Monday, 31 March 2025

Ultra-slim and fanless PSU.

The Bicker Elektronik portfolio has been expanded with the new Cincon LFM550S AC/DC power supply series, offering 550 W of power in an ultra-slim 1-inch low-profile design. These power supplies, featuring a baseplate for fanless contact cooling, stand out with their wide operating temperature range of -40 to +80°C and high efficiency of up to 93%. Thanks to the universal AC input range of 85 to 264 VAC with active PFC and international safety approvals, the two models – LFM550S120C (12V) and LFM550S240C (24V) – can be used globally across a wide range of applications.

Product advantages
•550W AC/DC power supply series for industrial applications
•Robust and ultra-slim 1-inch housing (height: 25.4mm)
•Extremely wide operating temperature range: -40 to +80°C
•High efficiency of up to 93%
•Universal input voltage: 85-264VAC (active PFC)
•Regulated DC output voltage
•Fanless operation via contact cooling (baseplate)
•Safety tested according to IEC/EN/UL62368-1 Ed.3
•EMC tested according to EN55032 and CISPR/FCC Class B
•Designed according to IEC/EN60335-1
•Protection class I
•Operating altitude: up to 5000m
•Short-circuit, overvoltage, overcurrent, and overtemperature protection

Perfect for industrial applications in extreme conditions.
The LFM550S series is specifically designed for demanding industrial applications, offering an outstanding combination of performance, efficiency, and reliability. The partially encapsulated and robustly constructed power supplies are ideal for continuous 24/7 operation in an extended industrial temperature range of -40 to +80°C. Typical application areas include automation, robotics, industrial PCs (IPC), vision systems, kiosk, telecommunications, network installations, energy infrastructure, remotely operated vehicles, marine, and offshore applications.

International certifications and safety standards.
These compact switching power supplies have been tested and certified to the safety standard IEC/EN/UL62368-1 Ed.3 and conform to protection class I. The LFM550S series meets the highest electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements and is certified according to EN55032 and CISPR/FCC Class B. Additionally, these power supplies are designed in accordance with the household appliance safety standard IEC/EN60335-1. To ensure maximum operational safety and protect connected systems, the AC/DC power supplies feature continuous short-circuit protection as well as over-temperature, overcurrent, and overvoltage protection. The LFM550S series is rated for overvoltage categories (OVC) III (up to 2000m) and II (up to 5000m).

High-efficiency performance in an ultra-slim 1-Inch power supply design.
With 550 W of power and an ultra-slim 1-inch form factor, the LFM550S series delivers a powerful power supply solution with precisely regulated DC output voltage in a compact footprint. The partially encapsulated power supplies have compact dimensions of just 129.4 x 83.5 x 25.4 mm, making them ideal for applications with limited space and enclosed systems. The thermally optimised design with baseplate contact cooling enables fanless operation, which not only reduces noise levels but also extends the power supply’s lifespan, as no moving fan components can wear out. Efficient heat dissipation ensures consistently high performance and reliability over many years, even under extreme conditions.


@bicker_de @PresseBox #PSU #PAuto

Thursday, 27 March 2025

Predictive maintenance solutions resource.

Mouser Electronics has introduced its new Predictive Maintenance Solutions online resource, dedicated to providing leading-edge technology and information directly to engineers of all skill levels. The new site explores the opportunities and benefits of predictive maintenance, supporting readers through their design journey.

Although developing predictive models that are easy to integrate and customised to the specific needs of manufacturers demands considerable time and research, the efforts typically yield substantial cost savings and a marked improvement in productivity. Discover how it's transforming factory operations in this educational video.

To assist engineers with their designs, Mouser stocks "the industry's widest selection" of semiconductors and electronic components, including the following predictive maintenance solutions:

  • The WEIDOS MKR1010/ESP32 PLC controllers from Industrial Shields are designed for simple control and data storage applications in installations. They come in two main CPU variants, the MKR1010 and the ESP32, and feature 30-watt maximum power, 10% to 90% (non-condensation) operating humidity, and 24AWG to 14AWG wire connection cross-section AWG. The controllers are best suited for simple control and data storage applications in installations and other IoT solutions.
  • The TXN Series AC-DC industrial power supplies by TRACO Power offer three power levels of 50-, 75-, and 100-watts and are easy to install in any equipment. They are convection-cooled and feature an internal EMC filter, high IO isolation, and a wide temperature range. TXN power supplies are ideal for cost-effective applications and are suitable for various industrial applications, including industrial/automation and test and measurement industries.
  • The M5601 wireless pressure transducers from TE Connectivity are high-accuracy, 24-bit ADC digital output wireless sensors ideal for industrial and smart factory applications. These transducers are enclosed in stainless steel and PBT housing and eliminate hard wiring while providing remote process control and monitoring via Bluetooth® 4.2 wireless communication. The M5601 transducers are suitable for measuring liquid or gas pressure, even for difficult media such as contaminated steam, water, and mildly corrosive fluids.
  • The MS300 Compact Vector Control Drives from Delta Electronics support both IM and PM motor control for application flexibility and include a safe-torque-off (STO) safety mechanism. The compact systems have a communication card slot that fits various cards, a USB port, and PLC capacity for simple programming. It is ideal for machine tools, automatic tool changers (ATC), pumps, woodworking, packaging machines, and textile machines.


@MouserElecEU @Publitek #Electronics #PAuto

Leader in electronic components body.

The EMEA Distribution Sales Manager with the industrial division of Sensata Technologies, Pete Johnson, has accepted a seat on the Leadership Group of the Electronic Components Supply Network (ecsn). Sensata Technologies is a global supplier of high-performance sensors, electrical protection components and sensor-rich solutions,

Pete Johnson brings extensive commercial and technical experience in numerous market sectors including Aerospace, Automotive, Consumer, Industrial, Instrumentation, Marine, Motorsport, Rail, Renewables, Security & Transportation. He has built lasting relationships with customers in the OEM, ODM, CEM business channels, where his natural enthusiasm, determination and energy firmly established him as trusted partner.

Announcing the new appointment ecsn Chairman Adam Fletcher said that Johnson’s 42 years in the electronics industry, spanning sales, product/project management and marketing across multiple market sectors, would prove an invaluable asset to the association’s Leadership Group and via its members, to the entire ecsn membership.


@Sensata #ecsn #Electrical #Safety

Innovation and safety in batteries.

AMETEK Surface Vision is developing new partnerships with key battery industry organisations to help accelerate innovation and promote sustainable, cutting-edge solutions and business opportunities in electric battery technology globally.

As a leading provider of surface inspection systems for battery manufacturing, AMETEK Surface Vision is well-placed to join forces with major influencers including UPCELL Alliance and the Volta Foundation.

Jacqueline Peintinger, Product Marketing Manager said: “Joining Volta Foundation and UPCELL marks an important step in strengthening our commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration within the battery sector. These partnerships will enable us to actively contribute to industry discussions, stay at the forefront of emerging trends, and engage with key stakeholders to drive meaningful progress.”

