Guiding engineers through evolving EMC regulations.

Strategic partnership provides comprehensive filtering solutions and expert support for energy transition and growing electrification

TTI IP&E – Europe, in collaboration with Schaffner, has announced their joint commitment to support engineers in navigating the impending extended electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) regulations*, which will soon apply down to 9kHz. These new regulations are set to have a substantial impact on the EMC landscape. They will be critical for ensuring compatibility, particularly with the rise of powertrains and interfaces connected to the grid amidst a major energy transition towards increased electrification and sustainability.

The forthcoming regulations will necessitate significant adjustments for existing product families and require new product developments to incorporate these standards from the outset. While some EMC product standards, such as FCC Part 15 for intentional and unintentional radiators and CISPR-11 and CISPR-22 for radiated emissions, already specify limits below 150kHz, the broader harmonisation process will see generic standards change first, followed by product-specific standards. This means that all new products will need to comply with the new version once it is in place. Products already available on the market must also comply, regardless of their development date. TE recommends that engineers initiate discussions and activities promptly to avoid future delays, beginning with the evaluation and assessment of new equipment designs through pre-compliance measurements against draft standard limit levels.

TE offers an industry-leading portfolio of magnetic solutions that address both standard and customised EMC and power quality needs. TE’s expertise ensures a smooth and compliant transition towards these extended regulations. The company provides comprehensive, end-to-end support, encompassing design consultation, in-situ measurement, testing, and ongoing assistance for seamless integration and long-term system stability.

Engineers can benefit from TE’s proven passive filter solutions and its ongoing work on innovative active filter solutions. Addressing the cost implications of the new 9kHz regulations, the company emphasises that these can be mitigated by integrating adequate filter solutions from the initial stages of product development. While conventional EMI filters can reduce emissions, they can also cause resonance effects, increasing noise and filtering costs, thus necessitating expert guidance to balance compliance and cost-effectiveness.

For Electric Vehicle (EV) charging equipment, which represents a critical focus application in the electrified future, TE provides specialised filtering solutions. For AC charging applications, a broad portfolio of single-phase and three-phase AC EMC filters is available, with current ratings ranging from 1A to 100A for single-phase systems up to 520VAC, and from 3A to 2300A for three-phase systems up to 690VAC (with HV versions reaching 760VAC), offering standard to very high attenuation levels.

For DC charging stations, TE offers robust DC EMC filters, including the EVX series, specifically designed for EV applications. These filters cater to high current demands from 150A to 1600A (or up to 2300A broadly for DC systems) and high voltage requirements, up to 1500VDC, with options for low leakage current.

To verify product compliance, engineers must conduct adequate tests and measurements starting from 9kHz. TE supports these activities, offering modern test facilities and measurement know-how at its own locations, or supporting external test houses. Most common testing equipment, such as artificial mains networks and EMI receivers, is already capable of testing at 9kHz.

Markus Lorenz, Director Industry Marketing Industrial, TTI, Inc. - Europe, states, “The rapid pace of electrification demands robust solutions for EMC. Our partnership with Schaffner, part of TE Connectivity, empowers our customers with unparalleled access to industry-leading expertise and innovative filter technologies. This collaboration is crucial in helping them not only meet the challenging new 9kHz EMC regulations cost-effectively but also to ensure the reliability and performance of their critical systems in an increasingly connected and electrified world. We are committed to guiding our customers through this transition seamlessly.”

Through this strategic collaboration, TTI and TE are ready to enable engineers to achieve a smooth, compliant, and cost-effective transition towards the new extended EMC regulations, safeguarding product performance and reliability in diverse application environments, including the rapidly expanding EV infrastructure.

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*Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive - Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs  (EU Commission)

@ttiinc @TEConnectivity @SchaffnerGroup  @Publitek #Power #PAuto #Automotive

Partnerships ensure EMC solutions for Europe.

The EMC solutions provider, Schaffner, has announced new partnerships with three distributors to further broaden the reach and scope of its product range and support services across Europe. The new agreements with Telerex, CATS and DSL Components will open new supplier corridors and enable customers to have faster access to products thanks to reduced shipping distances.

Schaffner Head of Distribution, Jamie Furness, said, “We are looking to broaden our customer base by reaching into new markets and industries and our investment into relationships with these new distributors enable us to do that. Each of these partners maintain a strong business presence in their respective regions and we are delighted to add them to our distribution network to enhance the benefits for our customers in those areas.”

