Abstract
Is There a Future for the PLC?
Mitsubishi Electric Europe says that automation is changing, and the suggestion is that the role of control technology will change (http://www.mitsubishi-automation.com); it claims that total solutions, in which tasks are distributed according to free capacity, are growing in importance, and individual components are irrelevant to customers.
There is a debate in the usage of programmable logic controller (PLC) against programmable controller (PC). Mitsubishi’s experts believe in the coexistence of both systems. Automation suppliers are supplying fewer and fewer individual components (PLCs, inverters, motion controllers, etc.) but instead are providing solutions developed especially to suit customers’ tasks.
Harald Voigt, PLC/HMI/Software Product Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Europe explained,
What counts is the overall performance of the system, not the individual performance of the components. The processors built into the system have to take on a wide variety of tasks flexibly, so the PLC will no longer exist in its familiar form in the future.
Is there a future for the programmable logic controller (PLC)? Mitsubishi Electric Europe says ‘yes’
Harald Voigt continued,
Customers will simply be able to describe a problem via software and define a solution. It is not important to customers which processor is used to execute the task, whether it’s a PLC, motion controller, robot or inverter. This decision is made autonomously by the increasingly intelligent automation environment and according to free capacity, regardless of the nature of the task. All relevant components, from the redundant high-performance controller to the sensor, communicate in real time with one another according to the principle of distributed intelligence.
A Windows-based system may have high speed and capacity, but it is not a real-time operating system. The PLC is also comparatively secure, because it has much greater protection against unauthorised access from outside. It also supports the longer life cycles of systems and is able to execute different tasks. This flexible capability is increasingly important because strategic standards such as IEC61499, which covers function blocks for industrial control systems and guidelines for distributed intelligence in control systems, are becoming ever more important.
Harald Voigt said that both system types will continue to exist and be used depending on the user requirement, but that ‘In a combination of intelligent systems, the PLC assumes responsibility for all sequences that have to be particularly safeguarded’.
NAMUR Sensor with ATEX Approval
Turck Banner (http://www.turckbanner.co.uk) (Companion Company) has launched Namur sensors having safety integrity level 2 (SIL2) certification and Appareils destinés à être utilisés en atmosphères explosives (ATEX) approval for use in Ex areas. The entire sensor with terminal chamber is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compliant.
These inductive proximity switches feature a terminal chamber that provides a vibration-proof connection using removable screw or cage clamp terminals – this greatly simplifies exchange during servicing.
The wash-down version also offers maximum freedom and switching distances. Users can select between a straight and 90° angled cable outlet by simply rotating the cover. The cable is fed into the terminal chamber cover via a standard M16 cable gland.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the terminal chamber indicate the switching state of the sensors to the user at the device. The V4A steel sensor housing can withstand very harsh media, and with protection to IP68 and IP69K, as well as a temperature range from −40 °C to +100 °C, these sensors are suitable for use in extremely harsh environments.
Brushless DC Motor Controller Is Programmable
Roboteq (http://www.roboteq.com) has introduced an intelligent controller that can directly drive a Hall-sensor-equipped brushless direct current (DC) motor to 30 A at up to 60 V. The SBL1360, as it is called, is targeted at designers of industrial automation systems, mobile robots, mechatronics and medium power motor control applications.
The controller accepts commands from either analogue pedal/joystick, standard R/C radio, universal serial bus (USB), CAN or RS232 interface. Using the serial port, the device can be used to design fully or semi-autonomous robots by connecting it to single board computers, wireless modems or WiFi adapters. Using CAN bus, up to 127 controllers can be networked on a single twisted-pair network.
The SBL1360 incorporates a Basic Language Interpreter capable of executing more than 50,000 Basic instructions/second. This allows powerful scripts to be written for adding custom functions, or for developing automated systems without the need for an external PLC or microcomputer.
Roboteq’s new SBL1360 intelligent controller can directly drive a Hall-sensor equipped brushless direct current (DC) motor up to 30 A, and to 60 V
Industrial Analogue I/O Server for Process Automation
Lantronix (http://www.lantronix.com), a leading global provider of smart machine-to-machine (M2M) connectivity solutions, has launched its Lantronix xSenso controller, designed for use in harsh environments, including industrial automation, process control, manufacturing, chemicals, oil and gas industries and many more. Analogue and relay outputs allow instant control of industrial processes and equipment based on the sensor readings and predefined thresholds to solve real-time problems.
This controller is a compact Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) rail or wall-mount solution that enables analogue sensors (voltage or current) to easily and transparently send real-time data to any node on the Internet or to a cloud-based application. It can take action when a condition is met (e.g. temperature threshold, pressure level, etc.), triggering its internal relays or outputting voltage or current to control an event in real time.
