Automation Update - issue 72 by jetdigitalmedia

AUTOMATION UPDATE

Issue 72

WWW.AUTOMATION-UPDATE.CO.UK

Predictive Maintenance

An intelligent, digitally networked design for Industry 4.0 enables continuous condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.

www.nord.com

eco OWER AC

LTD

www.ecopacpower.co.uk DIN RAIL POWER SUPPLY

ENCLOSED POWER SUPPLY

OPEN FRAME POWER SUPPLY

MEAN WELL POWER SUPPLIES

CALL OUR EXPERT TEAM TODAY!

+44 (0) 1844 204420 Email us at info@ecopacpower.co.uk

Ecopac (UK) Power Ltd, Unit 4, Ridgeway, Crendon Industrial Area, Long Crendon, Bucks, HP18 9BF

AUTOMATION UPDATE Editorial Assistant Laura Sharpe 01843 580 460 laura@automation-update.co.uk Publishing Director Jodie Little 01843 580 460 jodie@jetdigitalmedia.co.uk Sales Director Tim Johnston 01843 448 443 tim@automation-update.co.uk Advertising Exec Jamie Simmons 01843 580 460 jamie@automation-update.co.uk

Automation Update is an engaging, editorially led publication & directory giving the reader news and updates on new products and services to our ever Progressing industry.

Publishing House Jet Digital Media Ltd The Forge, Spratling Court Offices, Manston, Kent CT12 5AN

www.automation-update.co.uk

Forerunner Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The Sensor People have been setting technological standards in industrial automation for more than 50 years. In the field of safety at work, we convince right from the start with trend-setting inventions, such as the development of the first protective sensor ever, to our latest safety innovation, “Smart Process Gating” – the space-saving solution for access guarding on conveyor lines. This is how we ensure the success of our customers in an industry that is ever evolving.

www.leuze.co.uk Automation Update - 3

Optimising Industrial Operations with Data Visualisation Big Data – shorthand for the billions of transactions datasets generated daily – is key in industry, but simply collecting reams and reams of counts and figures isn’t enough. The data must of course be accurate and relevant. Moreover, it’s vital that it can be analysed in the right way to enable businesses to make the best data-driven decisions.

he actionable insights are already there, contained in the data. Data visualisation – viewing information in clear graphical forms – takes the guesswork out of analysing big data by cutting out the noise and making it easier to spot trends, patterns and unusual values (outliers.) Often complex statistical analysis isn’t required; simply visualising data allows humans to understand the big picture unclouded by individual data points. The ability to visualise data from different sources in one place makes it easier to identify organisational opportunities, shines a spotlight on inefficiencies, and can help solve other common challenges on the factory floor:

Reduce costly errors To err is human; the ability to spot inevitable mistakes in real-time and respond quickly can make a huge difference. Representing data from varied sources on a centralised visual dashboard allows supervisors to see everything at a glance (shift productivity, machine downtime, outputs, etc.), making it easier to keep track of every part of the manufacturing process and action fast responses.

Streamline the supply chain By visualising data at any given time, and comparing against historical performance data, it’s easier to track ROI and delivery rates, identify where resources are allocated, and manage

4 - Automation Update

Overall Equipment Effectiveness to optimise supply chain efficiency.

Balance quality control with cost-cutting A visual data model makes it easy to see where resources are spent and proactively identify potential flaws; ensuring that all processes are designed to meet quality assurance standards in the most cost-effective way. Quality doesn’t always have to come at a price; some of the largest quality gains can be made by simple changes highlighted by the data.