Telerex, which operates across the Benelux region (Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg) is an acknowledged EMI expert that provides its customers with a full scope of EMI solutions from Schaffner’s range of chokes and filters. The company prides itself on advising its clients on the right components for creating the optimal finished product while simplifying the supply chain with its global procurement network, planning and on-time delivery expertise.

CATS, which primarily serves the French market, is highly regarded for its expertise in power conversion, communication, GPS and many other special components products. Its strong technical knowledge will greatly benefit Schaffner’s customers within this region.

Both are members of the privately owned Eight Lakes group of companies, active in a wide range of professional and industrial markets, with offices in Belgium, Netherlands, France, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Taiwan.

Customers across Israel, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus can also benefit from Schaffner’s additions to its sales network. DSL Components, the exclusive representative for global electronic components manufacturers, has also signed an agreement which will enable them to provide Schaffner products on a localized basis.

Furness concluded, “The advantages of adding these exceptional specialist partners to our technical sales, distribution and support portfolio marks a significant acceleration in our growth to these markets. It provides us with the opportunity to provide top-quality products and top-flight flight service in these regions.”

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@TelerexEurope @NapierPR #Schaffner #EMC #Europe #PAuto

EMC regulations preparedness uncertain.

A new survey from Schaffner reveals continuing uncertainty around the industry’s readiness for the changing EMC regulations regarding the extension of compliance testing of devices down to 9 kHz. With responses from companies across multiple sectors, the survey reveals that many of those who will be most affected by the change are uncertain about their ability to comply, with many needing longer to take the actions needed.

John Harrison, Managing Director Industrial UK said, “Nearly three-quarters of the respondents to our survey who believe they will be impacted, said that they estimate it could take up to two years to ensure their new and existing products comply, so they want to be able to take action now.”

Nearly 90 percent of respondents acknowledged their belief that the phased-in extension down to 9 kHz will have at least some direct impact on their business. There is less certainty, however, about exactly how the legislation will affect current design projects, and what can be done now to accommodate the new design requirements the legislation required.

The uncertainty is largely due to a lack of comprehensive information, and differing levels of understanding of what is currently known about the changes. The survey encompasses professionals from machinery and robotics; automotive; energy management; lighting and many other industries across the spectrum.

The lowering of the required testing and compliance range is being implemented because an increasing number of devices are causing potentially disruptive electromagnetic interference at the low end of the frequency spectrum. The regulatory move is expected to help ensure that all electronic devices can operate freely, harmoniously and with little to no interference, which has become increasingly difficult in recent years with the exponential increase in the number of potential interference signals generated by devices such as LED lighting, switching power supplies, and small motors that have not previously been regulated.

To achieve compliance, the majority of survey respondents feel that they might need active filtering. However, 86 percent of them currently only use passive filtering techniques thatthey believe will be largely inadequate, and only half have access to facilities capable of testing to 9 kHz. To address the need, Schaffner has drawn from its extensive repository of electrical engineering knowledge and compliance data to develop and offer “Active Filter Technology”, designed to take the guesswork out of compliance and accelerate the ability to achieve it.

“We are very conscious of the need for these new regulations to help ensure a seamless experience for electronic device users, which is practically everyone,” added Harrison. “That need has become particularly acute in recent years, so we applied our expertise to deliver a solution that will help our customers make the transition to those new frequency testing requirements. We are delighted with what Active Filter Technology can do and encourage everyone to come and discuss what it can do during SPS 2023.”

Among other new products Schaffner will feature at SPS 2023 will be the new FN304X filters, designed for use with grids that have exceptionally challenging operational and situational requirements as well as other applications that are highly focused on safety and reliability.

“The remainder of 2023 and the whole of 2024 is set to mark a watershed in ECI regulation,” he added.  “And, once again, Schaffner is proud to lead from the front, as we will demonstrate at SPS 2023.”

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@NapierPR #Schaffner #EMC #Electrical #PAuto

Current leakage filters.

Schaffner’s new FN304X series of low leakage current filters are filling a significant gap in the robotics market and other industrial applications for low-profile 3-phase filters.

Anticipating supply challenges creating hurdles in the market, they developed flexibility in their manufacturing processes to mitigate this impact which has resulted in high availability of the new low leakage current filters. The FN3040, FN3041, FN3042 and FN3043 electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filters are rated for currents of 10 A–30 A at 50oC. Produced specifically to meet customer demands, the tight-packaged filters are smaller than their predecessors yet offer superior performance in different levels (Ferrite or Nano Crystalline versions), Flexible design possibilities are available thanks to the embedded terminals being easy to connect and optional (FN3042 / 43) DIN Rail mounting.

