Functional safety over EtherCAT with Ixxat Safe T100/FSoE
June 2023
IS & Ex
HMS Networks has released a new version of the Ixxat SafeT100 module, allowing users to implement safe I/Os for FSoE – Functional Safety over EtherCAT. Previously available for PROFIsafe and CIP Safety, the new version supports Functional Safety over EtherCAT according to ETG 5100 V1.2.0.
Ixxat Safe T100 is an all-in-one safety solution which allows device manufacturers and machine builders to implement configurable, safe inputs and outputs in applications up to SIL 3 and PLe Cat.4. The Safe T100 is designed to work hand in hand with Anybus CompactCom, also from HMS Networks. While Anybus CompactCom handles the standard non-safe communication with the EtherCAT network, the Safe T100 handles the safe communication, in this case over FSoE.
Thanks to the full implementation of the safe protocol and application layer in Ixxat Safe T100, device manufacturers and machine builders get a fast track to add functional safety capabilities to their equipment. A typical application for Ixxat Safe T100 is a safe emergency stop function for automation equipment such as drives, robots or process controllers.
Pre-certified and conformance tested solution
The Ixxat Safe T100 solution is pre-certified by TÜV Rheinland, and its conformity to the FSoE standard ETG 5100 V1.2.0 has been confirmed in the ETG test lab. This enables users to benefit from significantly reduced development time, cost and risk when realising safe devices and systems.
Since the Ixxat T100 works together with Anybus CompactCom, the end user will benefit from a device or machine that provides both safe and non-safe functions via just one communication interface. This significantly simplifies configuration and project planning of the overall industrial automation system.
Key technical highlights
The Ixxat Safe T100 module features three two-channel inputs which can detect external wiring errors, and one two-channel output. The inputs and outputs all operate with 24 V signals.
All service and process data interfaces required for FSoE in the EtherCAT layer are available in the Anybus CompactCom module, for example control of the network and status LED, or transmission of the safe configuration data.
As an additional safety feature, the interface between the Anybus CompactCom module and the Ixxat Safe T100/FSoE is galvanically isolated. Other internal safety features include integrated temperature monitoring and shutdown to a safe state, and channel-granular error signalling and error handling.
A scalable concept for FSoE, PROFIsafe and CIP Safety
The internal communication between the non-safe Anybus CompactCom and the safe Ixxat Safe T100 module is done according to the ‘black-channel’ principle. Thanks to this clean separation between the safe and non-safe communication layers, it is possible for customers to support all the three major safety protocols – FSoE, PROFIsafe and CIP Safety – with just one hardware design, adding further to the scalability and efficiency of the solution.
Customised implementation or OEM solutions
Thanks to the comprehensive implementation guidelines and user documentation, the Safe T100 module can be implemented by device manufacturers and machine builders themselves. However, HMS also supports customers with implementation services, as well as porting and certification services.
Further reading:
Fully Ex-certified access point solutions for wireless communication
Pepperl+Fuchs
IS & Ex
Pepperl+Fuchs now offers a wireless access point solution that is fully certified in accordance with ATEX/IECEx standards, and forms the basis for end-to-end Wi-Fi communication in hazardous areas.
Read more...
Secure, digital communication in potentially explosive atmospheres
Pepperl+Fuchs
IS & Ex
Consistently digitalised processes in the smart factory are a matter of course today, but not in potentially explosive atmospheres. The systems and devices used in these areas must have optimal protection mechanisms to ensure maximum safety.
Read more...
Functional and compatible intrinsically safe loop approvals
Extech Safety Systems
IS & Ex
With all the focus on IS loop approval, it is easy to forget to check that the loop will function correctly to see whether the field device has sufficient power (voltage & current) to operate over the full process range.
Read more...
Upgrade your legacy alarm units
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
IS & Ex
Darren Barratt, sales manager at alarm annunciator specialist Omniflex, explains the drawbacks of leaving outdated rack-based alarm annunciator systems in place, and why an upgrade might be simpler than you would expect.
Read more...
Cathodic protection system for hazardous environments
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
IS & Ex
When NSW Ports in Australia embarked on a two-year programme to rehabilitate the structures and combat corrosion levels at its Bulk Liquid Berth 1, it commissioned Melbourne-based consultancy Infracorr to deliver a bespoke cathodic protection) system. To deliver the system safely, Infraccor engaged cathodic protection specialist Omniflex to support the hazardous area and remote monitoring aspects of the CP system design.
Read more...
Leading the way in PDS technology
IS & Ex
Booyco Electronics, an original equipment manufacturer specialising in mine safety equipment, has witnessed a surge in demand for its proximity detection systems (PDS) and collision prevention systems (CPS) since the Mine Health and Safety regulation focusing on trackless mobile machinery was promulgated. These systems offer crucial vehicle-to-pedestrian and vehicle-to-vehicle detection capabilities.
Read more...
Ensuring lone worker safety
IS & Ex
The Conextivity Group’s startup – Wearin’ – has developed a solution connecting the lone worker with the control centre. This was commissioned by concrete producer, Pro Beton to ensure the safety of its teams of machine operators and cleaners working on production sites during the day, night, and weekends.
Read more...
Safety breakthrough in live testing of large equipment
IS & Ex
While essential to effective maintenance, the live testing of mining vehicles and equipment can be hazardous and time consuming; but this has all changed with the SafeGauge range of digital testing systems. Developed in Australia, SafeGauge is now distributed in South Africa by Booyco Electronics, known for its leading role in promoting safety on mines through its proximity detection systems.
Read more...
Explosion-protected control units
Pepperl+Fuchs
IS & Ex
The new range of control units from Pepperl+Fuchs offers a clever solution for switching and controlling circuits in hazardous areas that are designated ATEX/IECEx Zones 1/21 and 2/22.
Read more...
The importance of understanding SIL ratings
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
IS & Ex
Major industrial accidents around the world, like the Bhopal chemical plant disaster, have occurred due to insufficient and poorly designed safety systems. Gary Bradshaw, director of alarm and safety system specialist Omniflex, explains how SIL ratings work and the dangers of the misconceptions that exist around them.
Read more...
printer friendly version