Identify & eliminate inefficiencies Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is the measurement and management of critical processes, often in realtime. By visualising datasets related to resources, materials, productivity, and shift performance in a comprehensive

database, ERP can be enhanced, allowing decisions to be made more rapidly and with fewer errors. Wherever you are on your IoT journey, graphically visualising data makes it possible to optimise operations. Even without the facilities to capture data, it’s possible to prove concepts without wiring sensors, by using free to start, open-source software and Brainboxes BB-400 Industrial Edge Controller. Watch the video guide to learn how sensor count data can be captured by the BB-400, and sent to a time-series database in InfluxDB, which will allow us to create graphical visualisations of the data in Grafana in the form of charts, graphs, and more. Read More: FAQ – How Can I Send IO Count Data to InfluxDB & Grafana? For more information contact: sales@ brainboxes.com

Power Security & Back-Up

Instruments Ltd

DC UPS

CBI Series Input 90-305 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 20 A MODbus / CANbus Comms Remote Monitoring via ethernet Status Relay

Battery Chargers CB Series Input 90-305 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 20 A MODbus / CANbus Comms Remote Monitoring via ethernet Status Relay

Power Supplies

FLEX Series Input 90-500 V AC Output 12/24/48 V DC upto 25 A Single / Dual or 3 Phase inputs

A H

h r A

Instruments Ltd

TVR Instruments Limited 143 Butt Road, Colchester CO3 3DP Essex United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 1206 575755 Email: sales@tvri.co.uk www.tvri.co.uk

Ala

SICK’s ‘Sceptre’ Crowns Safety System King of the Active/Passives With the innovation of its Sceptre high-performance prism optic reflector, SICK has extended the range of its deTem 4 A/P multiple light beam system to eight metres, the longest ever available for an active/ passive safety device, suitable for applications up to SIL3 / PLe. The extra-rugged and compact SICK deTem 4 A/P safety light beam system offers wide flexibility to install safe access protection with entry/exit monitoring (muting) in production and logistics environments. With sender and receiver integrated into the active device, SICK deTem 4 A/P minimises wiring and helps achieve compact machine designs. With integrated muting functions there is no need for an external module and additional wiring effort. With real-time diagnostics accessible by smartphone through Near Field Communication (NFC), and also via IO-Link, the SICK deTem 4 A/P is a smart system that enables operators to respond quickly to machine downtime. Engineers can access a range of diagnostic status and process data to manage maintenance interventions effectively. Dr Martin Kidman, safety specialist with SICK UK explains: “The SICK deTem4 Active/Passive light beam system offers operators fingertip diagnostics to respond quickly to stoppages in common access protection applications such as warehousing, palletising or packaging machinery. You can find out straight away what caused a lockout just by using the easy-to-use status display on your smartphone. “The SICK deTem4 A/P offers all the functionality you would expect from a high-performance SICK safety light beam system, and more. Its slim housing and active/passive functionality lend themselves to machine layouts where space is limited. With IP65 and IP67 protection ratings, an operating temperature range of -30oC to +55oC, the deTem4 is ready for harsh industrial environments.” Guided by the SICK Safety Assistant 6 - Automation Update

smartphone App, and with integral dip switches and automatic range adjustment, in-situ configuration and commissioning are quick and simple and there is no need to use a PC. The SICK deTem4 A/P is a Type 4 device (EN 61496), enabling compliance in applications with requirements up to PLe (EN ISO 13849) and SIL3 (EN 61508). Ranges from 500mm right up to 8 metres are offered, thanks to the Sceptre’s high-performance optics, with a choice of two or four beams and separations of 300mm or 500mm. The coded light beam option prevents optical interference between devices in sideby-side applications. The SICK deTem4 A/P allows the connection of a restart interlock and/or the facility to monitor external devices (EDM) which can reduce wiring and

the need for additional devices in the control cabinet, saving further space. For more information on the SICK deTem4 A/P safety light beam system, or any of SICK’s safety and protective devices, please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk

www.sick.co.uk

Leaders in temperature measurement

Rare Metal Thermocouples (+1700°C) (UK Manufactured) Heading 3

Order Code: XE-RMT-STYLE

Rare metal thermocouples are made from conductors containing platinum and rhodium alloys and are suited for measuring high temperatures up to 1700°C. These sensors are made to order and are designed specifically for your application and environment. We offer R/S or B type thermocouples with a choice of terminal heads. Main Features • High temperature platinum temperature sensor • Designed specifically for your application/environment • Will withstand tough industrial use www.labfacility.com Bognor Regis tel: +44 (0)1243 871280