Meeting European EMC requirements.
Designed to satisfy the particular EMC requirements of the European market, the FN304X filters are especially well-suited to grids with very tough requirements and other applications that have safety and reliability as a main focus. A plastic housing combined with a metal ground plate achieves the lowest possible product weight without compromising EMC behavior while fixed, hinged terminal covers enhance safety levels by protecting against contact with live conductors.

Other features of the industry standard form factor filters include leakage current between 0 mA and 0.40 mA depending on voltage level and inductance from 0.5 mH to 12.9 mH at 1 kHz.

Ecologically designed.
The new low leakage current filters are ideal for use in applications such as robotics, electrical and electronic equipment, industrial automation, test & measurement devices and small machines. Designed with sustainability in mind, the filters feature raw materials that can be easily separated at the end of the product’s working life for environmentally safe disposal.

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@NapierPR #Schaffner #HMI #Electrical

Residential EV-Charging.

Designers of residential electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will now be able to reduce the cost of complying with regulations by using chokes that exactly meet their requirements.

Residential Charging Market Demand. “When designing residential EV charging stations, it is vital to be able to identify any potential electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) challenges and to deal with them as early as possible in the design process. This sector of the EV charging market is especially vibrant, so we are delighted to be offering a new and smaller product for power ranges up to 30 kW. “Designed in response to market demands, this new RV series will save designers a considerable amount of bother during the certification process by giving them the tools to comply with all the relevant specifications and regulatory standards. A significant advantage for design engineers is that with this large choice of performance levels they are no longer restricted to using only a choke that is available. Now they can choose the one that fits perfectly to their technical requirements and avoid unnecessary costs. That is why it is important that EV charging station designers talk to Schaffner engineers very early in the development process to keep their costs to an absolute minimum.” - Felix Wedel, product manager at Schaffner

E-mobility is a rapidly growing market and regulatory compliance is essential for charging stations. Development of the new RV Series choke from Schaffner is backed by the company’s decades of expertise as a global leader in electromagnetic solutions that minimise electromagnetic interference (EMI) and filter out noise. The new choke has been created to offer superior levels of performance when dampening and attenuating noise.

By offering a broad range of specifications and performance choices, the RV choke enables designers to minimise costs. Costly over-design can be avoided through being able to select a solution that mitigates noise just below regulatory limits.

For different environments, the new RV Series offers the choice between ferrite (RV8140 & RV8540) and nanocrystalline (RV8141 & RV8541) core technology. Each current rating comes with eight different performance/size options, four of them designed for vertical (RV8540) and four for horizontal (RV8140) mounting.

AC and DC Applications.
The four windings of the new choke are typically installed as three phases and neutral. For DC applications on the vehicle side the same choke is used – two windings of the choke are connected in series providing very high attenuation and protecting the vehicle from disturbances.

The new RV Series is designed for power ratings up to 30 kW with rated currents from 16 A to 50 A per phase at 60 °C ambient temperature. In terms of certification, the RV series complies with UL/IEC 60938-1/-2 and UL 1446. Other features of the new choke include low magnetic leakage flux, excellent winding insulation and low parasitic capacitance.

For more information, visit the Schaffner website at 

Mitigating harmonics.

The Ecosine Active Sync is a modular product, from Schaffner, that has been on the market for around five years and actively mitigates the harmonics sent back to an electrical network, reducing or suppressing disturbances by taking the harmonic current generated by non-linear loads and converting it. In Europe, the current level for effective harmonic mitigation is 50Hz and the AHF solution is ideal for applications where harmonics levels are continually changing, such as when producing high quality products like semiconductor wafers.

Ecosine delivers a solution for three- or four-wire system, mitigating harmonics between the phases and neutral wire. It needs to be programmed to fine-tune it to a specific application but, up until now, the traditional way of doing this has been by connecting a computer or laptop with a special cable plus associated software. At the same time, direct machine-face interaction was only possible through a 2-inch (5cm) monochrome display that required the user to press physical buttons to switch through the various parameters and enter values.

As an alternative to the monochrome Display module and the AHF Viewer PC software, Schaffner step up the user experience with the new HMI unit that uses a large 7 inch (18cm) capacitive colour touch-screen. Using simple screen swipe functions familiar to any smartphone user, this modern user interface makes it more straightforward to access and view all the necessary parameters – while reading and entering values where required. The new HMI makes it possible to change and monitor all filter parameters and measured values of the three-phase network. It can plot up to six traces in an oscilloscope style view, and ensures all measurements are saved automatically to the built-in memory (for subsequent downloading to a USB drive if needed).

