VFD manufacturer drives ahead!

Invertek Drives is expanding following significant growth in global sales.said the investment will create an expansion to its global variable frequency drive (VFD) manufacturing and distribution centre, along with the development of a new Application Centre.

It will create 85 new jobs over the next 12 months on top of the 280 people already employed at the global HQ in Mid Wales and follows a major recruitment drive over the past year in both its production and research and development departments.

The company designs and manufacturers VFDs used for the accurate control of electric motors used in many applications and industries globally. These range from conveyors to CNC machines, HVAC and ventilation systems, to water pumping applications The VFDs are also major contributors to creating energy savings and reducing associated CO2 emissions in processes by making electric motors more efficient, cutting energy use by between 30% and 50% in many cases. They control the speed of motors, pumps and fans, ensuring they operate at optimum speeds. They control the speed of motors, pumps and fans, ensuring they operate at optimum speeds.

Shaun Dean, CEO of Invertek Drives, and who is also Senior Vice President of Sumitomo Heavy Industries and CEO of Power Transmission and Controls Group (EMEIA Business HQ), said: “We’ve seen significant growth in sales and turnover over the past 18 months despite the global pandemic.

“Invertek’s approach to maintaining strategic stock of components has ensured we’ve been able to continue manufacturing our Optidrive range of VFDs despite the global supply chain problems currently facing many manufacturers.

“We continues to commit to investing heavily in the innovation, development and manufacturing of VFD technology. The expanded manufacturing facility will allow us to increase production from 350,000 units a year to 600,000.

“This is part of our drive to create the leading next generation VFD technology that will help to further reduce energy use and associated CO2 emissions globally.

We will add three new production lines each consisting of six Global Assembly Cells (GACS) allowing the increase in production."

Around eight billion electric motors consume nearly 50 per cent of the electricity produced in Europe. Globally, 40 per cent of electricity is used to power industry, with two-thirds of this used by electric motors. And yet less than 20 per cent of electric motors are controlled by VFDs.

@Invertek_Drives #Wales #Pauto #HVAC

Air quality sensor.

The SGP41 VOC+NOx sensor for indoor air quality applications is supplied by Sensirion. The sensor is designed as a digital smart switch and regulation unit for air treatment devices such as air purifiers.

“This sensor platform enables the simultaneous measurement of both volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, and therefore responds to the growing awareness of the importance of good indoor air quality and the stricter requirements for these applications. With the SGP41, Sensirion aims to further improve indoor air quality and help to protect our health and well-being,” says Dr. Oliver Martin, their Product Manager for Gas Sensors.

 Good air quality is an important component of a healthy indoor environment because indoor air pollution can have harmful impacts on our health. There are many potential and common dangers found in indoor air, such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are typically found in building materials, furniture and cleaning products, among others, and are emitted by humans, and NOx (nitrogen oxides), which are a by-product of combustion. Exposure to these pollutants can be limited by ensuring that enclosed spaces have sufficient ventilation. In addition, air treatment devices are used to eliminate harmful gases in indoor environments and thus avoid unhealthy situations. Equipped with Sensirion’s new SGP41, air purifiers become smart by reliably monitoring VOCs and NOx at all times and removing these gas emissions automatically when the appropriate filters are installed.

The VOC+NOx sensor offers a solution for two complete sensors on a single chip, facilitating design-in and cutting design costs. By relying on Sensirion’s proven MOXSens® Technology, the sensor’s unmatched robustness against contamination by siloxanes results in outstanding long-term stability in terms of sensitivity and response time. The two sensor signals processed by Sensirion’s powerful Gas Index Algorithm can be used directly to automatically trigger the removal of indoor air gas pollutants by air treatment devices without the need for user-device interaction. This sensor solution is thus well-suited to the constant monitoring of VOC and NOx levels, including potentially harmful events that are imperceptible to humans. Furthermore, automatic control of air treatment devices based on the SGP41’s signals helps to save energy by turning them off once the VOC and/or NOx events have received attention. 

#Sensirion #Pauto #HVAC #Environment 

Systems for long-range methane detection system.

System yields faster analysis and repair of oil and gas operations to reduce the accidental leakage of methane.

FPGA cards are to be supplied into a basin-wide methane scanning and monitoring system by Abaco Systems. The system yields faster analysis and repair of oil and gas operations to reduce the accidental leakage of methane, which accounts for about 10% of US greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The initial win of $350K has a large prospective upside through ongoing development.

Pete Thompson, vice president of product management for Abaco Systems, said, “Abaco’s commitment to innovation is clearly evidenced in the design and ongoing use of our FMC104 and FMC108 for research into eye-safe, long-path laser systems and now long-distance gas detection systems. We are thrilled to be a part of research paving the way with groundbreaking technologies that change the future of emissions mitigation efforts.”

The continuous monitoring system employs centralized eye-safe laser beams spanning regions measuring multiple square miles to quickly detect, locate, and size methane leaks in a dense infrastructure. What began in a university research lab later expanded into an ongoing commercial product that shifts the industry paradigm away from on-site time-intensive monitoring of oil wells and natural gas production facilities. Instead of waiting weeks for data to be received and interpreted, action can be taken much faster, reducing emissions, and lowering costs. Abaco’s expertise in RF and FPGA design, innovative space-saving heatsink design, and longstanding relationship with the academic institution led to selection of the company’s FMC104 and FMC108 FPGA mezzanine cards for this system.

Both the FMC104 four-channel FPGA mezzanine card and the FMC108 eight-channel FPGA mezzanine card are fully compliant with the VITA 57.1-2008 standard. These cards allow for flexible sampling frequency control, analog input gain, and offset correction through serial communication with a carrier card. Equipped with power supply and temperature monitoring, they offer several power-down modes to switch off unused functions. Used in this application as digitizers, these cards bring proven technologies capable of low-cost continuous monitoring for fast methane leak detection and repair. Their inventive heat dissipation design allowed for a less constrained environment and decreased overall costs by eliminating the need for additional heatsinks.

@AbacoSys @AMETEKInc #PAuto #Oil

Leading in DCS.

Global market leadership of ABB in Distributed Control Systems confirmed for 22nd consecutive year

Since its introduction more than four decades ago, the distributed control system (DCS) – a digital platform for automated control and operation of plants and processes – has been at the core of process and energy industries. As the digital transformation of industry accelerates, the DCS continues to be key to ensuring safe, efficient and reliable operations, enabling the collection and analytics of valuable data for realtime insights.

Ability™ System 800xA

“ABB leads the field in DCS thanks to its domain knowledge in multiple industries, extensive service network, a continued investment in developing technology, loyal customers and digital solutions that meet rapidly changing customer requirements,” said Bernhard Eschermann, Chief Technology Officer, ABB Process Automation. “Much of our development is focused on advancing technology such as modular automation, select I/O and secure Edge integrated solutions which address new process and business challenges while protecting investments. We believe these type of solutions to be some of the catalysts needed for the successful implementation of industrial IoT and agile navigation within Industry 4.0.”

