SMC Fieldbus System Speeds Machine Commissioning

SMC has developed the EX600 centralised fieldbus system to offer machine builders faster commissioning and modification processing. Reduced wiring eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly preparation of multi-core cabling, freeing up installation engineers' time and reducing direct and indirect labour costs. The EX600's modular design offers flexibility, with a wide range of digital and analogue input and output (I/O) options available.

As well as a standard valve manifold, a further nine I/O modules, in any configuration, can be added to the assembly. Each module can be further connected to a wide range of input and output devices such as flow and pressure sensors, flow and pressure switches, valves and auto-switches. A small manufacturer of medical equipment is currently using SMC's EX600 fieldbus system. By incorporating these fieldbus units into the machines it produces, SMC claims the company has seen commissioning and installation timescales cut by around a day, therefore cutting hotel accommodation expenditure for installation engineers.

Other features of the EX600 system include a self-diagnostic capability that provides short/open circuit detection at each input/output, an on/off counter facility and a parameter setting that can all be controlled and monitored from a hand-held terminal. With IP67 enclosure rating and Speedcon connectors, both the installation and wiring time for the EX600 is reduced accordingly. The EX600 system can be used with SMC's series SV, VQC and S0700 solenoid valves. It is also compatible with a wide range of protocols. Compatible protocols and available input and output modules will eventually be expanded further.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Class I Division 2?

Image
A Class I Division 2 is a location: (1) In which volatile flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are handled, processed, or used, but in which the liquids, vapors, or gases will normally be confined within closed containers or closed systems from which they can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems or in case of abnormal operation of equipment, or (2) In which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become hazardous through failure or abnormal operation of the ventilating equipment. Class I Division 2 Classification Class I Division 2 refers to the ANSI/ISA 12.12.01 standard. This standard was previously UL1604 until UL recommended the newer ANSI/ISA standard be used and that all hazardous location products be certified under this standa
Read more

FUSE SIZING CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGHER EFFICIENCY MOTORS

Image
When selecting the proper fuse for short circuit protection in motor starting applications, it is important to not only ensure that the fuse will not nuisance open during motor start up times, but also that the fuse will coordinate as required with overload relays. When sizing fuses between 125% and 150% of the motor nameplate current, several advantages, including ease of coordination with an overload device, a smaller disconnect, and increased short circuit protection from a lower fuse rating, can be achieved. However, if sizing at this level prevents the motor from starting, it may then be necessary to increase the fuse ampere rating and it then becomes important to know the NEC sizing limitations. As of June 1, 2016, the US Department of Energy has mandated that newly manufactured electric motors will need to meet NEMA Premium® efficiency standards. As motor efficiencies increase, motor locked rotor currents can also be expected to increase. In addition to this, with across-the-lin
Read more

7/8 16UN Connectors that Provide 600 Volts and 15 Amps

TURCK announces new A-Size 3 and 4-pin 7/8 16UN powerfast™ connectors that provide up to 600 Volts and 15 Amps of power. These IP67 rated connectors provide a modular wiring system designed to handle high current applications for machine power distribution, while providing resistance to vibration commonly associated with conveyors, motors and material handling applications. The cordsets are available with a tray rated, exposed run PVC flexlife ® cable, with or without STOOW rating, and 14 AWG wires that allow you to replace hard wiring with a robust, quick disconnect system that saves the time and money spent installing a conduit system. The A-Size powerfast line offers male and female, straight connectors, standard and custom lengths, and pigtails or extensions. To make the system complete, fully encapsulated mating receptacles, with 1/2”-14 NPT mounting threads are available.
Read more