UPCELL Alliance is a key European initiative bringing together industry leaders, research institutions, and governments to advance battery technology. AMETEK Surface Vision will work with the Alliance to accelerate innovation and strengthen Europe's position in the global battery market.

AMETEK Surface Vision has also joined the Volta Foundation. This partnership allows the company to collaborate with other industry leaders to drive innovation in battery technology. As surface inspection solutions including AMETEK SmartView and SmartAdvisor play a crucial role in ensuring battery quality and safety, which will contribute to the efforts of the Volta Foundation.


@surfacevision @codacomms #PAuto #Manufacturing

Wednesday, 26 March 2025

Circular connectors & sockets.

The brand-new range of Amphenol CONEC M8 circular connectors and sockets with rapid, safe and secure snap or screw/snap terminations is now available from Inalco Hunter.

In order to save time and provide ease of maintenance, the connectors can be quickly and easily plugged onto sockets, sensors and actuators without any further work or tools needed. Where installation space is tight, the snap connectors can be easily mounted using angled or straight cable outlets. The compact locking system is secure and complies with protection class IP67 with up to six poles. They are available in standardised codings of A and B for signal transmission.

The sockets are available in different configurations with up to eight poles. Variants are available for both front and rear panel mounting. In addition to the wire and solder pin straight termination types, the product range also includes sockets for SMT or THR soldering. Insulating bodies are available in 3-, 4-, 5- and 8-position. Four different housing types (2x front, 2x rear panel mounting) in various heights are offered.

Reliability and durability are provided by the gold-coated contacts, ensuring low contact resistance and a high number of mating cycles (in excess of 100). Customised variants are also available.

Inelco Hunter's in-depth engineering support ensures rapid implementation, speeding up the customer’s time-to-market. This added-value support is at the core of Inelco Hunter’s philosophy, and has been for over 30 years, setting them apart from the "stock and ship" distributors.


@InelcoHunter @amphenol #PAuto #Industry

Android operated touch display .

BASDISP-AND is 10.1’’ Industrial Touch Display with Android operating system from Contemporary Controls. It is designed to optimizse display graphics by webpage from BASpi-Edge, BASview3 or any other HTML-based controller (for example Innotech Omni, Trend IQX, Cylon, Distech, Tridium, CentraLine, iSMA, DEOS, EasyIO). It offers an option to install an application Kiosk Mode (“Kiosk Browser Lockdown” available in Google “Play Store”) which is a perfect solution to fine tune what your display’s end-users will be able to do. The whole setup can be done with just a couple of taps.

The browser lockdown solution is perfect to enhance your HMI security without worrying about users amending settings of your devices. It offers flexibility in connectivity via a RJ-45 port for Ethernet cable and Wi-Fi module for wireless connection. The Ethernet port further supports PoE+ making for a convenient option to power the display.

The 10-point capacitive touchscreen with a 16:10 aspect ratio and 1280x800 resolution allows for displaying graphics accurate and precise. Robust aluminium enclosure ensure comfort of use and long service life.

Various installation options are available: VESA compatibility and wall brackets (included) offer wall mounting of the display on any surface, snap-joint brackets (included) allow embedded mounting into the control cabinet.


@ccontrolsgmbh #PAuto #HMI

Differential pressure sensor.

Synetica has launched the enLink Status-DP. This next-generation LoRaWAN differential pressure sensor redefines industry standards with unmatched accuracy, flexible range, and advanced wireless capabilities. Specifically engineered for HVAC, air quality monitoring, and industrial applications, the enLink Status-DP integrates Superior Sensor Technology’s HV210 differential pressure sensor, setting a new benchmark for precision and performance.

“By harnessing the long-range, low-power wireless capabilities of LoRaWAN, enLink Status-DP revolutionizes differential pressure sensing, offering an unprecedented combination of accuracy, efficiency, and seamless cloud connectivity,” 
said Sean Williams, Director at Synetica. “This innovative solution allows businesses to leverage real-time monitoring and smart automation, significantly enhancing system performance and operational reliability.”
 
The LoRaWAN-powered enLink Status-DP is designed to provide long-range, low-power differential pressure monitoring, facilitating seamless real-time data transmission to the cloud over distances of up to 16km. This robust connectivity ensures comprehensive remote monitoring and analysis, equipping businesses with instant operational insights and proactive alerts to optimize system performance. Unlike traditional wired sensors, enLink Status-DP takes advantage of LoRaWAN’s ultra-low power consumption, allowing for extended battery life and minimal maintenance costs. This makes it an ideal choice for scalable, cost-effective deployments in areas where the need to monitor differential pressure is paramount, including hospital operating rooms, agri-tech facilities and laboratories, industry and pharmaceutical clean rooms, and fume hoods.

With the capability to measure differential pressure ranging from 25Pa to 5000Pa, a selectable bandwidth filter, and exceptional accuracy of 0.1% of the selected range, the enLink Status-DP features an advanced Multi-Range™ digital sensor that can automatically select up to seven calibrated pressure ranges. This adaptability removes the necessity for multiple sensor variants, simplifies integration, and reduces complexity for system installers and facility managers.

At the core of the enLink Status-DP is Superior Sensor Technology’s HV210 differential pressure sensor, a groundbreaking solution that seamlessly integrates amplification, ADC, DSP, and processor intelligence into the sensor. Its proprietary Multi-Range™ technology offers multiple selectable pressure ranges, ensuring exceptional versatility. Moreover, the HV210 sensor features advanced digital filtering and a built-in 50/60Hz notch filter for enhanced noise immunity and improved accuracy, catering to even the most demanding applications.



@SyneticaLimited @superior_sensor #HVAC #PAuto

Servo motors with smart feedback device.

New high-resolution encoder offers multi-turn absolute feedback at zero incremental cost.

The new SFD-M (Smart Feedback Device, Multi-Turn) has been introduced by Kollmorgen. It allows machine builders to achieve high-resolution multi-turn feedback with absolute positioning information available at system startup.


Designed to work with AKDTM and AKD2G drives, the SFD-M absolute multi-turn encoder can be integrated into Kollmorgen housed servo motors at no additional charge compared to the SFD-3 single-turn absolute encoder, providing multi-turn performance, four times greater positioning accuracy and fifty times lower EMF noise.

Comparable third-party encoders come with a premium price. With the SFD-M, customers can achieve substantial savings in machine designs that perform at the highest levels of precision, efficiency and effectiveness.

Absolute multi-turn positioning for precise, productive motion The SFD-M measures the position of the rotor shaft throughout each 360º rotation without requiring reference to a home position, and it registers the total number of rotations the shaft has made in either direction.

This absolute multi-turn positioning capability is ideal when precise tracking of position is required over large rotational distances, such as in machine tool positioning, packaging machines, material handling, satellite tracking and many other applications.

Additionally, the SFD-M maintains absolute positioning information in real time even when the system is powered down, eliminating the need for time-consuming homing sequences upon startup.

Energy-harvesting technology for battery-free operation.
Absolute multi-turn encoders from other providers often require a battery to retain positioning information when the system is powered down or during a power failure. These external batteries require replacement and can be subject to failure. Other alternatives use mechanical gear trains, which are noisy, backlash-prone and add size to the motor.