Recognized as one of the industry’s most authoritative sources, the DCS market analysis and forecast report by ARC Advisory Group has been published annually for the past 40 years, with ABB consistently in the lead for more than half that time. The report lists the top DCS players, providing an overview of key trends, the progress of the DCS over the past year within regional and industry contexts, potential market impacts and the expected DCS trajectory over a five year period.

“Our industry-leading technology integrates the automation of the power and process side of operations – two traditionally separate domains,” said Peter Terwiesch, President, ABB Process Automation. “The industries that we serve require reliable power, while working on improving the sustainability of their operations. Integration of power and process automation enables a higher share of inherently more volatile renewable sources in their energy mix – without compromising reliability.”

The recent launch of the latest version of ABB Ability™ System 800xA represents an evolution for automated control and plant operations of tomorrow. It is a process control system, an electrical control system and a safety system and a collaboration enabler, allowing further improvement of engineering efficiency, operator performance and asset utilization. In addition, ABB Ability™ Symphony Plus, is an industry leading DCS in the power, water and waste water markets and ABB’s Freelance offering is a DCS tailor-made for hybrid markets.

ARC’s report also highlights ABB Ability™, ABB’s unified, cross-industry portfolio of digital solutions, which includes more than 170 Industrial Internet solutions and an Industrial Internet technology platform and cloud infrastructure. Drawing on insights across over 20 industries and more than 40 years of experience in digital technology, ABB Ability™ helps customers to develop new processes and advance existing ones by providing insights and optimizing planning and controls for real-time operations. These insights can then be fed into control systems like ABB Ability™ System 800xA and ABB Ability™ Symphony Plus to improve key performance metrics of plants and assets. With an installed base of 35,000 DCS systems across more than 100 countries ABB is a trusted leader in creating digital solutions for customers in the industrial space.

@abb_automation @ABBgroupnews @arc_advisory #PAuto

Acquisition consolidates service to wind power generation.

Transaction expands capabilities within the wind power generation market

Emerson has acquired Mita-Teknik in an all-cash transaction. Founded in 1969, Mita-Teknik is a leader in the control automation business for wind power generation, equipping wind turbines and wind farms with technologies for optimal performance and unsurpassed reliability. This acquisition is highly complementary to Emerson’s existing control system portfolio and supports the company’s ability to help customers in their quest to digitally transform operations and meet sustainability goals. 

“We are proud to be joining Emerson, a company with global reach and a proven track record of success in delivering sustainable solutions,” said Jesper Andersen, chairman of the Board of Mita-Teknik. “We are excited to pair our wind energy market presence with Emerson’s reputation and reach to expand our ability to serve customers in the global, emerging retrofit market.”

Mita-Teknik’s proprietary controls manage wind turbine operation to maximise energy production, while its control software optimises wind farm output to provide the lowest-cost source of energy. In addition to their full portfolio of OEM technologies, it serves the fast-growing aftermarket segment by offering cost-competitive retrofit solutions that extend turbine operational life and increase annual energy production.

Mita-Teknik has a meaningful presence in the growing wind energy industry, with expertise in control design of over 400 wind turbine models and an installed base of more than 60,000 systems worldwide. The acquisition expands Emerson’s renewable power generation automation solutions to the wind power market and enhances its ability to provide more value to global power customers.

“Digitalisation is critical for the renewable industry sector as power generators increasingly seek improved visibility and maintainability of their systems,” said Mark Bulanda, executive president of Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “Our world-class power generation capabilities, now amplified by Mita-Teknik’s renewable expertise and technologies, will help power customers accelerate their digital transformation journey to smarter, more sustainable operations.”

“Mita-Teknik advances Emerson’s environmental sustainability framework – furthering our greening by initiatives – by supporting our customers’ transitions toward lower carbon using Emerson’s advanced products, expertise and solutions,” said Mike Train, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer for Emerson.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @MitaTeknik @GWECGlobalWind @HHC_Lewis #Sustainability #Power #PAuto 

Boosting servo drive adoption.

Delta has launched the new compact and high-efficiency servo system ASDA-B3 Series, which offers a user-friendly operation environment with precise motion control functions, a newly- added safe torque off (STO) function, high responsiveness up to 3.1kHz and high positioning precision with over 16.7 million pulses per revolution to optimize production efficiency and output value in a wide range of applications, such as machine tools, electronics, semiconductors, industrial robots, printing, packaging, textiles, warehousing, and medical.

Concurrently they have also launched the new generation motor of ECM-B3 Series, offering improved power density, stability, and stiffness while reducing 40% space requirements. Nevertheless, torque has increased 350% and the maximum speed is now 6000 rpm. With the new ASDASoft GUI, the time of commissioning and troubleshooting is shorter.

“Customers across a broad range of manufacturing and industrial automation applications are going to be really excited about our new generation of servo drives,” said Davide Bagnacani, product manager, Industrial Automation Business Group at Delta Electronics EMEA region. “The ASDA-B3 Series is a big step up in performance and we think this will make it attractive for applications, such as machine tools, electronics, semiconductors, industrial robots, printing, packaging, textiles, and warehousing. Moreover, applications that might not have used a servo drive before will see a noticeable increase in throughput. This drive is going to make the decision to use a servo motor much easier.”

Among the many performance highlights of the new 230VAC ECM-B3 motor from Delta is an auto tuning feature that ensures optimized operation without the need for manual adjustments.

Responsiveness has been bumped up to 3.1 kHz from the 1 kHz of the preceding model. Delta has programmed new motor control algorithms and increased the computing power of the drive to achieve this superior result.

A 40% reduction in settling time also contributes to improved production line productivity. Load tolerances have increased, allowing for better control resolution and system stability as well as higher response bandwidth for the same load conditions.

Further contributing to efficiency are the low cogging torque, increased speed, and lower acceleration and deceleration times. As with the previous line of Delta servo drives, customers can choose from motors with varying inertia ranges to achieve the most efficient inertia ratio.

The new drive enables a number of motion functions, for instance in PR mode. Operators can use up to 99 PR paths for flexible motion command planning. The Capture feature makes it possible to capture coordinates instantly from a single set of digital inputs.

Safety features include built-in STO with no additional module required (B3A family), reaching a safety integrity level of 2 (SIL-2) and performance level D (PL-D). The ASDA-B3 Series can also operate using several different control modes from traditional pulse train and analog input to the more current fieldbus systems including CANopen and EtherCAT. These different control modes were achieved with three different hardware designs to ensure good segmentation and achieve cost efficiency for the respective application. The EtherCAT command frequency has been raised to 125 µs / 8kHz for greater accuracy.