With the Ecosine Active Sync used widely in such challenging and demanding sectors as the automotive and robotics industries – as well as in large data centers and semiconductor manufacturing – simplifying the AHF’s operation and modernising how users interact with it were key factors behind Schaffner developing the new HMI.

Says Luc Mosca, Product Manager at Schaffner: “This new HMI is a substantial advance on the previous user interface and enables us to upgrade the user experience to a level where interaction with the Ecosine is a much easier process. With just a simple check, the operator can see instantly whether everything is working okay or if there are any alerts, with errors or warnings displayed clearly on the large colour screen.”

Luc adds: “We have worked closely with customers, consulting with users about what they require from a true human-machine interface and we have come up with a solution that meets their needs. We have already received some highly positive feedback on the new HMI and we expect this to continue as more Ecosine come on-stream. When you place an order for a new Ecosine Active Sync you now have the option of having one featuring this advanced interface and we expect most new buyers will choose to work with this more user-friendly HMI. Of course, they can continue to interact with the AHF via hardwired computer or laptop and dedicated software if they prefer.”

Development of the Ecosine Active Sync Cabinet is based on the extensive knowledge and experience the Schaffner Group has garnered over decades of creating solutions for power quality applications. The most common application for the Ecosine Active sync is in heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) installations and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). They are also used across logistics, parcel sorting and luggage handling at airports as well as wind turbines, the steel industry, paper mills, tunnel ventilation and more.

Whether used as a stand-alone unit or combined with others to meet the customer’s requirements, is the Ecosine Active Sync is designed to meet the most demanding harmonic mitigation challenges, whatever the non-linear load involved. In the era of Industry 4.0 and smart energy management, the optional sync module monitors the filter’s usage and allows redundancy to deliver a truly smart power quality solution.

@NapierPR #Schaffner #HMI #Electrical

Power connectors.

The latest addition to Schaffner's extensive range of IEC power connectors. The new IL13P-S is a C14/C20 IEC dual locking power connector offering an innovative solution to prevent accidental disconnection in data-centres, PDUs, servers, industrial equipment, medical devices, audio/broadcast and other critical power systems.

The C14/C20 IEC dual locking connector was designed to enhance Schaffner’s locking connector functionality with two locking mechanisms incorporated into one combined connector. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of standard non-locking C13 socket outlets including inlet filter types: IL 13, IL 13 P and IL 19. It will mate with any Schaffner IEC C14/C20 inlet filter and is a simple retrofit for any IEC C14/C20 inlet.

The new connector incorporates the following features:

• The load side connector is a new IEC LOCK C13+ SLIMLINE version. It is a slimmer, more compact IEC LOCK C13+ connector with two locking mechanisms.
• The line side connector is made from the field proven IEC lock C14 connector.
• Rated current up to 10 A (C13 plug), up to 15 A (C13P plug), and up to 20 A (C19 plug)
• Maximum pin temperature +70°C
• Various power line plugs are available for international usage
• The cable safety certifications are valid for Europe, USA, Canada and Australia making the assembly suitable for global applications.
• Available with cable lengths of: 0.5 m, 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2 m, 2.5 m, and 3 m.
• 4 cable colours may be specified - black, white, red and blue.

The locking system has a tensile force of typically 200N and it is recommended to use it with flange mount filters. For more information refer to the Schaffner Application Note "Using IEC Lock Power Cords with IEC Inlets and Filters”.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto #Electrical

EMC filter series.

Schaffner has announced the new FN2500 / FN2640 - EMC filter series* for robotics and datacentres. The new filters have been developed to meet the specific needs of these two important and growing markets. These markets have technical requirements in common that can now be met by these new EMC filters.

Many applications, including robotics, datacentres and autonomous machines require power supplies to be mounted in 19” rack cabinets. To accommodate this and provide systems builders with seamless integration Schaffner have packaged the FN2500 / FN2640 EMC filter series in a space saving 1U rack-mount design.

The new FN2500 / FN2640 EMC filters are available with a range of connection options. These include IEC C14 (10-15A) or IEC C20 (16-20A) input connectors for direct mains connection and with a range of output connectors. For internal assembly connection options available on input and output include push-on terminals, cable glands, screw terminals or spring terminals.