The new Kollmorgen SFD-M eliminates these issues, instead using energy-harvesting technology to reliably maintain positioning information with no need for batteries or gear trains. Battery-free operation eliminates maintenance issues while also supporting efforts to reduce the consumption of natural resources and minimize waste.

The SFD-M is highly accurate, offering these key specifications:

● Resolution

- 24 bits per revolution

- 16,777,216 counts per revolution

- 0.0772 arc-sec per count

● Multi-turn absolute range

- 16 bits = 65,536 motor revolutions

● Accuracy

- < +/– 1 arc-min typical at 25ºC

- < +/– 3 arc-min worst case

“Our new SFD-M encoder provides multi-turn absolute functionality with exceptional position accuracy and resolution at zero additional cost over Kollmorgen motors with single-turn encoders,” said Chris Cooper, Kollmorgen’s Senior Director of Global Product Management. “That’s a huge benefit for precision and productivity at a savings of hundreds of dollars per motor and potentially several thousand dollars in a complex, multi-axis machine. Single motor-to-drive cable technology with auto drive setup further lowers total costs. We are very proud to offer all of these benefits to our customers as an integral part of Kollmorgen’s industry-leading servo systems.”


@AboutKollmorgen @mepaxIntPR #PAuto  

Control system has increased operational agility.

Features support for PROFINET S2 devices, more flexible operator training functions and robust change management for human machine interfaces.

Emerson's DeltaV™ Automation Platform is being expanded with the DeltaV version 15 Feature Pack 3 update for its distributed control system. New capabilities in Feature Pack 3 help users improve the availability of Ethernet-based field device networks through PROFINET system redundancy. Feature pack enhancements improve users’ ability to track changes and produce validation reports for version control both internally and for regulating authorities. In addition, new simulation enhancements continue to improve training options to upskill workforces more easily.*

“DeltaV version 15 Feature Pack 3 delivers new functionality that helps modern process manufacturers meet current and future industry challenges,” said Claudio Fayad, vice president of technology for Emerson’s process systems and solutions business. “The regular feature pack cadence between major DeltaV releases continues to help users more quickly realize the project savings and operational efficiencies that come with new features for their control system software.”

The latest DeltaV release is a continuation of the evolution toward a software-defined automation system integrating proven technologies to deliver increased flexibility for adapting to an increasingly complex operating environment. With DeltaV version 15 Feature Pack 3, users now have access to the infrastructure for the highly anticipated IQ controller, a fault-tolerant, modular, software-defined controller deployed in a server-based environment performant for even the most demanding process control applications.

DeltaV PK Controller now supports S2 system redundancy for increased resilience during controller switchovers. Additionally, PK Controller’s support for PROFINET S2 devices can accommodate process changes more easily, empowering production personnel to deliver quality improvements and production increases.

Feature Pack 3 also adds version control for DeltaV Live, providing modern change management and audit trail solutions most relevant for DeltaV installations in highly regulated manufacturing segments such as the life sciences industry. Users can check graphics in and out for customization, intuitively analyse who made changes to graphics and other human machine interface elements and identify why changes were made. Additionally, version control reports can be customized and easily exported for audit documentation.

Enhancements to the DeltaV Simulate training and development suite in Feature Pack 3 improve virtual machine controller-based simulation capabilities for easy offline development and testing, as well as for effective operator training. With new “save and restore” snapshot functionality, instructors can enhance the training experience by showing operators how different choices impact operations.


*DeltaV version 15 Feature Pack 3 will be on display at Emerson Exchange 2025, being held May 19-22 in San Antonio, Texas USA.


@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto

Tuesday, 25 March 2025

High-voltage contactors for Europe.

Deliver safe and reliable switching performance of up to 1500VDC for fast charging and energy storage applications

TTI IP&E – Europe is now stocking the ECP series of high-voltage contactors from TE Connectivity, a world leader in connectors and sensors. The ECP150B, ECP250B, and ECP350B are hermetically sealed and allow bi-directional flow. The ECP series contactors come with a continuous current capacity of up to 500A and a maximum switch voltage of 1500VDC at 1000A in 30ms or less, meeting the safety robustness needs of high-voltage applications, including battery energy storage systems, solar inverters, and EV charging applications.

“The push for higher system voltages to improve power density and enhance efficiency while reducing installation costs continues,” says Dermot Byrne, Industry Marketing Director - Transportation at TTI Europe. “The ECP series contactors with high continuous current carrying capacity can be used in a wide range of applications where fast, safe, and reliable emergency disconnection of high DC voltages is required.”

With a compact form factor, measuring 104mm × 75mm × 108mm, and weighing approximately 1300g, these contactors are easy to handle and integrate into space-constrained designs. They feature a reliable dual coil design that automatically switches to 5W hold status after about 200ms energisation with 50W coil power, which minimises power consumption. The ECP series comes equipped with an auxiliary contact to monitor the power/main contact.

The enhanced insulation distance of the contactors fully meets the DC-1 utilisation category requirements in the UL/IEC60947-4-1 standard. All products within the ECP series are RoHS and ELV compliant with the EU Directives and come with UL, TUV, and CE certifications.


@ttiinc @TEConnectivity #PAuto #Manufacturing #Transport

BAC Certification secured.

The EnOcean SmartServer has been successfully certified by the BACnet Testing Laboratories (BTL). This milestone underscores the company´s commitment to delivering open, interoperable building automation solutions that meet global standards, expanding possibilities for customers worldwide.

BACnet certification verifies that SmartServer meets rigorous international standards for building automation and control networks. The certification ensures that the SmartServer offers customers several key benefits. It enables seamless integration with BACnet-certified devices, offering flexibility and eliminating reliance on proprietary systems. System integrators benefit from faster deployment into existing systems, reducing installation time and complexity. Long-term compatibility with BACnet’s global standard safeguards customer investments as the industry evolves. Independent testing has confirmed the reliability and compliance of SmartServer, minimizing implementation risks.

“The BACnet certification underscores our commitment to providing robust and future-proof solutions for building automation. Customers fully benefit from the SmartServer’s advanced capabilities with confidence in its interoperability and reliability,” emphasizes Rich Blomseth, Director of Product Management for EnOcean.

Technical excellence for seamless integration.
The SmartServer offers advanced features designed to simplify integration and enhance system performance. It provides multi-protocol support, including BACnet and LON for standard building automation networks, EnOcean for energy-harvesting wireless sensors and switches, Modbus for industrial control systems, and LoRaWAN for long-range IoT devices. With native support for EnOcean-based devices, SmartServer enables direct communication with battery-free sensors, ensuring seamless data collection and automation. In addition, the SmartServer enables universal data access. This allows users to consolidate data from multiple systems into a single management interface. Communication between different protocols is also possible and data formats can be standardized for seamless integration with analysis and optimization tools.