Positioning is now several orders of magnitude more precise thanks to the 24-bit encoder, which results in 16,777,216 pulses per turn and 46,603 pulses for a single degree. This absolute encoder also retains the motor’s position when the power is off.

The new configuration application ASDA-Soft employs wizards to guide users through a fast and easy setup procedure. Onboard diagnostics features and usability have been improved with a new and intuitive layout.

The new servo drives of ASDA-B3 Series are compatible with the existing motors of ASDA-A2 Series and ASDA-A3 Series. Configurations are available with IP20 connectors and IP65 connectors are in planning.

@mepaxIntPR #deltaww #PAuto #EMEA

Efficient PSUs for medical & industrial applications.

The GB130Q family of highly efficient, 130W quad output power supplies in a 3" X 5" Open frame form factor is now available from SL Power Electronics. Rich in features and developed specifically for next-generation applications the screw-less design with no topside heatsink allows for a more automated assembly, increasing system reliability and reducing system costs.

The GB130Q carries dual safety certification complying to both Medical (IEC/UL60601-1, 3rd Edition) and Industrial/ITE (IEC/UL62368) safety standards within the same unit. This notable attribute of the GB130Q family of products simplifies sourcing requirements and when paired with a design optimised for seamless integration, the GB130Q stands out as the ultimate solution for virtually any application.

It is constructed with the highest quality components, such as long-life electrolytic capacitors and the power supply design ensures that these components are not pushed to their maximum output ratings. For example, the long-life electrolytic capacitors operate below their threshold and ESR ratings in extending the life of the end equipment and minimising field service needs.

The power supply is also available with a cover, GB130Q-C, and both versions have a wide range of output combinations, a 5V standby output, remote inhibit via contact closure and power fail/DC OK signal. Meeting Class B conduced and radiated EMI with a high degree of margin simplifies system design by reducing/eliminating the need for external filtering.

Gary Baker, UK Country Manager for SL Power, comments, "Medical technology continues to evolve and make ever greater demands from power supplies. Our GB130Q series offers an extended feature set, class leading efficiency and the flexibility to meet a very wide range of applications."

@SLPowerSupplies @proactivefleet #Industrial #Medical

A first in LAN modules.

Mass production of the 10GbE moduleis expected is anticipated this month to meet the growing demand for innovative high-speed LAN solutions.

Innodisk has announced its all-new EGPL-T101 M.2 2280 10GbE LAN module, the first 10GbE LAN designed in M.2 form factor, features flexible integration and excellent compatibility with existing network infrastructure for crucial backward compatibility

Looking into the booming markets and scenarios ranging from surveillance to gaming, networking, and industrial uses, the growing demand for high-speed LAN solutions is promising. Additionally, interference issues are also occurring more often as the size of the PCIe form factor cannot fit in the smaller design of IPC platforms nowadays. Being the leading global provider of industrial embedded flash and memory, the company is introducing the first M.2 10GbE LAN module designed to meet the demand for increased speed and reduced size, high-speed LAN solutions.

The EGPL-T101 is the first M.2 2280-to-single 10GbE Base-T Ethernet module which is also the smallest 10GbE expansion solution available today and ten times faster than standard Ethernet. By supporting PCI Express Gen 3x2, the EGPL-T101 module can provide sufficient bandwidth for one 10GbE LAN port suitable for server and industrial applications’ high-speed network demands.

As an Innodisk high-speed LAN solution, EGPL-T101 boasts flexible integration. Its standard RJ45 LAN port on a tiny daughterboard provides an easy solution for upgrading to a 10GbE network using existing Cat6/6A copper cables. The EGPL-T101 also features excellent compatibility with its six network standards supported in 10/5/2.5/1Gbps and 100/10Mbps, providing excellent backward compatibility with existing network infrastructure. Lastly, the EGPL-T101 features high-performance computing (HPC) which is ten times faster than the widely used Gigabit Ethernet with low power consumption. EGPL-T101 is suitable for various high-speed scenarios, including:

• Machine vision in industrial applications
• High throughput network data transmission
• High-resolution imaging for surveillance
• Low-latency for gaming

@Innodisk_Corp @mepaxIntPR #Communications

Positive Displacement flow.

A new study, The World Market for Positive Displacement Flowmeters, 3rd Edition, is now shipping from Flow Research. This is the most comprehensive study they have ever done on the positive displacement (PD) flowmeter market. 

The study includes a complete treatment of PD flowmeters by type, including oval gear, rotary, gear, helical, nutating disc, piston, diaphragm, and spur gear. They have taken unprecedented steps in analyzing these different PD meters, not only describing each principle of operation, but also including illustrations that show how each one works. Most importantly, the study includes dollars and units sold for each PD flowmeter type worldwide and by region. This means that those in the PD flowmeter market, or competing against positive displacement flowmeters, will find vital information in this study

The new Positive Displacement study comes at a special time for the PD flowmeter market. PD suppliers suffered along with other flowmeter suppliers through the pandemic. Now with the pent-up demand for refined fuels requiring more flow measurement, positive displacement suppliers are in a position to benefit from the growing economy. 

In conducting this study all known suppliers of positive displacement flowmeters worldwide have been contacted. Many of these companies have cooperated in providing data and illustrations for this important study. Besides market size and forecasts, the study features growth factors, company profiles, product analyses, market shares, and much more.

In order to provide an accurate perspective on the 2020 market, data on the PD markets in both 2019 and 2020 was collected. "The year of the pandemic, 2020, was a year like no other, and making this the base year would not provide a frame of reference for what came before or for what is happening now. Thus, this study has two base years, 2019 and 2020, with forecasts through 2024. This captures the effect of the pandemic, the resulting recovery based on pent-up demand, and the brighter future that lies ahead," said Flow Research's Jesse Yoder.

While the positive displacement flowmeter market was affected by the pandemic, these meters excel in downstream applications, and are less impacted by upstream changes in oil and gas production. As a result, the PD market is in a position to recover more quickly from the 2020 downturn as demand ramped up more quickly than supply in 2021. The crude oil inventories built up in 2020 have declined, helping push crude oil prices to over $70 and at times over $80 per barrel.

@flowresearch #Pauto #Oil 

Sustainability and Smart Home awards.

Schneider Electric has announced four CES 2022 Innovation Awards across the Sustainability and Smart Home categories. Their Wiser Energy Center, anchored by the Square D™ Energy Center in the US, has been named Honoree in Sustainability and Smart Home Categories

The Wiser Energy Center helps homes contribute to today’s global sustainability goals and was named a CES 2022 Innovation Awards winner in both the Sustainability and Smart Home categories. The Wiser Energy Center is pioneering in the field of smart home sustainability. Less than 10% of homeowners believe their home is a major contributor to climate change, while research from the UN Environment Program confirms that Households consume 29% of global energy and contribute to 21% of resultant CO2 emissions.

