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INDUSTRY USA industrial market Magazine
MORE MANUFACTURERS WITH 350,000 DATA
17 vgE1 ElIO AND 838 ElIO: FIBER OPTIC TECHNOlOgY FOR ON BOARD RAIlWAY APPlICATIONS
14 Photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors with the same design
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Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
High Performance, Compact 2D Code Reader.
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KEYENCE
EPLAN
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6 BALLUFF
BAUMER
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HMS
KENNAMETAL
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12 IXXAT
Souriau
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KEYENCE
Sensopart
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NEWS
Keyence’s image dimension measurement system puts much faster inspection within everyone’s reach.
Inspection of centre distances of geartrain bores on plastic plates. Less than three minutes are needed to inspect two parts.
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imex is America’s leading watchmaker and is present in more than 80 countries. Fralsen, its French entity, makes watch movements using three technologies — plastic injection moulding of small parts with very fine details; turning and cutting of parts such as wheels, pinions, arbors and rivets; and cutting and coiling of complex springs. These precision parts must be inspected with contact sensors (comparators, Cary equipment, feeler-spindles) and optical systems. We wanted more modern and more efficient optical inspection equipment. In other words, we wanted to be able to inspect more parts in less time,» says Sylvain Scotto of Fralsen’s Quality Control Department. «We also wanted a machine that could be operated by nonspecialists and be able to log measurements.» The tolerances and accuracies are 15 ?m for concentricity and ± 10 ?m for centre-to-centre spacings and distances. There are at least five critical points per part. «With conventional inspection equipment, measurements took too long. As a result, we couldn’t measure many parts and there was a risk of overlooking signifi cant variations
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within batches. Before obtaining the IM Series, we used a variety of equipment. Our optical measuring device, which, although very accurate, is not very practical for quick measurements on a daily basis. Furthermore, it requires a high level of skill to operate. The shop microscopes provide accurate measurements,but are tricky to operate and severely limit the number of measurements and parts. In addition, a reference point for truing-up has to be created. Lastly, due to the sometimes long inspection times, our templates and projectors allow only a limited number parts to be measured and there is a risk of misinterpretation,» adds Sylvain Scotto. «The IM Series is simpler to operate, saves time and eliminates variations of interpretation of measurements. Results are conveniently displayed green (for good) or red (for bad). Keyence’s solution allows several parts to be measured simultaneously. The size of the parts and the number of elements making up the program are the only limits. There is no need for manual truing-up because the system does it all by itself by recognising each part’s geometry. Furthermore, results can be saved and statistics tracked.
All the QC technicians in the Quality Department use the machine for fi nal inspection of parts before their placement in stock. The operators in the cutting shop also use it to measure certain parts during production. The programming is completely user-friendly. The faster inspection times enable us to track dimensions better and thus improve the quality of a large number of the parts we deliver. What’s more, we haven’t received a single complaint from clients about any of the parts measured on the machine. For example, we use Keyence’s IM-6500 to inspect the concentricity of every single cut wheel and automatically record the measurements,» says Sylvain Scotto. The contour of the stator is superimposed on the CAD file. With the old method (template and projector), this process was long. Now, three parts can be inspected in less than one minute instead of five in five minutes. The profile also allows the Mechanical Engineering Department to see where parts need reworking. The red contour shows that the stator is at the tolerance limit in places (blue zone).
For more informaton: http://www.measurecentral.com/IMNEWS
Part profiles can be compared against master profi les imported from CAD fi les. As a result, we no longer need to position templates on parts and measure differences in shape by eye. The machine does so automatically and extracts an image of the contour showing the difference with the tolerance. All in all, measurements are fast and do not require special skills.» The new IM-6500 Series image dimension measurement system reliably measures features in almost no time at all. Simply place a target on the stage and press the button. Up to 99 points are measured in a matter of seconds with a repeatability of ± 1 micron. Targets are found and measured regardless of their position or orientation and there is no risk of measurements being affected by variations in operator skill levels. Thanks to the iPASS shape detection method, the system determines the position and angle of targets, making measurements automatic. «Getting to grips with the system was easy because all you have to do is adjust the focus and load the program for the part being inspected.
More Information 02 | Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
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NEWS
EPLAN Fluid and Harness proD added to Rockwell Automation’s Encompass Products
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ockwell Automation has added EPLAN’s Fluid and Harness proD to their approved Encompass products. These products now join EPLAN’s other approved Encompass products Electric P8, Pro Panel and PPE completing our Platform. EPLAN Software & Services has been a Global Encompass Partner since 2008. Rockwell Automation’s Encompass Products have to meet high quality and functionality criteria such as being developed by a reputable and sound company, that is committed to product and services quality, also committed to partnering with Rockwell Automation, and providing useful functionality not delivered by any of Rockwell’s current products. EPLAN Fluid is an engineering tool for design and automatic documentation of circuits for fluid power systems in hydraulics, pneumatics, cooling and lubrication. The EPLAN Platform connects the fluid power engineering with all other engineering disciplines so that various engineering tasks can be executed in parallel and the entire engineering process is accelerated.