Versatile edge computing platform for building automation.
The BACnet certification strengthens the SmartServer as a versatile edge computing platform for building automation. EnOcean thus underscores it’s innovate strength and empowers building managers and system integrators to achieve seamless communication across diverse automation networks.

Bridging cloud intelligence and building automation.
The SmartServer plays a key role in reducing energy consumption. It connects cloud platforms like Undagrid and EnOcean Studio with existing building management systems. This bridge enables older properties to adopt modern building practices. By translating cloud insights into concrete actions, the SmartServer helps drive efficiency across HVAC and automation networks.


@EnOcean @BACnetIntl #Pauto #Environment #Standard

Contour measurement.

The new Leuze  ROD 300 series of laser scanners for accurate contour measurement and ROD 500 for precise AGV navigation have been introduced. These laser scanners in the ROD 300 series for contour measurement and the ROD 500 series as a high-resolution variant for navigation tasks are characterised by high scanning rates with simultaneously high angular resolution.

Whether on a conveyor or on an automated guided vehicle system: When sensors are used to detect contours, precision and attention to detail are what count. Leuze is launching two new laser scanner series that are perfectly suited for this. The devices of the ROD 300 series reliably detect contours even during fast production and logistics processes. Thanks to their high scanning rates and angular resolution, the laser scanners of the ROD 500 series are optimally suited for navigation tasks. Another advantage is the sensors' integrated window monitoring, which detects if the optics window becomes dirty. This enables predictive maintenance and contributes to high system availability.

With their high resolution of 0.025°, the laser scanners of the ROD 500 series can precisely determine the contour of parts, even with different surfaces (high-gloss or matt).  

Perfection in precision.
The devices of the ROD 300/500 series scan at a frequency of up to 80 Hz. This means that moving objects are reliably detected and the data quality remains optimal even at high speeds. With their high angular resolution of 0.025° at 10 Hz , the laser scanners of the ROD 500 series determine the contour of the parts even with high-gloss or matt surfaces. The new laser scanners can be integrated into almost all production processes. Their rugged design also contributes to this: protection class IP 67, high-quality aluminum base and the built-in laser diode make the ROD 300/500 laser scanners resistant to external influences. The sensors also work in temperature ranges from -30 °C to +60 °C. This makes them suitable for applications in both the deep-freeze sector and for high-temperature requirements, such as in battery production.

The laser scanners of the ROD 500 series can create a very precise map of the environment. In ongoing logistics operation, the ROD 500 is ideally suited for collision-free navigation of the FTS via natural navigation.

Natural Navigation made easy.
The new laser scanners can also be used for navigating driverless transport systems (DTS). They create a very precise map of the environment, such as the material storage area. In logistics applications, a scanner from the ROD 500 series enables collision-free AGV navigation via natural navigation. A further benefit from the compact design of the laser scanners, with dimensions of 80 x 80 x 80mm, is that the sensors can be integrated even into the small installation spaces of mobile vehicles.

If the integrated window monitoring detects that the window is dirty, it issues a maintenance notice. The warning threshold can be adjusted. This predictive maintenance contributes to high system availability.


@LeuzeUK @LeuzeUSA @mepaxIntPR #Manufacturing #Transport #Automation

Bus organisation directors.

The CAN in Automation (CiA) nonprofit association has re-elected its board of directors. 

Christian Schlegel (CHS Consulting), CiA Business Director, chairs the CiA Business Committee (BC), comprising five elected CiA members (Bosch, Emsa, ESD, Microcontrol, and Vector) and representatives of established CiA Marketing Groups. The BC proposes the annual budget and manages worldwide the CiA marketing activities.

Magnus-Maria Hell (Infineon), CiA Technical Director, leads the CiA Technical Committee (TC). Participants of the TC are five elected CiA members (Bosch, Emsa, ESD, Microcontrol, and Vector) and representatives of established CiA Interest Groups (IGs). This committee coordinates the development of CiA technical documents (specifications, guidelines, etc.).

Holger Zeltwanger is the re-elected CiA Managing Director, organizing the daily business of the nonprofit association promoting the internationally standardized CAN (Controller Area Network) serial communication system. This includes also CAN-based higher-layer protocols (HLP) such as CANopen, J1939, etc.

Magnus Hell, Christian Schlegel, Holger Zeltwanger

The CiA organisation comprises currently more than 700 members. The TC has established seven IGs: CANopen, CANopen FD, Profiles, Lower layers, J1939, Safety + security, and High availability. The IG “Ethernet on CAN” is in foundation. It is intended to specify the mapping of Ethernet frames to CAN frames. In the first step, a mapping to CAN FD frames is planned.

Additionally, CiA is establishing the Special Interest Group (SIG) “radar sensors”. It is planned to specify an application layer independent profile and the mapping to CANopen and J1939. Main use cases of these radar sensors are commercial road vehicles and off-highway as well as off-road vehicles. Automated-guided vehicles (AGV) und autonomous mobile robots (AMR) are other application options.


@CANopen #PAuto #Communcations

Data portal progress.

Data isn’t just the driver for project planning and design. The Eplan Data Portal offers users access to high-quality product catalogues from a continually growing pool of renowned component manufacturers. The portal has now passed the mark of more than two-million sets of static device data from around five hundred manufacturers! By using integrated configurators, users have far more than four million data sets at their fingertips. It’s a nearly limitless and ever-increasing variety of components that can quickly and easily be integrated into projects – and the data quality is naturally top notch.

Around five hundred manufacturers are represented in the Eplan Data Portal – and the numbers keep rising.

More than four million device data sets available means an enormous amount of variety for projects. However, it isn’t just the quantity, but rather the quality of the data. “Quantity and quality is something that goes hand in hand for us,” says Eplan Head of Content Quality Management Rainer Ackermann. “We have high expectations for the quality and completeness of the data sets so that we can offer our users the greatest possible added value. That’s also why we continue to work on the Eplan Data Standard, or EDS.” Manufacturers are also striving to meet these expectations of providing data sets that are as comprehensive as possible. This can include components for control cabinets, the 3D representation of a device, dimensions for drilling patterns, connection diagrams as well as commercial data, device numbers and text descriptions.

Siemens energy automation and building technology integrated.
Siemens has been represented in the Data Portal with energy automation and building automation products for many years. Now, protection and automation devices from the Siprotec 5 family have been added. Protection, automation, and monitoring of the power grid are essential for a resilient network. "We need a secure and reliable power supply to establish a sustainable infrastructure and achieve our net-zero goals," explains Stefan Werben, Portfolio Manager of Siprotec Medium Voltage Products at Siemens, adding: "We are pleased that we can now additionally support those customers who have chosen Eplan as their engineering platform to efficiently realize their projects in the construction, operation, and expansion of plants."

Sauter, a leading technology manufacturer in the field of building automation, system integration and building services, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, and Freiburg, Germany, recently added to the Eplan Data Portal their ecos504/505 range of products for integrated room automation. “The positive feedback from our customers as well as from within our own company has motivated us to provide even more device data in the Eplan Data Standard,” says Sauter Head of Marketing and Product Management Peter Schoenenberger.