YiFu Qi, Executive Vice-President, Home and Distribution Division, Schneider Electric, says: "CES is a place where innovation is recognized and we have the opportunity to push not only our industries, but society forward. We’re thrilled to receive four CES 2022 Innovation Awards in the two categories representing who we are today and our future. From the ability to put control into the hands of homeowners globally with the Wiser Energy Center to the incredible ingenuity of the Merten Ocean Plastic and Odace Sustainable, we are making sustainability a reality for people around the world and living up to our vision of making homes smart and sustainable.”

This new generation of home electrical panel controls the energy needs of connected devices from one place. And with the help of AI-enabled algorithms, it transforms homes from smart to smart and sustainable. By combining the power of the Wiser Energy Center and Wiser software, consumers gain full control over how energy is produced, stored and distributed in the home. It optimizes the allocation of energy, and can also detect renewable energy sources, switching to use these at the most optimal time of the day.

Merten Ocean Plastic Named Honoree in Sustainability Category
Merten is a market leader in the field of electrical innovation and design. With the launch of the ocean plastic model and collaboration with DSM, Schneider Electric is shaping the future of sustainability by being the first in the market to offer home electrical solutions made from recycled ocean plastics.

According to the United Nations, more than 8 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean, harming marine wildlife, fisheries and causing irreversible damage to ecosystems. Abandoned fishing nets are a significant part of this problem, accounting for 10% of all plastic waste found in the sea. The Merten ocean plastic helps combat this issue and promotes a circular economy by repurposing collected nets and giving them a new life.

Odace Sustainable Smart Switches & Plugs are a Sustainability Category Honoree
The new Odace Sustainable collection from Schneider Electric is a collection of stylish, smart switch and plug solutions for the home. Created from recycled materials collected from electrical drop-off centers and super-markets, waste plastics enter a circular economy loop using a waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) recycling system, transforming discarded materials into new products.

With Odace Sustainable, consumers help to eliminate single-use plastic and give waste plastic a second life. Made from almost 100% recycled sources, this new product from Schneider Electric marks a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions and landfill waste.

• Schneider Electric’s Home of the Future exhibition, featuring each of the sustainability-focused innovations may be seen at CES 2022, Hall C, Booth 53214 (5/8 Jan 2022 Las Vegas NV USA).

@SchneiderNA @CES #SmartHome #Sustainability

Smart thermal imager.

AMETEK Land has added to its temperature measurement solutions with the launch of a new smart thermal imager.

The LWIR-640 long-wavelength thermal imager provides continuous and reliable temperature measurements in harsh industrial and environmental conditions. It delivers a full temperature measurement range of 0 to 1000 °C (32 to 1832 °F) in two ranges, as well as a choice of different optics and field of view (FOV) options.

The imager’s high pixel, thermal resolution provides advanced image quality, with unmatched homogeneity across the entire image. The LWIR-640, with its smart Industry 4.0 capabilities, bi-directional I/O-options, robust measurements, and thermographic imagery, is ideal for use in a range of applications, including automation, machine vision, and process control.

The LWIR-640 is particularly suited to field applications where fully autonomous operation of the camera is required, such as flare stacks or pilot flame detection in the petrochemical industry. It can also be used for hot-spot monitoring in storage, or in machine, plant and substation monitoring.

Through live streaming of temperature images at up to 60 frames per second, users will see the measurements and clear, detailed thermal profiles, allowing them to continuously control, document, and visualise the industrial process.

As the thermal imager is easily configured via the integrated webserver, with all smart-intelligent functions and I/O options, an on-site view of the image is possible without the need of an additional software. This provides easy camera access, control and setup, and enables the camera to be used autonomously or integrated into existing or new processes.

In process monitoring and control applications, the thermal imagers are easily integrated in new or existing process control systems, providing smart system solutions. Applications include mounting, coating, extrusion, die-casting, and heating – for control of electronic parts, batteries, and more.

The power over ethernet (PoE) GBit-Ethernet one-cable connection provides easy installation and maintenance, leading to Industry 4.0 opportunities, and integration into plant control systems and data managing systems.

In addition, an extensive range of accessories is available for the LWIR-640, including enclosures for cooling and protection, as well as mechanical and electrical accessories.

@landinst @codacomms #PAuto #Power

Powering intelligent water loss management.

ABB’s AquaMaster4 Mobile Comms flowmeter is the latest wireless solution for continuous flow measurement, the logging of accurate data and communication of information that is critical for today’s water management. Superior connectivity on 4G-LTE and NB-IoT networks enables the AquaMaster4 electromagnetic flowmeter to facilitate 60 percent lower power consumption, identifying leaks ten times faster than the market standard.

AquaMaster4 Mobile Comms with mobile phone

An estimated two-thirds of the world’s population will potentially face water shortages by 2025 (1). Yet every year, billions of liters of water are lost before ever reaching destinations. A detailed understanding of per capita demand, growth of demand and costly leakage can be achieved by accurate and timely flow data coming into and going out water operations.

As the world’s first electromagnetic flowmeter with bidirectional connectivity, AquaMaster4 Mobile Comms provides near-real time data used for intelligent water management. Operators can be hundreds of miles away and read values from the device remotely, giving them access to manage the device and their operations wherever they are located and at any time. Historical logged values of pressure, flowrate, alarms, battery life, and activity record can also be retrieved remotely.

The enhanced flowmeter is also unique in its ability to identify low-flow nighttime leaks that would otherwise be undetected. The superior accuracy and connectedness offers increased measurement and billing confidence.

By using high speed, low-cost mobile data accessible via an internal SIM card connected to a mobile network, the new AquaMaster4 Mobile Comms provides an adaptable and agile solution for deployment from virtually any location. Costs are further reduced by the flowmeter’s high battery life, which removes the need for cumbersome, costly cables and field visits.

The flowmeter also detects battery life and can be reconfigured to a suitable power mode. The device recovers itself by re-booting in case of faults and allows for task automations. It can also be renewable-powered, further extending its cost-cutting capabilities, all while the predictive maintenance schedule and enhanced diagnostics helps saves time and money.

In addition to the new connectivity of Mobile Comms, ABB’s AquaMaster4 was recently awarded a Solar Impulse Efficient Solution label for its high-tech response to the global need for water crisis mitigation and adaptation. The Solar Impulse label rewards profitable solutions that protect the environment, and AquaMaster4 has been attributed the label following an assessment based on verified standards which was performed by a panel of independent, external experts. AquaMaster4 joins the #1000solutions challenge initiative by the Solar Impulse Foundation which selects solutions that meet high standards in profitability and sustainability, presenting them to decision makers to fast-track their implementation.

@abb_automation @ABBelec #PAuto #Water

Solar installation troubleshooting.

The world’s first handheld tool which enables technicians to safely measure up to 1500 V in DC environments such as industrial solar farms.

