4th Quarter 2016Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, has extended its popular AC30 range of variable speed drives to offer new functionality and extended connectivity.
The AC30 series, designed from the ground up as a highly modular drive system, now includes three new interchangeable control modules, joining the existing range of communications and I/O options. The evolved range builds on growing industry demand for transparent interconnectivity driven by the Internet of Things.
The new advanced connectivity includes 1588 time synchronised peer-to-peer Ethernet, Ethernet IP and Profinet, all as standard. The built-in Ethernet now incorporates Modbus TCP/IP server/client functionality, allowing embedded web pages that give users access to drive analytics and smart connectivity. A dual encoder feedback option completes the connectivity enhancements. Suitable for applications requiring precision control in areas such as wire drawing, converting, printing, extruders and test rigs, the AC30 series represents one of the most flexible variable speed drive ranges on the market today.
Parker engineers have also raised the bar in system reliability by introducing an exclusive encoder failure override to the series. If a motor encoder fails, the drive offers a bumpless fall back to open loop control mode, allowing process lines to continue running until maintenance can be scheduled. Improved trip and diagnostic technology enable easier fault finding in the case of product or process failure, helping keep machine downtime to a minimum.
Parker has added extra drive memory capacity with a fourfold increase in application programming space in CODESYS IEC61131. The CODESYS project source file can now be conveniently stored inside the drive memory, allowing for easier support and rapid access to drive configurations. The AC30 series benefits from a more comprehensive application library, with new function blocks for project specific programming, making the setup of new applications as simple as possible.
Flexibility, reliability, simplicity, capability and connectivity are the core design attributes visible across the AC30 series’ seven frame sizes, available in power ratings up to 250 kW. Exceptional levels of control are assured, from simple open-loop pumps and fans through to closed-loop process line applications. Wherever reliable and accurate motor speed control of either AC induction or permanent magnet (PMAC) servo motors are required, industry need look no further than the AC30 for a comprehensive and cost effective solution.
New generation low power frequency inverters Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
New to BMG’s electromechanical range are energy-efficient Synergy PI150 series frequency inverters, which have been designed for efficient use in many applications.
Read more...Planar motor system for quality assurance Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Achieving the shortest possible inspection times, even when working with different components, is paramount when it comes to series production. This is precisely what special machine builder, stoba Sondermaschinen set out to achieve with its InspectorONE optical inspection system, which is based on deep learning and features the Beckhoff XPlanar planar motor system at the conveyor system core.
Read more...Siemens elevates automotive and aerospace simulation Siemens South Africa
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced the latest update to its Simcenter portfolio, delivering advancements in aerostructure analysis, electric motor design, gear optimisation and smart virtual sensing. These enhancements are designed to streamline workflows, accelerate certification and provide deeper insights into system performance.
Read more...Turbomachinery controls: the call of duty Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
There’s a lot to be said about the unsung heroes of this world; those men, women and machines that deliver such important functions, often overlooked and recognised. One such machine is turbomachinery, and while the name does sound quite obvious to the layman, its rich history and daily functions are not.
Read more...More movement in the market
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Aerotech aims to revolutionise the market for precision motion and machine controls with an intuitive control platform.
Read more...Motion technology for all types of automation Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
News & events Electrical switching & drive systems & components
BMG has been appointed by The Timken Company as a distributor in southern Africa for the Rollon linear motion guidance system.
Read more...Servo motor series for explosive environments with expanded certification Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Parker Hannifin’s ongoing commitment to safety and performance in hazardous environments is evident in the new certifications and product improvements for its EY and EX servo motor series.
Read more...The world’s most powerful worm
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Geothermal energy from the natural heat of the Earth is an inexhaustible resource, yet the growth of the global geothermal power sector lags behind other renewable energies. Now Swiss startup, Borobotics is hoping to speed this up with its innovative new electric-powered geothermal drilling robot, which can be used to fast-track and lower the cost of heat pump installations in confined spaces.
Read more...The impact of gearless mill drive technology on CO2 emissions
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
ABB has released an in-depth white paper detailing the vital role that gearless grinding technologies can play in driving productivity in mining while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.
Read more...Revolutionising TIG welding for aerospace manufacturing
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Yaskawa Southern Africa has partnered with Aerosud Aviation, a leading aerospace manufacturer, to implement a cutting-edge robotic TIG welding solution tailored to the exacting demands of aerospace production.