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EPLAN Harness proD is a modern 3D/2D software system for the efficient design and documentation of cable harnesses. This system’s strengths lies in the automated steps involved, from importing mechanical models as 3D environment for harness layout and combining it with wiring lists from the EPLAN Platform to routing the cables and finally generating the engineering documentation and manufacturing 2D nailboard drawings. The ability to take over mechanically relevant information from various MCAD systems and the ECAD connection information means that EPLAN Harness proD has the potential to be seamlessly integrated into PDM environments. This allows for the design of the cable harness even when there is no mechanical prototype available. In brief: development times are reduced, productivity increases and project quality is improved on a continuous basis. These engineering solutions have been reviewed extensively by Rockwell and they found the synergies
between their hardware products and EPLAN Fluid and Harness proD to be a critical piece in their solution partner’s success.
equipment builders (OEM’s) and engineering firms will significantly benefit from EPLAN and Rockwell Automation’s partnership.
EPLAN Electric P8 is already an encompass product also based on the EPLAN Platform technology that provides fully integrated CAD/CAE solutions for efficient, cost-effective design of electrical, fluid power, instrumentation and process control systems, and enclosures in 3D.
For more information, please contact Christine Knapik at Knapik.c@eplanusa.com.
Now their partners can create their electrical designs through the powerful database centric, object-orientated architecture and then use the bi-directional control data synchronization between Electric P8 and RSLogix™ 5000 and EPLAN Electric P8 via RSLogix™ Architect to allow the capability for hardware and tag synchronization between both the control system and electrical drawings. From this point, they will now benefit by using EPLAN Pro Panel to virtually design their panel layouts with 3D layout planning supported by EPLAN’s eTouch technology and can process the engineering data directly to manufacturing. Solution Providers, system integrators, machine and
More Information 02 | Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
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NEWS
Robust RFID data carrier with extra-large memory
Balluff has presented a new generation of data carriers, up to eight times faster than the standard, with extra-large memory of up to 128 kBytes at the SPS IPC Drives trade fair. These drives work up to eight times as fast as the standard ISO 15693, making them the ideal choice for track-and-trace applications with high data volumes such as those used in assembly lines in the automotive industry.
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uilt with FRAM technology, the data carriers are maintenance-free, require no external energy supply and have virtually unlimited read/write cycles. Thanks to their high degree of protection (up to IP 68), they offer especially trouble-free communication with a high level of data security, even in difficult environments. Powerful RFID controller BIS-V Once the user has decided on a RFID controller from Balluff, the powerful Balluff signal processor BIS V is an ideal choice. It not only supports all the features found on new data carriers, but also significantly simplifies hardware and installation for users. The controller in the metal casing with IP 67 protection fulfills all requirements for industry-oriented design and comes equipped with USB as a service interface to PCs. Balluff offers the device with a choice of Profibus, EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP or CC-Link interface.
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Especially positive for users: up to four HF read/write heads (13.56 MHz) in accordance with ISO 15693 and ISO 14443 or LF read/write heads (125 kHz) can be connected in the front with plug-in connectors and are then automatically
recognized. In addition, the RFID controller is the only device on the market to offer an IO-Link master port for direct connection of IO-Link-compatible sensors or actuators.
NEWS
HS35 and OptoPulse EIL580 series encoders from Baumer offer design flexibility for engineers in drive applications
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he HS35 series through hollow shaft and OptoPulse EIL580 series solid and hollow shaft incremental encoders from Baumer are ideally suited for applications in drive technology.
The OptoPulse EIL580 is available with 6 and 10 millimeter shafts, as well as 8 to 15 millimeter blind and through hollow shaft configurations, all in standard 58 millimeter housing diameter.
Due to their precision optical scanning principle, which delivers less than 1 arc minute accuracy, the encoders allow for precise control in applications such as speed regulation for web presses and both speed and position control for robotics.
The OptoPulse operating temperature rating is from -40° F to +185° F. Seal protection ratings of IP 65 and IP 67 are offered, and connection options range from cable gland to M12 connector to M23 connector. Operational speed ratings of up to 6,000 rpm are possible.
The encoders’ ShaftLock design and rugged bearings withstand higher shaft run-outs, prolonging encoder life and accuracy. Signal quality precision guarantees consistent operation over the entire temperature range.
For more information on the HS35 series, go to http://www.baumer.com/hs35. To research the OptoPulse EIL580, go to
The HS35 series is available with industry standard electrical outputs and through hollow shaft diameter from 10 millimeters to 1 inch. MIL-connectors or cable glands allow easy installation and wiring, and various tether kits are available to simplify mounting. Operational speed ratings are possible to 12,000 rpm. The operational temperature range for the HS35 is from -40° F to +212° F, and seal protection ratings are available in IP 54, IP 65, and IP 67.
http://www.baumer.com/optopulse.
More Information 02 | Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
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NEWS
New Netbiter gateway simplifies remote management of industrial equipment.
The Netbiter EC350 is available from HMS and its distributors as of November 18th 2013.
