Industrial Factory Automation

The International Society of Automation (ISA) has launched its 2010 ISA Directory of Automation in an easy-to-use online format. This resource is available to the organisations members from a link on the ISA homepage or the dedicated ISA Directory of Automation website. The ISA Directory of Automation offers both keyword-driven searches and category specific searches, two methods that produce the most industry-relevant results on the web. The directory also includes Request for Information (RFI) functionality, which allows users to quickly contact participating suppliers to obtain more detailed information for specific projects. The directory has a downloadable desktop search application, which enables users to search for items directly from a small search window on their desktops. ISA partnered with Multiview to create the new directory.

Faro and Aberlink have signed an agreement under which the Aberlink 3D software is available as an option for the Faro Gage. Aberlink 3D can now be employed with portable measuring arms and was designed around an intuitive user interface that creates an interactive 3D image of the component as it is measured. The software package represents an intelligent measuring system that is able to automatically recognise and define the various features being measured. Software features developed specifically for Faro measuring arms ensure the on-screen image is always correctly orientated to match the measured part. Other innovations allow the arm to be used to control mouse functionality and the arm buttons to retake points and accept features. High-speed scanning enables a standard fixed probe to be used to collect a high density of touch points using time- and distance-based point spacing.

The RN73 series precision chip resistors from Tyco Electronics is now available from TTI. The range has been extended to offer resistance tolerances down to 0.01 per cent, making the devices up to 10 times more accurate than previously available models. Designed for telecommunication, industrial and military applications, RN73 series resistors are available in a choice of packages, from 1206 down to 0402 case size. Based on nichrome thin-film technology, the devices are produced with three sputtered layers of resistive metal film. This enables stable high-frequency performance to be achieved. Temperature coefficient of resistance values down to 10ppm/C, and even 5ppm/C, are available over a wide value range (5R1-470K) in the E96 and E24 value grids. For applications requiring higher power, the RP73 series resistors offer increased power dissipation; higher temperature capabilities (up to +155C); and increased operating voltages (200VDC) compared with the standard RN73 series. Accurate...

Leuze Electronic has released a brochure for its Solid Range Of Safety Light Curtains. The Solid range is currently used in the UK automotive industry, as well as other industries including building material and glass production, print and paper processing, packaging machinery, presses, and electrical and electronic manufacturing. The Type 4/SIL 3 rated range is available in five resolutions, in lengths from 150mm to 1.8m, and is supported by a range of mounting and fixing accessories, which are also detailed in the brochure. The brochure is available for download and can be supplied as a PDF in response to an email, or a paper brochure can be requested. Leuze Electronic also provides a machine safety inspection service, which will assess machines using any make of safety light curtain.

Souriau has announced that its standard UTS all-plastic connector range for severe operating environments is now available in a screw-contact version. The product allows easy connection with no need for dedicated tools and offers high-level sealing (IP68 and IP69K), as well as fast connections. Connecting screw-termination contact UTS connectors does not require any specific expertise or tools; an ordinary screwdriver is enough to connect the wires to the contacts. This means that the connectors are especially suited to field applications including: tunnel ventilation; video-surveillance; traffic control and road signals; car park detection systems; and metrological measurement systems. Screw-contact UTS connectors naturally benefit from the sealing performance offered by the UTS range, to IP68 or IP69K standards. This requires that characteristics remain stable when immersed to a depth of 10m and during high-pressure cleaning operations using 140 bar sprays. The sealing is retained e...