Key standard features include input voltage 250 VAC @ DC to 60 Hz (FN2500 277 VAC / 400 VDC), output current 10 to 20 A @ 40°C, MTBF > 300,000 h and operating temperature range -40°C to +100°C (with derating >40°C).

The new FN2500 / FN2640 EMC filters meet the requirements of IEC 62368-1 - Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology and equipment and IEC/EN 60335-1 - Household and similar appliances, Climatic Category 40/10 0/21 to IEC60068-1, Certified to UL 60939-3, IEC/EN 60939-3, GB/T 15287 and Protection category IP00 / IP20 for -103 terminals. 

* Data sheets for the FN2500 and FN2640 are available to download and for further information and availability.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto #Robotics

Filter options for machine builders.

Schaffner has extended its popular FN3270 series to provide more options for machine builders. Building on the strengths of the very successful FN3270 filter range the new FN3271 filter is an extremely compact and lightweight filter design requiring minimum mounting space in installations and cabinets.

15 different filter models are available to meet the specific needs and deployment for most industrial applications. These include industrial viable speed electrical power drive systems, motor drives and systems containing frequency inverters and servo drives.

With its enhanced performance the FN3271 offers an ideal solution for EMC challenges, where the impedance at the connection to the noise source is high (> 100 Ohm). The internal configuration of the FN3271 is optimised for this application. For applications with low impedances at the noise source the existing FN3270 remains the option of choice.

These new EMC filters provide the attenuation performance required to fulfil EN 61800-3/A11 and the filter performance is guaranteed under full load operating conditions. Solid, touch-safe terminal blocks are fitted to all filter models from 10 to 100 A, offering sufficient contacting cross section according to the EN 60204-1 installation standard.

To improve the safely of installations optional transparent protective covers are available for all filters with busbars from 150 to 1000 A. These provide protection to the installer, operator, or inspector by avoiding accidental contact with live conductors. The protective covers can easily be retrofitted even if the filter is already installed and connected.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto

EMC filter for LED lighting.

Schaffner has extended its range of filters for LED lighting applications with the introduction of the new FN2560 filter range. Specifically designed for attenuation requirements in the lighting industry the performance of the filter starts at frequencies as low as 9kHz. The new filter comes in an attractive space saving compact package and has single strand solid wire terminations providing simple, flexible and reliable installation.

Typical applications are LED equipment, LED driver and displays, streetlamps and signage, industrial and architectural lighting, fluorescent lamp ballasts or any other application requiring high differential mode performance. The Schaffner FN2560 has an operating temperature range of -40°C to 100°C.

At common mode attenuation performance, a choice of 3 different performance levels is available providing 3 different leakage ratings.

• C00: no leakage current, medical applications
• C11: low leakage current, safety applications
• C16: standard version, best filter performance

For applications where low reactive currents are needed, an alternative version “FN2564” is available. The FN2564 has no X-capacitance between grid and neutral line and has therefore no HF-current between the lines. This is helpful in applications with reactive current restrictions.

The FN2560 is suitable for typical European voltages of 300 VAC / 300 VDC and has current ratings of 1 A, 2 A, 5 A and 8 A, while the alternative FN2580 is rated at 350 V to suit typical international voltages.

All new Schaffner filters are designed for a maximum continuous operating voltage of 300VAC, 50 / 60Hz and for nominal currents up to 10A. They have worldwide approvals in accordance with ENEC, CQC, UL, UKCA and CSA and meet the requirements for RoHS and REACH regulation.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto #LED

Power grid and smart meters communication.

Schaffner has announced the introduction of the world’s first Active Line Impedance Stabilizer (ALIS).  The ALIS is designed to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for power line communication between the public power grid and smart meters. It introduces an impedance “barrier” between the smart meter and the household without affecting the smart meter’s communication.

There is a world-wide trend for city-developers to transform their infrastructure into smart grids. In smart cities power distribution will be more flexible. Traditionally energy distribution was linear; with large power stations producing energy transferred over a power grid to consumers. With the introduction of solar power and other renewable sources a consumer can become a producer and sell electricity back to energy companies. To keep up with such new developments, smart energy grids can help to organise this new model for distribution of electrical energy.

 

The new Schaffner ALIS brings benefits to every part of smart meter roll out. Key features for systems developers include no losses at main frequency, no reactive power losses, no galvanic connection in power line, no contact reliability risk which assures safe use and fail proof operation protecting the system, and very low extra energy costs providing cost saving compared to passive solutions. ALIS is small and lightweight compared to passive solutions, may be DIN-Rail mounted and is safe for service engineers to work on.