sales@labfacility.com Shefﬁeld tel: +44 (0)1909 569446

With the various models, the new frequency inverters from the NORDAC PRO family can be perfectly assigned to a wide range of demanding applications. The functions of the modular series can be extended by plug-in control, safety and option modules. Users also benefit from a particularly compact design due to its book-shelf format. The inverters are currently

available in power ranges from 0.25 to 5.5kW. This addition to the family comes with CANopen interface as standard as well as the integrated Industrial Ethernet connectivity via a single interface. Whether connecting to a PROFINET, Ethernet IP, POWERLINK or EtherCAT master, the required protocol can be easily set by means of drive parameters. The 500P can also be parameterised via the USB port without an external power supply (“Cold” programming in the box) as the USB power can be used for the inverter’s control card. The SD card slot, for saving and transferring parameters, is also a novel flexibility. In addition, digital and analogue I/O is complemented by support of either HTL, TTL or universal encoder interface connections available across the series. As with all NORD frequency inverters, the NORDAC PRO SK 500P is equipped with a powerful PLC to overcome application orientated functions close to the drive. Additionally, the precise current vector control can provide the optimum torque in various load and speed situations and guarantees operational reliability with high overload reserves. The inverter operates either openloop or closed-loop and can

8 - Automation Update

control both synchronous and asynchronous motors. The integrated brake chopper, for 4-quadrant operation, is a part of the basic equipment for the entire series, as is motor brake management, which is important, for example, for lifting gear applications. NORD supplies the inverters with integrated STO and SS1. The new NORD offering for control cabinet installation is available as a ‘machinery’ drive (SK 500P) and as an ‘application’ drive (SK 530P and SK 550P). In contrast to the fully equipped application drive, the machinery drive is an economically optimised device with a basic number of interfaces, however, still performs functionally demanding tasks such as torque, closed-loop and positioning control. The SK 530P also features an SD card slot, USB interface, encoder interface and the possibility of expansion via the additional SK CU5 safety/ encoder module. On the other hand, the SK 550P is the first choice for connection to control systems via Industrial Ethernet. Sales are expected to start in the second quarter of 2020. Follow the link for more information about Nord frequency inverters.

Intelligent Drivesystems, Worldwide Services

NORDAC PRO FREQUENCY INVERTER

4.0

The next generation of frequency inverters with on-board PLC, positioning software and seemless connectivity to industrial ethernet-based bus systems.

READY

We‘ll talk to anyone... Integrated multi-comms ethernet interface, parameter selectable, with no hardware changes.

NORD Gear Limited | Tel +44 1235 534404 | GB-sales@nord.com

www.nord.com

THE EVOLUTION OF THE ENERGY CHAIN MP 420/560 EVOCHAIN® Murrplastik Systemtechnik GmbH has developed a new energy chain series with a unique and exclusive design that allows easy opening and closing with or without tools from the inside or outside of the chain. This is possible due to the innovative locking mechanism and the stability of the chain and shelving system. It combines the latest developments and proven qualities of previous energy chains continuing the expected performance and reliability that is associated with Murrplastik drag chain. It is predestined for long and gliding travel distances for high dynamics and workload due to the chains stability, strength and design. This intelligent and powerful system solution is incredibly easy to assemble, durable and features noise reduction. Cables can be separated using our unique separator and shelving system, which easily clicks into the chain by hand. • EVOCHAIN MP 420 with an internal height of 42mm

Download the brochure

• EVOCHAIN MP 560 with an internal height of 56 mm

Download the brochure.

HERE ARE 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE THE MP EVOCHAIN® ENERGY CHAIN SERIES.