Fluke is experiencing increasing demand for high-precision handheld devices which can measure photovoltaic (PV) systems in Britain. The number of solar installations there has doubled within the last year and is set to double again before 2030. Solar Energy UK, an established trade organisation, is working with 230 businesses across the solar and energy storage value chain to increase the country's solar storage capacity to 40 GW.

This dynamic growth is creating an ever-increasing demand for technicians who know how to troubleshoot PV systems efficiently and effectively. Clamp meters are often used in the installation and commissioning phase as well as when completing maintenance and troubleshooting.

The new-to-market Fluke 393 FC Clamp Meter is the world’s only CAT III 1500 V rated true-rms clamp meter which enables technicians to take measurements in DC environments, such as industrial solar farms. The tool was tailormade to test and measure solar PV applications with key functions including:

• an IP54 rating which is ideal for working outdoors on solar arrays and wind power systems
• DC power measurement with readings displayed in kVA
• an audio polarity indicator to prevent accidental miswiring
• Visual continuity turns provide a bright green light in the display to aid technicians working in dark and noisy environments
• Logging and reporting of test results via Fluke Connect software

Hans-Dieter Schuessele, Application & Technology Expert EMEA of Fluke says: “The transition to using renewable energy is accelerating and it’s critical that installers and maintenance staff have access to the right instruments to not only get solar farms online fast but can keep them working at peak performance. As the world’s first solar clamp meter to offer a CAT III rating at 1500 V, the Fluke 393 FC allows technicians to work safely while ensuring the use of solar energy has a bright future.”

As solar distribution systems and loads become larger and more complex, the implications for the safety of a technician become more important. It is critical for technicians to understand the level of protection built into a tool and how to use it when completing maintenance and troubleshooting. 

According to Fluke, troubleshooting a PV system typically focuses on four parts of the system: the PV panels, load, inverter and combiner boxes.

1. Troubleshooting PV panels
A technician should first check the output of the entire system at the metering system or inverter. Before commencing troubleshooting, also check and record the inverter’s input voltage and current level from the array.

The combiner box can be a great place to troubleshoot the system because the individual wires from the modules are brought back to it. Each module may have a fuse that should be checked with the Fluke 393 FC.

Wiring problems and loose connections may cause a module to produce a voltage that is too low. These can be traced out using the Fluke 393 FC to check wiring connections at the junction boxes.

The Fluke 393 FC provides an audio polarity warning when testing Voc. If the polarity is reversed, it may mean that other circuits in the combiner box are unintentionally connected in series, resulting in voltages over the maximum inverter input voltage.

2. Troubleshooting PV loads
Start by checking the load switches, fuses, and breakers with the Fluke 393 FC to see if the correct voltage is present at the load’s connection. Next, check the fuses and circuit breakers. Find and replace blown fuses or tripped breakers. If the load is a motor, an internal thermal breaker might be tripped or there might be an open winding in the motor. For testing purposes, plug in another load and see if it operates properly.

As with any electrical system, check for broken wires and any loose connections. Clean all dirty connections and replace all bad wiring. With the power off, check for and repair any ground faults. If any fuses blow or breakers trip again, there will be a short that will need to be located and repaired.

If the load still does not operate properly, use the Fluke 393 FC to check the system’s voltage at the load’s connection. The wire size may be too small and need to be increased. This will show up as a low voltage at the load and to resolve either reduce the load on the circuit or run a larger wire.

3. Troubleshooting PV inverters
The inverter converts DC from the PV system into AC power for building use. For troubleshooting the AC side, use the Fluke 393 FC to check the inverter’s output voltage and current levels. Many of these systems have a display that indicates current inverter and system performance. As the Fluke 393 FC produces a true-rms reading, you can use the voltage and current to measure and record the power output in kilowatt (kW). If possible, use the inverter display to show the current total energy in kilowatt hours (kWh) and compare it to the one recorded during the last inspection. When troubleshooting the DC side, use the Fluke 393 FC to check the DC power and save the reading to the Fluke Connect™ app on your phone.

If the inverter does not produce the right amount of power, there may be a blown fuse, tripped breaker or broken wires — all of which can easily checked with the Fluke 393 FC.

4. Troubleshooting Combiner Boxes
When troubleshooting combiner boxes, amperage measurements and calculations are crucial to establishing whether the PV arrays are operating correctly. Measuring current on individual arrays or combining current measurements will help determine if a module has malfunctioned.

The thinner jaw design of the Fluke 393 FC clamp meter ensures several conductors are used in the jaw for combined current measurements, even in tight or crowded spaces like inverter or combiner boxes.

@FlukeCorp @SolarEnergyUK_ @NapierPR #Energy #TandM 

Combustion optimization oxygen gas analyzer.

N.B.
This product is only available in the U.S.

A new, compact process, in-situ gas analyzer from Process Insights, measuring both combustibles (COe) and oxygen (O2), provides fast, optimal combustion control for many applications like refining and petrochemical, power, and steam generation, and in furnace and kilns.

Jim Belanger, VP Sales and Marketing - Americas, Process Insights said "Enabling engineers and plant operators to access these previously unachievable air levels is a significant benefit. Combined with improved sensors, superior design and better combustion performance, the COSA Xentaur O2CX gives our customers continuous, reliable gas measurements with greater accuracy and lower maintenance costs."

The COSA Xentaur O2CX allows the process to operate safely with a lower excess air ratio, which translates into higher fuel efficiencies. With greater accuracy and sensitivity below 10% O2, the O2CX doesn?t require dilution air, unlike others. Measuring combustible gas components, oxygen and COe, reliably minimizes safety issues. Measuring in-situ directly has many advantages and is ideal for process heaters, steam boilers, thermal oxidizers, and furnace optimization.

In addition, installation and service is easy, as the flow guidance tube design allows the sensors to be located near to the back of the transmitter, making for service and maintenance without the need to remove the entire assembly from the stack. The probe provides for both direct and continuous dual readings of oxygen and COe.

The COSA Xentaur O2CX is also versatile for various mounting requirements or difficult applications, including high temperature, dust, or hazardous installations.

@ProcessInsights @codacomms #Pauto #USA

Industrial digitalization agreement.

Seeq Corporation* has reached an agreement with Saudi Aramco to further expand its operational analytics strategy as part of the company’s ongoing Digital Transformation program.

The agreement will provide Saudi Aramco engineers and subject matter experts with Seeq’s self-service analytics, predictive modeling data analytics, and visualization tools.

Examples of how Seeq software can be used at Aramco include:

• Automating error detection in multi-phase measurements • Catalyst deactivation rate prediction • Coking prediction • Corrosion rate analysis • Automated monitoring of Oilfield Advanced Process Control • Fleet-wide asset monitoring • Operationalizing predictive analytics models for sustainability insights

“Seeq is empowering our engineers and subject matter experts with easy-to-use analytics tools to truly democratize data science. We see this as a key element for scaling operational analytics across the organization,” said Walid A. Al-Naeem, Manager of Process & Control Systems Department, Saudi Aramco.