In an existing control system, the device can also be placed in between the sensor and the controller to mirror the analogue data from its input to its output, while simultaneously presenting the data through a web browser to computers or mobile devices.
Bosch Rexroth Goes into the Filtration Sector
Bosch Rexroth has expanded its product portfolio in the UK market to include its own range of filtration systems. This move is the result of the company’s acquisition of K & H Eppensteiner GmbH & Co in 2009, one of Europe’s most established filter manufacturers. Now, the Eppensteiner range of filtration products is being rebranded as Bosch Rexroth and will be made available here.
All aspects of filtration are covered, with high flow rates and several pressure ranges in return and pressure types such as inline, manifold, tank mounted, duplex and so on with indication options. They can be applied to a range of applications, from agriculture to rail, mobile and industrial.
The new product portfolio also contains all filter accessories, including filter programs, oil purification, measuring instruments and specific condition monitoring systems.
Moreover, this expanded range will include the award winning LE (N) 0040-0400 series filtration system, which uses a ‘cyclone effect’ that diverts the inlet flow in a specific direction, enhancing the flow properties and dirt absorption capacity.
Bosch Rexroth has expanded its product portfolio in the United Kingdom market to include its own range of filtration systems
Go to http://www.boschrexroth.co.uk/filtration for further information.
New CEO for Endress+Hauser
With effect from 1 January 2014, Matthias Altendorf will be the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Endress+Hauser Group (http://www.uk.endress.com). Klaus Endress, who has led the Group since 1995, will at the same time take his seat in the Supervisory Board.
Klaus Endress (64 years) has in recent years repeatedly announced his plans to withdraw from operative business. It was also known that, for reasons of age, no other member of the shareholder family would follow him right now. Klaus Riemenschneider, President of the Supervisory Board, explained,
We want to avoid speculations and discussions. Announcing the succession at an early stage will provide clarity and smooth the transition.
The new CEO will be Matthias Altendorf, until now Managing Director (MD) of Endress+Hauser’s largest plant in Maulburg, Germany, and since 2009 also a member of the Group’s Executive Board. Beginning with a mechanic’s apprenticeship at the Maulburg plant followed by advanced training and further education, 45-year-old Altendorf has spent his entire working life at Endress+Hauser. Working for Endress+Hauser Flowtec in Reinach, Switzerland, Altendorf took on more and more responsibilities in various positions until moving up into management as Marketing Director in 2000. In 2005, Altendorf finally returned to Maulburg as MD.
Tape Extension Sensor for Cost-Sensitive Jobs
ASM Sensor Specialists has introduced its NEW WB61 Tape Extension Sensor. This provides up to 4000 mm measuring length in a compact housing. All of these sensors have been designed to operate in harsh conditions, so they are suitable for the mobile working machine market, as well as other harsh demanding applications.
Because of the design of the sensor and the inherent strengths of the stainless steel tape, the type can be found in environments and areas where other sensors struggle to survive. These include hard-to-reach areas where directional changing pulleys are used, or where temperature extremes cause problems such as icing.
The life of the sensors is totally unaffected by the use of pulleys, which means that they are, says the company, ‘the perfect choice’ for safety-critical areas often found in crane operation, among many others, including excavators, forklift trucks, hoists and access platforms.
ASM Sensor Specialists’ new Tape Extension Sensor
Measuring Gases in Beer Headspace
The OMA Process Analyser by Applied Analytics (http://www.a-a-inc.com) is used to continuously measure concentrations of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and dimethyl sulphide (DMS) in the fermentation by-product gas involved in the beer bottle filling process. Using the OMA system, a brewery enables intelligent CO2 reclamation, which continuously prevents sulphide contamination of the beer product.
Prior to filling, beer bottles are purged with CO2 to remove air and protect the taste against oxidation. In the fermentation process, yeast consumes sugar and expels a large amount of CO2, which can be ‘reclaimed’ and used for this bottle purging purpose. Unfortunately, fermentation often also produces toxic, odorous sulphides, which can foam up into the piping and contaminate the reclaimed CO2.
In order to continue using the great resource of CO2 by-product, yet avoid contaminating the bottled beer with foul-smelling toxins, the reclaimed gas is run through sulphide removal skids. However, sulphide breakthrough can occur if the gas does not spend enough time in the scrubber. Employees are sometimes tasked with sniff-testing the reclaimed CO2, but this is an unhealthy practice and is too discrete to vigilantly prevent product contamination. An automatic, continuous analysis solution is required in order to immediately divert contaminated CO2 from use in bottling, as well as provide feedback control for the sulphur removal processing time.