EVOLOCK®: Time-saving crossbar lock system

• Extremely easy and quick locking with innovative locking slide • Configuration on both sides with cables and conduits with EVOLOCK® on the inside and outside bend • Great time-saving as the energy chain does not have to be removed from the guide channel when opening the crossbars • Opening of the crossbars is also possible with mounted gliding shoes from the inside bend or with damping shoes from the outside bend • Visible locking status through acoustic and optical control 10 - Automation Update

EVORACK®: Shelf support system hinged on both sides

• Changes in the installed position can be made quickly and easily thanks to the innovative shelf supports that can be opened from both sides

EVOCONTROL®: Gliding shoe with wear control system • Replaceable gliding shoes extend the service life many times over • Wear indicator indicates the on-time replacement of the gliding shoes • Gliding shoes are optional extra

EVOSHOX®: Damping shoe (external damper)

• Low-vibration and quiet unrolling of the energy chain due to innovative two-component damping shoe • Noise reduction by up to 25 dB(A). The test value is based on the comparison with and without the use of the external damper in combination with the internal damper with elastomer damping element

Assembly plan with integrated letter marking

Holder systems for the external fastening of energy packages

The two lateral external fastening solutions of Murrplastik offer an inexpensive, space-saving and timesaving way of retrofitting the MP 420 EVOCHAIN® with additional and larger energy packages: with Velcro tape or with holder type UH (universal holder). • Fast and accurate assembly of the shelving system by providing an assembly plan with letter marking from the mp-ChainBuilder 3.0

Side links with tongue and groove technology

5 systems in the side link Two noise damping (internal damper)

• Long service life of the energy chains with lateral acceleration and lateral self-supporting applications due to undercut (stable connection of the side links)

9 shelving system

• Space-, time- and cost-saving external fastening systems • Two different holder systems with Velcro tape or with universal holder are particularly suitable for the subsequent installation and repair

Highly flexible

• Standard noise damper with moulded stop buffer • Option: extremely durable noise damper. Due to the large-area and almost wear-free damping element in the chain link the energy chains roll up to 10 dB(A) quieter

6 equipment

Cable-friendly interior • Continuous detent system on the inside of the crossbars as well as movable separators allow extremely variable interior partitioning • Shelves can be used individually and flexibly in height, length and position

• Reduction of wear on cables and conduits due to extremely smooth surfaces of the interior and rounded edges of the separators

• Modifications of installed systems can be made quickly and easily by opening the crossbars on both sides • Less separators required due to further slots on the inside for shelves

• Easy, fast and safe assembly of wires, cables and conduits

Murrplastik is represented in the UK by Murrelektronik. We have a specialist Technical Team for all your Cable Drag Chain enquiries. We can help with identifying the most suitable chain for your application based on your individual requirements. We can supply cable layout drawings, 3D CAD files, the chain can be supplied fully assembled along with a single assembly number to make ordering quick and simple. We can also help identify existing Murrplastik chains if replacement links or components are re quire d . Co nt act Claire.palmer@murrelektronik.co.uk

Tel: 0161 728 3133 Automation Update - 11

BODOR Flat Bed and Tube Processing Technology Cuts Through Traditional Barriers to Ownership Large format flat-bed and tube laser cutting systems play an important role within many industry sectors, producing the individual parts required for the fabrication of a multitude of component assemblies. The benefits of laser technology for these applications mean that it continues to replace other cutting methods such as Plasma, Oxy-Acetylene and even Water-Jet. However, for some, the initial investment cost of these systems from mainstream suppliers has been such that the technology has remained out of reach. A new partnership agreement between Bromsgrove based TLM Laser and Chinese metal laser cutting equipment manufacturer BODOR is set to break down the cost inhibiting barrier to ownership of these types of systems within the UK and Ireland.

