Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104: Specs, Applications & Replacement Guide

The Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 is a PowerFlex 4 adjustable-frequency AC drive designed for relatively straightforward motor-speed control applications. The specific model is rated at 3.7 kW (5 HP) and is intended for 240/208 VAC three-phase input systems.

It combines a compact Frame B enclosure, fixed digital keypad, LED display and built-in RS485 communication, making it suitable for conveyors, pumps, fans, packaging equipment and other machines that do not require the more advanced control functions of larger drive families.

For buyers maintaining existing PowerFlex 4 installations, however, there is another important point: Rockwell Automation now lists the 22A-B017N104 as discontinued as of June 30, 2025 and identifies 25A-B017N104 as its engineering replacement.

If an existing machine specifically requires this legacy model, you can check the current Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 product listing for availability.

Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 Specifications

Before ordering a replacement drive, start with the exact catalog number rather than relying only on the PowerFlex 4 family name. Different 22A models use different voltage classes, current ratings and enclosure configurations.

The main specifications of the 22A-B017N104 are:

Rockwell’s current product page describes the unit as a 3.7 kW, 5 HP, 240/208 VAC three-phase PowerFlex 4 drive with a 17 A rating, while PowerFlex 4 technical data lists the corresponding model at 17.5 A.

For procurement purposes, the exact catalog number should therefore remain the main identifier.

What Does 22A-B017N104 Mean?

Allen-Bradley catalog numbers contain useful configuration information.

For this model:

22A identifies the PowerFlex 4 drive family.

B indicates the 240 V three-phase voltage class.

017 identifies the approximately 17 A output-current class.

N indicates a panel-mount IP20/NEMA open enclosure.

The remaining configuration characters identify the operator interface and factory options associated with the drive.

This matters when replacing an existing VFD. Two drives may both carry a 5 HP rating but differ in input voltage, enclosure, control configuration or communication capabilities.

For maintenance teams, checking the full nameplate number is safer than searching only for an “Allen-Bradley 5 HP inverter.”

Where Is the 22A-B017N104 Commonly Used?

The PowerFlex 4 series was developed for comparatively simple variable-speed applications where compact installation and straightforward commissioning were important.

The 22A-B017N104 can be found in equipment such as:

Conveyors

Conveyor systems often require adjustable motor speed to coordinate production flow, accumulation and material movement.

A compact VFD such as the 22A-B017N104 can provide controlled acceleration and deceleration instead of repeatedly starting a motor directly across the line.

Fans and Pumps

Variable-frequency control allows motor speed to be adjusted according to operating demand rather than running continuously at full speed.

For existing machines designed around PowerFlex 4 hardware, maintaining the same drive family can also reduce changes during maintenance.

Packaging Equipment

Packaging machines frequently use AC drives for feeders, belt sections, auxiliary conveyors and other basic rotating equipment.

The integrated keypad is useful where local parameter adjustment is required during setup or maintenance.

OEM Machinery

The compact PowerFlex 4 design made the series common in smaller machine-control cabinets.

Its built-in RS485 interface can also be useful where the drive needs to exchange basic control or status information with other automation equipment. Rockwell’s official product documentation confirms RS485 on the 22A-B017N104 configuration.

Is the Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 Discontinued?

Yes.

Rockwell Automation currently lists the 22A-B017N104 as discontinued, with an official discontinued date of June 30, 2025.

This does not necessarily mean every installed PowerFlex 4 drive needs to be replaced immediately.

Many factories continue to operate machinery using legacy Allen-Bradley hardware. The practical issue is that sourcing the exact model becomes more dependent on remaining inventory, specialist automation suppliers and existing spare-parts stock.

For plants with several machines using PowerFlex 4 drives, it is useful to separate two situations:

Maintenance replacement:
The priority may be restoring an existing machine with minimal control-system changes. In this case, sourcing the exact 22A-B017N104 can make sense when suitable inventory is available.

Modernization project:
If the machine is already being redesigned or the control panel is being upgraded, evaluating the newer replacement platform may be more practical.

That distinction can prevent a maintenance purchase from turning into an unnecessary redesign—or a long-term upgrade from being built around an obsolete component.

What Is the Replacement for 22A-B017N104?

Rockwell Automation identifies 25A-B017N104 as the engineering replacement for 22A-B017N104.

An engineering replacement should not automatically be treated as a plug-and-play substitution.

