump speed accordingly makes it well-suited for pressure-maintaining applications where constant-speed operation would result in energy waste and mechanical stress.

In manufacturing and assembly lines, the drive is used to control conveyor belt speed, indexing table rotation, and material handling equipment. Integration with a ControlLogix PLC allows the drive to participate in coordinated motion sequences where multiple axes must accelerate and decelerate in synchrony — for example, in a packaging line where product spacing must be maintained across multiple conveyor zones.

In HVAC and building automation systems, the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN controls air handling unit fans and chilled water pump motors. BACnet or Modbus integration (via optional communication modules) allows the drive to receive setpoints from a building management system, enabling energy-optimized variable air volume control across large commercial or industrial facilities.

In mining and mineral processing applications, the drive is used in crusher feed conveyors, slurry pump systems, and ventilation fan control. Its robust design and wide operating temperature range make it suitable for installation in remote or harsh environments where ambient conditions may vary significantly across seasons.

In petrochemical and refinery environments, the drive controls process pumps, compressor auxiliaries, and cooling tower fans. Hazardous area installations require the drive to be mounted in a purged and pressurized enclosure, with all field wiring routed through appropriate cable glands and conduit seals to maintain area classification integrity.

Architecture Engineering FAQ

Q1: Is the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN compatible with both ControlLogix and CompactLogix platforms for DeviceNet integration?
Yes. The 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN supports DeviceNet communication via the optional 1336-GM6 communication module. It can be integrated into a ControlLogix system using a 1756-DNB scanner or into a CompactLogix system using a 1769-SDN scanner. Both platforms support EDS-based device configuration through RSNetWorx for DeviceNet, allowing the drive to be added to the network scan list and mapped to controller tags in Studio 5000. Hardwired I/O integration is also supported for systems without a DeviceNet network infrastructure.

Q2: What are the key considerations for replacing a failed 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN in an existing system without reprogramming the PLC?
Direct replacement requires matching the input voltage, power rating, and communication option of the original unit. If the replacement drive uses the same DeviceNet node address and EDS file version, the PLC program does not require modification — the controller will recognize the new drive as the same device on the network. Parameter settings (acceleration/deceleration ramps, current limits, speed references) must be restored from a saved parameter file or re-entered manually. ZYPLC supplies the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN with a 12-Month Warranty and can provide parameter backup support as part of the commissioning process.

Q3: How does the 12-Month Warranty apply to the 1336F-BRF20-AA-EN, and what does Contextual Integration support include?
ZYPLC’s 12-Month Warranty covers manufacturing defects and component failures under normal operating conditions from the date of shipment. Contextual Integration support means that ZYPLC’s technical team can assist with verifying the drive’s compatibility within your specific control system architecture — including I/O mapping, DeviceNet node configuration, and parameter setup guidance — ensuring the unit is correctly integrated before it enters service. This reduces commissioning risk and ensures that the drive performs as expected within your existing 1336 Plus II or ControlLogix-based system from day one.

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