“We are pleased to partner with Crucial Solutions & Services (CSS) to collaborate on Aramco’s industrial digitalization initiatives,” added Lisa Graham, CEO of Seeq. “We will do this by leveraging big data, machine learning, and computer science innovations.”

“Seeq will help Saudi Aramco reach new levels of process efficiency, production optimization, and interdisciplinary collaboration,” comments Sulaiman Alzuhair, General Manager and Founder of CSS. “We look forward to working closely with Aramco and Seeq.” 

 * Seeq recently announced closure of a $50 million Series C funding round, led by global venture capital and private equity firm Insight Partners, including participation from existing investors Altira Group, Chevron Technology Ventures, Cisco Investments, and Aramco Ventures. The round brought Seeq’s total funding since inception in 2013 to approximately $115 million.

@SeeqCorporation @Aramco @mepaxIntPR #Pauto #Saudi_Arabia

Digitalization of process plants.

IO-Link is enjoying increasing popularity, with demand for the communications standard growing rapidly, especially in the food & beverage industry. The fieldbus-independent technology for point-to-point communication is easy to use and provides a cost-effective way to digitalize industrial plants. Endress+Hauser offers a wide range of IO-Link products for a large selection of process parameters.

IO-Link Endress+Hauser

IO-Link is regarded as an established standard for measurement devices with basic functionality, offering advantages such as data transparency and additional control through digital technology. Integrating IO-Link-capable sensors and actuators is especially popular with suppliers of machines or skids for the food & beverage industry. Particularly for utilities, devices with basic functionality are well suited; instruments with a rich set of different functionalities would unnecessarily increase complexity and costs.

Broad offering for the food & beverage industry
“No other manufacturer offers such a broad and deep range of products and services. Our comprehensive IO-Link portfolio clearly illustrates this position. As a strong partner for process automation, we support our customers with IO-Link sensors in numerous fields of application,” says Rob Sips, Strategic Account Manager for the Group’s international business.

Analog signals and digital communication
The majority of the IO-Link sensors can be optionally operated in analog mode (4–20mA) with simple configuration changes to the instrument, thus allowing production workflows to remain in place. If extra information such as diagnostic and service data is required, in addition to the actual process parameters, an installed IO-Link-capable instrument can be simply switched to a digital signal.

A simple avenue towards Industry 4.0

Oliver Hansert

“Although IO-Link is not the most powerful communications standard for process engineering, the technology is cost-effective and harbors tremendous potential for the digitalization of process plants,” says Oliver Hansert from Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions. Endress+Hauser instruments with IO-Link interfaces support the acyclic transmission of helpful metadata to ensure stable and efficient production. Furthermore, the smart sensor profile is designed for simple engineering, which reduces the effort required by plant operators to integrate sensors into their systems.

New additions to the IO-Link portfolio
Endress+Hauser offers a comprehensive product portfolio of IO-Link-capable instruments for all relevant process parameters. The company recently introduced the Smartec CLD18 compact conductivity sensor, IO-Link versions of the PMP51, PMP55 and PMC51 pressure transmitters, and the Deltapilot FMB50 level transmitter. With these new additions to the IO-Link portfolio, customers can exploit the benefits of digitalization in a cost-efficient manner.

@Endress_US @Endress_Hauser @Endress_UK #Pauto #IO-Link

Miniaturized CO2 sensor.

Sensirion has launched a new product in its SCD4x miniaturized CO2 sensor series. The SCD42 has been designed for products that fall under California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24), and is therefore perfectly suited for US HVAC applications. The sensor is now available worldwide through their distribution network.

"Smart building ventilation systems leverage a CO2 sensor to optimize indoor air quality while keeping energy consumption at a minimum. Thanks to its compact size and easy assembly, the SCD42 lowers the hurdle for integrating a CO2 sensor into ventilation systems. I am excited that the SCD42 will help boost people's well-being and reduce our buildings' carbon footprint," says Marco Gysel, CO2 Sensors Product Manager at Sensirion.

High levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) compromise humans' cognitive performance and well-being. Thanks to new energy standards and better insulation, houses have become increasingly energy efficient. However, CO2 produced by human metabolism can accumulate rapidly indoors. Therefore, CO2 is a key indicator for indoor air quality. Measuring indoor CO2 concentration enables smart ventilation systems to regulate ventilation in the most energy-efficient and people-friendly way. Moreover, indoor air quality monitors and other connected devices can help to maintain a low CO2 concentration for a healthy, productive environment.

The SCD42 is Sensirion's newest addition to the SCD4x product line. Specifically designed for products that fall under California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24), the SCD42 offers unmatched cost effectiveness for the US HVAC market. This disruptive innovation is based on the principle of photoacoustic sensing and combines minimum size with maximum performance to open up numerous new possibilities for integration and application. The SCD42 offers an accuracy of ±75 ppm at 400-1000 ppm. SMD compatibility and its small footprint allow cost-effective and space-saving integration to increase device manufacturer's freedom of design. This integrated, best-in-class humidity and temperature sensor enables superior on-chip signal compensation and additional RH and T outputs. Finally, the large supply voltage range (2.4-5.5 V) and the robust resistance to external stresses make the SCD42 the perfect fit for all kinds of customer needs.

#Sensirion #Pauto #HVAC

Gas sensor manufacturer acquired by global instrument company.

Alphasense, the English gas sensor manufacturer, has been acquired by AMETEK the well known group specialising in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices.

Founded in 1996 and celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Alphasense will continue to operate from the company’s head office and manufacturing facility in Braintree, Essex (GB). Alphasense’s product range and day-to-day operations will remain unchanged, with Erik Boergesen from AMETEK MOCON joining the company in the coming weeks to oversee the transition period alongside Alphasense Interim CEO Peter Saxton*.

“This is a significant moment in the history of Alphasense,” said Peter Saxton. “AMETEK’s operational style and growth strategy will create new opportunities for us over the coming years to build customer relationships around the world and develop our product range across existing and new markets. On behalf of the Gotley family, I extend my sincere thanks to colleagues past and present for their contribution to Alphasense.”

AMETEK consists of two operating groups: Electronic Instruments and Electromechanical. The company employs people at numerous manufacturing, sales and service locations in the United States and in many other countries around the world.

Despite the new interest and opportunities generated by the acquisition, Erik Boergesen believes Alphasense’s existing strengths will still be the key to achieving future growth. “With the business recently turning 25 years old, we’re at a pivotal point where investment, insight and expertise from a company with AMETEK’s pedigree can help us push forward to reach new heights,” he said. “Having said that, we still remain fully focused on delivering excellent product performance and outstanding customer service in our pursuit of this future growth.”