The OMA Process Analyser uses a full-spectrum ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer to detect the absorbance of sulphides in the reclaimed CO2 stream – an ideal method as CO2 has zero absorbance in the UV spectrum. The OMA provides fast-response alarms to high-concentration threshold, which allows immediate diversion of contaminated CO2.
Applied Analytics’ OMA Process Analyser helps prevent sulphide contamination of beer
In this beer bottle application, the OMA is typically multiplexed to automatically cycle analysis between multiple sampling points. This maximises system value by allowing one unit to monitor the raw fermentation gas entering the reclamation system, gas coming off the acid aldehyde scrubbers and the bottling gas coming off of the sulphur removal beds – all with sample stream switching at user-defined intervals.
Precision Multiphase Power Analysis
Tektronix (http://www.tektronix.com) has launched a precision multi-phase power analyser. Featuring what is claimed to be the industry’s first Spiral Shunt design, the PA4000 Power Analyser provides power electronics engineers with stable, precise current measurements, even on highly distorted power waveforms common in many applications.
With energy efficiency and new power sources becoming ever more important in electronics design, engineers need newer and more advanced tools to keep up with consumer demand, changing technologies, government regulations and added workload. A result of this is the PA4000, which enables an end-to-end solution that provides the performance to measure for conformance to regulatory standards today and in the future.
Offering highly accurate power, energy and efficiency measurements, this analyser is said to be easy to use, has application-specific test modes and boasts a full set of standard features – such as precisely matched inputs; wide input ranges; advanced signal processing; local area network (LAN), USB and RS232 communication interfaces; and personal computer (PC)-based software.
Manufacturing Automation ‘University’ Tours United Kingdom and Ireland
Rockwell Automation has announced that the Automation University, which the company claims is ‘arguably the EMEA region’s most significant and exciting free manufacturing event’, is coming to Dublin, Cardiff, Crawley and County Durham.
Professionals in management, engineering, maintenance, purchasing and information technology (IT), will benefit, says Rockwell Automation, from an opportunity to discuss current and emerging challenges with industry colleagues, technical specialists and business consultants, in a relaxed, friendly, ‘non-sales’ environment. Places for these free events are always in great demand, and on average, 100 people attend each one.
‘Automation University on the Move’ is a 1-day event, taking place locally and offering live demos, seminars and industry sessions – bringing together solutions and specialists. The events feature many of Rockwell Automation’s technology partners and a large central exhibition area, where visitors can see products and technologies brought to life and meet people with the direct experience of applying the latest solutions to modern manufacturing requirements.
Users can tailor a programme that suits their requirements, so that they do not miss out on vital sessions, or have to sit through presentations that are less than 100% relevant to their business.
Go to http://www.automationuniversity.eu/emea for more information or to book.
Wafer-Level Testing Added to Automated Characterisation Software
Keithley Instruments (http://www.keithley.com) has enhanced its Automated Characterisation Suite (ACS) software that supports its expanding family of high-power semiconductor characterisation solutions. ACS combines multiple instruments into a unified test environment optimised for flexibility, speed and productivity in testing and analysis. The ACS package has been optimised for automated wafer-level parameter test applications, including automated characterisation, reliability analysis and known good die testing.
However, the ACS V5.0 update uses the high-power capabilities of the company’s Model 2651A (high current) and Model 2657A (high voltage) System SourceMeter source measure unit (SMU) instruments to enable automated wafer-level testing of high-power semiconductor devices, such as power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), diodes and so on.
Keithley has enhanced its Automated Characterisation Suite (ACS) software that supports its expanding family of high-power semiconductor characterisation solutions
Incorporated enhancements include device libraries, support for hardware scan, recognition and configuration management of the high-power Models 2651A and 2657A; therefore, users can quickly connect these instruments to a PC, confirm connectivity and begin testing.
Go to Sensors & Instrumentation 2013
For Interface readers wishing to find out about new sensor and instrumentation products, or gain news on the latest technologies, a visit to Sensors & Instrumentation 2013 (25–26 September, NEC, Birmingham) should be valuable.
This exhibition is dedicated to sensors, sensing techniques and instrumentation for test, measurement and control, and will, therefore, cater to a wider range of exhibitors but also suit a wider range of visitors compared with previous shows.
This year, there will be a mixture of first-time exhibitors, as well as those returning following the success of previous years. Companies already booked to attend include National Instruments, Micro-Epsilon, Impress Sensors & Systems, Huba Control, Bronkhorst, Michell Instruments, Techni Measure, Keller, Binder, PCB Piezotronics, Jumo Instruments, Strainsense, GE Measurement & Control, FUTEK and many more.