Before changing from a PowerFlex 4 drive to a newer unit, check:

• Input voltage and phase
• Motor rated voltage and full-load current
• Required horsepower or kW
• Control terminal assignments
• Digital and analog I/O requirements
• Communication method
• Existing RS485 network configuration
• Physical mounting dimensions
• Panel clearances
• Braking requirements
• Parameter structure
• PLC or controller logic
• External EMC components
• Existing accessories

This is especially important on older machines where electrical drawings may not reflect later field modifications.

What Should You Check Before Buying a 22A-B017N104?

Because this model is now a legacy component, procurement involves more than confirming that the catalog number appears in a listing.

1. Confirm the Complete Part Number

Check the drive nameplate and verify 22A-B017N104 character by character.

Do not substitute another 22A model purely because the physical appearance is similar.

2. Verify the Supply Voltage

The 22A-B017N104 is designed for the 240/208 V AC three-phase class.

It should not be confused with 480 V PowerFlex 4 models or single-phase input versions.

3. Check the Motor Rating

The model is associated with a 3.7 kW / 5 HP rating. The motor nameplate current, duty and application conditions should still be checked before installation.

4. Confirm the Enclosure Requirement

The N version uses a panel-mount IP20, NEMA/UL Type Open enclosure. It is intended to be installed within an appropriate electrical enclosure rather than exposed directly to industrial contaminants or moisture.

5. Review Existing Parameters

When replacing a failed drive, record the existing parameter settings whenever possible.

Useful information may include:

• Minimum and maximum frequency
• Acceleration time
• Deceleration time
• Motor nameplate settings
• Start/stop source
• Speed reference source
• Digital-input functions
• Communication settings

Having this information available can significantly simplify recommissioning.

6. Decide Between Exact Replacement and Migration

For an urgent repair, the exact PowerFlex 4 model may minimize engineering changes.

For a planned upgrade, the officially identified replacement should also be evaluated, particularly if long-term spare-parts availability is important.

22A-B017N104 and the PowerFlex 4 Family

The 22A-B017N104 is one member of the wider Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 4 range.

PowerFlex 4 configurations were produced across several voltage and output-current classes. Official technical data shows 22A models for 120 V, 240 V and 480 V applications, with the 22A-B017N104 positioned at the upper end of the 240 V three-phase PowerFlex 4 range at 3.7 kW/5 HP.

This is why searching only for “PowerFlex 4 inverter” is often too broad for procurement.

A 22A-B012N104, 22A-B017N104 and 22A-D8P7N104 may belong to the same product family, but their electrical ratings are not interchangeable.

Always source by the full catalog number first.

Sourcing Legacy Allen-Bradley Drives

When a production line depends on discontinued automation hardware, component availability can become part of the maintenance strategy.

Siesource Industrial Solutions supplies industrial automation and electronic components across product categories including PLCs, servo systems, sensors and variable-frequency drives.

For a requirement involving this specific model, buyers can review the Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 product page and confirm current availability before purchasing.

For legacy products, a useful RFQ should include:

• Exact catalog number
• Required quantity
• Destination country
• Required delivery time
• Whether the application is a direct replacement
• Photos of the existing nameplate when identification is uncertain

Providing these details reduces the risk of receiving a visually similar but electrically different drive.

FAQ About Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104

Is the 22A-B017N104 a PowerFlex 4 drive?

Yes. The 22A-B017N104 belongs to Allen-Bradley’s PowerFlex 4 adjustable-frequency AC drive family.

What is the power rating of 22A-B017N104?

The drive is rated at 3.7 kW, or 5 HP.

What voltage does the 22A-B017N104 use?

It is a 240/208 VAC three-phase model. It should not be confused with 480 V PowerFlex 4 versions.

Does the 22A-B017N104 support RS485?

Yes. Rockwell Automation lists RS485 communication as part of this configuration.

Is the 22A-B017N104 discontinued?

Yes. Rockwell Automation lists June 30, 2025 as its discontinued date.

What replaces the Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104?

Rockwell Automation identifies 25A-B017N104 as the engineering replacement. Because it is a migration to a newer drive platform, electrical, mechanical, wiring and parameter compatibility should be checked before installation.

Final Buying Considerations

The Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 remains relevant primarily for maintenance and spare-parts requirements involving existing PowerFlex 4 installations.

Its key identifiers are straightforward: 240/208 VAC three-phase input, 3.7 kW/5 HP output class, Frame B, IP20 panel mounting, fixed digital keypad and RS485 communication.

Since the model has officially reached discontinued status, buyers should first decide whether the project requires an exact legacy replacement or whether migration to the newer engineering replacement is appropriate.

For current stock or quotation information, visit the Allen-Bradley 22A-B017N104 product page or browse the Siesource industrial automation platform.