Integrate Control Solutions With Rockwell Servo Drive

The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 350 single-axis servo drive provides motion scalability while operating with the family of CompactLogix controllers.

CIP Sync and CIP motion technologies provide real-time, closed-loop motion control on standard Ethernet. This topology-independent network provides a simplified integration of the entire control solution on one network, including programmable automation controllers (PACs), human-machine interface, I/O and motion.

In addition, users can reduce design, installation and commissioning time by re-using code across various Logix control platforms. Programmed with RSLogix 5000 software, the servo drive provides a scalable motion system to be used with ControlLogix and CompactLogix PACs. In addition, it is equipped with embedded safe torque off.

Its scalable platform is optimised for lower axis count systems. The Kinetix 350 supports 100V and 200V single phase and 200V and 400V 3-phase class voltage models, and power range is from 400W to 3kW. Users can reduce commissioning time with the automatic drive identification of the MP-Series and TL-Series motors and actuators.

Online “colorControl” Measuring System Now Available In Australia

The first online colour measuring system colorCONTROL ACS 7000 from Micro-Epsilon Eltrotec is suitable for automotive paint inspections, interior colour measurements, forensics, plagiarism detection and more.

The first operating mode measures the colour difference ΔE to the reference value. A maximum of 15 learned reference colours can be stored. The second mode measures the sample's reflectivity spectrum. The third mode measures colours and displays them in the relevant colour space (XYZ, L*a*b*, L*u*v*). The results are used to calculate CIE-xy colour coordinates for wavelengths of 390-780 nm.

Observation characteristics such as illumination source (A, C, D65, D50, D75, E, F4, F7, F11 or customised) and 2°/10° standard observers can be adjusted. In addition, users can display and track a trend analysis of ΔE / ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* for the individual colours over any period of time. All modes support measurement speeds of up to 2kHz. The system works contact-free for a distance of up to 55mm with a measuring geometry of 30°/0°.

The colorCONTROL ACS 7000 system supports online and offline measuring and is operated via a web browser that also displays relevant measuring parameters, including a black/white balance feature. Process interfaces such as Ethernet / EtherCAT, RS422, USB and Digital I/O are included.

MathWorks software updates

MathWorks has announced Release 2012a (R2012a) of its Matlab and Simulink product families.

Updates include the introduction of HDL Coder, which generates HDL code from either MATLAB or Simulink for prototyping and implementation on FPGAs or ASICs, and the launch of HDL Verifier, which replaces EDA Simulator Link and adds Altera FPGA hardware-in-the-loop support.

R2012a highlights for Matlab include unified functions for 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D numerical integration and improved performance of basic math and interpolation functions

R2012a highlights for Simulink include the ability to run models directly from Simulink on target hardware including Lego Mindstorms NXT and BeagleBoard.

Land the right solution with KAESER Compressors

KAESER has announced the arrival of the new CSD and CSDX fluid-cooled rotary screw compressors, which combine outstanding performance and energy efficiency with versatile and compact design. KAESER has announced the arrival of the new CSD and CSDX fluid-cooled rotary screw compressors, which combine outstanding performance and energy efficiency with versatile and compact design. 

The highly efficient IE3 motor powers from 45 kW to 90 kW and the five models of both ranges cover free air deliveries from 8.3 to 16.1 m³/min (at 8 bar) and are designed for pressures up to 15 bar.

Significant energy saving features include:

1. CSD and CSDX units feature a large, low speed Sigma Profile airend equipped with flow-optimised rotors for superior efficiency and when combined with minimisation of internal pressure losses, specific power reduced by between 3% and 5%, can be as low as 5.3kW/m3/min depending on Model and operating pressure.

2. KAESER Rotary Screw Airends powered by IE3 & MEPS registered drive motors for maximum performance and reliability.

3. 1:1 / Direct Drive Design eliminates transmission losses associated with gear or V-belt driven systems.

4. Newly developed PC based “Sigma Control 2” compressor controller enables compressor performance to be matched to actual air demand.

New internal layout for ease of servicing and available with built in dryer and optional variable speed control, there is a KAESER Compressor solution to suit your business.

To contact your local KAESER Compressor Distributor located Australiawide call us today – click to view the phone number in the right-hand column.

Humidity meter with a choice of output signals

A new design of the humidity meter for wall mounting application with a humidity range from 5%-98%RH, and temperature range from -20 to +80°C, has been released by Bestech Australia.

