Industrial Technology

Panel Building

Complete RFID system in a compact housing

With its long user-adjustable operating range, robust construction and choice of fieldbus interfaces, HF RFID systems in the new DTE60x range from IFM Electronic are ideally suited to production line applications. The new units provide RFID antenna, evaluation electronics and fieldbus interface in a single compact module, which makes them easy to install, even when space is limited. Their IP67 ingress protection rating ensures reliable operation in challenging environments. DTE60x RFID systems are available in versions to suit all of the most widely used fieldbus systems: the DTE601 has a PROFINET interface, the DTE602 an Ethernet/IP interface and the DTE604 a TCP/IP interface. All types incorporate an integrated web server which makes configuration easy as well as providing access to powerful diagnostic and monitoring functionality. Additional connectivity is provided in the form of two digital inputs and outputs.

24th April 2020

Seamless connectivity from the workpiece to the cloud

Warren Harvard, Product Manager at Festo, looks at how improving connectivity supports machine builders.

20th March 2020

Elegant and fully functional hand-held enclosures

Hammond Electronics has launched its new 1552 family of hand-held enclosures. Initially available in six sizes, the IP54 rated UL94-V0 flame-retardant ABS enclosure features an ergonomic design that fits comfortably into the hand, enabling it to be used for long period in applications such as a machine controller or an electric hoist control. The end panels are removable for easy modification, and for use with flying cables, an alternative end panel with an integral rubberised cord protector and a strain relief bracket is available. An optional wall mounted holder allows the unit to be stored in a convenient location when not in use.

20th March 2020

Siemens Logo logic module series now offers direct cloud connectivity

The latest Logo Version 8.3 will be available from Autumn 2020 and features a direct cloud connection. The Logo Soft Comfort engineering software is getting a functional update to enable configuration of the new devices. With Version 8.3, it is possible to activate and configure the cloud connection and use the new free Logo web editor to create user-defined website and dashboards in the cloud. Users can also design their automation projects and operate them from the cloud via smartphone, tablet or PC. The webserver can be directly hosted in the cloud, enabling individual visualisation and centralised control of switching and automation solutions.

20th March 2020

Industry 4.0 ready valve island to simplify preventative maintenance

Being fully equipped for smart manufacturing whilst also delivering outstanding price efficiency, were key factors in the development of Camozzi Automation’s new Series D Valve Island, which is Industry 4.0 ready thanks to Camozzi’s futuristic CoilVision innovation. The most flexible and versatile valve island in Camozzi’s extensive portfolio, Series D’s CoilVision technology employs sophisticated diagnostics to monitor and predict the impact of wear on the efficiency of solenoid valve parts, alerting users to potential breakage and in so doing, avoiding disruption and machine downtime.

20th March 2020

DIN rail power supplies with built-in redundancy and conformal coating

The latest addition to the Puls Dimension CP Series is a ruggedised unit featuring an integrated high efficiency MOSFET based decoupling function for secure power N+1 redundant operation without the need for an external decoupling unit or use of inefficient “OR-ing” diodes. The new CP power supply family features a 100-240V AC wide range input voltage and an output of 24V DC rated at 10A or 20A. Ruggedised with a conformal coated PCB the CPxx.241-R2-C1 versions are ideal for installation in harsh environments. The power supply is suitable for use in battery or other DC power systems and the CPxx.241-R2 models have an enhanced input range of 88 to 360VDC.

20th March 2020

A successful journey through Industry 4.0

Productivity levels across the UK have long been a source of debate. However, the

20th March 2020

Super-yachts turn to industrial SCADA for reliability, safety and passenger comfort systems

Modern luxury yachts are fitted with a huge number of electrical systems and Italian company Uniproget is using Progea’s Movicon industrial automation technology to integrate them into one simple-to-use system. Natalie Turner, Sales Director at Progea’s UK distributor Products4Automation (P4A), looks at how personal comfort and safety is ensured in a demanding luxury living environment.

27th February 2020

2-pole safety relay with power contacts on NO and NC side for increased flexibility

With a height of only 7.8mm and reflow soldering capability, SFM 2-pole safety relay from Panasonic provides great design possibilities and is ready for future production processes. With forcibly guided contacts according to EN61810-3, the SFM offers power contacts on both NO (6A) and NC (4A) side to control loads like valves directly without another relay in between. Contrarywise, the silver alloy contacts can handle low level loads down to 10V 1mA as well to support the likes of signalling boards in the railway sector. Other features include shock resistance greater than 20g.

20th February 2020

Rod latch system simplifies multi-point locking

The new Dirak rod latch kit from FDB Panel Fittings makes short work of installing a multi-point rod lock door closing mechanism, together with a standard quarter-turn latch, offering 2 or 3 point gasket pull-down for medium to large enclosure doors. The simple clip-and-cam fit operation suits dual round or flat rods mounted within the gasket sealed area – or externally. The rod latch mechanism offers a high level of closing convenience and strength in just one closing process. A full complement of quarter-turns, rods, rod guides and cams are available with a grounding nut to ensure earth continuity through the mechanism and door.

20th February 2020