* See "Twenty five years in sensors" (20/10/2021)

@AMETEKInc @_Enviro_News #AlphaSense #PAuto #Environment

Pressure sensor module.

The model MTF-1 pressure sensor module from WIKA is a simple and flexible option for integrating pressure measurement into a wide variety of applications.

The pressure value is digitally processed in the module and output as a standardised digital or analogue signal. Thus, the MTF-1 module delivers precise data for applications with pressures of up to 1,000 bar. The compact module can be easily adapted to the requirements of the respective application thanks to individual configuration of the process connection and electrical connection. Adjustment of the output signal is carried out by WIKA at the factory, meaning time and cost expenditure for calibration during integration is eliminated.

The model MTF-1 pressure sensor module is designed for energy-saving operation. The digital I2C signal transmits data extremely efficiently thanks to low basic energy consumption and fast switch-on times. The energy-efficient sleep mode further reduces energy consumption. This makes the module particularly suitable for battery-operated solutions, ensures long cycles between battery changes and thus reduces maintenance costs.

• WIKA products are marketed by Instrument Technology.

@WIKANews #PAuto 

Cloud library launched.

The OPC Foundation has announced the launch of the globally available UA Cloud Library co-developed with the Clean Energy and Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CESMII). With its multi-cloud architecture, the UA Cloud Library saw contributions from all major cloud vendors leveraging open interfaces and is available for sharing, finding, and collaborating on OPC UA Information Models. The Library already contains over 65 OPC UA Information Models created by individual companies as well as international standards organizations like AutoID, DEXPI, MDIS, MTConnect, and over 30 VDMA working groups as part of their OPC UA Companion Specification work.

"The UA Cloud Library is the missing link that makes OPC UA information models available in the cloud on a global scale without requiring a connection to physical machines," said Erich Barnstedt, Chief Architect Standards & Consortia, Microsoft Corporation, and chair of the UA Cloud Library working group. "It enables OPC UA Information Models – used as blueprints for industrial digital twins - to be looked up and matched against time-series machine telemetry data provided by cloud-based analytics software, which is a common requirement in Industrial IoT projects."

The UA Cloud Library offers two standout benefits:

1. OPC UA information model access for applications
2. Ease of use of the entire OPC UA Companion Specification collection for end-users in general

While shop floor (OT) components routinely discover and use data structures and services of other OPC UA components, direct access to such semantic information has not been readily available to cloud-based applications due to security considerations. The UA Cloud Library eliminates this gap by providing IT and cloud-based applications access to semantic information directly from the cloud instead of manually getting it from the OT systems.

"It was an honor to partner with the OPC Foundation in this strategic initiative," said John Dyck, CEO of CESMII. "The UA Cloud Library is truly an important step on the journey to Smart Manufacturing Interoperability and will pave the way for dramatic simplification and cost savings for manufacturing systems!"

Stefan Hoppe, President and Executive Director of the OPC Foundation, said, "The value of what the OPC Foundation and CESMII joint working group created cannot be overstated because it equips us with the mechanism needed to facilitate access to all known OPC UA information models via an open, global, single-source of truth.

"Beyond the value the UA Cloud Library brings to applications, it will help with global OPC UA information model coordination and harmonization efforts by making it easy to search and cross-reference the latest OPC UA companion specifications in real-time. Finally, the UA Cloud Library will serve a crucial infrastructure role in Smart Manufacturing initiatives that depend on interoperability."

@OPCFoundation @CESMII_SM #PAuto #Communications

Safe differential pressure measurement.

The new model DPT-20 differential pressure transmitter from WIKA is suitable for many industrial processes. As a SIL-2 certified instrument, it meets the highest safety requirements.

The transmitter, with its compact design, operates with an accuracy of > ±0.065 % of span. Due to a three-dimensional temperature compensation on adjustment, it provides a reliable measuring result, even under unfavourable ambient conditions. The DPT-20 is available with measuring ranges between -10 ... +10 mbar and -16 ... +16 bar and is designed for a static pressure of up to 400 bar. Its turndown function enables very flexible use and thus economical stock-holding.

For the DPT-20, there are three communication protocols available for integration into existing systems. The differential pressure transmitter can be parameterised in two ways: via process control using DTM or EDD and configuration software, or directly on the instrument via an optional digital display.

@WIKANews #PAuto

Helping accelerate the drive to vehicle electrification.

Support for the automotive industry's changing needs as it transforms from the internal combustion engine (ICE) towards electrification is an important part of Festo's expertise and resources. From its comprehensive product portfolio, Festo offers coordinated solutions for the robust, safe and precise gripping and transport of battery cells, along with many years of experience to help optimise machine safety and energy efficiency.

Producing battery modules is a complex process that involves assembling costly and potentially dangerous electrochemical elements. Their production poses new challenges to the industry: for example, it is essential to avoid damaging the battery cells during handling. In the last two years, Festo has invested heavily to cover all the requirements for EV production. Festo's research and participation in joint research projects, which focus on the handling process for producing solid-state Li-ion battery cells or recycling batteries, also contribute to their development.

"We are already engaged with and supporting a range of gigafactory investments and subsequent projects for EV production, battery research and related infrastructure," says Pete Rogers, National Team Manager for Automotive at Festo GB. "Our specialist industry team is on hand to support the automation needs of this fast-growing sector."

Festo offers many products and solutions for manufacturing machines and systems along the entire production process chain, including copper-, zinc- and nickel-free products and dry- and clean-room compatible products. Festo's energy-efficient piezo valves and servo press, for example, are already driving equipment for producing wound battery cells. Using high-quality products pays off in this application because the batteries are costly and gigafactories run at high cycle rates, so maximising uptime is paramount.

Production facilities for batteries and EVs are currently being planned and built worldwide at short notice and high speed. The ability to train and on-board large numbers of employees very quickly is crucial. Festo Didactic offers industry-specific training concepts: from the Festo Learning Experience Platform for self-study to hands-on training.

Dr Ansgar Kriwet, Member of the Management Board for Sales: "In 2020, 70% of Festo's top projects in the automotive industry involved investments for electromobility." Over the next few years, Festo expects significant double-digit percentage growth in this segment.

@FestoIE_NIE @festo_global @Publitek #Automotive #Transport

Full version of innovative cloud software.

The free version of eManage allowed users to upload, share and manage EPLAN Platform projects in the cloud environment. EPLAN is now presenting the full version of the software, which offers considerably more added value: master data can be accessed in the cloud as can supplementary documents, and performance is increased with additional capacity. Collaboration is at the heart of the application, which networks OEMs, system integrators, machine builders and operators.

The full version of eManage has been available since the release of the new EPLAN Platform 2022 in September. The fee-based expansion stage of this innovative cloud software enables the first steps towards roundtrip-enabled engineering in automation.

