Friday, 4 April 2025

Sensors for hygiene-sensitive production and demanding industrial cleaning processes.

Two new sensors from Leuze are being launched in stainless-steel housings: Series 33C in hygienic design and Series 35C in robust wash-down design. They are suitable for hygiene-sensitive production and packaging processes.

Hygiene-sensitive production and packaging processes place high requirements on sensor technology. Devices must be robust, reliable and approved for direct food contact. With two new sensor series from Leuze in stainless-steel housings, manufacturers can play it safe: Thanks to its smooth housing with no mounting holes, Series 33C is particularly suitable for applications in the food, beverage or pharmaceutical industry – even in production areas with unpackaged products. The 35C series is designed for robustness. It is ideal for high mechanical loads and intensive cleaning processes. The 35C series sensors are versatile can be used in the food industry as well as the automotive industry or machine tools.

Solutions for packaging processes.
The two series each include diffuse, through-beam and retro-reflective photoelectric sensors. The 33C and 35C series range also includes special solutions for packaging processes. These include retro-reflective photoelectric sensors for glass and PET detection, sensors with background suppression for detecting small objects, dynamic reference sensors, and powerful through-beam photoelectric sensors for penetrating through plastic films. The new 33C and 35C series’ small housing size complements the 53C and 55C series’ stainless-steel miniature sensors.

The requirements for sensors installed above open foodstuffs are very high. Only components authorized for contact with food may be used. The 35C series’ DRT35C dynamic reference diffuse sensor with its stainless-steel housing is the ideal choice for this. The sensor system does not need to be additionally enclosed.

The new 33C and 35C series offer sensors with Power PinPoint LED for the first time. This light technology means the sensors can be aligned and set up quickly and easily. This is achieved thanks to a bright, round and homogeneous light spot. The size, shape and homogeneity of the light spot remain constant throughout the entire working range. Laser or infrared devices can also be used as an alternative to the Power PinPoint LED.

Completely sealed.
In harsh environments it is often necessary to protect plastic bodied sensors with complex, specially manufactured and costly stainless-steel protective covers. Only then can they withstand the high-pressure cleaning regimes. This is not necessary with the 33C and 35C series’ stainless-steel sensors hence this reduces the system’s complexity, lowers installation time and thus reduces costs. The devices are designed for reliable operation in wet areas and during intensive cleaning processes and have Protection Classes such as IP67, IP68 and IP69K as well as ECOLAB, CleanProof+ and Diversey certifications

The 33C series’ PRK33C.PPTT3 retro-reflective photoelectric sensor is suitable for detecting transparent bottles in an aseptic filling line. The hygienic design avoids any residue buildup thanks to its particularly smooth housing with no fixing holes. The sensor is also attached gas-tight using a mounting spigot.

Another advantage: Both series are equipped with IO-Link interface. This enables quick and easy configuration of the devices as well as diagnostic data that can be used to plan predictive maintenance.


@LeuzeUK @LeuzeUSA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Wednesday, 2 April 2025

Circuit breakers.

Designed specifically for power distribution in NEC Class 2 circuits.

Two new versions of PULS PISA-M Electronic Circuit Breakers designed specifically for power distribution in NEC Class 2 circuits have been announced.

PISA-M enables the safe distribution of load current into four individual Class 2 circuits. This offers a cost-effective alternative to multiple individually approved NEC Class 2 power supplies, reducing acquisition costs, installation time and system approval. If more than four circuits are needed, multiple PISA-M modules can be connected to a power supply.

Two PISA-M variants with NEC Class 2 are available to suit individual system requirements:

  • PISA-M-4CL2 automatically adjusts the tripping currents depending on the required voltage. With an output current of 3.75 A per channel at 24 V (max. 92 W) and 4.85 A per channel at 12 V (max. 60 W), the maximum output power always remains within the safe range and just below the specified NEC Class 2 limits.
  • PISA-M-402 allows the distribution of a fixed low output current of 2 A per channel at 24 V (max. 48 W) and 12 V (max. 24 W). This module is therefore ideal for sensitive loads with low current requirements, such as sensors.

Both models feature automatic voltage detection, making them flexible and easy to integrate into 12 V or 24 V systems. All features have been integrated into a slim polycarbonate housing with a width of only 22.5 mm, making PISA-M the smallest electronic circuit breaker with four channels on the market. Thanks to its compact design, PISA-M fits into any system, saving valuable space in the control cabinet.


@PULSPowerSupply  @proactivefleet #PAuto

Electronic motor starter.

Revolutionising motor controls with smarter and safer starters. 

Rockwell Automation has launched the the M100 Electronic Motor Starter, enabling industrial organisations to simplify panel wiring and reduce component and engineering complexities with advanced functional safety solutions and more refined motor starting capabilities. 

