Danfoss Enhances iC7-Automation VFD with Integrated PROFIsafe Safety and Expanded Fieldbus Support for Industrial Applications

Nordborg, Denmark – February 5, 2026 – Danfoss Drives has announced significant functional upgrades to its iC7-Automation variable frequency drive (VFD) series, expanding safety, connectivity, and operational flexibility for demanding industrial automation environments. The enhancements, effective immediately across all power sizes, address growing requirements for certified functional safety and seamless multi-protocol integration in manufacturing, material handling, and process industries

The key addition is the integrated PROFIsafe protocol and Safe Stop 1 (SS1-t) functionality via the optional "+BEF2" module, enabling SIL 3 / PL e certified safety functions without external safety relays or controllers. This allows direct implementation of safe torque off (STO), safe stop, and safe limited speed in applications requiring compliance with IEC 61508 and ISO 13849 standards. Additionally, the VFD now supports an extended range of pre-installed fieldbus protocols—including EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, PROFINET RT, and EtherNet/IP—which can be activated directly in the field via parameter configuration, eliminating the need for separate option cards in many cases.

"These updates make the iC7-Automation one of the most adaptable high-performance drives on the market," said Danfoss Drives Product Manager Lars Hansen. "By combining advanced sensorless vector control and permanent magnet motor support with native PROFIsafe and multi-fieldbus capability, we enable faster commissioning, reduced panel space, and enhanced cybersecurity through secure communication channels."

The upgraded iC7-Automation also features simplified backup/restore procedures via MyDrive® Insight cloud tool, expanded logic programming for custom application macros, and an optional emergency stop cabinet solution for centralized safety management. Power ratings remain comprehensive, covering low-voltage (200–690 V) frames from 0.37 kW to over 4000 kW, with support for regenerative Active Front End (AFE) topologies and low-harmonic operation to meet IEEE 519 compliance.

Industry response has been positive, particularly from sectors like automotive assembly lines, packaging machinery, and intralogistics systems, where safety-integrated drives reduce downtime and simplify validation under Industry 4.0 frameworks. Analysts note that these enhancements position Danfoss strongly in the competitive landscape, where functional safety and IIoT-ready connectivity are increasingly decisive purchasing factors.