 

Programme managers and buyers will appreciate the reductions in meter reading costs, increased KPI with 24hr availability, and increased meter availability with15-minute snapshots of consumption transmitted once per 24 hours to network planners providing information of how the network is performing. Extensive support from Schaffner, the market leader in EMC solutions, flexible supply with audits and product tracing are available.

 

Holger Urban, Head of Product Management at Schaffner, comments, “The new Schaffner ALIS is set to become electricity companies first choice to clean the G3-PLC networks after smart meter roll-out and is ideal for troubleshooting in PLC networks. In the event of communication being influenced by load side machines with low impedances for example solar inverters or lifts, the Schaffner Line Impedance Stabilizer can help to re-establish communication. The ALIS can optionally also help in noisy situations, caused by defective or not EMC compliant products connected on the load side”

 

ALIS are typically used by grid operators to improve PLC after a smart meter roll-out. If the smart meter cannot be reached and the reason is low impedance problem on the customer side, the ALIS is the device of choice. The ALIS will introduce up to several tens of Ohm of impedance in the frequency range enhancing the signal-to-noise-ratio (SNRE) for more reliable power line communication. It supports G3, as well as other CENELEC A band standards.

@proactivefleet #Shaffner #Power #PAuto #Communications

Distribution manager for electromagnetic compatibility and power quality.

Schaffner have appointed Jamie Furness as their new Distribution Sales Manager for the EMEA region.

 

Jamie Furness

Jamie Furness is familiar with the Schaffner product range having previously represented Schaffner while working at Farnell, and with tenure at Avnet, TTI and Future he knows the distribution channel very well.  He also has experience managing distributors both across EMEA and globally from his time working with manufacturers TE Connectivity and, more recently, Anderson Power Products.

 

Graduating from Salford University (GB) with a BEng (Hons), he has more recently completed an MBA from Leeds University. After 6 years in the British Royal Navy, Jamie has now acquired over 20 years of experience in the electronic component industry. He will be based in the new office for Schaffner, recently relocated from Wokingham to nearby Binfield.

 

Paul Dixon, Sales Director EMEA at Schaffner, comments: “Jamie has a deep understanding of the component business and joins Schaffner with a wealth of experience covering both products and distributors. He has a passion for customer focus, and his industry knowledge and people skills make him the ideal candidate to lead our channel strategy in EMEA. I am delighted to welcome him to Schaffner and wish him every success in his new position.”

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto #Power #Britain

EMC line filters.

Schaffner has released a complete range of their popular FN3280H 4-Line filter series featuring higher insulation resistances. This is a compact and lightweight filter design with a “cubic“ shape requiring minimum mounting space, simplifying the power entry design of enclosures and control panels for machine builders.

The new line-up of FN3280H filters, with the so-called R69 option, will not cause the overall insulation resistance of machinery or equipment when under test to drop below 1MΩ, ensuring systems fitted with the new EMC filter will  comply with European and International safety standards.  The filters also increase EMC immunity if connected directly to the mains input.

As a mains input filter for equipment requiring 3-phase power with a neutral line, the FN 3280 provides enough performance to ensure EMC compliance of machinery in mixed (Class A) or even domestic (Class B) environments while also increasing the immunity of the entire installation significantly. The new filter series is now available with power ratings up to 600A and the line-ground discharge time (after power disconnection) is increased so that standard models may be more suitable for non-machinery applications.

The FN3280 series provides the attenuation performance needed to meet the requirements of various machine tools with up to 12 driving axes and ~10 to 20m of motor cable each. To simplify selection for an application, the filter current ratings are aligned with common fuse values. The attenuation performance is identical to standard models making them interchangeable depending on end product application.

Providing simple and time-saving installation with good accessibility for automatic and hand tools FN3280H filters have solid, touch-safe terminal blocks (8 to 200 A types) offering sufficient contacting cross section according to the EN 60204-1 installation standard, commonly required for industrial applications.

Key specifications include maximum continuous operating voltage 3 x 520/300 Vac, operating frequency DC – 60Hz, rated currents 8 – 600A, operational temperature range -25⁰C to 100⁰C.

Typical applications include industrial equipment, machinery, machine tools and diverse process automation systems requiring 3-phase and neutral electricity supply. Due to the outstanding attenuation performance, FN3280 is also the first choice for noisy power supplies, renewable energy applications, high power office equipment etc. Because of the relatively low leakage current, FN3280 may even be used for some medical devices.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto #Electrical 

EMC filter -low leakage versions for RCD and medical applications.

