Integrated evaluation of vibration patterns with X20 module

With the X20CM4810 module, B&R is introducing a new dedicated condition monitoring tool for machine builders and end users. Andreas Waldl, technical manager at B&R, explains: "This innovative X20 module allows operators to continuously monitor the status of an entire system. The results can then be used to determine exactly which parts of the machinery, if any, require maintenance."

With a width of two slots, the module provides four input channels with an IEPE interface (integrated electronic piezoelectric) for querying acceleration sensors. This interface supplies the sensors with power, samples their signals and processes them internally to generate more than 70 condition parameters like configurable damage frequency values, which are then transferred directly to the CPU via POWERLINK or any other standard fieldbus system.

The integrated evaluation of vibration patterns sets the B&R X20 module apart from other tools on the market and completely eliminates the need to forward raw data to an external CPU for analysis. The result? A reduced load on the fieldbus and system CPU as well as the elimination of superfluous interfaces.

The condition parameters generated by this module not only provide operators with the information they need to optimise maintenance intervals, but are also available for use directly as input in the automation software. B&R Automation Studio makes it easy to configure the X20CM4810 and program how the machine should respond to a status change, significantly reducing the amount of time and effort spent working with software. Waldl explains: "The main criteria we focused on when developing these modules was that they needed to be easy to use as part of an overall automation solution - without requiring expertise in vibration mechanics."

For more information about the X20 module with onboard intelligence for vibration analysis, please visit www.br-automation.com.