News » Product News AC/DC converters provide DC motor control and more
WEG has launched a series of AC/DC converters that support a wide range of supply voltages and current ratings, catering for both two- and four-quadrant applications. The TPD32-EV-FC converters “offer a versatile solution for motor control to meet the technological demands of a vast range of sectors, for improved efficiency and exceptional performance,” says WEG Automation Europe product manager, Karim Boudaoud.
Next-gen multi-core motion control avoids limitations
Beckhoff has unveiled a new generation of its TwinCat motion control technology that takes advantage of the latest multi-core and multitasking processing technologies to overcome some of the limitations of earlier generations. At the SPS exhibition in Germany, the company also demonstrated how it is using chatbots to simplify engineering.
Motion controller marries Windows with multi-axis engine
The UK controls developer Trio Motion Technology used the recent SPS show to launch a new motion controller based on Intel multi-core processors, which can run Microsoft Windows alongside Trio’s own Motion-iX core, allowing-machine builders to integrate Windows applications with advanced motion functions.
Factory monitoring platform works with any equipment
The German sensor-maker Sick has launched a platform that collects data from any factory source – including sensors, machine controllers and IIoT devices from any manufacturer – and displays it in real time, generating alerts and alarms, and visualising historical trends via dashboard graphics. The vendor-agnostic Field Analytics platform will help manufacturing and logistics organisations to optimise their performance by providing application-specific condition monitoring and process insights, independent of the machinery and systems that they use.
Controller achieves IE5 efficiencies with PCB motors
The US electric motor developer ECM PCB Stator Tech has announced a customisable integrated motor controller that operates with a claimed efficiency of 98%. The 5kW Unum Potentia controller was developed to maximise the benefits from the company’s PCB stator motor technology and its PrintStator Motor CAD platform. When combined with its PCB stator machines, the new controller is said to achieve IE5 efficiencies.
Cloud-based HMI portfolio offers users choice and agility
Rockwell Automation has launched a portfolio of cloud-based software and hardware that allows customers to use visualisation software to design HMI applications that will work with either Rockwell or third-party controllers, and can run on any hardware.
Industrial network security test suite uses single interface
Siemens has launched an all-in-one security testing suite for industrial communications networks. The Sinec Security Inspector – originally developed by the company for use in its own factories – is a software framework that scans individual network devices, network segments or the entire network infrastructures during maintenance. It brings together “best-in-class” security tools in a single user interface.
AC drive has been designed for hydraulic applications
Parker Hannifin has developed a modular AC drive specifically for motor control in hydraulic applications. The AC20F drive, available in ratings from 1.5-180kW, can be used in variable-speed hydraulic pump systems, such as the company’s drive-controlled pump (DCP). It includes a sensorless vector mode for controlling induction motors.
Control module will ‘revolutionise’ edge applications
Rockwell Automation has announced a module that, it claims, will “revolutionise” edge computing capabilities for its Logix controllers, opening up new applications and enhancing their processing power and versatility. The Embedded Edge Compute module (EEC) allows IT (information technology) and OT (operational technology) to converge at the Logix level for more direct monitoring.
AI maintenance tool predicts failures ‘days in advance’
Fiix Software, the Canadian CMMS (computerised maintenance management system) specialist that Rockwell Automation bought in 2020, has announced a “game-changing” AI (artificial intelligence) product, that it claims, will predict equipment breakdowns days before they happen by learning the signs of equipment failure in as little as seven days.
Educational robot will help students to learn new skills
ABB Robotics has launched a six-axis robot aimed at users in the education sector. The 21kg IRB 1090 robot offers a reach of 580mm and a payload of 3.5kg. It is 20% lighter than its predecessor and has a 10% smaller footprint, making it easier to move and install.
RS adds 4,000 automation products to its RS Pro portfolio
The global distributor RS has added 4,000 new industrial automation products to the existing 15,000 items in its RS Pro own-label offering.
Software cuts data-handling and boosts uptime by up to 20%
ABB Robotics has released a modular software platform that streamlines data collection, visualisation and analysis in automated production facilities. It claims that the OptiFact platform will cut data collection and analysis times by 25%, and increase production uptime by up to 20%.
Compact PLC supports IIoT and CC-Link IE Field Basic
Mitsubishi Electric has announced a compact PLC for implementing cost-effective machines with up to 60 I/O points. The Melsec FX5S PLC offers Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) functions for entry-level automation applications in sectors such as food and beverage, water and machining,
Supercapacitor packs deliver back-up power for IPCs and HMIs
Premio, the Californian rugged edge and embedded computing specialist, has launched an industrial supercapacitor-based power back-up system that provides configurable power redundancy for equipment such as industrial computers, displays and panel PCs. In the event of a power loss or instability, the Eco-1000 EdgeBoost EnergyPack provides sufficient redundant power to initiate a safe shutdown to prevent data from being lost or corrupted.