Rockwell’s traditional motor starters lay a robust foundation for customizable motor control solutions including starting, stopping and protecting motors. Building on this legacy, the new M100 Electronic Motor Starter seamlessly integrates into intelligent motor control setups, boosting productivity and minimizing downtime. It serves as a cost-effective, space-efficient option, boasting an extensive range of features designed to improve performance across various applications. Notably, the M100 incorporates point-on-wave (POW) switching technology. 

The new M100 Electronic Motor Starter offers zero stacking with no derating up to 55C, providing flexibility in installation without compromising performance. Removable terminal blocks, available in both screw and push-in variants, add convenience and adaptability. The M100 also supports direct-on-line (DOL), reversing, and safety capabilities in the same form factor, showcasing its flexibility in various operational scenarios.  

"Our M100 Electronic Motor Starter represents a significant leap forward in motor starting technology and Rockwell’s motor control portfolio,” said Bill Meindl, business manager for industrial components, Rockwell Automation. “Its advanced features, including point-on-wave switching technology, significantly boosts productivity while minimizing valuable panel space, delivering a powerful solution that aligns with the evolving needs of the industry.” 

Embedded features such as electronic overload protection, phase loss detection, phase imbalance monitoring, and weld detection contribute to a comprehensive safety net, making the M100 an invaluable asset in critical operations. Additionally, with the growing importance of functional safety for end users, the M100 represents an expansion in the motor starting portfolio to now include SIL3 certified models, providing added peace of mind and compliance with high safety standards. 


@ROKAutomation @ROKAutoEMEA #PAuto

Tuesday, 1 April 2025

New ultra-sonic flowmeter.

Modular design provides versatility and precision for volumetric and mass flow measurement of gases and liquids.

The Flexim FLUXUS® / PIOX® 731 series from Emerson is a new range of non-intrusive, clamp-on, ultrasonic flow meters designed to offer greater flexibility, convenience and availability. The nine models in the 731 series feature high-performance volumetric and mass flow sensing technologies and a robust, functional design, providing accurate and reliable measurements for both liquids and gases, with no process media pressure limitations.

Process manufacturers often need to make permanent or temporary flow measurements in areas where penetration into the process media would be problematic because it would typically require a production interruption, along with high costs and downtime. Although some solutions are available, not many meet the performance requirements for a wide range of demanding industrial applications.

To address these and other issues, the Flexim 731 series provides non-intrusive volumetric or mass flow measurements with no process media pressure limitations, ensuring cost-effective operation and low ownership costs. Modular hardware enables the reduction of assembly time by 20% for faster delivery, and integration with most up-to-date software and hardware is straightforward.

The 731 series provides disturbance correction for enhanced accuracy in challenging conditions, such as disturbed flows. It also provides the Advanced Meter Verification feature to validate meter performance, Wet Gas Correction to ensure accurate gas stream measurements, and the Dynamic Gas Meter feature for precise mass and volume correction.

Various models are available to meet varying application requirements, including:

  • FLUXUS F/G731 GP – General Purpose: Provides flexibility for various applications, and it includes disturbance correction and the Dynamic Gas Meter.
  • FLUXUS H731 HPI: Ideal for pipelines and terminals, provides leak detection and integrity monitoring, along with mass flow and density measurements.
  • PIOX S731: Focused on chemical industries for measuring mass flow, concentration and density measurements.
  • FLUXUS F731 WD Water Flow Meter: Designed for the water and wastewater industries, with non-intrusive temperature measurement.
  • FLUXUS F731 TE: Suitable for energy management and building automation, with dual-channel thermal energy measurement.
  • FLUXUS G731 CA: For monitoring compressed air and technical gases in life sciences and manufacturing industries.
  • FLUXUS G731 ST-LT/HT: Measures low and high-temperature steam for industries such as food & beverage and power generation.

All models include an 84mm wide x 45mm high backlit display with 240 x128 pixel resolution for easy readability, synchronised channel averaging for precise gas measurements, and a wide power supply range of 0-240 volts AC +/-10% at 50-60 Hz or 11-32 volts DC. A USB-C port is provided as a servicing interface for programming and data extraction.

Meeting ATEx (Atmosphéres Explosibles), IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres), and EAC (Eurasian Conformity) standards, with FM (Factory Mutual) certification expected in April 2025, the Flexim 731 series is designed for global use and compliance.


@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto

Open for robotics.

Live demonstrations and insights on the latest advances in robotic and machine automation technologies.

ABB Robotics will be holding an Open Day at its Milton Keynes Customer Experience Centre (GB) on Thursday, 15th May, highlighting the benefits offered by the latest robotic and machine automation technologies. Featuring live demonstrations, interactive sessions and expert insights, the event will show how automation is opening possibilities for transformation and growth across industries in Britain and Ireland.

"With over four million robots currently in use, the world is seeing an acceleration in the adoption of robotic and machine automation technologies as businesses looks for ways to improve efficiency, flexibility, productivity, and sustainability.” said Alan Conn, Managing Director of ABB Robotics UK & Ireland. “Our Open Day will highlight how UK and Irish businesses can use ABB’s technologies to enhance their competitiveness. With a full range of products and software on show, including examples of our AI-enabled robots, the event will underline how our robots and machine automation solutions can boost productivity and open new pathways to becoming more sustainable."