Tata Steel today launched a new state-of-the-art facility which will produce train track capable of lasting up to three times longer than standard rail.
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MS Industrial Networks now introduces the Netbiter EC350 – a new communication gateway which makes it easier to monitor and control industrial equipment remotely. The gateway comes with enhanced performance and connectivity making it ideal for remote management and configuration of power generators, cooling systems, UPSs, wind turbines or other industrial machinery.
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been able to communicate via GSM/GPRS, the new Netbiter EC350 is enhanced to also communicate over 3G networks. The 3G communication provides increased performance compared to GPRS and also increases the geographical cellular coverage as it is possible to install the gateway where 3G is the only available network. With support for 5 different 3G bands, the Netbiter EC350 is a product suitable for the global market. Enabling Remote Access The Netbiter EC350 will support “Remote Access” functionality. This means that users can open up a secure connection to remote machinery and configure or operate it from any location using standard software applications. Remote access provides a secure data tunnel to the remotely located equipment.
Enhanced connectivity. The Netbiter EC350 is the first in a new generation of Netbiter gateways. It connects to industrial machinery via Modbus (serial or Ethernet), SNMP, EtherNet/IP or I/O and sends data to the cloud-based Netbiter Argos server via Ethernet or cellular communications.
For example, with a Netbiter connected to a PLC, it is possible to perform remote debugging or programming of the PLC from any location, using the same PLC configuration software as usual. Remote access functionality will be available as of Q1, 2014.
3G Communication While previous generations of Netbiter gateways have
“Netbiter is one of the pioneering solutions on the remote management market and we have taken advantage of our
long experience when developing the EC350,� says Henrik Arleving, Product Line Manager, Remote Management at HMS. “With more connectivity options and increased performance, Netbiter definitely takes the lead as one of the most versatile and powerful remote management solutions on the market.� Technical enhancements From a technical point-of-view, the new gateway has about 20 times more processing power than the previous gateways and an extended memory capacity supporting up to 512 MB Flash and 1024 MB RAM. Two fully separated Ethernet Interfaces (WAN and LAN) makes it possible to provide secure communication to the field installation. A built-in GPS receiver makes it suitable for mobile fleet management applications and the increased number of analog and digital I/Os allow signals and sensors to be directly connected to the Netbiter gateway. Six status LEDs also provide detailed diagnostics. The Netbiter EC350 communication gateway provides communication to field installations using Ethernet or the cellular networks to a cloud-based service called Netbiter Argos (located at http://www.netbiter.net).
More Information 02 | Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
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NEWS
Kennametal and Sumitomo Electric Sign Agreement to Supply Kennametal’s Breakthrough KM4X Spindle Connection
By combining high clamping force and optimized interference levels, KM4X™ by Kennametal provides a robust connection, extremely high stiffness, and bending load capacity for greatly improved performance in machining high-strength alloys and other materials.
Manufacturers to benefit from combination of leading toolholding and spindle connection solutions
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ennametal and Sumitomo Electric have signed a licensing agreement under which Sumitomo Electric will provide and support Kennametal’s new and advanced KM4X spindle connection solution to Sumitomo Electric customers globally. Sumitomo Electric, a leading global supplier of electric wire, optical fibers and cutting tool products, sees significant benefit for its manufacturing customers.
“The KM4X spindle connection is the most rigid system in the world today. This design enables manufacturing companies to maximize their capital investments. KM4X enables higher metal removal rates, which facilitates higher machine tool utilization and reduced cost per part, while increasing the manufacturer’s available capacity,” says John R. Tucker, Vice President and President of the Industrial Business Segment for Kennametal Inc. “Having an innovative technology partner like Sumitomo Electric supply the KM4X connection will create a powerful
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production advantage for manufacturing companies around the world.” The spindle connection, the interface between the machine tool’s spindle and toolholder, has to provide the torque and bending load capacity compatible with machine-tool specifications. Cutting forces, particularly in roughing or machining high-strength materials, generate bending moments that will exceed the interface’s limits prior to reaching torque limits. By combining high clamping force and optimized interference levels, KM4X provides a robust connection, extremely high stiffness, and bending load capacity for greatly improved performance in machining high-strength alloys and other materials. This means extremely high metal removal rates and more completed parts per day. Advanced Materials Require Advanced Manufacturing The continuing development of high-strength, lightweight materials such as titanium alloys, Inconel, and new aluminium alloys are eagerly sought by manufacturers in many industries, including aerospace and defence, energy, and transportation. These new materials present significant machining challenges in themselves. Add the competitive pressures
in these global industries, and finding advanced manufacturing solutions becomes a top priority. Machine-tool builders have responded with milling and turning centers that feature improved stiffness and damping on spindles and sizable machine structures and motors, all to provide the significant horsepower, torque and thrust forces required while minimizing undesirable vibrations that deteriorate part quality and tool life.
high-torque, high-speed machining capabilities for both existing and new equipment. This means achieving the maximum potential of your machine tools.”
“In most cases, the tool-spindle connection determines how much material can be removed on a given operation,” says Doug Ewald, director, global product management, tooling systems at Kennametal.