In a further benefit to visitors, this show is co-located with a number of others. Not only is it once again running alongside MM, NANO and MEMS, but for 2013, it will be joining up with the Machine Building show (also organised by Datateam Business Media and Trident exhibitions). Other features of Sensors & Instrumentation 2013 include seminars held by industry experts with the opportunity for Q&A after each. The Institute of Measurement and Control is an official sponsor of this event.
Go to http://www.sensorsandinstrumentation.co.uk and http://www.machinebuildingshow.co.uk for more information.
FDT Certification Improves Water Monitoring Efficiency
Hach Lange (http://www.hach-lange.co.uk) has achieved field device tool (FDT) certification for its sc200 universal controller and associated sensors. As a result, says the company, process managers will find it simpler and quicker to integrate the company’s broad range of water and wastewater analytical instruments.
The sc200 successfully completed tests for Device Type Managers (DTM) and is available with 43 sensors and analysers covering 20 different parameters. This multi-sensor DTM represents, therefore, it is believed, the world’s broadest certified portfolio of water and wastewater analytical devices.
FDT/DTM is an open standardised technology providing a communication and configuration interface between field devices and host systems. Under FDT/DTM, any device can be configured, operated and maintained through the standardised user interface – regardless of supplier, type or communication protocol.
Using FDT/DTM technology (free software download from Hach-Lange.com), the sc200 allows users to configure device parameters, operate devices via a standardised graphical user interface and access advanced diagnostic information from any location.
Certified for Harsh Maritime Applications
The sensing business of GE Measurement & Control (http://www.ge-mcs.com) has added two marine versions to its UNIK 5000 platform of pressure sensors. These provide marine engineers with industrial specification pressure transmitters that have full marine and hazardous area certification for use in the harshest of on-board applications.
One of the versions has been designed for tank-level measurement, while the other will be used as a pressure sensor throughout a ship’s power and process plant.
The two new pressure sensors are the UNIK 5600 and the UNIK 5700. The IP65-rated UNIK 5600 is designed for use throughout a ship’s power and process plant, and particularly for turbine engine monitoring of exhaust, lubricating oil and fuel pressure. It is made from 316 stainless steel and normally features a DIN-approved electrical connector to ensure that contact with oil does not damage the sealing.
The UNIK 5700 has been designed for on-board tank-level measurement and control, for ballast, fresh water, sea and fuel tanks. It is manufactured in titanium for sea water media compatibility and is available with an IP68-rated sealed cable for protection against water ingress down to 700 m.
Paper Mill Benefits from Burner Management System
Systems integrator Hima-Sella (http://www.hima-sella.co.uk) (Companion Company) has completed the design and configuration of a complex Burner Management System (BMS) for a paper mill in Portugal. The contract, awarded by Worcestershire-based Cepha Controls, included two HIMA HIQuad Programmable Electronic System (PES) units, at the heart of a BMS that provides the paper mill with precise burner safety control, improved reliability and greater flexibility. Hima-Sella also provided engineering support to main contractor Kiln Flame Systems, during the commissioning of the system.
The HIQuad units are incorporated into a control panel, designed and made by Cepha Controls, which was supplied to the main contractor Kiln Flame Systems Ltd. of High Wycombe – responsible for the design and supply of an OPTIMIX GL-X multi-fuel burner, gas and oil valve trains and BMS package for installation on the two lime kilns at the paper mill.
Certified for use in applications up to SIL 3, the HIQuad delivers high reliability, supports the hot-swapping of modules and online programme changes and is ideal for safety-critical applications requiring high levels of process availability. The unit comprises a 19-inch rack fitted with analogue and digital input modules and line-monitored digital outputs.
COWIN Helps Certify Biomedical Sensor
Sensaris (http://www.sensaris.com) has developed an innovative multi-sensor device for monitoring vital signs. Called the ZAO, it is currently being certified and will be available by mid 2013. An organisation called COWIN (http://www.cowin4u.eu) has been helping this small company through the daunting certification process.
About the size of a thick paperback book, the ZAO provides professional-level diagnostic data so that it can be used by medical professionals; yet, its low target volume price point of around €550 means that it can also be used by the home health market.
This compact, wireless battery-powered device measures glucose level, body temperature, oximetry (saturation level of a patient’s haemoglobin) and blood pressure. It uses WiFi to deliver the information to Android or iOS devices, such as smartphone, tablets and computers. Data can also be sent to a remote server for centralised processing and monitoring.
The ZAO weighs 310 g and measures 129 × 44 × 135 mm3, with a built-in rechargeable 3.7-V lithium battery and a microchip processor.