The ALMEMO humidity sensor provides a user choice of output signals of 2 channels with either 0-10V DC or 4-20mA. The MH8D46 humidity transmitter requires a power supply of 9-30V DC (nominal 12 VDC or 24 VDC).

The features that make this humidity probe versatile include the easy setting up procedure and later changing of settings which is facilitated by three on board push buttons with matching digital displays that also show the ‘live’ data when required.

The ease of in situ replacement of the humidity sensor elements with competitive pricing ensures simple and low cost maintenance and a long life installation. Should there be a power failure, all characteristics, settings and adjustment data are automatically saved into the non-volatile memory of the humidity sensor.

The user can choose any 2 simultaneous outputs from the choice of the 4 atmospheric variables including temperature, relative humidity, dew point and mixture ratio.

The rugged IP65 rated diecast case of the humidity sensor enables it to be mounted safely in most industrial, medical and commercial environments and with its stainless steel case, it also can be mounted separately from the main enclosure if needed.

Alarm limit relays may be added if required, and a wide range of other options are available to meet most application requirements.

Bestech Australia provides technical assistance for related enquiries.

High quality cable carrier options from Kabelschlepp

No matter what your application you can count on KabelSchlepp to have a cable and hose carrier solution to meet your requirements.

From light-weight micro-sized mono cable carriers up to large super-duty steel chain designs, KabelSchlepp has the perfect solution for any application.

The comprehensive range also includes carriers with 3D movement for multi-axis robotic applications and tube types for superior protection from chips and debris.

Made in Germany for over 50 years and with proven technology used worldwide, customers can be assured of the highest quality and reliability when selecting Kabelschlepp cable carriers.

Take advantage of the KabelSchlepp OnlineEngineer configuration tool to help you quickly select and configure the optimal KabelSchlepp cable carrier system for your application.

Other available and helpful design assistance includes application photo and video galleries along with 2D and 3D CAD drawings to save valuable time.

VAL 6 heater range

Introducing the Fanmaster KBE1S, part of the all new VAL 6 diesel heater range. The KBE1S’s state of the art combustion chamber enables virtually 100% fuel to energy conversion.

This translates to clean, odorless, smokeless operation and, more importantly, fuel savings.

Impervious to nature’s elements (wind, rain, and snow), the KBE1S is able to transfer infrared heat directly to the object without any loss of heat or air movement.

Safety features include a tip over sensor and an overvoltage detector.

Advantages

RADIANT HEAT – Heat penetrates evenly like heat from sunlight.

OUTDOOR USE – VAL6 is not affected by wind, unlike forced air heaters that suffer from heat loss in the ambient air.

HEAT TRANSFER – VAL6 generates infrared heat directly to the object without any air movement creating a dust-free comfortable environment.

ODOURLESS – A clean combustion system produces no odour or smoke while running.

ENERGY SAVINGS – VAL6’s state of the art combustion chamber enables virtually 100% fuel to energy conversion.

HY-DU-EX material sewn bellows

HY-DU-EX manufactures a large range of material sewn bellows, including moulded and welded, protective slide covers.

All Hy-Du-Ex covers are made to your specifications, with a guarantee of quality workmanship and experience.  The company’s friendly staff will be more than willing to answer any of your questions or inquiries. Hy-Du-Ex services all over Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand.
 

Temperature control skids from Teralba

Teralba Industries has recently released the Thermaster range of heat transfer systems.

Thermaster combines the product features of Dimpleflo and Teralba heat exchangers, delivered with a range of control equipment such as pumps, valves, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) – with provision for thermal expansion – into a skid mounted system.

Thermaster systems are compact, minimising the use of floor space. They are also transportable.

The heat transfer systems incorporate removable panels for protection from hot surfaces, and adjustable levelling feet to allow positioning in different locations.

The systems are suited to demanding applications such as controlled water heating with steam, isolation of ethylene glycol from temperatures above its flash point, and refrigeration duties with inbuilt control requirements.

There is no better time to change to led tubes than now

If you are using fluorescent tubes for your factory, warehouse or workshop, you start saving by changing over to ecoLED Tubes.

Why change?

