VFD vs Servo Drive: Key Differences
A side-by-side comparison of VFD and servo drive motor type, feedback, dynamic response, overload rating, cost, and applications for industrial engineers.
The Siemens SINAMICS S120 Single Motor Module (6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0) is a D-type booksize power module that converts a 510...720 V DC link into a 400 V 3 AC output rated for 18.0 A (IH 15.3 A, Imax 54.0 A), delivering 9.7 kW based on rated current. It includes a DRIVE-CLiQ cable and supports the extended Safety Integrated functions at a 4.00 kHz pulse frequency.
At 18.0 A rated / 54.0 A peak, this sits in the middle of this D-type Single Motor Module range - it shares the same 510-720 V DC link window as the lower- and higher-current versions but adds headroom for motors whose base load current exceeds roughly 9 A. The 220 µF DC-link capacitance and 100 A busbar rating are matched to this current class; check the busbar's total current budget before combining it with a higher-power line module or additional motor modules on the same DC link.
Drives a single servo or induction motor axis from a SINAMICS S120 DC link in machine tools, packaging, and material-handling equipment, using the extended Safety Integrated functions built into this module for integrated safe torque off and safe motion.
| DC link voltage | DC 510 ... 720 V |
|---|---|
| Electronics power supply | DC 24 V -15 % / +20 % |
| Current demand, max. | 0.75 A |
| DC-link current Id | 22.0 A |
| Output current: Rated value IN | 18.0 A |
| Output current: Base load current IH | 15.3 A |
| Output current: For S6 duty (40%) IS6 | 24.0 A |
| Output current: Imax | 54.0 A |
| Type rating: Based on IN | 9.7 kW |
| Type rating: Based on IH | 8.2 kW |
| Current carrying capacity: DC link busbars | 100 A |
| Current carrying capacity: 24 V busbars | 20 A |
| DC link capacitance | 220 µF |
| Installation altitude (without derating) | 1,000 m (3,281 ft) |
|---|---|
| Cooling 8) | Internal air cooling |
| Cooling air requirement | 0.009 m³/s |
| Ambient temperature: During operation | 0 ... 40 °C (32 ... 104 °F) |
| Motor end: Version | connector (X1) |
|---|---|
| PE connection | M5 screw |
| Max. motor cable length: Shielded | 70 m (230 ft) |
| Max. motor cable length: Unshielded | 100 m (328 ft) |
| Part number | 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Siemens |
| Condition | New, factory sealed |
| Source | Siemens and its authorised distributors |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty |
| EAN | 4034106439620 |
| Compliance with standards | CE, cULus |
|---|---|
| Safety Integrated | SIL 2 acc. to IEC 61508, PL d acc. to EN ISO 13849-1, Category 3 acc. to EN ISO |
| Line side: Width | 50.00 mm (1.97 in) |
|---|---|
| Line side: Height | 380.00 mm (14.96 in) |
| Line side: Depth | 270.00 mm (10.63 in) |
| Line side: Degree of protection | IP20 / UL open type |
| Line side: Type of construction | Booksize |
| Line side: Net weight | 4.6 kg (10.14 lb) |
| Sound pressure level (1m) | 60.0 dB |
|---|---|
| Page 1 of 1 | Generated Sun Nov 1 04:03:07 CET 2026 |
| Shipping weight | 5.1 kg |
|---|---|
| Ships from | Türkiye |
| Dispatch | 13 Nov |
| Stock | Low stock |
Source: manufacturer data · Last verified: 01 Nov 2026
No documents are on file for this part yet.
Ask us for the datasheetThe rated current of 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 is 18.0 A.
The rated operational voltage of 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 is 400 V AC.
The rated motor power of 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 is 9.7 kW.
The tariff (HS) code on file for 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 is 85044087.
The EAN (GTIN) of 6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 is 4034106439620.
6SL3120-1TE21-8AD0 ships from Türkiye. Shipping calculated at checkout · import duties and taxes paid on arrival. Stock items are dispatched within 1–2 business days.
A side-by-side comparison of VFD and servo drive motor type, feedback, dynamic response, overload rating, cost, and applications for industrial engineers.
Discover how Schneider soft starters reduce mechanical stress, cut energy peaks, and extend motor life across demanding industrial uses. Shop at Stoklink.
Schneider soft starters reduce energy costs by limiting inrush current, lowering demand charges, and minimizing mechanical wear on motors. Shop at Stoklink.