The Sensaris CEO, Michael Setton explained
“As a small company, it is very challenging to find your way through all certification processes necessary to bring a medical device to market.” “In late 2012, we came across COWIN, which is a European initiative to help facilitate the take-up of advanced technologies. Part of the remit is to provide advice, coaching and consultancy to European companies especially start-ups. As this is funded by the EU, it does not cost us anything, and it also means that we can be confident that the advice is impartial from people who really understand our industry and are not driven by having to meet sales targets.”
Michael Setton continued
“I’ve found that people who are experts in the biomedical field rarely have the breadth of experience that encompasses designing and bringing a product to market. I am very impressed with the mentor that COWIN has provided us with, as he has actual experience of all this and going through the approvals and certification processes which will really cut down the time to market.”
University Chooses Bruker Mechanical Tester
Bruker’s Nano Surfaces division has shipped the first unit of the newly re-designed Universal Mechanical Tester (UMT) to the Nano Mechanics and Tribology Laboratory (NMTL) at the University of Arkansas.
This new instrument has been designed with a wide range of interchangeable drives and fixtures that allow samples to be tested under many wear patterns. The next-generation UMT now also incorporates a reliable optical profiler from Bruker that can rapidly and accurately measure surfaces before and after tribology or mechanical testing. Advanced servo control and patented force sensor designs allow these enhancements to be achieved without compromising UMT’s very high accuracy and repeatability.
Go to http://www.bruker.com to find out more.
Bruker’s re-designed Universal Mechanical Tester (UMT)
Instrument Protection Company Expands Manufacturing Capacity
Outdoor instrument protection specialist, Intertec (http://www.intertec.info), which in the United Kingdom is based in Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex, has opened an advanced new production facility, greatly expanding its ability to fabricate shelters, cabinets and enclosures for protecting process instrumentation.
Representing an investment of nearly £2 million, the expansion project provides the company with its second build-to-demand computer numerical control (CNC) machining line. This advanced automation eliminates many previous manual tasks, substantially shortening manufacturing times – and will help the company meet the exceptional worldwide demand for glass fibre–reinforced polyester (GRP) enclosures.
Patrick van Winckel, Director of Business Development for Intertec, commented,
This investment allows us to shave around 25% from the production cycles of many of our specialist GRP-based outdoor instrument enclosures and shelters, giving us much greater flexibility to meet the fast-changing demand from our processing customers.
Intertec has two main production centres located in Sarnia, Canada, and Neustadt, Germany, plus two smaller assembly and system building centres located in Houston, Texas, and Saint Petersburg, Russia. The new production line is housed in a purpose-built 1400 m2 building extension at Sarnia. The new building increases the size of the Sarnia factory by more than a third, and expands Intertec’s total worldwide footprint by around 10%.
Smart Lighting Sensing in Smart Cities Saves Energy
From Libelium (http://www.libelium.com) comes a new Smart Lighting solution designed for use in so-called Smart City deployments. Based on the modular Waspmote Plug & Sense! wireless sensor network platform, this device measures ambient light (luminosity) with a set of sensor probes that can be pointed in any direction. It also includes temperature and humidity sensors. The Smart Lighting solution can, therefore, monitor conditions inside buildings, in tunnels and in streets in order to save energy.
This sensor can measure precise light intensity information ranging from 0.1 to 40,000 lx, so that it can detect sunrise, sunset or small variations in cloud cover. It can then trigger actions for the smart control of lighting. A directional sensor probe is easily adjusted to the desired direction, even pointing directly to the sky if required, for the most accurate results.
Not only that, this device also combines a broadband photo-diode to detect visible and infrared (IR) light, and an IR-responding photo-diode on a single complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS)-integrated circuit provides a near photopic response over an effective 20-bit dynamic range, all with 16-bit resolution. This solution is, therefore, suitable for use in smart cities, in intelligent buildings and with security systems.
News in Brief
Wireless temperature sensing
A wireless temperature sensor by Spinwave Systems (http://www.spinwavesystems.com) resists radiofrequency (RF) interference and is said to be easily interfaced to any building automation system. This sensor is available in three versions: sensor, sensor with override and sensor with override and set point. The battery life is claimed to be up to 8 years.
Low-cost HMI for mobile machines
The JVM-104 is a new, compact human–machine interface (HMI) by Jetter AG (http://www.jetter.de), running Windows CE as its operating system and having ergonomic design at minimum cost. The 3.5-inch thin film transistor (TFT) display with LED backlight is installed in a strong IP65 plastic enclosure, and it can be used during night and day because of its backlit keys and the light sensor, which automatically adapts the illumination of the display to the brightness of the surroundings. This HMI comes with four function keys and is available with an optional digiPOT. Peripheral devices can be controlled via CAN bus, while USB and Ethernet ports are optional. The operating temperature is −20 °C to +65 °C. Applications include automated construction and agricultural machinery and industrial automation.