ecognised as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of laser technology and systems, TLM Laser continually evaluate opportunities to enhance their comprehensive product portfolio, to be able to offer the most technologically advanced and cost effective solutions to a wide range of laser processing applications. As an advanced domestic supplier within their home market of China, BODOR Laser specialises in laser systems applications and integration. The company manufactures a wide range of flat-bed laser cutting and tube processing systems, designated CE compliant from TUV and therefore meeting European standards and International quality control levels. With options on fiber laser sources from IPG or Maxphotonics, and laser power up to 40kW these systems are ideally suited for applications on a wide range of metals including Carbon Steels, Stainless Steels, Alloys, Aluminium, Copper and Brass. TLM Laser’s Andy Toms explains the economic benefits of the BODOR Systems: “With the largest laser cutting equipment production workshop in the world, BODOR can leverage the benefits of scale when it comes to manufacturing cost. These systems are not only extremely attractively priced but also offer a wide range of innovations to ensure the highest levels of performance and reliability.” The full range of BODOR systems now available from TLM Laser have working envelopes ranging from 600mm x 600mm up to 6m x 2m for the flat-bed systems, and up to 6.5m in length for tube processing. Capable of cutting carbon steel up to 100mm thick, depending upon model and laser power, and with the ability to cut bevel edges to 45 degrees, the systems also feature a 360 degree fully enclosed design surrounding the working area, which provides a safe working environment by isolating both fumes and laser radiation. 12 - Automation Update

A series of features such as Auto-Focusing which is suitable for multiple focal lengths, with the focal position automatically adjusted based on sheet thickness, and Automatic Obstacle Avoidance, which offers full 360 degree monitoring of the environment to avoid collisions further enhance the capability of these attractively priced systems. Andy Toms concludes: “There is no doubt that the price / performance characteristics of these systems will open up new opportunities for investment from a wide range of companies, including SME’s, who have until now been unable to take advantage of this type of technology. This is great news, especially at a time when many UK companies are seeking to reshore manufacture and shorten the supply chain.”

High Performance Laser Processing Technology That Won’t Break The Bank

Affordable Flat Bed Laser Cutting & Tube Processing Systems From TLM Laser

• • • •

Laser power from 1,000W to 40kW Up to 6.0m x 2.0m work envelope - up to 6.5m in tube processing systems High accuracy and repeatability Linear speeds up to 140m/min

Carbon Steels | Stainless Steel | Alloys | Aluminium | Copper

Contact TLM Laser for more details... Tel: +44(0)1527 959 099 www.tlm-laser.com | sales@tlm-laser.com

Sales revenues up slightly by 1.2 % to € 759 million / Supply chain maintained / Customer communication expanded / Festive ceremony in September with former German Presidents Gauck and Wulff / 205 new jobs created worldwide

HARTING Technology Group holds its own in anniversary year

The HARTING Technology Group, based in Espelkamp, held its own in the 2019/20 (September 30) business year despite the corona pandemic and the associated global economic plunge. Sales at the internationally active, family-owned company were up slightly by 1.2 % to € 759 million (previous year: € 750 million). "We stood up to the global corona pandemic. We are satisfied with the result," stated CEO Philip Harting. As the COVID-19 situation continues to determine economic and social life, the CEO expects a challenging fiscal year 2020/21 for the Technology Group.

Diverging developments in the regions The regions in which HARTING is active worldwide developed differently in the 2019/20 financial year. Sales in Europe (excluding Germany) the Middle East and Africa, also known as EMEA, remained stable at € 278 million (previous year: 278 million). In the Asia region, HARTING sales rose vigorously by 9 % to € 202 million (previous year: EUR 186 million). Growth in the Americas region was even more pronounced, recording a 15% increase to € 82 million (previous year: 72 million). In Germany, sales were down by 8% to € 197 million (previous year: 214 million). 14 - Automation Update

A total of 205 new jobs created worldwide The number of employees (including trainees) rose to 5,473 during the 2019/20 financial year (previous year 5,268). This corresponds to an increase of 3.9% or 205 jobs. In Germany, nine positions were not filled again (- 0.3%), while 214 employees were hired at other production facilities and subsidiaries (+ 8.0%). Consequently, a total of 2,604 people were employed in Germany and 2,869 people were employed across the globe on September 30, 2020. Growth in the Americas and Asia is reflected in these figures.

