The Beckhoff portfolio of hybrid connectors, and thus One Cable Automation, has already proved itself thousands of times in the field. In addition to the technical advantages of consistent modularisation with a uniform data core, standardisation via the future IEC 61076-2-118 standard is set to boost the importance of these connectors for decentralised automation.
Hybrid connectors are essentially used to transmit power and data via a single line, to save on cables and connectors. This solution developed by Beckhoff offers the additional advantage of a high degree of modularity, permitting a wide range of variants for a host of different applications, while also providing mechanical coding for connection security.
There is thus a uniform data module that can be used in all four sizes – B12, B17, B23, and B40. This modularity actually simplifies matters hugely rather than creating additional work. What’s more, the clear colour markings on the contact carrier match the wire colour of the cable, which means that complex assignment plans detailing each individual pin assignment are no longer needed.
Beckhoff hybrid connectors also comprise just ten individual components – significantly fewer than comparable third-party products. As the individual parts can be assembled in only one direction, the whole process is essentially intuitive and prevents any possibility of incorrect assembly from the outset. In combination with the data module, this usually reduces assembly time by two-thirds.
The aforementioned technical advantages provide the basic foundations for successfully establishing this connector as the connector for decentralised automation, One Cable Automation, especially since some 95 000 connectors have already proved themselves in the field. In addition, the Beckhoff hybrid connectors are among the first products to comply with the future IEC 61076-2-118 standard. This standard is expected to be published at the end of 2024. The primary aim of establishing a global standard like this is to ensure security for the customer or user, not only with regard to supply chains and second-source strategies, but also in terms of the level of product reliability defined by established and widely adopted standards. The key focal points here are always technology and future-proofing, and Beckhoff’s hybrid connectors already tick these boxes with their modularity, uniform data core and optimal design for OCA.
Power supply with scalability optimised Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric has introduced the Easy UPS 3-Phase Modular to the South African marketplace. This robust uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is designed to protect critical loads while offering third-party verified Live Swap functionality.
Read more...Prioritising arc flash safety Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Comtest has developed a range of thermal imaging and wireless testing tools from Fluke, designed to ensure safety is the top priority for engineers working in potentially dangerous arc flash zones.
Read more...Innovative separation of recyclable materials Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
A plant built by Belgian specialist machine builder, Absolem Engineering features an innovative process for separating recyclable materials. Using PC-based control from Beckhoff, a major problem has been elegantly solved - the generation of different signal sequences for the exact synchronisation of different camera systems.
Read more...Hot Dip Galvanizers Association shines new light on renewable energy
Electrical Power & Protection
The Hot Dip Galvanizers Association of Southern Africa plays an important role in supporting the energy value chain – which spans clean, renewable and green energy – as it powers towards key sustainability targets.
Read more...ACTOM supplies high-voltage equipment to wind farm project ACTOM Electrical Machines
Electrical Power & Protection
ACTOM High Voltage Equipment is currently in the process of manufacturing 400 kV and 132 kV high-voltage primary equipment for the Ummbila Emoyeni wind farm project in Mpumalanga.
Read more...Energy measurement module for BL20 I/O System Turck Banner Southern Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Turck’s BL20 energy measurement module enables precise monitoring of the energy consumption of single- or three-phase systems.
Read more...Distributed energy resource management systems: a grid symphony Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
To listen to a symphony is one of the world’s great gifts. A conductor must ensure that instruments play beautifully as a whole and are kind to the ear and uplifting to the spirit yet shine in their individuality. The same can be said of a DERMS, which must effectively manage diverse energy sources to avoid compromising the grid’s integrity.
Read more...Focus on energy sector infrastructure development can drive economic growth
Electrical Power & Protection
Post-election periods in South Africa often see a renewed focus on infrastructure development, with a specific emphasis on directing investments towards the energy sector. This strategic approach aims to accelerate economic growth, address energy challenges, and ultimately uplift the overall standard of living for the populace.
Read more...Turning the continent into a global leader for green fuel
Electrical Power & Protection
Africa is at a turning point, with the potential to shift from being a supplier of raw materials to becoming a leader in advanced manufacturing, particularly in the growing green hydrogen market. For this transformation to happen, African countries must work together, combining their resources and talents to build a strong local economy.
Image copyright: Beckhoff Automation.
printer friendly version