Industrial Data Xchange (IDX) presented at the August Technology Evening on the topic “What is new from Profibus and Profinet International?”
What is Profibus? Simply put, it is a digital communication system used in automation.
According to IDX’s Michael Garnham, digital communication is the way of the future and the reasons for this are:
• Analog signals can get corrupted by noise or signal attenuation, whereas digital signals can be accurately defined even though there is a noise effect.
• Hardwired analog signals can only send one value at a time whereas digital systems can send multiple pieces of information at once.
Johan Maritz (right) thanks Michael Garnham after the presentation.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is very important when it comes to Profibus. The following is a list of guidelines to prevent electrostatic/electromagnetic interference on Profibus systems:
• Keep profibus cables separate from other cables (the distance between the cables will depend on the voltage on the cables).
• Shield/screen cables, and remember that the shield needs to be earthed.
• Use steel cable trays to minimise electro-magnetic interference and remember to earth the cable trays.
• Earth the Profibus cable at both ends.
• Avoid running Profibus cables close to motor cables. If this is not possible, use any of the following screening methods on the motor cables: copper braid/tape; steel braid; solid copper cladding or aluminium tape armour,
• Cables between drives (VSD) and motors can carry high currents, in such cases use symmetric cables and remember to earth them.
In summary, it seems like Profibus and Profinet might be the way of the future, but there is still a long way to go in replacing the current analog systems on existing plants. Furthermore, it seems like installation of Profibus systems on existing plants can become an issue due to the fact that they need to be installed as a complete separate system in order to avoid EMC.
From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
When South Africa clinched victory in the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time, the nation collectively rejoiced. However, amidst this optimism lies a pertinent question: is South Africa truly a land of hope, or is it merely a fool’s paradise?
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The local Johannesburg Branch of the SAIMC hosted a technology evening at the Bryanston Sports Club on 13 March 2024. It was sponsored by Phoenix Contact and the technical presentation covered the full gambit of industrial wireless technology in the automation field.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban technology meeting in March drew a record attendance, with an old friend of the SAIMC, Gary Friend presenting on the very topical subject of ‘Risks, rewards, advantages and disadvantages of new technologies and the impact of legislation’.
Read more...SAIMC: Secunda Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Secunda branch held its monthly Technology Evening on 6 March 2024 at the Proconics, Secunda office. Sagadevan Kanniappen from WIKA presented on Thermowell stress calculations as per ASME PTC 19.3.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The manufacturing industry is facing some challenges due to automation and outsourcing, but there are still opportunities in advanced manufacturing, such as 3D printing and robotics. It’s essential to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the industry to remain competitive.
Read more...SAIMC:Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The annual general meeting of the SAIMC Johannesburg branch was held on 7 February 2024 at the Northcliff Country Club.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Durban branch of the SAIMC held its annual general meeting at the Premier Splendid Inn in Pinetown on 24 January 2024
Read more...Reminiscences of a life in control Michael Brown Control Engineering
SAIMC
Reminiscences from Michael Brown on a long and rich journey in the world of automation together with SAIMC.
printer friendly version