Rapid and flexible response to the pandemic Right from the outset, the Technology Group reacted quickly and flexibly to the ensuing pandemic. From the very beginning, the protection of employees as well as the supply of customers took top priority. This includes supplying well-known manufacturers of medical

and respiratory equipment with customer-specific cable assemblies. "We are and remain a reliable partner," as Philip Harting emphasised. This applies to customer and market communication, which was duly converted and expanded to digital formats. Since spring, events and web seminars have been held in a dedicated studio and streamed to customers, distributors and media worldwide. "Since we are globally networked, we can react very quickly to changing conditions - and we are close to our customers," emphasised Philip Harting. Based on this new form of communication, HARTING is positioning itself for the future, as the CEO underlined. The Technology Group will closely monitor the further course of the pandemic. A corona pandemic team evaluates the developments daily and recommends or takes measures, as Dr.

Continue reading on Automation Update...

StocExpo postponed to June 2021

s well as networking opportunities and a worldleading exhibition on the show floor, the bulk storage community will benefit from the insights of some of the industry’s leading experts on a wide range of trends and issues impacting the industry, from cyber security to LNG and beyond.

Also at the show will be a brand new Emergency & Response Zone, a nextgen roundtable debate, with input from StocExpo’s Forty Under 40 (due to be announced in early 2021), as well as a critical post-COVID-19 market analysis.

StocExpo, the leading tank storage event, has been postponed from March 2021 to 29 June - 1 July 2021 in a decision made in consultation with the community. The live show and associated awards, which regularly attracts key visitors and exhibitors from across the industry’s biggest, best and most innovative players, will be held at the Antwerp Expo in Antwerp, Belgium.

Lourda Derry, COO of Easyfairs Global, says, “We’re thrilled to be able to announce the return of StocExpo; we know how valuable it is to the industry and it’s great to be back in Antwerp. “We know it’s a little later in the year than usual; we had hoped to hold the show in March as usual but we felt it safer to delay so we could ensure the event could be held in person. Virtual shows can offer a certain level of content, but we understand how important it still is for us to connect and continue to foster key relationships face to face. We are confident that, with the positive global news, we will be able to bring the community back together in a more powerful way than ever! “Tank storage was already in a time of transition before the pandemic struck, so now collaboration and knowledge sharing are more important than ever before; it’s the key to the sector’s ongoing success. StocExpo 2021 will be the event for everyone to regroup and reassess and move forward into the future with confidence.” This decision has been made in close consultation with the industry and due to the ongoing unforeseeable, unavoidable and unprecedented global scope of the Coronavirus pandemic. This has led to the Government implementing ongoing measures to maintain social distancing,

further continuing the Force Majeure situation. During the lead up to the June 2021 show, StocExpo will launch a series of digital events, putting the focus on the key issues that the industry currently faces and its solutions. The new ‘Tank Talk Spotlight On…’ series will connect innovative brands with forward-thinking specifiers to cover innovation and digitalisation trends. The last of these spotlights will be part of a virtual conference, ‘The Terminal of Tomorrow’, running over the previously allocated show days; this virtual StocExpo conference will provide the knowledge, resources & tools terminals need to prepare for

2021 and beyond. StocExpo provides a platform for industry to come together, networking with people from across the supply chain and find the products and solutions needed for their businesses. For more information about the event, visit www.stocexpo. com To find out more, register your interest, or nominate yourself or a colleague for the Global Tank Storage Awards, call +44 (0)20 3196 4300 or visit www.stocexpo.com.