Through successful strategies of research and diversification, Sumitomo Electric has become one of the world’s leading companies at the forefront of the revolution in information and communications. Sumitomo Electric’s world-class research and manufacturing capabilities in optical technology continue to expand and strengthen the product portfolio while maintaining industry leading levels of reliability. The company has global operations in more than 30 countries with over 200,000 employees. Sumitomo Electric reported group net sales of $21.6 billion for the fiscal year ended March 2013.
“This is because this interface must withstand high loads and yet maintain its rigidity. With the ongoing advances in cutting tools and machining centers, a spindle connection that makes the best utilization of available power possible is an important consideration to investigate early in production planning.” “This is a full-system partnership between companies,” says John Jacko, vice president and chief marketing officer at Kennametal. “With the KM4X spindle connection and Sumitomo Electric’s innovative technology, there is no reason why companies should hold back investigating
About Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. designs, manufactures and sells optical fibers, cables, components, advanced electronic devices, and automotive parts.
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NEWS
VGE1 ELIO and 838 ELIO: Fiber optic technology for on board railway applications
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OURIAU, which has 40 years of expertise in fiber optics technology, has extended its portfolio with railway fiber optics connectors. Based on its standard railway product ranges VGE1 and 838 series, the fiber optic layouts use ELIO® contact technology, in operation worldwide on aircrafts for more than 10 years. VGE1 ELIO and 838 ELIO allow the use of fiber optics for onboard or track railway applications, and are the only optical connectors on the market to be approved by the French national railway operator, SNCF, for on-board application. Safety and customer service are of utmost importance to the railway industry. Fast-response train control systems, accurate power monitoring as well as new entertainment applications like passenger real-time information, broadband web access, or high definition video-monitoring are requiring ever increasing data transfer rates. Fiber optics, already a field-proven technology in harsh applications like aeronautics, oil & gas production or military vehicles, is the solution to meet these new needs. Over the past years, fiber optic cables have been utilized in railway signaling along tracks for long distance transmission
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as well for high data rate needs since they are not affected by electro-magnetic interferences. Now that Ethernet has become a standard for on-board communication, rolling stocks tends to embed more and more fiber optic connectivity, even in the harshest locations, such as inter-vehicle. Weight saving is also a big concern for train manufacturers, and in this regard, the use of fiber optic cables is a definite advantage. SOURIAU’s VGE1 ELIO bayonet-lock connector is available in three different layouts and shell sizes – four ELIO® contacts, eight ELIO® contacts and 12 ELIO® contacts. A two-contact version will eventually be released. These connectors are robust enough to be fitted on train roofs, under train bodies or just about anywhere else on the outside of trains. The 838 ELIO® connector features a screw lock and an 8-contact layout. A 24-contact version, designed specifically for inter-vehicle connections, will be released in a few months. Both the VGE1 ELIO and the 838 ELIO® may also be used for track applications.
ELIO® is an innovative optical contact, combining simplicity of use and a high reliability level. ELIO® is very easy to implement, to terminate (unclear) and to clean. It is compatible with single mode, multimode, and plastic fiber and provides reliable optical performances in extreme environments. Combined with highly ruggedized and railway qualified connectors, ELIO®´s fiber optic technology is the solution to handle the most stringent environmental and mechanical conditions, like damped heat, extreme temperatures, vibration at low frequency as well as shocks, hundreds of mating cycles, and exposure to typical railway fluids and lubricants. ELIO®´s fiber optic technology successfully meets railway standards for a reliable and easy-to-use connectivity solution and gives confidence to operators as well as train and equipment manufacturers.
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NEWS
Success principle flexibility: photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors with the same design
The U500 ultrasonic sensor completes Baumer’s new performance category.
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he story of the new performance class continues to be written. With the U500 sensor, Baumer now expands the portfolio of NextGen sensors to include ultrasonic technology. The new sensors are identical in design and size with their series O500 electronic counterparts. This OneBox design also applies to every available sensor principle and offers the user maximum flexibility during the planning phase. Not only that: Also with subsequent modifications in a system’s requirements profile, the sensors can be exchanged quickly and easily without any additional conversion measures. In addition to the U500 and O500, the smaller O300 completes Baumer’s new performance category for applications with limited space. While the photoelectric sensors are predestined for applications with very small objects and high speed thanks to their precise light spot, the great advantage of ultrasonic sensors is that they detect almost every object.
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They do not depend on color, characteristics or transparency, even under harsh conditions with large amounts of dirt.
The U500 has a special place in the range of ultrasonic sensors due to its versatile performance. With 1000 mm, it offers the longest range in its class, with many application possibilities. The fast response time also increases flexibility in applications. A further advantage is the narrow, symmetrical sonic beam. It has a diameter of only 80 mm at an object distance of 500 mm. This allows the U500 to be used in applications with very cramped spaces. Furthermore, the sensor is distinguished by extraordinary reliability, which is based on large excess gain. Reliable operation is therefore guaranteed. The robust housing (IP67) and new transducer also contribute to making the U500 an extremely resilient sensor. It is unaffected by dirt, water droplets or even cleaning agents. The versatility is also shown by the availability of the U500 in three sensor principles: As a proximity switch, distance measuring sensor and reflective light barrier.
