Beckhoff presented its PC-based control technology for the food and beverage industry during March at Anuga FoodTec in Germany. The system enables the complete production process to be automated with a flexible and open control platform that reduces the machine footprint and increases the energy and engineering efficiency.
The trade show presentation focused on control solutions for the food, beverage and packaging industries. PC and EtherCAT-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff enables smaller control cabinets so that the machine or system footprint can be optimised. It enables the integration of all important control functions on a central platform using high-performance PC hardware: including PLC, motion control, robotics, measurement technology and condition monitoring.
Machine refinement with stainless steel control panels and servomotors
Beckhoff presented its new control panels and panel PCs in stainless steel design. With their gapless and flush case design they meet the stringent hygiene requirements and clean room regulations in the food and beverage industry. The IP65 panels are available with flush-mounted 300 or 380 mm touchscreens.
The new Beckhoff AM8800 servomotor series is also available in stainless steel design. These residue-free stainless steel motors meet the strict FDA requirements and are optimised for use in the food industry. The motors from the AM8800 series require only one motor connecting cable for feedback and power, which significantly reduces the material and installation costs. Equipped in protection class IP67 or optionally IP69K, the motors are even suitable for cleaning with the high-pressure cleaners used in the food industry.
TwinCAT 3: efficient engineering and multi-core support
The release of the TwinCAT 3 automation software opens up new possibilities for the food industry: TwinCAT 3 supports all common programming standards, from C/C++ to the object-oriented extension of IEC 61131-3. Active multi-core support allows additional control hardware to be replaced by the central PC. Support for all common branch standards such as OMAC or WS-Food/WS-Pack ensures optimum connectivity.
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