Rittal has stored around 7,300 devices in the Portal

A majority of the device data stored in the portal – 1.4 of more than 2 million components – are already available in the Eplan Data Standard. The EDS increases and guarantees the quality of the data sets so that they can be used efficiently – ideally from engineering through to production. Rittal has around 7,300 devices stored in the Eplan Data Portal – around 5,600 of them in the Eplan Data Standard. These include control cabinets, control cabinet accessories, Blue e+ climate control devices and more. 

There are almost no limits globally speaking as well: If a device data set is created using ECLASS as a step file in an IEC format (the European standard), the Eplan software automatically also supports the NFPA device data set (the American standard). With this multi-standard support in one single data set, macros can also be saved in accordance with various standards that the Eplan Electric P8 software then recognises automatically. Furthermore, modifiable data from configurators and selectors of various manufacturers can also be used. These have linked their product catalogues directly with the Eplan Data Portal.

Development continues Less visible but at least as important is the continued development of the data quality in the Eplan Data Portal. This year the focus is on preassembled cables. To ensure that machine cabling works as efficiently as possible with the new Eplan Cable proD solution, 3D data for the connectors is also being successively introduced. Technically speaking, functional improvements are also on the horizon: The Eplan Data Portal will be able to be directly integrated into local device management with the upcoming release of the new Eplan Platform 2026. This will again even further simplify selecting components and accelerate project planning and design work.




@EPLAN_global @siemensindustry @Rittal @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Monday, 24 March 2025

Air leak detection.

New acoustic Imaging Camera helps professional inspectors locate smaller compressed air leaks faster and accurately.

The Si1-LD, an industrial acoustic imaging camera that brings faster and more accurate compressed air leak detection to those operating on a modest condition monitoring budget has been introduced by FLIR. The Si1-LD offers improved detection and quantification capabilities in comparison with the existing FLIR Si124-LD Plus, along with a higher upper limit frequency range.

Compressed air systems typically lose 25–30% of their air to leaks, resulting in proportionally higher energy bills, costly unplanned production stoppages, shorter compressor operating life, the need to purchase extra compressor capacity, and increased maintenance expenses for the additional equipment.

Leveraging the advantages of ultrasonic technology, the new FLIR Si1-LD pinpoints leaks with enhanced imaging sensitivity at an affordable price. It offers a number of stand-out capabilities and features:

  • An array of 96 microphones (2–100 kHz) facilitates the automatic detection, location, and measurement of compressed air and vacuum leaks from a safe distance of up to 130 m. Support comes from a 12 MP color camera with 8× digital zoom and LED lamp, facilitating the easy capture of visual details.
  • Bandpass filtering allows inspectors to effectively tune out any confusing and/or incorrect sources of ultrasound without manual tuning. Ideal for challenging leak detection applications where user input is advantageous, the inspector simply uses the bandpass filter to undertake manual tuning of the required frequency range and clearly displays the source of interest on very rare occasions when needed.
  • Single-handed operation of the lightweight, compact FLIR Si1-LD ultrasonic imager and industry-leading AI makes for an easy-to-use device with minimal training perfect for fast-paced inspections across large facilities.
  • The touch-screen interface displays high-resolution images for easy issue identification with real-time, on-device quantification in terms of leak volume flow rate and leak cost per year. Users can leverage this data to prioritize repairs. The data is also suitable for inclusion in sustainability reports as an indication of energy reduction initiatives.
  • Wireless data transfer ensures seamless reporting/analytics options, using either the online FLIR Acoustic Viewer or offline FLIR Thermal Studio effortless data backup and organizational team sharing, while also providing the backbone for Over The Air (OTA) firmware updates. The software gives users the ability to create reports through pre-built or fully customizable templates.

“Many manufacturing and process plants are seeing their energy bills creep up through leaky compressed air systems, increasing OPEX [operational expenditure] and eroding margins,” said Darrell Taylor, Global Acoustic Business Development Manager at FLIR. “If you want to find leaks quickly and easily with minimal technician training, our new Si1-LD industrial acoustic imaging camera provides a fast and precise solution that supports sustainable manufacturing. As well as reduced energy consumption, the new device helps you save on maintenance, repair, operation, and capital/OPEX costs all while enhancing worker safety. With its minimum detected leak rate [MDLR] of 0.01 L/min at 2.5 m, our Si1-LD offers the market’s best combination of performance and ease-of-use in its price point.”

The new acoustic imaging camera comes with two batteries, additional battery cover, battery charger, camera neck strap, hard case, USB memory stick, access to free versions of online & offline acoustic analysis and reporting software, and two-year warranty. A new accessory is the data transfer cable. This handy cable allows users to connect directly from the camera to a PC/laptop, supporting easy file access at organizations that forbid the use of WiFi and USB drives. Users can upload their acoustic images into FLIR Thermal Studio software or the FLIR Acoustic Viewer

Two versions of the Si1-LD are available, with and without WiFi. All other features are the same.


@flir  @mepaxIntPR #Pauto

Smart Safety Test saves time and promotes efficiency.

BASF’s largest new construction project in China, the Zhanjiang Verbund Site Project (ZVSP), requires high personnel and time expenditures for tests, especially Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), Integration Factory Acceptance Test (IFAT) and loop tests. To reduce these efforts, BASF has opted for the HIMA Smart Safety Test, integral part of SILworX®, HIMA’s engineering, diagnostics and test tool which enables a flexible, automated test concept over the entire life cycle of a safety system.

Peter Sieber, Vice President Strategic Marketing of HIMA Group remarked: “This project is an excellent example of how close collaboration between a user and a solution vendor can create added value at project implementation and operation. It is also a prove of HIMA’s commitment supporting clients in making the complexity of functional safety more handable.”

The FAT and IFAT for the first segments of the plant was carried out traditionally. After the manual execution, it became clear that a new way needed to be followed in order to meet the high-ranking project objectives and to increase efficiency. This, amongst other aspects is born by the complexity of the start and stop sequences to be tested. So, the decision was made to automate future tests with the HIMA Smart Safety Test. By doing so, fully testing of all static functions as well as the sequences got automatically tested and the test evidence got created and documented automatically.

Reflecting timelines and dimensions of this capital investment of BASF in China, new ways of implementing the safety functionalities where required to achieve the project objectives while maintaining plant safety of the highest level achievable. Based on a close collaboration between BASF and HIMA engineers a new concept for testing and verification of safety functions got implemented across the entire project.

The new solution leads to a time saving and cost reduction. In addition, the test quality and accuracy of individual tests could be optimized. Based on that a lot of small deficiencies could be found and cleaned up during the process, which resulted in a faster FAT and IFAT. Test reports that comply with the specifications, reducing a large amount of documentation – including the handling of manual test reports.

The BASF team was highly satisfied with the project quality and delivery speed, and both parties are currently exploring how to apply the smart safety test during the upcoming loop tests and automatic proof testing during the plant operations.


#HIMA #PAuto #Safety China

Friday, 21 March 2025

Supporting practical space projects.