NEWS
More manufacturers with 350,000 data
Expanded and updated equipment data in the Eplan Data Portal accelerates project planning.
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he Eplan Data Portal now provides over 350,000 component data from 56 manufacturers. New additions include General Electric (GE) in the field of high-voltage current switchgear, Numatics with fluid power components, Murrelektronik, for example with field distributors, Omron, and cable manufacturers Schweiger, Sigmatec, Stego and TKD Kabel.. Efficient design starts with the smallest unit – with a standardised component that is added to the respective design project via Eplan Data Portal. With this, users work more rapidly, more efficiently and with data approved by the manufacturer. 48 manufacturers were already represented in the portal – now a further eight manufacturers have been integrated and product catalogues have been updated. The first example is GE: The manufacturer has saved 700 new part records in the field of high-voltage switchgear with corresponding illustrations. Macros of the switchgear simplify the electrical design with Eplan. The automation manufacturer Murrelektronik is also new to the portal. Field distributors, cables, protective devices, voltage sources and PLC components have now been integrated into the portal. Users profit from over 270 records with images including 2D and 3D macros. Another new member in the portal is the American company Numatics, a leading component manufacturer in the
field of fluid power engineering. Over 100,000 records of fluid valves can now be added to the design rapidly. A. Schweiger GmbH is also currently offering over 130 data records and PDF documents with the new motor connection system EcoMolded. Standard types of the overmoulded plug connections for Siemens, Fanuc, SEW, Bosch Rexroth, Beckhoff, B&R, Elau and other applications are available as catalogue products. Other new arrivals in the portal are Sigmatek with PLC components, Omron, Stego and TKD Kabel. Product catalogues updated Manufacturers that are already represented in the portal such as Phoenix Contact have extended their product portfolio. Over 20,000 new and revised data are currently available – around 12,400 of them macros, 600 of which are in 3D. B&R has added over 2,500 parts in the field of voltage sources, generators, PLC and plug connectors. Companies such as ABB, Weidmüller and Sick have included additional parts and Festo has also increased its range in the Eplan Data Portal. With currently 34,000 records – of which about 20,000 are functional macros and almost 9,000 are 2D graphic macros – the company from Esslingen covers a wide spectrum of fluid power and electrical engineering parts and also components for mechanical and process engineering. By integrating all product areas of their portfolio, Festo takes on a pioneering role here.
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NEWS
IXXAT USB-to-CAN V2 the good just got better
HMS brings a reworked version of the extremely successful USB-to-CAN interface to market under the IXXAT brand.
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he new IXXAT USB-to-CAN V2 interface offers significant advantages for users thanks to a combination of existing and new features. For example, the USB-to-CAN V2 uses powerful hardware and connects over USB 2.0 at 480 MBit/ sec. This enables very high data throughput with minimum latency and lower power consumption, which makes the interface suitable for very demanding applications at maximum bus load and CAN bit rates up to 1 Mbit/second, for example simulation applications.
connector. The versions that carry two CAN interfaces are connected via RJ45 connectors. Adapter cables to sub-D9 plugs are included with the devices.
The virtues of the existing USB-to-CAN are still there: outstanding robustness for long-term use in harsh environments, very easy operation at a cost-effective price.
Another newly introduced variant is the IXXAT USB-to-CAN V2 for embedded use, which is designed without housing but with a slot board and adapted USB cable for installation into a computer.
The existing versions of the proven IXXAT VCI and IXXAT ECI drivers support the new USB-to-CAN V2, also permitting drop-in use in existing applications without changes to software – even when changing between different interface types. The IXXAT APIs for CANopen and SAE J1939 also support the new USB-to-CAN V2 device family.
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The USB-to-CAN V2 is available in different variants with either one or two CAN interfaces based on ISO 11898-2. In the USB-to-CAN V2 compact, the CAN connection is implemented as a sub-D9 plug or alternatively as an RJ45
Additional options include galvanically isolated CAN interfaces, bulk variants, and support for ISO 11898-3 lowspeed CAN and LIN. The new housing design supports creation of customer-specific variants branded with the customer logo.
You can find more information about the new USB-to-CAN V2 devices at www.ixxat.com
NEWS
Sunbank joins SOURIAU in Esterline’s Connection Technologies platform.
From left to right: Robert PADEN Sunbank President, Jean-Luc GAVELLE President of Esterline Technologies Connection (SOURIAU + Sunbank), Alain Durand Group Vice President of Esterline Technologies
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ased in California, and with a strong presence in aerospace and military markets, Sunbank is the world’s second-largest producer of accessories for electrical wiring harness connectors and conduits.