Solenoid valves for many fluids, gases, vacuum and steam
Bürkert’s new Type 6027 direct acting (2/2 and 3/2, normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC)) range of process solenoid valves is intended for use with neutral gases, fluids, steam, vacuum and slightly aggressive media at pressures up to 135 bar and temperatures to +180 °C. The range offers process users high flexibility with a modular design that allows many variations of function, temperature range, coil rating, chemical resistance and approvals. This simplifies valve selection, providing the benefits of standardisation and a virtually unlimited combination of valve options. This direct acting design uses the latest AC 19 coil technology with optional integrated power boosters where required, significantly improving performance with reliability.
Go to http://www.burkert.co.uk to learn more.
Advanced Monitoring for FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 Segments
Turck (http://www.turck.com) (Companion Company) has introduced its Diagnostic Power Conditioner (DPC) backplane for FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 segments. This provides up to four segments with redundant power and 800 mA/segment – claimed to be the highest power in the industry.
In addition, the backplane communicates diagnostic data back to an asset management system via high-speed Ethernet to alert operators of any communication challenges.
John Vu, Product Specialist at Turck, said,
Most manufacturers use a diagnostic device connected to the fieldbus segment to diagnose communication issues. However, this not only introduces noise in the network but also requires users to install software to view the fieldbus communication. With Turck’s high-speed Ethernet web-server, operators can simply connect the DPC backplane to the field device and access live H1 diagnostic data from any LAN-based computer. This saves a significant amount of time and provides our customers with a more streamlined monitoring solution.
Turck’s Diagnostic Power Conditioner (DPC) backplane for FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 segments
The DPC system features an integrated diagnostics module that provides users with vital statistics to simplify diagnosis of any problems associated with the FOUNDATION fieldbus physical layer. The information provided by the DPC system assists in the commissioning and maintenance of a FOUNDATION fieldbus system.
Booklet on How to Produce Clean Steam
Bürkert has published a new booklet, entitled Steam: Products & Systems for Clean Steam, covering its extensive range of products used in the production of clean steam.
The pictorial information highlights a range that meets all steam user needs – from large-scale bespoke projects, to smaller original equipment manufacturer (OEM) solutions. This enables designers to determine the most effective clean steam control and measurement solution for their needs.
Moreover, being able to use custom-designed stainless steel manifolds means that existing complex assemblies of valves and pipework can be avoided or replaced, saving valuable installation time and footprint space. This strategy can also reduce the numbers of fittings, seals and pipework required – and so minimise potential leak paths.
The company says that this free information is extremely easy for readers to understand and take in, adopting a pictorial representation of a typical steam producing plant with arrows depicting where each steam product fits into the overall arrangement. Free copies can be obtained by emailing
Two of many Bürkert steam products, now shown in a new booklet entitled Steam: Products & Systems for Clean Steam
Field-attachable valve connectors are simple to connect
Belden (http://www.belden.co.uk) has extended its Hirschmann product programme to include new field-attachable shock and vibration resistant valve connectors from the GDM series. These type-B connectors guarantee a dependable power supply and reliable data transmission. This helps systems and machines to be most productive. The products are available without circuitry, or with over 20 different electronic inserts that protect downstream circuitry against voltage surges or electromagnetic interference. Versions featuring built-in status indicators (with/without circuit protection) are also available.
Waveform monitor with HDMI/HDCP connection claimed ‘unique’
Tektronix (http://www.tektronix.com) has expanded its line of waveform monitors and rasterizers with its new WFM and WVR5250 models. These are the only products in their respective classes, the company claims, to offer high-definition multimedia interface–high-definition content protection (HDMI-HDCP) inputs that enable broadcasters, operators and equipment manufacturers to directly monitor the quality of the video and audio output of set-top boxes (STBs) and Blu-ray players. This capability, the company says, makes the WFM/WVR5250 ‘the most comprehensive, compact and portable video and audio test tools available for acquisition, post production and compliance monitoring’. In addition to checking the output of their STBs, broadcasters, operators and equipment manufacturers can use the HDMI-HDCP connectivity of the WFM/WVR5250 to test new STB firmware releases in the lab and diagnose interoperability issues. This eliminates the need for dedicated HDMI protocol analysers.
Red Lion promotes
Industrial control specialist company Red Lion Controls (http://www.redlion.net) has promoted Jesse Benefiel to Vice President of Product Management. Daniel Faia has also been promoted – to the position of Vice President of Global Sales. Mike Granby, President of Red Lion Controls, commented,
As Red Lion continues expanding our product portfolio as part of our ‘better.together’ integration efforts, we are confident that Jesse Benefiel and Daniel Faia both have the necessary leadership skills and determination to drive sales worldwide.
