September 2019

NEW PRODUCTS n Newmaterial optimises insulation for VSD and servo cables Omron claims that its latest full metal proximity sensors set a new world record for sensing distances. It says that the E2EW sensors achieve sensing ranges about twice as far as previous sensors when sensing steel objects, and six times as far when detecting aluminium components. The long sensing distances result in less false detection, and fewer production stoppages. Full metal proximity sensors are usedmainly in harsh welding processes. However, previous sensors of this type have had short sensing distances, with distances for aluminium objects being shorter than those for iron. Therefore, higher accuracy has been needed when installing these devices, complicating the design andmaintenance of production lines. The new sensors are designed to increase installation flexibility, and to enhance productivity, while reducing the skills needed for start- up, operation andmaintenance. They are available with “unique” coatings that prevent abrasion, resulting in welding spatter resistance claimed to be 60 times better than with previous devices. The new sensors are expected to be particularly attractive for automotive applications where aluminium components are used in the same production processes as steel components. Versions equipped with IO-Link can provide real-time data on detection levels and temperature changes. This can be used to assess spatter accumulation that may not be visible to the naked eye. Omron Electronics 01908 258258 https://industrial.omron.co.uk igus has developed an insulating material for VSD and servodrive cables that is designed to withstand the higher temperatures resulting from the trend towards smaller drives and motors. It says that smaller motors can result in higher system temperatures, compared to larger versions of the same machines, causing cables to heat up via their connector contacts. Although there may be no short-term consequences for the motor and connected components, serious problems could occur in the long term. If the cable insulation cannot withstand the higher temperatures, short-circuits can occur inside the cable and near the connectors. In the worst cases, this could lead to fires. At the same time, smaller, plastic-insulated power connectors such as the M16 or M18 are being used increasingly in new motor designs. As a result, when choosing cables, engineers not only have to pay attention to the correct combination of number of cores and cross-sections, but also to the electrical and thermal specifications. In tests, igus chainflex cables using the new material withstood repeated bending with a radius of 7.2 times their diameter, for more than 45 million strokes. Igus UK 01604 677240 www.igus.co.uk/chainflex Metal proximity sensors boasting ‘the world’s longest sensing range’ reduce stoppages Tel: 01284 388 033 sales@ete.co.uk www.ete.co.uk Eastern Transformers & Equipment Ltd ...In complete control of power • ETE are now cerƟĮed to design and manufacture UL Listed transformers • Designed to UL 5085 - 1 and UL 5085 - 2 standards • 25VA to 5kVA 1ph • Manufactured in the UK • Fast turnaround • Custom - built to your speciĮc requirements Parker Hannifin has enhanced its PSD servodrives to offer an integrated safety system, based on the FSoE (Functional Safety over EtherCat) protocol, when used with its PAC320 motion controller. No extra wiring is needed, as it uses the drive’s built-in EtherCat communication capabilities – another enhancement to the PSD, which also supports Ethernet IP and Profinet. A safety PLC is integrated as an expansion module into the EtherCat network. As an FsoE master, it can address all safety components via the network, as well as the PSD drive controllers with integrated safety technology. External components can be connected directly to the safe I/O-Modules. This can be to activate equipment such as light curtains, e-stop buttons and safety shut- off mats. The PLC coordinates all safety functions centrally, simplifying system programming. www.parker.com

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