This strategic acquisition will reinforce the presence of Esterline Connection Technologies - SOURIAU in the United States. This will allow us to offer our clients a comprehensive offering of connectors, accessories and conduits. Formed in 1958, Sunbank has 500 staff and annual earnings of 45 million dollars. Sunbank’s facilities located in Paso Robles, California, and Tijuana, Mexico, will supplement SOURIAU’s global manufacturing footprint principally located in the United States, Europe, Morocco, the Dominican Republic, India and Japan.
optimization such as MRP2 and lean worksite setup. “We want to ensure that Sunbank benefits as soon as possible from our proven practices and our accumulated experience in this field, to give our clients ever-better service, and improve our partnership with our American customers in particular,” says Jean-Luc Gavelle, President of Esterline Connection Technologies. “Thanks to this acquisition, we hope our customers around the world will benefit from the highest levels of quality and OTD (On Time Delivery), not only for connectors but also for sub-assemblies complete with connectors, accessories and conduits.” “We are very happy to welcome Sunbank’s teams to the Esterline Group, and highly motivated by the resulting development prospects,” concludes Mr. Gavelle.
The reputation and global coverage of Sunbank and SOURIAU will strengthen the development of Esterline’s Connection Technologies platform in the European and North American aerospace markets. SOURIAU is recognized by its clients for its operational excellence, the fruit of its teams’ 15 years’ involvement in continuous improvement initiatives and quality process
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NEWS
Bureau Veritas completes the acquisition of Maxxam, Canada’s market leader in analytical services
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ureau Veritas successfully completed the acquisition of Maxxam Analytics International Corporation on January 31, 2014.
The share purchase agreement was signed by Bureau Veritas and OMERS Private Equity on December 20, 2013, for a consideration of CAD 650 million subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory clearance. Maxxam operates in three main areas: environmental services, petroleum services and food safety and DNA/ forensics services. Canada’s market leader, Maxxam has the largest laboratory network in Canada and has approximately 2,500 employees. Maxxam’s revenue for the fiscal year ended in March 2013 was CAD 246 million.
The acquisition of Maxxam positions Bureau Veritas as the leader in the Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) industry in Canada, a market with strong growth prospects, and expands its portfolio of services with high added-value expertise. This acquisition is in line with the strategic objectives of the BV2015 plan, including a stronger presence in North
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America and diversification into new services with solid growth potential. Bureau Veritas has signed an agreement to acquire Maxxam, Canada’s market leader in petroleum, environmental, food and DNA analytical services Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, December 20, 2013 – Bureau Veritas has signed an agreement to acquire Maxxam Analytics International Corporation, the Canadian market leader in analytical services, for CAD 650 million from its current majority owner, OMERS Private Equity. The transaction is due to be completed during the first quarter of 2014, after customary closing conditions including regulatory clearance. Maxxam boasts outstanding expertise in petroleum, environmental, food and DNA/forensics analytical services. This acquisition positions Bureau Veritas as the leader in Canada and opens expansion prospects for the US. Maxxam has a strong financial performance and growth prospects. The transaction should be accretive to the Group’s growth and earnings as of 2014.
Didier Michaud-Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Bureau Veritas, stated: «Maxxam’s technical and scientific expertise is a means of diversifying the Bureau Veritas offering even further into high value-added services. Bureau Veritas is to become the leader in the Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) industry in Canada, a market in which we started to expand two years ago. We will also step up our expansion in North America, where our clients can make the most of a range of services rounded out by the addition of Maxxam’s analytical services and solutions. This acquisition is in line with the strategic objectives of the BV2015 plan, including a stronger presence in North America and diversification into adjacent services with strong growth potential. We look forward to welcoming Maxxam’s teams whose reputation and performance are remarkable.» Jon Hantho, President and Chief Executive Officer of Maxxam, added: «We are delighted to join the Bureau Veritas Group, a world leader. Thanks to its global presence and client portfolio, Bureau Veritas is the ideal partner for accelerating the development of Maxxam’s businesses. Our teams will be able to apply their expertise on an even wider scale and build solutions integrating Bureau Veritas services.» Maxxam, the Canadian leader in analytical services Founded more than 40 years ago, Maxxam is the Canadian leader in the TIC industry. With over 50 laboratories, depots and service centres spread throughout Canada, Maxxam has the largest laboratory network in Canada and processes ~2.5 million samples each year. Maxxam has more than 2,500 employees and operates in three main areas: - Environmental services These cover soil and waste analysis, water quality, ultratrace contaminant analysis and environmental toxicity evaluations necessary for construction projects and oil infrastructure. - Petroleum services These include analysis of natural gas, crude oil, diesel fuel and numerous other oil products. - Food safety and DNA/forensics services These concern the quality of food, identification of microbes, nutritional labelling, drug residue testing, environmental pollutants and DNA testing helping to identify the biological characteristics of people and animals. Over the past years, Maxxam has consistently posted solid and steady growth in revenue and results. The average organic revenue growth rate for 2009-2013 was above 7%. Revenue for the fiscal year ended in March 2013 was CAD 245.9 million. For the current year due to end on March 31, 2014, revenue is estimated at CAD 269 million (approximately EUR 187 million) and EBITDA is estimated at CAD 61 million (approximately EUR 42 million).