  • ecoLED Tubes consumes HALF the power of flouro tubes – saves energy costs.
  • It has no mercury to spill and contaminate your goods.
  • It’s LED lighting with a long life of 50,000 hours; and no maintenance.
  • You can install into existing standard batten without having to buy new fittings.
  • It emits steady white light with no flicker, no buzz and therefore no irritation and less fatigue.

You get instant benefits to your factory, warehouse and your personnel.
Our LED Tubes have been NATA Lab tested and are C-tick approved for use in Australa & New Zealand.

Installation of the LED Tube is simple. Remove the starter (and electronic ballast if fitted with one). Install the ecoLED Tube in its place and switch it on.

Start saving energy & running costs once you install the ecoLED Tubes.

ecoLED Tubes are available from: Tenrod Australia Pty Ltd 

Ultima Series Hand Pumps

ENERPAC has announced its new ULTIMA series of steel hand pumps, designed for easier and safer operation, as well as extended life. The pumps are designed to increase productivity and safety, while minimizing operator fatigue.

These versatile steel hand pumps are ideally suited for rugged applications, where durability is of utmost concern.

The series now features an innovative design that provides greater ease-of-use. Handle effort is reduced by up to 20 percent in the ULTIMA steel hand pumps without compromising speed or performance. The pumps’ innovative bypass system further reduces loads often created by two-stage pumps.

By incorporating the new Power Push handle grip and linkage design, loads are better distributed further reducing felt load while pumping—minimizing operator fatigue.

Enerpac Regional Manager, Australia and New Zealand, Tony Brooks says the high pressure pump is ideally suited to a huge range of compact and portable high-pressure cylinders and tools used for diverse tasks. These include lifting, cutting, clamping, pressing and forming as well as diverse bolting and fastening technologies, such as hydraulic torque wrenches and tensioners.

Incorporating a vent-free reservoir, these hand pumps eliminate performance deficiencies from forgetting to open a vent as well as spillage resulting from a vent left open.

For additional ease, the fill plug is conveniently located on the top of the hand pumps, enabling them to be quickly, cleanly, and easily refilled.

Plus, the pump contains an integrated carrying handle for durable and hassle-free mobility, and the Sure-Grip release knob enables simple gripping and handling, with or without gloves, for superior control while releasing pressure.  

Emerson RB Sensor resists poisoning in scrubber applications

The Rosemount Analytical Model RB Sensor by Emerson Process Management is designed for optimum sensor life in demanding scrubber applications.

pH sensors are most vulnerable to failure due to poisoning of the reference junction. The RB sensor features a proprietary multi-junction that hinders reference poisoning. This design is particularly successful against aggressive sulfides found in scrubbers.

The multi-junction reference chamber of the RB extends product life and additionally, the sensor is made from chemically resistant Kynar.

Instead of replacing the entire sensor, the Model RB Sensor can be reassembled inside its titanium sheath high-pressure body, reducing costs for replacement and shipping. The sensor allows for optional installation methods including in-line, submerged or ball-valve insertion.

Emerson Analytical Sensor Series measures industrial parameters

The Rosemount Analytical 1066 two-wire liquid instruments by Emerson Process Management feature a broad range of measurement parameters and advanced communications capabilities.

The 1066 series features the latest version of Hart 7s and are the industry’s first pH transmitters to be registered under the Interoperability Test Kit 6 (ITK6) from FOUNDATION Fieldbus.

These transmitters measure pH, ORP, resistivity/conductivity, percent concentration and more. A second sensor input allows continuous pH correction for free chlorine measurement. Additionally, the transmitter can use analog output function blocks to link to temperature and pressure measurements from the bus for temperature and pressure compensation; increasing accuracy and responsiveness of the measurement.

The 1066 also has a full complement of analog control and math function blocks for use by the 1066 or other devices on the bus to facilitate control in the field. ITK 6 compliance also brings with it new features—field diagnostics, which provide users configurable alerts, and common software downloads, which makes transmitter software upgrades possible without taking the transmitter out of service.

The HART version of the 1066 is switchable between HART 5 and 7, allowing the 1066 to be used with HART 7 capable hosts. The added features of HART makes it possible to more completely describe the location and application of a transmitter.

The 1066 HART configuration is fully compatible with the Smart Wireless THUM adapter for immediate commissioning to Emerson wireless networks. For highest performance, the 1066 uses patented low frequency noise reduction and includes cable capacitance and series resistance compensation.