The event will feature four dedicated zones. In the Digital Zone, visitors will experience demonstrations of RobotStudio® virtual robot programming tool, AR and VR viewers for factory floor visualization, and the OptiFact factory management tool for optimizing production operations.

The Cobot Zone will highlight the versatility and safety of ABB's cobots, including a live demonstration of a cobot-based pharmaceuticals cell. The zone will also feature ABB’s GoFa™ cobots for industrial applications, plus an insight into ABB’s Ecosystem Program, which provides easy access to approved third-party equipment and software.

The Industry Zone will present a range of robotic applications for various industries, with demonstrations of arc welding, machine tending, high-speed picking and packing, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated logistics handling. It will also cover the potential for improved productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in other sectors such as food and beverage, healthcare, and retail.

Finally, the Customer Service Zone will focus on how ABB supports customers through services including training courses, technical help and assistance and robot refurbishment services.

The event will also give attendees the opportunity to interact with ABB’s robotics and machine automation experts and learn how the technologies are addressing key trends such as smart factories that are shaping the future of manufacturing and industry.

Scan-book your place.


@ABBRobotics @ABBgroupnews @ABBMeasurement @abb_automation @NapierPR  #Robotics #PAuto #Britain #Ireland

Not an April's fool prank for components.

Innovative new loyalty program.

Anglia Plus is a customer loyalty scheme that offers extended payment terms and money back rewards for customers that place orders through Anglia Live, Anglia Components' ecommerce platform that is open to customers in throughout Europe offering a Free 1-2 day DDP delivery service. Anglia Live customers will automatically be enrolled in Anglia Plus and immediately receive 90-day payment terms for all qualifying orders.

Every time an Anglia Live order is placed, the total spend will accrue, at the end of each qualifying period an amount will be credited to the customer’s account based on the spend threshold reached. Three reward levels are offered: Silver – spend £5000 (€5975)in the qualifying period to earn £500 (€598); Gold – spend £10,000 (€11950) to earn £1000 (€11950; and Platinum – receive £2,500 (€2987) credit for spending £25,000 (€29870).

Steve Rawlins, CEO at Anglia explains: “We wanted to offer our loyal customers something of real, tangible benefit to them. We believe this scheme to be unique in the industry and is an example of how Anglia is trying to help customers during this challenging period. While other companies talk about service, we deliver. Launching on April 1st, we want to give customers something to smile about, along with the reassurance that this most definitely is not an April Fool’s prank!”

The loyalty scheme rewards accrue over a 12-month period, from April 1st to March 31st. The maximum credit that can be earned in any one period is £2,500 (€2987). Terms and conditions apply.


@angliaComponent @BWW_Comms #Electronics #PAuto

High-pressure relief valve.

The launch of a full-flow high-pressure relief valve (FHPRV) for the Danfoss H1B bent-axis motor has been announced. The FHPRV joins the counterbalance valve (CBV) in a portfolio of valves designed to enable the use of Danfoss high-power axial piston motors in open-circuit systems. The FHPRV enables machine designers to leverage the benefits of the H1B motor’s compact design and outstanding efficiency while also providing overpressure protection in high-power applications.

The FHPRV is a bolt-on valve that provides high-flow pressure relief at the motor, which is critical for motor protection in demanding applications. In the event of an extended overpressure situation, the valve enables the passage of up to 600 liters per minute of flow, depending on size, preventing damage to the motor and pump. The flow rate is among the highest available for this type of valve.

The compact solution offers full-flow relief functionality without a significant increase in motor size or circuit complexity. Other solutions, such as remote-mount manifolds, require more space and can increase cost and complexity.

Commonly used in closed-circuit propel applications, axial piston motors such as Danfoss H1 motors are also ideal for high-power open-circuit systems, including drilling functions, crushing and shredding functions, heavy-duty excavator attachments, and forestry applications.

“While typical open-circuit applications can make use of low-speed high-torque motors, higher pressure applications require higher power axial piston motors,” said Kenny Befus, High-Power Portfolio Manager, Hydrostatics division, Danfoss Power Solutions. “Danfoss H1 motors feature a delta pressure rating of up to 450 bar, 480 bar absolute, making them ideal for these scenarios. And now, with our full-flow high-pressure relief valve, we can provide a better match when it comes to power and pressure.”

The FHPRV can be stacked with other valves, such as the CBV, providing additional functionality based on application needs. It can also be used in closed-circuit applications.

The FHPRV is available in four configurations to suit the range of H1B motor displacements. DN19 works with the 60-cc motor, DN25 works with the 80-cc and 110-cc motors, DN32A works with the 160-cc motor, and DN32B works with the 210-cc and 250-cc motors.


@Danfoss @NapierPR  #Pauto