Schaffner are reintroducing the FN2415 - single-phase EMC filter for control equipment with extended capabilities.

Large and complex machine tools with multiple driving axes and very long motor cables can be subjected to major reliability problems caused by internal coupling of interferences from the drive system to the control wires. This can cause dropouts and interrupts of the control unit and consequently lead to unnecessary and costly downtime of the entire machine.

The FN 2415 EMC filter, designed for the control line of complex equipment and machinery, eliminates interference affecting PLCs and motion or robot control systems, increasing the system stability and reliability of the entire machine. It can also be used for diverse single-phase applications, e.g. motor drives and power supplies.

Two new versions with adapted performance and lower leakage currents are now available. The FN 2415 B version with no leakage current (0 mA) does not add to the RCD total leakage current in a machine or a cabinet and may be used in medical equipment. And the FN 2415 L with leakage current of less than 3.5 mA for low leakage applications, allowing the use of RCDs rated at 30mA in complex machines where several 3.5mA leakage current filters may be connected in parallel.

With its excellent EMC attenuation performance, the Schaffner FN 2415 contributes significantly to the achievement of electromagnetic compliance, e.g. EN50370-1 standards for machine tools.

The compact design of the FN 2415 provides simple and time-saving installation with good accessibility for automatic and hand tools. Solid, touch-safe terminal blocks offer sufficient contacting cross section according to the EN60204-1 installation standard. The filters are IP20 rated and have an operating temperature range of -25°C to +100°C.

The filters have all the required safety approvals (UL, CSA and IEC / EN) and are compliant to REACH and RoHS directives.

#Schaffner #Pauto 

Webinar for EMC.

Schaffner are running a free Webinar on best practice design for EMC compliance of Industrial Equipment and Machines. Intended for manufacturers of variable-frequency drives and machine and control cabinet builders, all EMC-specific aspects of the latest international standards, their implementation and relevant solutions will be presented.

Holger Urban, Product Marketing Manager of Schaffner, comments, “EMC affects every part of everyday life but its effects are most serious in manufacturing systems where EMC disturbances can shut manufacturing process down completely. Our webinar will provide designers and system integrators with a range of tools and solutions to ensure the correct design of reliable industrial systems.”

EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) has steadily increased in importance with the increased use of variable-frequency drives in industrial applications and will continue to grow as applications in SMART factories, Industry 4.0, the IoT and industrial automation increase.

As the needs for automated industrial production expand and the demand for artificial intelligence increases, systems are becoming more and more complex and the costs of any breakdown in the production of goods, both products and services, is of growing concern to manufacturers.

It has never been more important that electrical and electronic devices are designed and constructed in such a way that it complies with the EMC directives and standards with regard to interference immunity and interference emissions and that they are coordinated with each other in any system. (Links to the EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive may be found on line.)

In addition to the Machinery Directive, the legally binding EMC Directive, among others, must be complied with if machines cause electromagnetic interference or are impaired in their function by such interference.

According to the EMC Directive, machines and systems are equipment that must be designed and manufactured in compliance with the main requirements of Annex I of the EMC Directive. Only then a certificate of conformity may be issued for the machine, system, device (incl. control cabinet) and the CE mark may be applied.

The EMC Directive defines electromagnetic compatibility in Europe as follows:
"the ability of an apparatus, installation or system to operate correctly in its electromagnetic environment without causing electromagnetic interference which would prevent any other apparatus, installation, machine or system in this environment from operating as intended."

In effect the EMC Directive applies not only to manufacturers of variable-frequency drives, but also to machine and control cabinet builders and system integrators. In order to do consider these various industrial suppliers and industrial market participants, appropriate standards have been defined for this purpose to ensure an effective cooperation.

@proactivefleet #Schaffner #PAuto

Safety and EMC for BEV charging.

It is estimated that by 2030 there will be 20 million BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicle) sold per year. This means that around 140,000 DC fast charging stations will have to be installed by that year.

Schaffner has produced a Whitepaper for designers of battery and hybrid electric vehicle charging stations, providing guidance on the following key topics:

• Which safety requirements must be met in EV charging.
• Which EMC limit values are set for EV charging stations.
• The critically important requirements for galvanic isolation in EV charging stations
• What options are there for customer-specific developments in the field of EV charging

Schaffner’s long experience and expertise in safely meeting the most stringent EMC requirements in the electrotechnical world provides designers with the means to make
the energy revolution possible.