Full information throughout the entire project

Claas Schreibmüller

As of yet, if a project is shared in the cloud, the schemat-ics are visible, but not all the accompanying documenta-tion. The full version of EPLAN eManage offers added value in this area. Project stakeholders are provided access to all data and documentation relevant to the project, including bills of materials as well as neutral documents in Excel. These become interchangeable with a uniform foundation of data. EPLAN Head of Engineering Solutions Claas Schreibmüller explains: “The complete overview of customer requirements and project require-ments provides more transparency for all stakeholders involved in developing a machine or plant system.” Appropriate rights management ensures that data access can be precisely regulated.

Master data available everywhere
Many people work from home these days and this is where users often bump up against system limits: while they may be able to access a project, they often cannot access the corresponding master data that is specified as a standard throughout a company for design projects. EPLAN eManage now offers the exchange of system-relevant master data that can be easily retrieved and, as necessary, taken along according to the “pack & go” principle. Project managers can thus very easily make master data centrally available. Putting it all in a nutshell, Schreibmüller says: “Wherever the user works, all relevant master data can be accessed and don’t have to be laboriously copied.”

Backward compatibility ensures access to projects
Version requirements in supplier specifications or calls for proposals often mean project partners are faced with the challenge of using several different versions of EPLAN software. With the new version of eManage, projects from the EPLAN Platform 2022 can, as an example, be saved to be backwards compatible for e.g. Version 2.9. This eliminates the need to maintain multiple versions of the EPLAN software without violating contract terms and ends up simplifying the entire workflow in the supplier environment.

More storage for optimal performance
With the free version of eManage, users so far have had access to 10 gigabytes of storage capacity in the EPLAN Cloud. With the full version, this capacity increases by an additional 10 gigabytes for each “seat” in the company, and this increased storage space is available to everyone. There is also another benefit that pays off for companies with increased performance: the additional cloud storage is an active collaboration environment and not just purely storage capacity. This also ensures optimal conditions for global collaboration across national borders. Users of EPLAN software who use the Conversion Package as part of changing over to a subscription automatically receive access to the full version of eManage.

@EPLAN_global @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Cloud

Bucking delivery trend for pyrometers.

High-performance infrared temperature measurement systems with a low, consistent, and reliable lead time are offered by AMETEK Land.

David Primhak, Director of Development and Product Management at AMETEK Land advises: “We constantly review and assess our supply chain to maintain best-in-class lead times – a crucial benefit to customers in these challenging times. Our extensive, reliable network, plus our enviable position as part of a global organisation, ensures we can obtain the critical raw materials so that the SPOT thermometer is not subject to the significant supply chain delays affecting competitor products. Our rapid delivery of just four weeks for the SPOT is supported by superior customer service, helping our customers to avoid unnecessary downtime, maintenance or delays to their industrial processes.”

Thus as industries are facing significant delays in the supply chain, AMETEK Land is bucking this trend and maintaining its excellent delivery times, particularly with the SPOT high-performance pyrometers.

Designed to meet process challenges for industries including power generation, metals, glass, and industrial processing, the SPOT family includes specific solutions developed for aluminium and galvanised steel applications.

Simple to install, position, and operate, the SPOT pyrometers are available in a variety of operating wavelengths, temperature ranges, and process requirements, suitable for an extensive range of industries and applications.

Combining powerful processing, communications, and control functions with AMETEK Land’s world-leading infrared temperature measurement technology, these pyrometers deliver accurate single-spot results to optimise application processes.

SPOT pyrometers provide a rich stream of accurate, repeatable, real-time temperature data, delivered locally via the unit or remotely with SPOT software, helping users to maintain high product quality and protect against costly process inefficiencies.

Compact and robust, the SPOT family covers temperatures from 0-2600 °C (32-4700 °F), requires no separate processor, and is ready for Industry 4.0 integration.

@landinst @codacomms #Pauto

Robotics lock the door!

METAL LS is a Bulgarian manufacturer of door locking systems, door and window handles and building hardware. They started planning the new automated assembly of door locks in 2019. The robotic systems that the company already used for other applications were too large for the planned production site, so the new solutions needed to be as compact and precise as possible, in addition to being state of the art. 

Door and security locks are precision parts with standard dimensions and components stipulated in DIN standards. Therefore, quality and precision were especially important deciding factors for METAL LS. In addition, the robots needed to achieve high productivity, assembling between 10 and 14 locks per minute. The company also needed a high level of flexibility from the solution and the possibility of retooling so that they could reuse the same system to produce different types of lock in the future.

Following a comparison of various manufacturers and products, METAL LS opted for a robot system from Delta. It was the only manufacturer to offer a complete solution including programmable logic controllers (PLC), a human-machine interface (HMI), servo systems and robotic arms with Machine Vision.

Jason Wu, Field Application Engineer at Industrial Automation Business Group, Delta Electronics EMEA region, is very happy with the successful collaboration: “With our broad portfolio of IA products, we are able to offer our customers powerful full-range solutions from a single source. Our teams of experts will support clients in implementing the specific project requirements, no matter whether the clients are in the food, drinks, packaging, electronics or automotive industry.”

For implementation of this project, METAL LS and Delta collaborated to develop a custom workstation for assembly of the mechanical door lock components. The main part of the system comprises a rotation table, on which seven six-axis DRV90L7 articulated robots are installed. The robots are capable of extremely precise, quick movements and feature a hollow wrist that allows them to be easily combined with the correct tool for each production step. The DOP-115MX HMI is used to visualise all processes and enables the user to select various receipts for different locks via a touch screen. It also displays system information and alerts or alarms. The AS300-series (AS324MT-A) PLC monitors the assembly line, controls the ASDA B2 servo drive and communicates with the servo drive on the rotating platform. Two DMV2000 Machine Vision image processing systems equipped with cameras are installed to localise components on the conveyor and send accurate signals to the robot allowing it to pick up and assemble the parts. The AC servo system comprising ASDA-A2 and ASDA-B2 drives as well as ECMA motors ensure that the robot arms are positioned precisely and that high productivity can be maintained.

A few adjustments to the parameter settings were sufficient to quickly overcome initial communication problems between the PLC, robot and the Machine Vision system. The careful preparation and system configuration carried out by the Delta team also ensured that all of the Delta industrial automation (IA) products were soon integrated into the production processes.

All stakeholders are extremely happy with the progress made in the project. Alongside the quality of the compact robotic system, METAL LS is particularly happy with the sound advice and customer service it has received from Delta. With many different production sites and teams throughout Europe, Delta is able to provide all of its customers with the support they need, when they need it. The project was kicked off when the Field Application Engineering (FAE) team arrived on site to support construction of the assembly system together with Mechatronics, Delta’s Bulgarian partner. The assembly system is still undergoing tests, but initial results are already showing improved productivity and performance.

@DeltaEMEA @mepaxIntPR #Robotics #Manufacturing