April 2020

BECKHOFF HAS announced a range of integrated machine-mounting servodrives for implementing automation outside of control cabinets. The AMI812x servodrives combine servomotors, output stages and fieldbus connections in a space-saving design in ratings up to 400W. The drives, which can act as EtherCat slaves, can be installed directly onto machines without needing a control cabinet or upstream I/O, allowing compact cabinet-free designs to be implemented. The drives are available in three lengths with standstill torque ratings from 0.5–1.1Nm. Higher torque levels can be achieved by using planetary gears from Beckhoff’s AG2250 series. The drives are optionally available with multi- turn absolute encoders without battery backups, and with backlash-free holding brakes. Using an additional sealing ring, they can achieve IP 65 protection. The STO safety function can be integrated as an option via TwinSafe Logic. Fast control, based on vector current and PI speed control, supports dynamic positioning. Monitoring options include over- and under-voltage, over- current, and motor utilisation using an I2T model. The drive’s operating state is indicated by status LEDs. Signals and power for the motor are connected via an M12 interface. An M8 EtherCat interface offers a second port for simple daisy-chain cascading. A version with a power-carrying EtherCat P connection is planned. The M8 I/O interface can be used to connect two sensors or 24V DC actuators up to 0.5A. Connection cables are available with straight or angled outlets. www.beckhoff.co.uk n TECHNOLOGY Integrated EtherCat servodrives can be mounted on machines ROCKWELL AUTOMATION has developed what it claims are the first encoders to support the CIP Safety over EtherNet/IP protocol for safety applications up to SIL 3 / PLe. The Allen-Bradley 843ES absolute encoders are aimed at safety applications that need speed, direction or position- monitoring functions. The encoders are designed to be used as part of an integrated safety system including an Allen-Bradley GuardLogix controller. As well as the safety functions, the encoders are said to deliver: • Productivity Users can produce while safely monitoring speed, direction or position. • Better visibility Operators can access all machine events, thus reducing response times. • Faster designs Integrating safety functions can cut costs and save time. • More efficient systemdesigns Auxiliary feedback can deliver safety integrity and performance using fewer components. Beckhoff’s compact integrated servodrives can be mounted directly on machines, avoiding the need for a control cabinet. Encoders are first to support CIP Safety protocol