The global market for laboratory analytical services is benefiting from long-term growth factors and high entry barriers given the need for recognised technical expertise and long-term relations with clients, the complex nature of regulations and the investments necessary to equip state-ofthe-art laboratories. In Canada, the TIC market represents CAD 1.5 billion. Maxxam operates in market segments totalling more than CAD 600 million in annual revenues, and expected to grow at 5-7% per annum. Canada is the sixth-largest oil producer in the world and expects high growth in its longterm output, notably in oil sands, and consequently in its needs for petroleum product analyses and environmental services. In the food sector, stricter regulations and moves by industries to outsource laboratories are increasing the analytical services market. This acquisition is in line with the strategic objectives of the BV2015 plan, including a stronger presence in North America and diversification into new services with strong growth potential. The Maxxam acquisition complements the acquisitions of AcmeLabs and OTI undertaken in Canada in the past two years. With headcount now at 2,800 in Canada, North America represents a total of 6,000 staff and accounts for 13% of the Group’s revenue, compared with 9% prior to the acquisition. The addition of Bureau Veritas’ services in the petroleum and food sectors to those of Maxxam will help to build a high value-added offering. In addition, Bureau Veritas’ global network will help accelerate the development of Maxxam’s businesses, by rolling out its technical expertise in North America and in other regions of the world. Balance sheet solidity maintained, an accretive impact from the first year The purchase price of the acquisition is CAD 650 million. It represents 10.7x prospective EBITDA for the year to end-March 2014 (before synergies). This acquisition is to be financed using new credit lines recently negotiated. Following this acquisition, Bureau Veritas’ net debt should represent approximately 2x EBITDA at the 2014 fiscal year end, a ratio well below the Group’s bank covenants (3.25x).
A strategic acquisition, in line with BV2015 The operation is expected to enhance the Group’s growth, profit margin and attributable adjusted net profit as of 2014 (by around 3% in 2014 on a full year basis and before synergies).
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NEW PRODUCTS KEYENCE CORPORTATION OF AMERICA adds a new fixed mount 1D and 2D barcode reader to their company line up of Auto ID products. The SR-750 Series incorporates new and advanced decoding algorithms, providing the best in class reading capability.
For demanding applications: VisiLine cameras with IP 65/67 protection Baumer expands its GigE camera series with ten new IP protected models that have been developed for particularly demanding industrial environments. With the IP 65 and IP 67 protective housing, every sensitive camera component, all the way to the lens, is protected from dust, water spray and temporary immersion. The cameras have an x-coded M12 connector that ensures a reliable connection to the data interface. Designed for industrial uses, they can be powered by a 12 to 24 volt or Power over Ethernet (PoE) supply. The new VisiLine IP cameras have CCD or CMOS sensors and are now available in VGA, 1.3, 2 and 4 megapixel resolutions. They achieve frame rates up to 160 fps. Production-integrated color comparison ensures virtually identical color reproduction by every camera in a model series. This greatly simplifies applications with multiple cameras operating simultaneously. In addition, the CMOS cameras feature FPN (Fixed Pattern Noise) correction and HDR (High Dynamic Range). This eliminates sensor-related structural irregularities and enables acquisition of images with wide differences in scene brightness.
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High Performance, Compact 2D Code Reader. 02 | Magazine Industry USA | January 2014
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re-processing techniques, such as brightness and contrast threshold correction, along with significantly enhanced image filtering capabilities ensure images are optimized prior to decoding. Upgraded processing includes localized binary threshold settings for unique regions of the code make the reader well suited for direct part marking applications. The high speed search algorithm locates codes more quickly when the background image is complex In addition to updated code capture and process techniques, the SR-750 boasts features increasing its ease of use and read reliability. Long range (over three feet) and wide field of view models are available when the position of barcodes may vary. Built-in communication and increased connectivity ensures easy integration to new and existing systems. EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP, PROFINET, FTP, RS-232c, Power over Ethernet and data editing functionality are included and available without the need for external communication units. Intuitive and simple to use setup software automatically adjust lighting and image filtering settings with one click. Preventative maintenance function can provide feedback and indicate when code printing or marking quality is deteriorating before code reading is impossible For Specifications and Applications on the SR750 Compact 2D Code Reader, Please visit: http://www1.keyence.com/ PRSR7B
More Information Lighter, brighter, longerlived:New generation of robust fluorescent lights for hazardous areas. R. STAHL’s new line of light fittings for use in Ex zone 1/21 and 2/22 hazardous areas achieves better energy efficiency than comparable devices and provides approximately 10% more luminous intensity. New EXLUX 6001 luminaires also feature a design that is considerably more compact, stable, and torsion-resistant than their EXLUX 6000 predecessors. While more than one million of the long-proven EXLUX 6000 lights have been deployed worldwide over the last twenty-odd years, the new generation now meets increasing user demand for a similarly economic, yet enhanced product with improved technical features reflecting the most current state of the art. Depending on their performance class, the 6001 luminaires are a quarter to a third lighter than their predecessor models and many competing products. Users now also benefit from the extremely robust design of these slimmer, narrower units: unlike most lights, the new devices can be operated at extremely low ambient temperatures (as low as -30 °C). In many cases, this amounts to a decisive extension of the application range that saves costs by making extra specifications unnecessary. In order to facilitate a step-by-step exchange of existing EXLUX pendants, the installation of the new units remains fully compatible to the predecessor series. Moreover, swiftly removable replacement parts ensure quick and easy maintenance. Like before, the new lights are available with customer-specific modifications on request. In addition, R. STAHL provides especially cost-efficient standard models with a power consumption of 18 W, 36 W, or 58 W that are available at short notice. Featuring 4 mm² cage clamp terminals, 5-core through-wiring, and a full-phase safety shutdown, these models are adequately equipped for the majority of
all typical applications. The new series fully complies with the requirements of all current industry standards. Notably, the new silicone-based foamed gasket has been optimised for maximum durability, as stipulated by IEC 60079. This sealing solution, which is resistant to various chemicals as well as UV radiation, the fitting’s hinge, and a newly designed central lock reliably ensure IP67 protection over many years. 6001 series lights are available as of now. However, more products are due to follow in the new EXLUX generation: in 2013 and 2014, the program will be extended both by optional accessories, such as pole mount adapters, and by additional models such as emergency lights, lights with an address module, and T5 lights for use in zone 2. Moreover, LED lights from R. STAHL will also be available soon, though these will be based on a completely different housing and equipped with materials and features optimised for LED technology.
