For many decades, pneumatic solenoid valves were controlled through discrete wiring, with each solenoid individually wired and connected to a common cable interface such as a 25-pin D-Sub connector. Technology then progressed to fieldbus networking for shorter installation times, reduced wiring errors and, importantly, diagnostic feedback capabilities. These fieldbus solutions have increased system availability and reliability at a massively reduced installation and maintenance cost.
SMC analysed the control of manifolds-in-motion, where the physical removal of communications cables is desirable. Applications include manifolds mounted on robot gripper assemblies or rotating tables. Wireless communication and control of electro-pneumatic manifolds and IO slip rings are commonly used to supply 24 V DC control voltages to devices in motion, but fieldbus communication via slip rings is problematic and unreliable.
SMC solved this problem with its EX600-W wireless modules. The system uses two modules: a base unit to which the standard hardwired fieldbus network connects, and a remote module that is placed on the moving part of the machine. Communication between the modules is wireless via the 2,4 GHz ISM frequency band, which is unaffected by everyday industrial noise such as magnetic fields generated by welding machines or electric motors. Physical damage to the network cable, or poor connections, are no longer a threat since the cable-in-motion has been eliminated.
The EX600-W is well suited for use with collaborative robotics for improved machine safety and quick connection of tool changers on robotic arms. The base and remote stations make use of SMC’s unique encrypted communications protocol, preventing unauthorised third-party access to keep machines and data secure.
SMC welcomes contact from interested parties wanting a practical demonstration or demo modules to test in their own application.
SANSA Hartebeesthoek provides critical support for lunar mission
Industrial Wireless
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is providing vital tracking, telemetry and command (TT&C) support for Intuitive Machines-2 (IM-2) lunar mission from its Hartebeesthoek ground station.
Read more...Ensuring metrology compliance in oil and gas Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Industrial Wireless
To aid compliance verification in oil and gas, remote monitoring specialist Omniflex has partnered with calibration experts Kalibra OGC Services to provide the Maxiflex flow computer systems, including pulse integrity modules used for calibrating master metering systems.
Read more...The importance of efficient wastewater treatment
Industrial Wireless
In today’s industrial landscape, sustainability is a key driver for businesses looking to minimise their environmental footprint and enhance operational efficiency. Among various sustainability initiatives, efficient wastewater treatment plays a vital role.
Read more...Preventing nuclear events with remote monitoring Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Industrial Wireless
Monitoring temperature is crucial in the nuclear industry. Gary Bradshaw, director at remote monitoring specialist, Omniflex highlights the important role remote monitoring technology plays in the nuclear sector.
Read more...Remote monitoring cathodic protection systems in mining
Industrial Wireless
Cathodic protection systems are widely used in mining operations, protecting anything from conveyor systems to settling tanks against corrosion. However, because of the dangerous nature of the environment in which they are based, managing these systems is not without its challenges. Omniflex explains how these can be addressed by implementing industry-certified remote monitoring systems.
Read more...New toolset for Turck Automation Suite Turck Banner Southern Africa
Industrial Wireless
Turck is expanding its Turck Automation Suite IIoT and service software platform with the TAS Cloud industrial cloud service for remote maintenance and condition monitoring.
Read more...Faster space communication with record-sensitive receiver
Industrial Wireless
In space exploration, long-distance optical links can now be used to transmit images, films and data from space probes to Earth using light. But in order for the signals to reach all the way and not be disturbed along the way, hypersensitive receivers and noise-free amplifiers are required.
Read more...Ensuring boiler safety and efficiency
Industrial Wireless
Control systems, together with remote monitoring systems, play a vital role in ensuring the safe and smooth operation of boilers. Although these systems operate independently, they combine to provide important technical and operational insights.
Read more...Compact UHF RFID reader with integrated Ethernet interface Turck Banner Southern Africa
Industrial Wireless
Online teaser: Turck Banner’s Q150 UHF RFID reader has an integrated Ethernet interface. The IP67 reader communicates directly with PC or PLC systems in industrial Ethernet networks having the four most important protocols, without the need for an additional interface.
Read more...Keeping mine outstations connected Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Industrial Wireless
Remote monitoring specialist, Omniflex has helped wireless data communications systems firm, Scan RF implement site-wide monitoring systems at the 17 000-hectare Kolomela iron ore mine in South Africa.
printer friendly version