Detect temperatures using direct media contact.

Balluff is expanding their range of sensors for media-contacting temperature detection, in hydraulic power units for example. New are a temperature sensor with display, a temperature transmitter as well as a PT1000 sensor .The version without display is especially compact and vibration-resistant, whereas the versions with the turnable and highly readable display offers high operating convenience and flexible installation.

Depending on the version, the BFT sensors provide PNP switching outputs, analog signals 0-10V or 4-20mA or work as a PT1000 sensor. They are simple to install by threading into the process using a standard process connection with G- and NPT threads. Integrating them requires just a 4-pin M12 plug on the sensor.

Continuous monitoring of process media on machines and equipment contributes greatly to process security. Values that need to be maintained are pressure, level and temperature. When for example in a hydraulic system you need to monitor the temperature of the hydraulic fluid, you can do this reliably using our BFT media-contacting temperature sensors. Monitoring the temperature within the hydraulic loop guarantees correct fluid viscosity and thereby the best performance of a machine. Critical process conditions such as a temperature limit can be controlled directly via the switching output. An analog output provides continuous measurement results. The BFT temperature sensors also stand out when it comes to monitoring the cooling water, lubricants and compressed air, making them ideal for a variety of applications.

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Data exchange.

Here is a simple and practical solution for connecting RS232 directly to IO-Link by Balluff with likely the first IO-Link converter for RS232 devices. The converter allows the connecting of devices like barcode scanners, printers or RS232 controllers directly to an IO-Link terminal.

The expensive alternative using additional special components such as RS232 cards for integration into the respective controller is now superfluous. The path is finally cleared for the user to switch to IO-Link and enjoy all the advantages of this modern communication standard. For example he can reliably monitor all the devices and quickly configure them from one central location

With dimensions of 118 x 18 mm and a weight of just 100 grams, the IO-Link converter features a rugged IP67, stainless steel housing and digital inputs (2 x PNP, type 3). Highly visible LEDs make diagnostics easier. Connection to IO-Link is made via a 4-pin M12 plug. On the RS232 side an 8-pin M12 female is provided. This also provides 24V power for the RS232 device.

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More efficiency and flexibility with new hubs.

IO-Link actuator/sensor hubs from Balluff feature eight ports for 16 in-/outputs. They allow for example signals from up to 16 switching sensors to be collected from a distance of up to 20 m so that they can be made available to the machine controller via IO-Link and an IO-Link master using a simple 3-conductor cable.

Versions with an expansion port are brand new in the marketplace.

Here Slot 7 can be reconfigured as an expansion port by means of a simple parameter entry. A complete valve plug or an additional sensor hub can be connected to it. For the user this means a significant gain in flexibility and efficiency. Now it is possible not only to cost-effectively process additional in- and outputs, but also expand the range to a circle of another 20 m. Thanks to plug-and-play and the use of unshielded standard cables, the system can be started up in no time at all.

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Absolute feedback systems for efficient drives.

The BML series from Balluff offers rugged, precise and quick absolute position and angle measurement systems, which are ideal for installation or direct integration into drive and positioning systems.

The new, magnetically encoded absolute position and angle measurement systems with Permagnet® nonius technology close a gap in the segment of compact, integrative, absolute measurement systems with IP 67 housing for external installation. As an open kit for full integration, they now have the option of being used in rotary applications as well. Using these systems, the formats, strokes and end positions of axes can be adjusted automatically, quickly and reliably.

The new absolute encoder disk can be integrated easily into motors and actuators as a highly precise, absolute feedback solution. Because of this, it is an efficient alternative to conventional magnetic or optical solutions for accurate control of motors and drives. The low space requirement for the solution for rotary applications provides another eye-catching quality; it is just 12 - 20 mm in length and 30 mm in diameter depending on the design.

A fully integrated, single–chip solution is the core of the magnetic scanning and signal generation process. The position data is generated in real time and made available in absolute form using interfaces typical in drive engineering, SSI or bidirectional BiSS C. Incremental SIN/COS analog signals and ABZ signals are also on hand for use.