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solution had a ready-made template for this micro PLC was a great advantage,” says P-A Claveroth, Sales and Marketing Director at Triplesign. “We simply connect the Netbiter unit to the Millenium 3 and all parameters show up immediately in a web browser.” A Netbiter EasyConnect gateway is connected to the Millenium 3 micro PLC in the field. The Netbiter gateway communicates with a cloud-based data center called Netbiter Argos. This data center collects and stores the data from the field equipment. By logging in to Netbiter Argos, users can see the exact status of the Millenium 3 and thereby their own devices in a web dashboard. They can also get alarms and notifications whenever something happens.“This combined solution will be very useful for applications in segments such as air conditioning, access control, heat pumps, water and air treatment, waste treatment, lifting and handling, medical equipment and pump management,”says Henrik Arleving, Product Line Manager, Remote Management at HMS. “These segments are very suitable for remote management and Netbiter offers users and service engineers a quick way to improve control of the applications and reduce costs.” “In the frame of remote management, HMS’s Netbiter solution contributes to make the most out of the Millenium 3 Smart logic controller as it gets it connected from anywhere, anytime, 24/7.
Thanks to these new additions, users of SensoPart’s subminiature F 10 series can now cover numerous applications with just one model. Not only are different functional principles available (proximity switches with adjustable background suppression, fixed focus proximity switches with background suppression, throughbeams and retro-reflective light barriers), but there is also a choice of several light sources (laser, red light LED, blue light LED).
Crouzet and HMS present joint solution for monitoring the Millenium 3 logic controller over the web. Crouzet, a leading manufacturer of automation control components, has decided to use HMS Industrial Network’s Netbiter as remote management solution for their latest generation of micro PLCs – the Millenium 3 Smart. This provides users of the micro PLC with instant access to data on their field equipment over the web. An example of an early adopter is the Swedish-based company Triplesign who uses the solution to monitor alternating billboards. With Netbiter, they can see the status of each billboard and even remotely control which message to display. “I have been working with the Millenium 3 Logic Controllers for some time and the fact that the Netbiter
which means it can be adjusted to different objects and applications without modifications. Its maximum scanning range of 70 mm is unique for this sensor size. Fixed focus proximity switches – also equipped with background suppression – are also available with scanning ranges of 15mm, 30 mm or 50 mm. Background suppression in F 10 sensors from SensoPart is based on distance measurement using an ASIC array. This functional principle enables highly-accurate spatial resolution so that objects can be reliably distinguished in front of light backgrounds or reflective machine parts – whatever the colour and surface finish. Measuring just 21.1 x 14.6 x 8 mm3 and weighing only 3 g, the tiny proximity switches can be mounted directly on a robotic gripper and are therefore ideal for pick-and-place applications. They are perfect for space-saving installation in handling systems, assembly robotics and highly-integrated machines or as a low-cost alternative to fibre-optic systems. In addition to the aforementioned proximity switch with red transmitter LED, SensoPart also offers a blue light version (fixed focus 30 mm). The F 10 blue light has been specially developed for detection of strongly light-absorbing objects such as solar cells. Another new member of the F 10 series is the LED retro-reflective light barrier FR 10-R with a high operating range (up to 1.6 m) and teach-in function.
LED proximity switch FT 10-RH: small enough to fit on every gripper SensoPart has expanded its subminiature sensor series. The range now offers LED sensors, in addition to laser sensors, including a proximity switch with adjustable background suppression and a blue light version for strongly lightabsorbing objects. The LED proximity switch FT 10-RH is a special highlight amongst the new sensors: it offers adjustable background suppression
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