Siemens 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 Replacement for S120

Product Overview

Siemens 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 Replacement for SINAMICS S120: Seamless Transition & Compatibility Upgrade

The Siemens 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 is a Dual-Axis Motor Module in the SINAMICS S120 Booksize format, rated at 1.5 A continuous output current per axis. This module is widely deployed in high-precision servo drive applications across CNC machining centers, packaging lines, printing presses, and automated assembly systems. As legacy S120 Booksize infrastructure ages and original modules approach end-of-service, engineering teams face the challenge of sourcing a verified replacement that maintains full compatibility with existing wiring harnesses, drive line-up configurations, DC bus connections, and DRIVE-CLiQ communication topology.

At TOPNLMS, we supply tested 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 units — both new-original and refurbished-to-spec — to support planned maintenance shutdowns, emergency breakdowns, and phased modernization projects. Every unit ships with a 12-month warranty and passes pre-shipment functional verification.

Compatibility Comparison Table

Seamless Upgrade Solutions

A successful migration to the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 rarely involves the motor module alone. In practice, the upgrade process touches multiple components across the drive line-up and control cabinet. The following describes the typical system context and the related components most commonly addressed during a SINAMICS S120 Booksize retrofit.

The Active Line Module (ALM) — such as the 6SL3130-7TE21-6AA3 or 6SL3130-7TE28-4AA3 — feeds the shared DC bus that powers the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3. When replacing a motor module, engineers should verify that the ALM’s rated output current still covers the updated axis load profile, particularly if additional axes are being consolidated onto dual-axis modules. The Smart Line Module (SLM) variants like the 6SL3130-6AE21-0AA0 are also common in cost-sensitive retrofit projects where regenerative feedback is not required.

The Control Unit CU320-2 DP (6SL3040-1MA01-0AA0) or CU320-2 PN (6SL3040-1MA00-0AA0) governs the entire drive line-up. During a module swap, the CU320-2 firmware version must be checked against the replacement module’s hardware revision to ensure DRIVE-CLiQ enumeration proceeds correctly. In older installations still running a first-generation CU320, a controller upgrade to CU320-2 is often bundled with the motor module replacement to unlock current firmware features and extended diagnostic capability.

DRIVE-CLiQ wiring within the cabinet connects the Control Unit to each Motor Module and to encoder feedback devices. The SMC20 Sensor Module Cabinet-Mounted (6SL3055-0AA00-5AA3) and SMC30 (6SL3055-0AA00-5BA3) are the standard encoder interface modules used alongside the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 when incremental or absolute encoders are fitted to the servo motors. These modules typically remain in place during a motor module swap, but their DRIVE-CLiQ cables should be inspected and re-seated to eliminate intermittent communication faults after reassembly.

The Voltage Sensing Module (VSM10) (6SL3053-0AA00-3AA1) is often present in ALM-based line-ups and should be retained during the retrofit. Similarly, the Braking Module (6SL3100-1BE21-3AA0) may be part of the existing cabinet if dynamic braking is required for the application — its compatibility with the updated line-up should be confirmed against the DC bus voltage rating.

For installations where the legacy system used a SIMODRIVE 611 universal or 611D drive, the migration to S120 Booksize requires a more comprehensive approach: new motor power cables, updated encoder wiring to DRIVE-CLiQ-compatible SMx modules, and a full re-commissioning of axis parameters in STARTER or TIA Portal V15+. In these cases, the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 is typically paired with a new CU320-2, a new ALM, and updated SINAMICS S120 Booksize power bus connectors to complete the line-up.

Panel builders and system integrators also frequently source 24 V DC SITOP power supply modules (e.g., 6EP1334-3BA10) alongside the motor module to ensure stable auxiliary voltage for the Control Unit and I/O interfaces during the retrofit. The 24 V supply feeds the CU320-2 and all DRIVE-CLiQ devices, making it a critical element of the overall system reliability.

Retrofit Guidance FAQ

Q: Can I replace the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 without modifying the existing wiring?
A: In most S120 Booksize-to-Booksize replacements, the motor power cables (X1/X2), DC bus connections, and DRIVE-CLiQ cables are fully reusable. The module slots into the same rail position and uses identical connector interfaces. The only wiring change typically required is re-seating the DRIVE-CLiQ plug to ensure a clean connection after installation.

Q: Do I need to re-download the drive parameters after swapping the module?
A: The axis parameters are stored on the Control Unit (CU320-2), not on the Motor Module itself. After a module swap, the CU320-2 will re-enumerate the DRIVE-CLiQ topology and may prompt a topology confirmation. Parameters do not need to be re-entered, but a topology save (p9971) should be performed after the new module is recognized to update the stored configuration.

Q: Is the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 compatible with PROFIBUS DP and PROFINET control architectures?
A: Yes. The Motor Module communicates with the Control Unit via DRIVE-CLiQ, which is independent of the fieldbus protocol used between the CU320-2 and the PLC (S7-300, S7-400, S7-1500). Whether the system uses PROFIBUS DP (via CU320-2 DP) or PROFINET IRT (via CU320-2 PN), the motor module integration is identical.

Q: What is the physical space requirement for the 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3?
A: The Booksize format module occupies a standard width slot in the S120 Booksize line-up. When replacing two single-axis 1TE modules with one dual-axis 2TE module, the net cabinet width is reduced, freeing space for additional components or improving airflow. Verify the cabinet depth and rail clearance against the module’s installation drawing (available in the SINAMICS S120 Booksize Manual, Chapter 3).

Q: Can this module be used with third-party servo motors?
A: The 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 can drive third-party motors provided the motor’s continuous current does not exceed 1.5 A per axis and the encoder feedback is routed through a compatible SMx Sensor Module. Motor data must be entered manually into the drive parameterization (p0300–p0360 range) rather than using automatic motor identification from the DRIVE-CLiQ motor database.

Q: What firmware version is required on the CU320-2?
A: Siemens recommends running the latest available firmware on the CU320-2 to ensure compatibility with current hardware revisions of the Motor Module. Firmware updates are available via the Siemens Industry Online Support portal and are applied using STARTER or TIA Portal. Always back up the existing project before performing a firmware update.

Warranty Assurance

Every 6SL3120-2TE15-0AA3 unit supplied by TOPNLMS is covered by a 12-month warranty from the date of shipment. Our pre-shipment inspection process includes:

• Visual inspection for physical damage, corrosion, and connector integrity
• Power-on functional test verifying DC bus interface and DRIVE-CLiQ enumeration
• Firmware revision check and documentation
• Packaging in anti-static ESD-safe materials with shock-absorbing foam inserts

If a unit develops a functional fault within the 12-month warranty period under normal operating conditions, TOPNLMS will arrange a replacement shipment or issue a refund upon return and inspection of the defective unit. Our after-sales response target is within 24 hours of a warranty claim submission.

For urgent breakdown situations, we maintain ready stock of common SINAMICS S120 Booksize modules and can arrange same-day dispatch from our Xiamen warehouse for orders confirmed before 15:00 CST. International express delivery (DHL / FedEx) is available to most destinations within 3–7 business days.

To place an order, request a quotation, or discuss a retrofit project, contact our technical sales team:

📧 [email protected]
📞 +86 18359293191