IP67 Interfaces Connect Incremental and SSI Absolute Encoders
Two new Speedway interfaces from Wago (http://www.wago.com) connect both incremental and Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI) absolute encoders, while counting binary signals in IP67 environments. The 767-5201 Module evaluates incremental encoders and SSI absolute encoders with RS-485/-422 signal levels, while 24-V signal levels can be processed using the 767-5202 Module. The latter enables suitable incremental encoders to be linked to the system and also offers a counting function for 24-V binary signals up to 250 kHz.
Both interfaces come with two 8-pole M12 encoder ports that can be configured for each channel. The most important configuration options that can be set and selected include the type of evaluation and sensor, the output format, filters, inversion, latch, gate, preset, cam, simulation and limits.
In addition, both modules are also equipped with two extra five-pole M12 ports that encompass four configurable digital input/output (I/O) for sensors and actuators. Other features include two channels that can also be used as pulse-width modulation (PWM) outputs, and the operating mode, filters, inversion, substitute value strategy, manual operation, simulation and the PWM can also be set for each channel.
One of two new Speedway interfaces from Wago that connect both incremental and Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI) absolute encoders, while counting binary signals
Online Process Instrumentation Training from Endress+Hauser
Endress+Hauser’s new End User Academy (EUA) allows field technicians to gain the valuable training they need to run plant operations safely, smoothly and more efficiently – without spending too much time away from their regular job duties.
Through its online training modules that cover theory and concepts as prerequisites, the EUA gives field technicians the preparation needed to successfully begin on-site and classroom training.
This training module is said to be easy to follow, having narrated presentations complete with diagrams, photos and videos. The topics covered include flow, level, pressure, temperature, liquid analysis, recorders and components and solutions, such as wireless networks, life cycle management and plant asset management.
Those interested in enrolling can test drive a course for free, so as to determine whether this training product is right for the technician and/or organisation.
Go to http://www.us.endress.com/eua for more information.
Tektronix Goes into Power Analyser Sector
Test, measurement and monitoring instrumentation specialist Tektronix (http://www.tektronix.com) is to enter the power analyser instrument market and introduce a full new product line in the coming months.
Because of this move, the company has implemented a technology transfer agreement that includes power analyser intellectual property, patents and product designs from its partner Voltech, which will exit the power analyser segment of its business by 30 September this year.
Amir Aghdaei, President, Tektronix, Danaher Group Executive, said,
This is an aggressive move by Tektronix into a dynamic, growing market segment in test and measurement. Voltech’s IP combined with Tektronix’ strengths in technology innovation and development will allow us to introduce new category leading power analyzer products in the near term. This is an efficient way for us to expand our portfolio of products and to meet customers’ need for end-to-end power test and measurement solutions.
For those working on developing more energy-efficient devices, or new forms of electricity generation, power analysers complement other power test and measurement instrumentation. By offering new power analysers, the company says that it is rounding out its portfolio of products to the customers it currently serves, as well as future customers focused on the power market.
New website for weighty matters
Those seeking information about weighing should take a look at the new Avery Weigh-Tronix website at http://www.averyweigh-tronix.com. This new site is simple to use and navigate, and the product selector enables users to find the right weighing solution for their needs, while the product comparator tool allows them to compare products by key features. Product literature is also simple to find, along with supplementary information, including details of complementary products and accessories, specification sheets, case studies and videos.
Portable flowmeter simply straps-on
The PTFM 1.0 ultrasonic transducers strap on to the outside of pipes from 12 to 1200 mm diameter and are recommended for measuring and totalising forward and reverse fluid flows for water, glycol, oils and chemicals. These transducers are ideal for calibrations, troubleshooting, flow surveys and as a temporary transmitter to replace inline flowmeters. The ultrasonic signal works through common pipe materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, ductile iron, cast iron, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), glass fibre, copper, brass and aluminium, as well as pipes with bonded liners, including epoxy, rubber and Teflon. Transducers can be mounted without shutting down flow, and there is no obstruction or pressure drop.
Simplicity in pressure indicators
The compact 1/8 DIN (96 × 48 mm2) IP258 pressure indicator from ONEhalf20 (http://www.onehalf20.com) features a strain gauge input and dual five-digit display features for high accuracy and simplicity of operation. The device is available with up to three programmable alarms, 4–20 mA or 0–10 V DC process value re-transmission and Modbus communications. This pressure indicator also offers simplified user functionality with front panel buttons for zero, peak and manual alarm reset.