The evaluation kit from Balluff is also brand new to the portfolio. It includes a perpendicularly magnetised Permagnet® absolute angle measurement system with high system accuracy. Just like the encoder kit, it offers a variety of serial (absolute) and incremental interfaces for connection to many different closed-loop systems. It is easy to use. Once adapted to the drive, the user can run required system tests to derive a customized, optimized solution using the BiSS-USB adapter and provided evaluation software.

Installing photoelectric sensors a breeze!

The new generation of photoelectric sensors in the BOS 6K series from Balluff is absolutely ideal for setting new benchmarks in the compact class. Its small 31.5 x 19.5 x 10.8 mm dimensions not only make it the perfect response to tight spaces in compact machines, but also a series that leaves nothing to be desired. Its 70 variants provide a functional product range from start to finish with red light and laser versions (class 1) for very demanding jobs. The range features impressive precision, range and function reserves. Diffuse sensors, through-beam sensors, reflection light sensors with and without background suppression and analog distance sensors, each with the flexibility to be configured for light/dark switching, are just a few examples from the BOS 6K family.

All of the sensors have an exceptionally tough and durable plastic housing with abrasion-resistant laser inscription. A special design element protects the optics from the side. Thanks to its particularly high IP 67 & IP 69K degrees of protection, a lens surface of PMMA and Ecolab approval, the BOS 6K is also a prime choice for use in the food industry.

All of the variants feature high-quality teach buttons with exceptional tactile feedback. If the installed sensor is difficult to access, they can also be taught whatever the interesting aspect is using a remote connection. Exceptionally convenient: The sensor functions can also be configured during ongoing operation. Two LEDs easily visible from any direction properly provide information at a glance. They indicate the operating state, the function reserves and the switching state. Extremely durable metal plugs ensure there are no outages under high mechanical loads.

Switching from an earlier model to the new BOS 6K generation is a breeze for the user. The size, installation, operating concept and even the price are absolutely identical. This means that the user gets even more performance for the same price.

The retroreflective light sensor with autocollimation is a particular highlight. Thanks to its extremely low hysteresis, it easily detects transparent objects made of glass, such as bottles, ampules or test tubes, or transparent plastic films. As analog distance sensors, BOS 6 sensors open up new possibilities, such as for positioning clamping jaws on a machine for producing ball bearings.

Installing the BOS 6K is a breeze: Two integrated dovetail guides on the housing as well as two normal drilled holes and two elongated mounting holes offer the highest level of freedom for mounting.

I/O modules

IO-Modules with integrated display and manipulation protection

Sensor and industrial networking specialist Balluff is the first to offer fieldbus I/O modules with an illuminated LCD display. This not only makes addressing in the network simpler, but also provides a variety of additional functions. These include the lock bit, search&rescue and device identification, providing demonstrable added value: machine and systems operators profit from the significantly greater manipulation protection, more convenience and transparency in maintenance, and from greater availability and productivity. The new module generation is now available for CC-Link, Ethernet/IP and Profinet. Versions for the other commonly used fieldbus systems will also be available soon.

For more than four years Balluff I/O modules with their up to 32 in- and outputs have been indispensible in the machine building and automation world. Characteristic features include the rugged, full-jacket zinc die-cast housing, the flat profile with rounded edges, the clear, large area displays as well as ease of mounting with just two attachment points.
The new generation of I/O fieldbus modules features an illuminated LCD display which opens up new possibilities for operators in setting, maintenance and repair. The baud rate, node address and information about the hard- and software of the module along with much more can now be visualized, making diagnostics and system availability significantly simpler.
Mechanical attachments such as damage-prone rotary switches can be completely eliminated. This makes the new IP 67 generation even more rugged and reliable than the previous series.
Menu guidance on the bright, high-resolution display is easy to use and self-explanatory. Two keys are used for entering and displaying the individual menu points. A special feature is the integrated manipulation protection. This means the display can be locked out by the PLC, preventing unauthorized access.

The new module generation from Balluff is also equipped with an integrated search&rescue function. Two LEDs controlled by the PLC allow the operator to visualize pre-defined events which are not module- or port-specific directly where the event takes place.