Automation Update - 15

Increase 85% of floor space with Vertical Lift Systems

Rare is the manufacturing, warehousing or distribution facility that does not suffer from some amount of space limitations. Sometimes inventory, parts or work‐in‐ process have exceeded current capacity. Or perhaps the footprint of the facility prevents the addition of more storage equipment without an expensive addition of more square footage through construction. For facilities that rely on traditional shelving made of upright posts, formed steel sheet panels as horizontal shelves, and end and back braces or sheet steel back and side panels for support for storage for non‐palletised loads, automated storage and retrieval equipment is available as an alternative. If we take a look at the vertical lift systems – these self‐contained systems offer higher density storage in a more compact footprint than manual equipment. The average ceiling height for manufacturing facilities and distribution centres range from 24-32m on average. Older buildings (pre 1970’s) tend to be closer to the 24m mark, while more recently constructed buildings are closer to 32m tall. Standard industrial shelving is available in 6m, 7m, 8m and 10m height. Filling a 20m tall warehouse with 10m tall shelving leaves quite a bit of wasted space.. 16 - Automation Update

Plus consolidating all of the aisle space found in a typical shelving system into one access point recovers a considerable amount of floor space and gives you room to expand operations internally, avoiding a costly facility move or expansion (not to mention that it eliminates the time workers spend walking/searching through shelving as all stored products are now delivered directly to the worker). Kardex ShuttleXP vertical lift system is an enclosed system of vertically arranged trays stored on both sides of the unit with an extractor device placed in the center. This automatically delivers trays with the stored items to the access opening at the push of a button or a scan of a barcode. The device is modular in its construction with the ability to change its height and number of access openings pre and post construction. The Shuttle XP automatically scans every tray with the use of Optiflex technology, finding the ideal storage location within the system in increments of 25 mm. Items

are stored in least possible amount of space. Thousands of organisations throughout the world have used high density storage to increase storage capacity and avoid costly expansions or relocations. Before you tear down walls to expand or sign a lease for an additional facility, be sure you're maximising the warehouse space you currently have. A reorganisation of your current warehouse might not be the answer to your long-term space problem, but you might be able to recover enough space to delay your expansion or relocation decision. To learn more about optimising your storage space click here or contact Kardex direct on info.remstar.uk@kardex.com or call us on 01992 557208. www.kardex-remstar.co.uk.

The demand for stainless steel clamps is especially high for the bottling, packaging and processing technology as well as for outdoor appliances and equipment bearing thermal loads. We work constantly and with great dedication on innovative products and solutions for our customers. The range of linear, lifting column, profile and connecting technology products include catalogue as well as tailor-made products, system solutions such as platforms, work stations and special projects. We are happy to advise you in choosing a product or to develop a tailor-made system solution with you from our extensive modular product range. RK Rose+Krieger 26 Faraday Road Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP19 8RY 01296 611660 www.rose-krieger.co.uk www.phoenix-mecano.co.uk

www.leuze.co.uk

Automation Update - 17

We can talk….to everyone!: New frequency inverter from NORD includes multi-protocol Ethernet comms With the new NORDAC PRO SK 500P, NORD Drivesystems has launched a state-of-the-art ‘comms ready’ cabinet mounted inverter utilising the most up to date component technology and achieving excellent levels of functionality and performance. The SK 500P has a built-in multi-protocol Ethernet comms portal as standard, where you can select PROFINET, Ethernet IP, POWERLINK or EtherCAT via a simple parameter change. Innovative features, as well as several modular extension possibilities, allow the new drive to be easily integrated into all automation architectures. With the various models, the new frequency inverters from the NORDAC PRO family can be perfectly assigned to a wide range of demanding applications. The functions of the modular series can be extended by plug-in control, safety and option modules. Users also benefit from a particularly compact design due to its book-shelf format. The inverters are currently available in power ranges from 0.25 to 5.5kW. This addition to the family comes with CANopen interface as standard as well as the integrated Industrial Ethernet connectivity via a single interface. Whether connecting to a PROFINET, Ethernet IP, POWERLINK or EtherCAT master, the required protocol can be easily set by means of drive parameters. The 500P can also be parameterised via the USB port without an external power supply (“Cold” programming in the box) as the USB power can be used for the inverter’s control card. The SD card slot, for saving and transferring parameters, is also a novel flexibility. In addition, digital and analogue I/O is complemented by support of either HTL, TTL or universal encoder interface connections available across the series. As with all NORD frequency inverters, the NORDAC PRO SK 500P is equipped with a powerful PLC to overcome application orientated functions close to the drive. Additionally, the precise current vector control can provide the optimum torque in various load and speed situations and guarantees operational reliability with high overload reserves. The inverter 18 - Automation Update