Holger Urban, Product Marketing Manager of Schaffner, comments, “Electromobility is considered one of the main drivers in current global megatrends - Electrification, Urbanisation, Digitalisation and Climate Change. For this reason, we see it as our task to provide cutting-edge technology to this critical market.”

Download the white paper here: EMC for EV Charging. 

#Schaffner #Transportation @proactivefleet

Passive harmonic filters.

The new ecosine evo filters FN 3440/41-250-119 and FN 3450/51-315-119 from Schaffner, follow the same features as the existing ecosine evo series: dedicated version for drives with and without DC-link choke, achieving 5% THDi @ rated power, minimal capacitive current @ partial load, available in IP 00 and IP 20 enclosure, wall mounting, most compact design, ready to use.

Ecosine evo filters guarantee compliance with the toughest requirement of IEEE-519 and other stringent international power quality standards. While using ecosine evo filters the electrical infrastructure is unburdened and its utilization is much more efficient and reliable. Furthermore, the service life cycle of electrical equipment is extended, and energy costs can be reduced.

The new ecosine evo filters FN 3440/41-250-119 and FN 3450/51-315-119 distinguish itself on the market under the highest safety criteria. A new component, switch (circuit breaker) is integrated in the filter, which ensures the safety of the device under all operation circumstances. When the filter is overloaded or short circuited, the switch will release (switch off), and the capacitors will be disconnected from the system.

Standing as the industry standard for 6-pulse rectifier and motor drives, ecosine evo filter series presents a unique modular concept that offer the best tailored solutions to each application and customer needs in term of functions and installation, aligning product offerings with the international market requirements and customer expectations.

With this extension of the 50 Hz filters, ecosine evo filters FN 3440/41 and FN 3450/51 are now available with standard power ratings from 1.1 kW to 250 kW, and 1.1 kW to 315 kW, respectively. They are available for drives with and without DC-link choke, in IP 00 or IP 20 enclosure. All ecosine evo filters are CE-marked, UL listed and RoHS compliant.

#Pauto #Schaffner @proactivefleet

EMC from Data Portal.

Schaffner has announced its presence on the EPLAN portal with immediate effect. EPLAN is a powerful information source for global design engineering. The data portal offers customers shared by Schaffner and EPLAN benefits from the integration of device data and CAD which can be used digitally and efficiently in design engineering.

EPLAN is a powerful planning tool that is used as a worldwide standard design platform. The widespread access to EPLAN supports Schaffner’s global sales of EMC filters providing customers with an even better service.

The EPLAN Data Portal provides web-based device and article data internationally. At the present time more than 110 component manufactures with more than half a million articles and product data are represented. Due to the deep integration of the portal into the EPLAN CAD platform, the information is directly available in engineering formats. More than 92,000 users around the world already access the electronic product catalogues of circuit diagram designs featured.

#PAuto #Shaffner @EPLAN_UK

Record orders in October.

Marc Aeschlimann-CEO Schaffner

Schaffner achieved the largest order volume in the Group's history last month.  New contracts were signed in the Automotive Division totalling more than CHF 55 million (ca €50m).

The new orders primarily relate to latest-generation antennas for keyless authentication systems in new model platforms of various well-known global automobile manufacturers. The order volume covers the entire duration of the new models.

Once the production lines have been set up, Schaffner expects an impact on earnings that will increase from fiscal 2020/21 year onwards.

#Automotive @SchaffnerGroup 

Angled IEC C14 Power Connectors.

Schaffner has introduced a new series of locking cables for any IEC C14 application. The newest connector in the IL13 family sets a benchmark in space limited locking situations.

Its angled construction allows the connector to be used with devices standing next to a wall or in table-top applications.

The connector comes in four different orientations to cater for any assembly position of the IEC inlet where it is connected (top, down, left and right). In addition to the high variety of molded cable-connector-combinations, a rewireable connector is also available allowing development of individual cabling solutions according to customer needs. The rewireable connector is available in two versions (vertical and horizontal).

All types are usable with any standard IEC C14 inlet, locking without any additional mechanics. With the proven quality of the locking connection and the 200N typical pull out force, the new addition to the family ensures a reliable connection at all times. Even appliances that are vulnerable to vibrations can be connected in a safe way.

The cords and connectors have all the required safety approvals (UL CSA, PSE, Kema Keur, PSE and SAA), are compatible with the RoHS II (2015/863) directive and offer LSZH (low smoke zero halogen).

@SchaffnerGroup #Pauto