Also interesting is the integrated web server, a specific feature of the Ethernet/IP and Profinet module versions. Using a standard web browser the user has access to comprehensive diagnostics functions such as the display of all LED indicators located on the module. Under “Device Properties” one can parameterize for example the devices connected on the IO-Link port. Other features are available under the “Configurations” function, such as assigning the IP addresses.

When things get really colourful

With their new BFS 33M colour sensor Balluff introduces a true-colour sensor of the highest class. No matter what kind of objects you show the sensor, it can discriminate them all with unerring accuracy. Even the slightest shades, smallest gray level differences or minimal changes to the surface properties are detected without effort. It precisely detects an object and switches the corresponding output with lightning speed. Up to seven objects can be signaled on the switching outputs in this way. In addition the L*a*b color values can also be directly output on a serial interface. Special compensation and individualized calibration means the sensor achieves extremely high accuracy over a long period.

The BFS 33M is more than a simple color sensor. As a True Colour sensor it precisely detects every colour in the technical spectrum, making it ideal for use in a variety of demanding applications including robotics, automated assembly, in the packaging industry or wood processing industry. The rugged aluminum sensor housing is not only attractive and modern, but also meets the special needs of machine and systems builders. The sensor is always used in conjunction with a fiber optic cable, so that applications under especially harsh conditions and tight mounting spaces can be handled.

Together with an optional lens from Balluff even ranges of up to 400mm and beyond are easily within reach. Metal parts in finishing processes can be monitored, or various material qualities selected. The high switching frequency of 1.5 kHz makes it possible to monitor even fast processes such as in the printing industry. All the sensor settings can be conveniently made and displayed using user-friendly software. This means the sensor will not only be up and running in no time, but the user will also always know its status. The BFS 33 is the ideal tool for automated quality control in running processes.

New pressure sensor family

Balluff has introduced BPS, a newly developed series of pressure sensors with IP 67 protection for use in gaseous and liquid media. The rugged devices feature a high-quality, long-term stable ceramic load cell and an especially attractive price/performance ratio, simple installation, high operating comfort and high preci-sion. A large, bright and easily visible display ensures immediate status overview. This shows not only the current system pressure in bar, mbar, PSI and MPa, but also features fast and simple configuration of the sensors according to the VDMA standard, using 2 keys and intuitive menu guidance.

With 11 pressure range versions the BPS sensors cover all the im-portant ranges from -1…0 bar up to 0…600 bar for monitoring process media in factory automation. Typical applications include hydraulics monitoring as well as pneumatics equipment. The new Balluff pressure sensors, available in the standard model with plastic housing and in the high-end version with stainless steel, offer either two switching points or one switching output plus analog channel (0…10V or 4…20mA).

Thanks to their highly compact design the sensors can be easily located in the control cabinet without taking up valuable space. The display with operating panel and electrical connection can be rotated independently of each other by 320° with respect to the flange. Adapting to different process terminations using G ¼ internal threads is easily accomplished using optional adapters in various sizes and styles.

The high-end models with their stainless steel housing and expanded temperature range were especially designed for demanding applica-tions in harsh environments, making them ideal for use with wind pow-er turbines, offshore installations as well as HVAC technology.

Convert analog signals into IO-Link signals

Until now it has been costly to connect and incorporate analog input/output signals, even though they generally only make up less than 10% of the signals used in a system. The reasons include the use of shielded cable on the installation side and expensive multi-channel input modules on the controller side. The new IO-Link Analog Plugs from Balluff with their high resolution of 14 bits provide the solution. They are the ideal choice for systems with limited instances of analog signals.

With an IP 67 enclosure rating, the plugs feature a space-saving housing, are connected directly to the sensor and convert the analog signals into IO-Link signals before transmission. In this way they provide significant savings potential.

In place of expensive shielded cables, simple unshielded, 3-conductor cable is used. The signal neutrality of the IO-Link ports on the IO-Link Master module in combination with the IO-Link plugs ensures maximum signal variance. Mixing of different input, output, current and voltage signals can be mixed on one module.

Versions are available with a current input of 4-20 mA, voltage from 0-10 V or PT 100, a current output of 4-20 mA and a voltage output of 0-10 V.