In November 2021, Beckhoff presented the MX-System: a completely new, holistic concept which aims to eliminate control cabinets. The basic concept aims to replace control cabinet wiring with a baseplate that allows a wide range of electronic modules to be automatically interconnected via standardised interfaces. All classic control cabinet functions are covered and pneumatic valves from Festo and SMC can now also be integrated directly with the help of two new modules.
The MX-System modules (contained in a metal housing) can simply be plugged in and screwed onto the baseplate to create a housing unit that is waterproof and dustproof, meaning that it can be used directly on the machine or system without any additional protective housing. The MX-System’s current range of functions already covers all typical control cabinet activities, i.e. reading in electrical sensor signals, controlling many types of actuators or motors across power classes, generating a multitude of voltages, and power distribution. With two new modules, pneumatic valves from Festo and SMC can now also be integrated directly into the MX-System as a function.
Beckhoff has developed two socket modules – MO2414 for Festo and MO2424 for SMC – with the standard MX-System interface for the respective valve type. The air supply for up to two Festo VUVG or SMC JSY3000 valves (with up to 500 l/min flow rate, depending on the manufacturer) can be connected to it. These can be mounted directly on the modules, and different variants such as 3/2-, 5/2-, or 5/3-way valves can also be combined with each other. While the MX-System socket module provides the valve air supply and the control signals, the outgoing hoses are connected directly to the respective valve.
The new MO2414 and MO2424 pneumatic modules expand the functional scope of the MX-System and consolidate its integrated approach to automating machines and plants. The basic idea of setting up the control cabinet as a distributed system and mounting the control system for actuators and sensors close by is now also an option for pneumatics. This is a particularly appropriate solution when there are only a few pneumatic functions on a machine part: the MX-System assembly offers an extremely simple way to control them. In addition, the MX-System allows valve terminals to be controlled with a wide variety of interfaces.
Furthermore, the advantages of simplified project planning and component reduction can now also be applied for pneumatics. Plus, no additional installation space is needed on the machine for the valves. Another advantage is that the Beckhoff Service App, which was developed specifically for the MX-System, now also minimises maintenance work for the pneumatics.
CompAir introduces compressed air management solution
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
To maximise savings and extend the lifespan of compressed air systems, CompAir is launching the Compressed Air Management Solution powered by Ecoplant, an intelligent system in the cloud that represents the next level in operational management, and maintain the health
Read more...PC-based control in the plastics industry Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Nissei Plastic, an injection moulding machine manufacturer based in Japan is implementing a worldwide tend towards open automation systems from experienced specialists using PC and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...PC-based control for flat wire motors for electric vehicles Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Special machine manufacturer, ruhlamat Huarui Automation Technologies has unveiled the second generation of its mass production line for flexible stators with bar winding (pins). This enables an extremely short production cycle and line changeover times, supported by PC- and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...Heavy impact, smart control Axiom Hydraulics
Editor's Choice Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Every now and then a project lands on your desk that’s equal parts heavy machinery and fine control - a tantalising mix for any engineer. A client approached Axiom Hydraulics with a project exactly like this.
Read more...Making lines safer with smarter connection Hydrasales
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Imagine connecting multiple hydraulic lines or a combination of hydraulic, electrical and grease lines with one single, confident movement. That’s the everyday convenience operators get from Faster’s MultiFaster multi-coupling systems.
Read more...Achieving clean and dry compressed air Artic Driers International
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Compressed air is an expensive source of motive power so it makes good sense to supply clean, dry compressed air to your distribution system.
Read more...Navigating ISO standards in hydraulic cylinder manufacturing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
For hydraulics professionals, understanding and leveraging ISO standards is a powerful way to ensure quality and gain a competitive edge. Here is a guide to the most critical ISO standards for hydraulic cylinder manufacturing, showing how to use them to your advantage.
Read more...Hydraulic system upgrades to boost performance and save money CT Hydraulics (Nqoba)
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Those working with hydraulic or pneumatic systems know that keeping your machinery running at peak performance balances productivity and cost. As systems age, they often become less efficient, requiring more energy and more frequent repairs. The good news is that you don’t always need to invest in an entirely new machine to solve these problems.
Read more...PC-based control optimises robotic parts handling on plastics machinery Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
NEO is a cartesian robot developed by INAUTOM Robótica in Portugal for parts removal on plastics machinery. Its aim is to increase system productivity. NAUTOM Robótica has entered into a strategic partnership with Bresimar Automação to increase the working speed of the cartesian robots using advanced control and motion solutions from Beckhoff. The result is a comprehensive, future-proof automation solution for its entire family of cartesian robots.
Read more...Top 10 questions about pressure and temperature gauges SA Gauge
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Some questions never go out of date, and in our industry, a few have been asked for decades. At SA Gauge, we hear them every week. Here are the ten questions we hear most often, and the practical answers that can save time, money and frustration.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version