operates either open-loop or closed-loop and can control both synchronous and asynchronous motors. The integrated brake chopper, for 4-quadrant operation, is a part of the basic equipment for the entire series, as is motor brake management, which is important, for example, for lifting gear applications. NORD supplies the inverters with integrated STO and SS1. The new NORD offering for control cabinet installation is available as a ‘machinery’ drive (SK 500P) and as an ‘application’ drive (SK 530P and SK 550P). In contrast to the fully equipped application drive, the machinery drive is an economically optimised device with a basic number of interfaces, however, still performs functionally demanding tasks such as torque, closed-loop and positioning control. The SK 530P also features an SD card slot, USB interface, encoder interface and the possibility of expansion via the additional SK CU5 safety/encoder module. On the other hand, the SK 550P is the first choice for connection to control systems via Industrial Ethernet.

Sales are expected to start in the second quarter of 2020. Follow the link for more information about Nord frequency inverters.

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50 Year old product makes dramatic comeback to help beat the virus When the Melaphone Speech Unit was

the UK have had these screens installed with

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screens are individually made and every

predicted that half a century later it would

component is of the highest quality, giving a

suddenly be in such high demand.

clean, sleek and professional appearance in any

considerable success and approval. The

health-care environment. The current Corona Virus Pandemic had created an urgent need for all protective

The Melaphone is still available as a stand-

equipment – both for personal use and in the

alone unit for installation into walls, glass or

working environment. This is the reason the

plastic screens, windows or doors. I can easily

Melaphone has come into its own again. Its unique design, with its resonating membrane

requires no special skill to install. The range

and air-sealed constructions, make it the

has been expanded to meet the growing

ideal device to install in any situation where

demand for the units. In addition to the original

face-to-face communication occurs. It not only

brushed aluminium model there is a stainless

oﬀers protection from air-borne viruses and

steel model, a white powder-coated aluminium model and the newest and highly successful Himacs acrylic-resin model, which is at a very

through a screen. Its protective credentials

popular price. is very easy to keep clean and safe with an antiseptic wipe.

All of these models are available from stock and can be purchased from Melaphone VisAudio.

and designers for use in hospitals, laboratories and cleanrooms or anywhere hygiene is of

The Melaphone has now been built into the

paramount importance. It is a simple but

new Defender Virus Screens produced by the

Even after 50 years, we’re proud to still be

really ingenious invention which requires no

company and numerous doctors’ surgeries,

able to say ‘MADE IN THE UK’ at our London

servicing, wiring or electrical supply. And it

medical centres, clinics and pharmacies in

production facility.

WEBSITE: WWW.MELAPHONE.CO.UK

20 - Automation Update

Protecting Your Plant Before

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used whenever information or monitoring of shaft rotation, position, direction, speed, slip etc is required! Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used for indication, control, interlocking, protection, sequencing, alarm initiations and many more functions! Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used wherever materials are transported or processed By conveyors, elevators, screws, mixers, etc!

ROADSTONE

STONE

POWER STATIONS

AGGREGATE

…AND MANY MORE!

RELIABILITY Tel : +44 (0)151 356 2322 Website: www.rotechsystems.co.uk Fax: +44 (0)151 356 2437 Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk

Monitoring the world