The WOBBLE2 project* of the Berlin Experimental Astronautics Research Student e.V. (BEARS e.V.) is being supported by Sensirion with the high-precision SLF3S-4000B sensor. The dedicated team of students from the Technical University of Berlin has qualified for the 15th cycle of the REXUS/BEXUS program, which allows them to test their experiments on sounding rockets.

Innovative technology for space exploration.
The WOBBLE2 project (Weightless Observation of Behavior with Berlin Liquid Guidance Experiment 2) aims to test innovative tanks for satellites. At the heart of the experiment are Propellant Management Devices (PMD), which ensure that fuel is transported to the outlet in zero gravity. Using additive manufacturing techniques (metal 3D printing), the team is developing new PMD designs that optimally utilize the capabilities of this modern technology.

Precise measurements with the SLF3S-4000B Sensor.

Sensirion supports the WOBBLE2 project with the SLF3S-4000B sensors, which is used in the experiments to enable precise measurements of fluid behavior. This ensures that the team's experiments are conducted at the highest technological level and contributes to the advancement of space technology.

Successful training week in Sweden.
Six students from the team traveled to the ESA rocket base in Esrange, northern Sweden, in February 2024 to take the first step towards the rocket launch in March 2025. At temperatures of -30°C, they received valuable feedback from an expert panel and participated in an exciting program of lectures and tours. Over the course of the year, they have now completed further milestones and have been preparing for the launch in Sweden since Monday, 3 March 2025.


*WOBBLE2 is a project developed within BEARS e.V. The team consists of motivated students with diverse skills, ranging from electrical engineering to fluid simulation and is actively supported by staff from the Department of Astronautics at the TU Berlin. The REXUS/BEXUS program is conducted under a bilateral agreement between the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the Swedish National Space Agency (SNSA).

@sensirion  #Wobble #Space #Germany #Swedan #TandM

Reliable and inexpensive bellows couplings.

The KM Metal bellows coupling from Jakob Antriebstechnik, has proven itself on the market for decades as a reliable and inexpensive standard series of metal bellows couplings. Like all metal bellows couplings, it is rotationally rigid, but axial, angular and radial flexible. Despite the similarities, metal bellows couplings sometimes differ greatly from one another. The technical differences lie, for example, in the choice of bellows or the type of connection between bellows and hub or bellows and shaft.

Jakob only uses thin-walled, multi-layer bellows made from certified stainless steel sheets. This causes a high torsional spring stiffness. This ensures high positioning and concentricity accuracy even under difficult conditions, which guarantees absolutely backlash-free torque transmission between the input and output shaft. The multi-layer bellows design also ensures the ability to absorb large shaft displacements with nevertheless small restoring forces. This means a plus in terms of reliability, operational safety and service life.

The clamping hub of the KM is equipped with the innovative easy-clamp system, which allows it to be pushed on easily with sufficient clearance. The preload force required for torque transmission is ensured by a single, radially accessible screw per hub. This simple and reliable connection allows uncomplicated installation with just a few movements, even in cramped conditions. In order to achieve the lowest possible moment of inertia, the hubs are made of high-strength aluminum.

The bellows and hub are connected using the backlash-free flanged press-fit process. In contrast to glued joints, this joining method has unlimited fatigue strength under critical operating conditions (-40°C to +200°C, chemicals, etc.) and can safely introduce the transmission torque of each bellows layer into the hub.

Metal bellows couplings of the KM series are available with nominal torques from 0.4 to 1300Nm.


@PresseBox #jakobantriebstechnik #PAuto #Manufacturing

Minor investments in sensor quality protect major assets.

Sensor specification is an important consideration when choosing process monitoring and control equipment. However, in the following article, Juhani Lehto from Vaisala explains why the quality of a sensor can be difficult to determine from a spec sheet alone.

The cost of high-end sensors can be negligible in comparison with the processes and assets that they help to manage and protect. Process managers should therefore invest in measurement technologies that have been proven to deliver stable, accurate reliable measurements in the long-term.

Sensor selection.
The suitability of a sensor for a specific application can be determined by a quick examination of its datasheet. For example, the sensor will need to operate within a known range of temperature and pressure, it will provide an acceptable output signal and it will deliver measurements within a claimed level of accuracy and precision. However, there are several important factors to consider when choosing sensors. Beyond accuracy, these include stability, reliability, and any variance in performance due to process or environmental conditions.

Stability is perhaps the most important criterion because sensors must be accurate and reliable even in demanding environments, following installation and in the long-term. The specifications of different sensor suppliers may state similar accuracies, but this does not provide insights or verification of sensor accuracy after one year, or several years. All sensors drift, but some drift more than others, and some drift more quickly, while others have good stability with minimal drifting, maintaining measurement accuracy for years. Therefore, the stability of sensors should be the most important factor to consider because it influences performance and costs over a long time and is reflected in calibration and maintenance requirements.

Given the potential costs of long-term unreliability, it is important to consider the lifetime cost of sensors, and not just their purchase cost.

In addition to good stability, high-quality instruments are also easy to maintain, calibrate, adjust, and fine-tune, which lowers lifetime costs and is good news for operation and maintenance staff. Having convenient tools for verifying and maintaining the sensors and transmitters enhances reliability and provides peace of mind throughout the life of the instrumentation.

The cost of inaccuracy can be large.
Cooling represents a high proportion of the costs and carbon footprint of running a datacentre. Vaisala participated in a datacentre trial to simulate how much more energy would be used if there was just one-degree of temperature measurement error, causing excessive cooling. The results showed that this one-degree of error increased energy consumption by more than 8.5%. Given the size of modern datacentres and assuming the same deviation can take place over a decade, this seemingly tiny error translates into many millions of euros of extra costs, particularly if server uptime is affected.

Vaisala Echo measurement infrastructure brings enterprise muscle to SMEs Traditionally only large corporations have had the resources to build measurement infrastructures with advanced features such as remote monitoring, firmware updates and easy scalability. Vaisala Echo connects Vaisala measurement devices and monitoring software to create an intelligent measurement infrastructure, without the requirement, and cost, of developing a bespoke solution.

In practice, customers will not need to buy Echo separately, because it is a built-in feature for Echo-compatible Vaisala measurement products. Simple to set up and run, Echo provides reliable, always-on access to data and alerts from all compatible devices, with remote firmware updates for all connected devices.

A major benefit of Echo is easy access to comprehensive reporting – both current and historic. Echo reports current conditions in real-time and enables notifications/alerts, and all data is encrypted in transit and rest, and secured with digital certificates.

Case study: sausage casings.
A team of British process engineers has developed a technique for manufacturing collagen sausage casings which protects product quality and trebles output. The process relies on precise monitoring of temperature and humidity with Vaisala sensors, combined with multi-stage feedback control.

The manufacture of collagen sausage skins from animal hide is a good example of sustainable production because it recycles a waste product into a valuable commodity that helps to improve the quality and consistency of sausages. However, all sausage casings are delicate and require precise conditions and careful handling during manufacture, storage and distribution, and throughout the subsequent sausage manufacturing process.

