Machine Building

Products

New I/O modules simplify smart machines

The new Allen Bradley ArmorBlock I/O options from Rockwell Automation can be mounted anywhere on a machine to provide the advantage of shorter cable runs and lower wiring costs. They use nickel-plated zinc die-cast housing, have QuickConnect functionality and offer diagnostics in an EtherNet/IP universal digital I/O block to reduce both commissioning and troubleshooting times.

9th June 2020

Assistance system for surge protection with new functions

A major firmware update has provided new functions for Phoenix Contact's ImpulseCheck assistance system for surge protection. Firmware 2.0 now allows Proficloud Global or Proficloud China to be selected as the end point, and additional interfaces are also provided to access selected data for the assistance system in the local network. The data can be accessed via either Modbus TCP/IP or a REST API. However, in contrast to the Control API for Proficloud in the ImpulseAnalytics application, the scope is reduced to the key features of ImpulseCheck, the evaluated measured data, and the state of health of the monitored surge protective device. When connected to the cloud, the data is updated accordingly and can be viewed directly in the web-based management of the assistance system.

9th June 2020

Mouser offers advances in industrial vibration monitoring

Mouser Electronics is adding a new product from Analog Devices Inc. to its expanding portfolio. The ADcmXL 1021-1 Vibration Sensor Module is designed for use in industrial and transportation condition-based monitoring systems, and is a single axis MEMS-based vibration sensor that detects early indications of mechanical wear that might lead to machine failure. The module incorporates a wide-bandwidth, low-noise MEMS accelerometer together with an analogue-to-digital converter and signal processing chain. The company says that other notable highlights include:

9th June 2020

Herga IR switch aids operator safety

Herga's 6461 series IR switch is designed to offer a simple and effective aid to barrier protection. Simple to operate and easily installed either in new equipment or as a retrofitted replacement, the company states that as high hygiene becomes more important, this infrared non-contact switch provides a safe alternative to manual switches for dispensing and vending equipment. Herga has manufactured this product for several years so the switches are tried and tested with high-reliability, have a sensing range from 75 to 100mm, and are available in a choice of materials and switching options.

9th June 2020

Hand sanitiser dispenser manufacturer demands rugged enclosures

The maker of a new hand sanitiser dispenser has partnered with Spelsberg to develop a highly resilient, lockable dispenser to meet the demands of the Coronavirus crisis. Hermes, manufacturer of the HandClean 2020 (a hands free sanitiser dispenser), has selected Spelsberg's GEOS enclosure for its contactless design which is to be used in public places such shopping centres, banks, reception areas and industrial sites.

9th June 2020

Hepco driven track system range expands

Hepco Motion is introducing its DTS+ track system, a new addition to its Driven Track range. The DTS+ system incorporates key features of the existing Hepco PRT track system and its original DTS, combining them with a high-load capacity connection from the carriages to the drive belt. The carriages will not disengage from the belt, allowing the transmission of higher driving forces compared with the original DTS system.

8th June 2020

The cutting edge for thicker steels

Thermal Dynamics Automation has upgraded its 400-amp cutting system (which features its Ultra-Cut 400 XT high-precision power source, XT torch with QuickPierce consumables and iCNC Performance Controller ) to reduce piercing time by up to 40 per cent on mild steel thicknesses ranging from 30 to 50mm. Faster piercing time reduces cycle time, especially for plates with a complex parts nest. The company also states that it has improved the front-end components on its 400-amp consumables, and made several other arc starting enhancements to increase parts life, cut longer between-consumable changes, and lower the overall total cut cost.

5th June 2020

Connecting miniature sensors to Ethernet networks

binder is announcing the availability of its new 818 Series: M8 D-Coded connectors. The company states that these are likely to be of especial interest engineers who need to connect miniature sensors to Ethernet networks across applications that use the latest automation technology. The new M8 D-Code connectors are specifically designed to support the high data bandwidths that are now becoming more common in smart factories. When mated and locked the new connectors protect to IP67.

5th June 2020

Bolt tensioners avoid incorrect tightening

HYDROCAM is a hydraulically operated bolt tensioner that is designed to offer greater accuracy compared with alternative fixing methods, according to its manufacturers Pilgrim, part of the SKF group. The company states that HYDROCAM "Removes uncertainty over the performance and long-term reliability of couplings" and adds that it can also save assembly time and reduce risks too. Other advantages highlighted include the fact that damage to bolts and associated structures is avoided, that installation is faster and that maintenance needs can be minimised.

5th June 2020

New human collaborative robot from Yaskawa

Yaskawa is introducing a new generation of human collaborative robots which it says "Combines key features to ensure powerful, robust and safe application capabilities". The Yaskawa Motoman HC20DT robot is the latest arrival in an expanding range of Motoman Smart Series robotic systems: it is a 6-axis robot which can handle payloads of up to 20kg with a reach of up to 1700mm and the highest levels of safety. Yaskawa states that its new model has COBOT potential for applications such as automated palletising and that depending on the application, it can be switched between safe / collaborative mode in phases of man-robot interaction, with a return to high industrial speed when the absence of an operator is detected by additional safety devices.

5th June 2020