Siemens PLM Software introduces Teamcenter 9

Siemens PLM Software has announced latest release of Teamcenter software in the Asia Pacific region.

Teamcenter 9 delivers new solutions and enhancements across the portfolio in support of the company’s HD-PLM vision.

The Teamcenter 9 release adds a new integrated systems engineering solution and tightens the integration across the unified architecture so companies can make smarter decisions with better visibility into the impact of those decisions.

Enhancements across the entire Teamcenter portfolio improve productivity so companies can get to market faster, while reducing total cost of ownership.

“To face the challenge of increasing globalisation of the enterprise and the ever-growing complexity of products, our customers require a more intelligent PLM system that provides the right information to the right person at the right time,” said Eric Sterling, Senior Vice President, General Manager, Lifecycle Collaboration Software, Siemens PLM Software.

“Teamcenter 9 continues to build on the unified architecture with a more integrated approach to connecting the information generated by teams across the extended enterprise, while giving them a more personalised and productive user experience.”

Highlights:

  • The new Teamcenter systems engineering solution provides a fully-integrated approach to systems engineering and requirements management.
  • The enhanced integration of content management in Teamcenter 9 allows product documentation to be created in parallel with the design process. This ensures that changes are communicated as they occur and their impact can drive documentation more efficiently.
  • Teamcenter 9 integrates the service scheduling and execution management solutions, enabling companies to more effectively control cost by defining and efficiently scheduling service orders and tasks.
  • Teamcenter 9 makes it easy to tailor the user experience with stylesheets that can streamline processes regardless of whether they use the traditional Teamcenter rich client (application) or thin client (web).

OMRON controller offers built-in Ethernet

The CP1L CPU units by OMRON feature Ethernet connectivity, and are the latest additions to the OMRON CP series of programmable controllers.

These units are programmable controllers with built-in Ethernet ports that enable low-cost Ethernet connection, and are designed to meet a wide variety of Ethernet connectivity needs in a range of fields.

The ability to send and receive messages allows a host computer to monitor the status of controllers and receive feedback from the controllers about any on-site abnormalities they detect. The controllers also feature socket communications capability, making it possible to connect them with a variety of Ethernet-enabled control equipment.

The added function block memory (10K steps) improves re-usability of user program assets and supports design standardisation. The function blocks aid efficient creation of reusable programs in various devices such as ladder programs used for Ethernet communications.

All the CP1L-EL/EM-type CPU units incorporate two analog inputs meaning that stand-alone CPU units can handle various applications such as monitoring for fluid level detection. For applications that require more than two analog inputs, up to six analog inputs and four analog outputs can be controlled by mounting analog option units without the need for an expansion unit.

Measure oxygen and background gas with multiple configurations

The XTP601 from Michell Instruments is the latest addition to its range of oxygen analysers. Based on the highly stable thermo-paramagnetic sensor, the XTP601 provides accurate measurements of oxygen levels in various background gases.

Capable of measuring Oxygen from 0-1% up to 0-25% and suppressed zero ranges – such as 90-100% – the analyser provides solutions for applications ranging from biogas plants to monitoring blanketing gases in oil tankers.

The XTP601 is configurable to suit specific applications and budgets with three options: The blind transmitter version, transmitter with status LEDs and full display analyser. All of these options may be rated for either safe or hazardous area use. Hazardous area classifications are available for ATEX, IEC Ex with CCSAUS pending approval.

The full display version of the XTP601 has a touch screen interface to enable easy operation without needing to remove the lid. Users can calibrate, change settings and interrogate the instrument in the hazardous area without the need for a ‘hot permit’.

Menus allow access to information on oxygen concentration, analyser status, a graph showing oxygen trends over a user-defined time period, alarm history, minimum and maximum concentrations and other parameters to aid diagnosis of plant conditions.

Free software is available for the XTP601 to enable users to monitor, operate and calibrate any version of the instrument remotely via a PC or control system.

Laser modeller reduces 3D modelling time by up to 50%

AVEVA has announced the commercial release of a new product in its AVEVA Plant portfolio, AVEVA Laser Modeller.

According to AVEVA, this 3D laser scanning software solution can reduce brownfield facility intelligent 3D modelling time by up to 50 per cent. Key customers have over the past 12 months played an integral role in the development and testing process of this new product.