Natural casings from the small intestine of meat animals tend to be variable in length, diameter and thickness, so they are not ideal for high-speed sausage manufacturing processes. In contrast, collagen casings offer reliable, consistent features, and are therefore ideal for fast, efficient processes. Also, collagen casings do not need to be stored in chilled conditions and have a longer shelf-life than traditional casings. However, sausage casings are delicate, so precise management of handling processes and environmental conditions is essential.

Collagen casings are ready to use straight out of the package, horn loading is quick and easy, and there is no requirement for soaking and untangling of bundles. In comparison with sausages in natural casings, there are no seasonal variations, and sausages manufactured in collagen casings offer improved cooking coverage which delivers a superior cooked appearance

Prior to the development of a new product handling system, the sausage skin manufacturer utilised a conveyorised flat sheet collagen dryer, but this created friction that could lead to ripping and product wastage. The process was slow and wasteful, so the engineers were challenged to develop a new, less damaging technique for drying and processing the extruded cylindrical collagen cases. A key feature of the new process would be to minimise friction and optimise both temperature and humidity, irrespective of the plant’s geographical location.

The new processing solution allows the casings to be inflated with hot, dehumidified process air provided by a silica-based desiccant rotor. New equipment was also developed for transporting the inflated gel using an innovative handling system.

HMT120
The new system employs three precision sensors. A Vaisala HMT120 humidity transmitter monitors environmental humidity, so that dry air can be recirculated when outside conditions are too humid. In addition, two Vaisala DMP5 dewpoint transmitters monitor process air to ensure that the collagen products are maintained in ideal conditions by a multi-stage feedback control system.

The HMT120 transmitter contains Vaisala’s HUMICAP® technology; a thin-film polymer-based capacitive humidity sensor, which delivers accuracy, reliability, long-term stability and is insensitive to condensation or contamination.

The DMP5 dewpoint transmitters incorporate the Vaisala DRYCAP® sensor, which is also designed for accuracy, reliability and stability. The sensor is condensation-resistant and is immune to contamination, however, the high level of performance delivered by this technology is based on a capacitive thin-film polymer sensor and an autocalibration function. The sensor also has a rapid response time and fast recovery after wetting.

Case study: baking ovens.
Climate change, environmental concerns and rising energy prices are driving demand for improved efficiency across all industries; not least in food production where processes involving baking ovens can run at temperatures of up to 325°C. Bühler’s latest indirect-fired convection ovens, therefore aim to increase efficiency in line with the company’s strategic commitment to help customers make substantial savings in energy, water, and product wastage.

By monitoring humidity levels accurately inside an oven, it is possible control the process to maintain a consistent baking profile, even with fluctuations in ambient conditions or ingredient quality. This enables a more consistent product in terms of spread, thickness, colouring, and other important indicators of quality. This improved consistency also helps to minimise wastage.

Ovens with built-in measurement technology enable process managers to control the humidity and temperature of their ovens more effectively, which can be particularly valuable for those producing multiple products with different baking profiles.

Summary.
The applications highlighted above demonstrate the critically important role of accurate stable measurements, which highlights the need to invest in proven, high-quality sensors, particularly when the costs of not doing so can be so great.

In datacentres accurate temperature measurement can save enormous energy costs, in baking ovens accurate sensors can improve product quality, save energy and reduce wastage, and in sausage skin manufacture accurate sensors save time, reduce waste and increase productivity three-fold.


@VaisalaGroup @_Enviro_News #PAuto #Manufacturing #Systems

Thursday, 20 March 2025

Camera family for cost-sensitive applications.

The new Tetra™ line scan camera family has been launched by Teledyne DALSA. Designed for a wide range of machine vision applications, Tetra leverages Teledyne’s latest multiline CMOS image sensor technology and builds on the success of the original Linea™* series of high-value line scan cameras.

The Tetra camera family is designed for cost-sensitive applications, offering a high performance-to-cost ratio through its 2.5 GigE Vision interface, which ensures highly reliability data transmission over long cable lengths. Available in 2k, 4k, and 8k resolutions with a line rate of up to 150 kHz, the camera comes in both monochrome and color versions, with power consumption under 6 watts. Monochrome models deliver excellent image quality with options for single monochrome or dual-line HDR mode, while the color models provide true red, green, and blue colors without any data interpolation.

Tetra includes essential line scan features such as multiple regions of interest, programmable coefficient sets, and power over internet. Its 2.5 GigE Vision interface makes it ideal for applications such as electronics inspection, optical sorting, printed materials inspection, packaging inspection, web inspection, and general machine vision.


*See: 16k TDI line scan camera. (18/9/2024) 

@TeledyneDALSA  #PAuto #Manufacturing


Robust connector system for demanding environments.

The LMR Series of rack and panel connectors from Weald Electronics provide a form, fit and function alternative to the ITW McMurdo Connectors RED Range which was made obsolete in 2024. Most residual stock of this widely used connector family has now been consumed but specialist connector distributor Lane Electronics is able to maintain supply to existing and new customers with a direct alternative from its sister company, Weald Electronics.

Matching the technical performance and dimensions of the RED Range, the Weald LMR series is a compact but heavy-duty rectangular rack and panel connector system that is designed to provide a drop-in replacement to the RED Range for Line Removable Units (LRUs) and is particularly suited for use in rugged conditions where reliability is essential, and space and accessibility are a premium.

The LMR range offers four connector sizes, providing 8, 16, 24 and 32 ways with low insertion force and polarised blind-mate moulded insulators. Each of the male and female halves of the connector system consists of a combined high-performance Diallyl-Phthalate (DAP) moulded insulator and stainless-steel mounting plate (the ITW McMurdo Connectors RED Range offered DAP and a lower temperature grade Nylon) fitted with gold plated low insertion force blade contacts rated for 500+ operations.

The insulator form has generous polarising and pre-mating features which engage before contacts touch that makes it ideally suited for inaccessible applications and the female half is fitted with floating mounting bushes to further enhance the self-aligning functionality. Contact rating is a high 5A continuous across all contacts simultaneously at 100°C and the complete connector assembly meets a climate category of 55/125/56 (-55°C to +125°C temperature range).

With high-quality materials and excellent current carrying characteristics the LMR range of connectors provide reliable connectivity for line-replaceable industrial electronics units such as industrial measurement and configurable automation and robotics. Main Features include:
• Rugged construction
• 180° polarised
• Floating bushes to assist alignment
• Excellent current carrying characteristics
• Available in four sizes with 8, 16, 24 and 32 contacts
• 5A current rating
• Working voltage 800V DC or AC peak
• UL-94 V-0 rated flame-retardant
• Diallyl-Phthalate (DAP) insulators
• Working temperature -55°C to +125°C

Lane Electronics has now introduced the rugged LMR connector series to its popular on-line store with all four sizes, both male and female on ex-stock availability.


@FC_Lane @proactivefleet #PAuto #Electrical

Automation partner at ethylene complex.

A Leveraged Procurement Agreement (LPA) to support automation at Dow’s Fort Saskatchewan Path2Zero expansion project (CDN).

