Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors


Electrical terminal and valve terminal duo

October 2005 Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors Conferences & Events Training & Education

'One for all' is the maxim for the dynamic duo consisting of the CPX electrical terminal and the MPA modular valve terminal. As a consequence of the level of support provided by new function modules, this team is transformed into a communications and diagnostics specialist. From troubleshooting to remote diagnosis via website, the new members of the CPX-MPA team implement application-specific communication at all levels. The outstanding modularity of the CPX-MPA leaves nothing to be desired where communication and connection are concerned. The result is improved machine availability and reduced downtime.

Companies can now speak a single language from the operating level and control level, right on up to the field level. Creating networks is therefore the motto of the CPX-FB32 Ethernet/IP node. Whether for factory automation or in the process industry (with further diagnostic requirements), the Ethernet/IP node integrates the CPX-MPA into the Rockwell Automation environment. IT solutions such as Web servers and e-mail alarms are made possible by Industrial Ethernet. Process data, status and diagnostic information, as well as remote diagnosis and maintenance, are visualised by means of ready-made Web pages. Not only is this a plus for preventative maintenance, it also reduces engineering costs. As an integrated diagnostic concept and valve diagnosis option, the CPX-FB32 ensures greater machine availability.

With a wide variety of connection blocks, greater flexibility is available through a total of 8 different connection technologies, with IP20 and IP65 protection. Two connection blocks that have been newly added to the product range, namely M8 4-pin and M12 5-pin, can be combined in an almost unrestricted manner with the electronic modules for inputs and outputs.

For reduced installation time and costs, sensors and individual valves, such as MPA or ISO, can be directly connected via the M8 4-pin interface. The M12 5-pin connection block is beneficial for connecting sensors and actuators, in any type of environment, thanks to sturdy metal threads. Speedcon quick connection technology facilitates simplified assembly with fewer additional components, including cable shield.

The electronic modules for temperature and signal detection are also exploited in process automation and manufacturing processes. The CPX-4EA-T module (resistance thermometer), allows temperature sensors to be directly connected, reducing system costs and inventory levels - for temperatures from -20 to 850°C. Processes with large numbers of analog channels are handled by the CPX-4AE-I. As an electronic module for signal detection, it keeps all sensor signals from current outputs under control - within a signal range of 4 to 20mA.

With additional diagnostic functions, the MPA valve terminal offers greater safety and reliability. A prime example is the electronic modules, which are targeted at preventative maintenance for valves, drives and interconnected mechanical devices, and implemented by means of condition monitoring and by counting switching cycles or operating hours. Short-circuiting and open loads are simultaneously diagnosed in the electrical circuit - including monitoring of solenoid coil control current. System limits are overcome with the electrical supply plate for the MPA, 64 valve positions with up to 128 solenoid coils for MPA1, and 32 valve positions with 64 solenoid coils for MPA2 are realised this way. The supply plate facilitates targeted generation of voltage zones, for greater safety. Valve functions can thus be disconnected from all sources of voltage, which is important for emergency stop functions.

For more information contact Joanne Dix, Festo, 011 971 5560, [email protected], www.festo.com



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