“In the past, investment in the creation of 3D models was hard to justify. AVEVA Laser Modeller changes the fundamental ground rules by adding automation to most aspects of the modelling process, producing a fully intelligent 3D model in a fraction of the time and cost previously required," commented Bruce Douglas, Senior VP Marketing & Product Strategy, AVEVA.

“Working with key customers on real projects has proved that Owner Operators can save up to 50% of effort in producing the intelligent model. This reduces the lead time on large scale modelling of a brownfield facility and allows large scale re-engineering of assets and upgrade and revamp projects to take place significantly quicker leading to the efficient long-term management of complex physical assets,” said Brown.

“AVEVA Laser Modeller rapidly and cost-effectively transforms laser scan data into intelligent, as-built 3D PDMS models,” added Gary Farrow, VP, LFM Software.

“Accepting laser scan data from all laser scanning hardware vendors, AVEVA Laser Modeller is completely neutral and demonstrates our commitment to interoperability. It is unique in the marketplace as it removes the need to produce dumb geometric models.”

Fluid sensors and diagnostic systems

The new hygienic Pt100 probe sensors from ifm efector are ideally suited for precise temperature measurements in food applications.

The sensors have a 6 mm thin sensor tip that the company says ‘guarantees an excellent response time of T05 = 1 s and T09 = 3 s while ensuring high stability.’

Small temperature changes can reportedly be detected in a very short time enabling optimum process monitoring.

With stainless steel housings, the sensors are said to be extremely robust and have a pressure rating of up to 160 bar.

They are certified by EHEDG and 3-A Sanitary Standards and can be used internationally in the food industry, says ifm efector.

The measuring range covers -40 to 150 °C. The accuracy of the stainless steel versions is compliant with DIN EN 60571, class A.

Thermal camera with extended temperature range

Infrared technology company FLIR Systems has developed a new thermal imaging camera. The E30 is the latest addition to its E-Series range for electrical and mechanical maintenance inspections.

Visual camera included

The E30 is equipped with a 2-Megapixel visual camera which enables the operator to clearly reference the exact position of the identified problem with a visual image. When the user presses just one button, the camera stores the thermal image and the visual image simultaneously.

A LED-lamp at the front of the camera ensures high quality visual images can be taken in darker environments.

As with all FLIR E-Series cameras, the E30 includes a laser pointer to help the user to associate the hot spot on the thermal image with the real physical target in the field.

Extended temperature range

The thermal camera is equipped with an uncooled Vanadium Oxide microbolometer detector that produces clear thermal images of 160 x 120 pixels.

Temperature differences as small as 0.1˚C become clearly visible on a crisp thermal image. The E30 can measure temperatures between -20˚C and +350˚C.

Built for harsh environments

The thermal camera is built tough and rugged to face up to everyday use in harsh environments and applications. The vital inner core is well protected (IP54 rated).

For easy access, all buttons for controlling the FLIR E30 are underneath the user’s fingertips. The large 3.5" LCD touchscreen shows clear thermal images and allows access to all camera features.

FLIR Tools included

As standard for the FLIR E-Series range, the E30 comes with FLIR Tools software. The software package delivers thermal images from the E30 to a PC and for basic reporting and analysis of the findings.

Replace RF picking with new Dematic RapidVoice

Dematic RapidVoice is a new software product that enables companies that currently use RF for functions such as picking, to implement proven Voice technology

This innovative concept has been designed to take the information already available on an RF screen, fill in the gaps necessary to create a Voice transaction, and increase the operation’s productivity without the need for any WMS or system changes.

By mapping an organisation’s current RF screens, reviewing its business processes, and then Voice enabling its operation, many companies can achieve dramatic increases in productivity compared with their current RF system.

RapidVoice is a standard out of the box software package that does more than just convert RF screens to voice dialog. Dematic’s RapidVoice software can use Dematic smarts to add missing information such as the check digits that make a Voice system bullet proof. It then verifies this information with the WMS and converts the complete instruction to a hands-free, eyes-free work instruction that is easily understood and faster to work with.

The end result is a quick and easy to install solution that enables the implementation of a Voice system to speed up the current RF process and delivers bottom line results.

Dematic is offering a limited number of RapidVoice pilots and is seeking to hear from companies who are currently looking at ways to improve the productivity of their RF picking operation.

For more information go to www.dematic.com.au/voice-for-free