ABB has signed a Leveraged Procurement Agreement (LPA) to support as the automation partner for Dow’s Path2Zero project at Fort Saskatchewan in Alberta, (CDN). According to Dow, the project, which is currently under construction, will create the world’s first net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions ethylene and derivatives complex1, producing essential building blocks needed for many of the materials and products on which society relies.

The project will involve a brownfield expansion and retrofit of Dow’s existing manufacturing site 330 km north of Calgary, which when complete aims to decarbonize approximately 20 percent2 of Dow’s global ethylene capacity. It represents one of the largest private sector investments in Alberta's history, according to the province’s government.

To achieve net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions, Dow has designed the site to recover and convert its cracker off-gas to hydrogen, which will be used as a clean fuel in the site’s furnaces3. In addition, carbon dioxide emissions will be captured and stored permanently, reducing existing emissions and abating most emissions from the addition of the site’s new capacity.

The collaboration will explore how ABB’s solutions will support the decarbonization of Dow’s manufacturing facilities by driving energy efficiency, automating processes, and using digital tools to optimize operations. As part of the LPA, ABB will explore expanding the existing ABB Ability™ System 800xA® Distributed Control System by adding approximately 25,000 new Select I/O channels and conventional I/Os. ABB will also supply all the hardware, design and engineering of cabinets.

“We are proud to apply our automation expertise and collaborate with Dow to make strides towards a lower carbon future,” said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB Energy Industries. “Industrial energy consumption accounts for about a quarter of energy-related CO2 emissions4. As the global economy and population grow, so will demand for materials and goods, increasing the importance of using technology to enable more sustainable manufacturing.”

To meet Dow’s automation requirements and ‘design once, build many’ philosophy, ABB will also look to deploy its Adaptive Execution™ methodology to write a standard solution across future sites that helps reduce risks, manage costs and deliver high-quality solutions on time.

With work having started in December 2024, the site is expected to increase approximately 1.8 million metric tons of ethylene capacity in a phased approach through to 2030. It will also create up to 5,000 jobs during peak construction and approximately 500 full-time jobs once operational.


@ABBgroupnews @abb_automation @Dow_Canada #Pauto #Canada

On-machine LED indicators.

Innovative portfolio includes models with both visual and audible signals, helping to ensure that critical machine conditions are effectively relayed.

The Allen‑Bradley 852C and 852D On-Machine LED Indicators, a powerful and compact solution for indicating machine status has been unveiled by Rockwell Automation. Maximising machine uptime requires a clear understanding of equipment and processes, and when critical conditions arise, effective communication is essential to address issues swiftly and avoid costly downtime.

The new On-Machine LED Indicators are designed for more reliable status reporting, featuring a robust build that fits seamlessly into space-constrained environments. Thanks to plug-and-play connectivity, these devices significantly lower maintenance, commissioning and troubleshooting costs by reducing the need for complex hard wiring. Regardless of the manufacturing landscape or application needs, enhancing operator awareness is vital. 

This innovative portfolio includes models with both visual and audible signals, ensuring that critical machine conditions are effectively relayed, even when operators lack a direct line of sight to the indicators.



@ROKAutomation @ROKAutoEMEA #PAuto

Keeping up with growing bandwidth and power requirements.

The escalating need for bandwidth by data-driven industries is driving the widespread adoption of 10 Gigabit (10G) Ethernet. Near-instantaneous data transfer is made possible by 10G, which is vital for time-sensitive industrial IoT applications including predictive maintenance, process monitoring, and machine control.

Antaira Technologies is helping industrial enterprises build the 10G network of the future by launching its new LMP-2804G-4XS and LMP-2812G-4X83 managed gigabit switches. These new high-density 1U rackmount switches are embedded with four 10G SFP+ fiber slots for connecting to an industrial backbone or high-capacity servers, along with the scalability of either 16 or 24 1G RJ45 Ethernet ports equipped with PoE+ supplying 30W per port to connected cameras, sensors, WAPs and other devices.

Addressing the requirements of modern network infrastructures, Antaira LMP-2804G-4XS and LMP-2812G-4X83 switches come with upgraded capabilities including G.8032 ERPS with <50ms recovery, IGMP snooping, VLAN, QoS, DI/DO relay support, and 802.1X authentication. As a result, their deployments are more secure, robust, and cost-effective, maximizing return on investment in transportation, security, data center, and automation use cases.

Configuration of LMP-2804G-4XS and LMP-2812G-4X83 models are:

  • LMP-2804G-4XS: 24 x 1G RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (720W PoE Budget), 4 x 10G SFP+ Fiber Ports, and an operating temperature: 14°F to 149°F.
  • LMP-2804G-4XS-T: 24 x 1G RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (720W PoE Budget)), 4 x 10G SFP+ Fiber Ports, and an expanded operating temperature: -40°F to 167°F.
  • LMP-2812G-4X8S: 16 x 1G RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (480W PoE Budget)), 4 x 10G SFP+ Fiber Ports, 8 x 1G SFP fiber ports, and an operating temperature: 14°F to 149°F.
  • LMP-2812G-4X8S: 16 x 1G RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (480W PoE Budget)), 4 x 10G SFP+ Fiber Ports, 8 x 1G SFP fiber ports, and an expanded operating temperature: -40°F to 167°F.

All four LMP-2804G-4XS and LMP-2812G-4X83 models are built to withstand extreme conditions and are hardened against vibration, shock, and electrical noise common on plant floors. Enclosed in a rugged IP30 metal housing, the switches offer extended durability thanks to no moving parts and a fanless, convection-cooled design. Dual power input enhances system reliability and uptime.

Certification for NEC Class I, Division 2 and IEC 61850-3 are pending for Antaira LMP-2804G-4XS and LMP-2812G-4X83 switches, which will open up opportunities in substation automation and hazardous locations.


@AntairaTech @OConnell_PR #PAuto  #Communications #IoT

Wednesday, 19 March 2025

High temperature relay.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has launched the G3VM S-VSON(L) MOS FET relay, designed for use in semiconductor test equipment, communication equipment, and test and measurement equipment. The relay is capable of operating at ambient temperatures of up to 125˚C, improving on previous iterations which were limited to ambient temperatures of 110˚C. As a MOS FET relay, the device is voltage-driven, removing the need for input side resistor selection, while freeing up additional board space.

Designers must attempt to fit more components onto each board as applications become smaller and more complex. However, each electronic component generates heat in operation, which can compromise efficiency and reliability. The G3VM relays improved temperature performance permits the design of more densely packed boards. In practice, for testing applications this can allow more tests to be carried out simultaneously, and in a shorter amount of time.

The temperature performance also facilitates smaller application designs, as the G3VM can withstand higher amounts of heat dissipation without losing efficiency. The relay weighs just 0.1 g, and measures 2.0 mm (L) x 1.45 mm (D) x 1.3 mm (H). The G3VM S-VSON(L) is available in four variants with input forward currents ranging from 0.54 mA up to 6.6 mA, and continuous load current ranging from 0.4 A to 1.5 A.


@OmronEurope @OmronComponents @napierPR #Electronics #PAuto