Power and energy logged
Available from Test Tools Shop (http://www.testtoolsshop.com), the Hioki PW3360-20 power and energy logger is said to the first true power and energy logger from Hioki that enables the user to produce simple load profiles. Users can now look at their energy consumption over a specific time frame, that is, days, weeks or months, and compare the load profiles to show the energy saving that has been achieved. Load profiles for different electrical phases can be monitored to check that the load across each circuit of the electrical supply is well balanced, reducing the risk of overload and thus loss of production, services or serious electrical damage to facilities.
Wind Tunnel Test System for Aerospace R&D
The French aerospace research centre, ONERA, has acquired a 200-channel Brüel & Kjær (http://www.bksv.com) PULSE acoustic data acquisition system for wind tunnel testing. This system’s first use will be for scale-model aero-acoustic measurements at the S1 large sonic wind tunnel in Modane. Here, the system can remotely control the data acquisition process. During data recording, process data are simultaneously displayed together with real-time acoustic data in the form of time–frequency plots. Following this application, ONERA will use the system in its other wind tunnels.
Based on Brüel & Kjær’s standard PULSE LAN-XI data acquisition hardware and analysis platform, the system provides a dedicated, streamlined workflow to handle the system setup, data recording and post-processing analysis, and is suitably sized to handle the large data throughput.
Acoustic measurements in wind tunnel systems are categorised by the large number of channels needed, high data sampling frequencies, tight phase matching between channels and the high dynamic range of recorded levels.
Go to http://www.onera.fr/english.php for more information.
IR Windows for Better Thermal Process Inspections
New plastic IR inspection windows are now available from AXU to lower the costs of making routine thermal imaging inspections of electrical equipment. Many readers will be familiar with the advantages of using thermal imagers or IR thermometers to routinely check temperatures in plants, and locate hotspots that may lead to a premature failure or fire. In most cases, making a thermal inspection of, for example, an electrical cabinet requires opening doors and modifying the temperatures that exist in its normal operating state. Furthermore, internal inspections of equipment cabinets that are operating can expose operators to live circuitry and create a safety risk.
Alternatively, it might be possible to switch off a cabinet before making a measurement, but again this influences the process temperature, and therefore, the resulting images will not be accurate. In addition, the return to routine operation might not be instant.
The LookIR model xlk011 IR window panels allow accurate temperature measurements to be taken during normal operation, without opening cabinet doors or interfering with the process. The window panels are square, allowing them to be fitted easily on the front of virtually any electrical cabinet. Made from a special 2-mm-thick plastic, these IR windows are much more economic than the crystal window panels that are used on high-voltage switchgear circuitry that has the potential to flashover.
Go to http://www.axu.it/lookir for more information.
Managed industrial Ethernet switch
The SICOM6000 by Kyland Technology (http://www.kyland.cn) is a modular Layer 3 managed industrial Ethernet switch for DIN Rail mounting. This device offers four combo Gigabit small form-factor pluggable (SFP) slots or 10/100/1000Base-T(X) ports, 24 100M copper/fibre ports or 12 RS232/RS485 serial ports.
Industrial Ethernet switch has copper and fibre ports
Red Lion Controls has launched its modular N-Tron NT24k managed Gigabit Ethernet industrial switch series. These devices have been designed to handle the most challenging industrial environments with high reliability and wire-speed performance. Having up to 24-Gigabit Ethernet ports and a flexible modular format for different configuration options, the NT24k switches are available in rackmount and DIN rail models, and offer Gigabit and 100Base connectivity options in both copper and fibre. They can, therefore, deliver configuration flexibility that meets industrial networking requirements across industries, such as factory automation, utilities, video surveillance, security, transportation and renewable energy. Go to http://www.redlion.net/NT24k.
Monitoring tank levels
Pneumatic gauges have been used for many years in tank gauging systems requiring remote indication with accuracy and stability over wide temperature ranges. The Midget Model 277 pneumatic gauge from Ktech (http://www.ktechinc.com) provides, says the company, an economical way to achieve reliable and accurate tank gauging in vented tanks. The gauges can be supplied with custom dials, depending on the application. Dial scales may be manufactured to indicate proportional (i.e. E, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, F), litres, gallons, feet and inches, percentage of full, plus dual scale.
Non-contact position and displacement sensing
The Kaman KD-2306 is a non-contact linear displacement measuring instrument that, when paired with any of the supported sensors, becomes an easy to use, high-precision static and dynamic measuring system. The DIN rail mount interface makes it ideal for integration into OEM equipment and industrial control applications. The device is a cost-effective replacement for linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs), air gauges, dial indicators and micrometers, and applications for it range from lab work to production/process automation.
Go to https://ec.kamandirect.com/us/index.jsp for more information.