Beckhoff provides a compact acquisition solution for intrinsically safe signals up to zone 0/20 with the IP67-protected EtherCAT Box modules of the EPX series. Three additional devices have been added to the existing I/O range.
Using EPX modules with IP67-rated housing units offers numerous advantages for applications with explosion protection requirements, both in processing plants and in traditional mechanical engineering. The fully encapsulated modules in an industrial housing unit can be installed directly and individually in machines and systems, even in wet, dirty or dusty conditions, and enable connection of up to eight field devices. This facilitates reliable data acquisition in hazardous areas where control cabinets and terminal boxes cannot – and should not – be installed.
Furthermore, safety barriers are no longer required, which not only saves on space but also reduces costs. Pre-assembled cables are connected to the EtherCAT Box module, cutting down on installation and commissioning time and preventing wiring errors caused by incorrect contact assignments. What’s more, the distributed signal acquisition concept also simplifies the modularity of plants. The new additions to the portfolio are:
• The EPX2004-0022 EtherCAT Box module provides an output voltage of 24 V DC and a maximum output current of 50 mA per channel as a 4-channel digital output, with total current 200 mA. The signal state of each individual channel is indicated by an LED.
• The EPX3204-0022 EtherCAT Box module, which can operate temperature sensors (Pt100) in 2-, 3- and 4-wire technology as a 4-channel analogue input. Linearisation is performed across the entire, freely selectable temperature range. The terminal is set by default for Pt100 sensors in 4-wire technology. The EPX3204-0022 uses LEDs to indicate signal status and sensor faults, for example wire break.
• The EPX3314-0022 EtherCAT Box module, which can operate thermocouples in 2-wire technology as a 4-channel analogue input.Linearisation is performed across the entire, freely selectable temperature range. Wire break is indicated by error LEDs. Cold junction compensation is performed by internal temperature measurement. Voltage measurement in the mV range is also possible.
A single platform for all automation functions Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The introduction of TwinCAT in 1996 marked a decisive evolutionary step for PC-based control. Today, the TwinCAT platform combines all automation functions in a strictly deterministic real-time environment, from PLC and motion control through CNC and measurement technology and beyond, to vision, robotics and pioneering AI tools.
Read more...Cybersecurity for potentially explosive areas Phoenix Contact
IS & Ex
The Cellulink outdoor cellular router product range from Phoenix Contact is being extended. New versions are now also available that have been specially developed for use in Zone 2 potentially explosive areas.
Read more...Windows tablets for hazardous areas Extech Safety Systems
IS & Ex
i.safe Mobile has expanded its intrinsically safe product range with the launch of the IS945.x series rugged Windows tablets, designed for use in hazardous and demanding industrial environments.
Read more...Dynamic control of industrial solar plants and energy storage systems Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Electrical Power & Protection
Spanish Group, Power Electronics has demonstrated its comprehensive expertise in sustainable energy supply in over 3000 solar and energy storage projects with a total installed capacity of 120 GW. To control its modular systems, the company relies on open, high-performance Beckhoff control technology.
Read more...Modular control platform for the hydrogen industry Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Electrical Power & Protection
With a seamless modular control solution from Beckhoff featuring over 500 data points and numerous ELX series terminals with intrinsically safe interfaces, Greenlight Innovation is breaking new ground in hydrogen testing.
Read more...Hazardous area inspections Extech Safety Systems
IS & Ex
The i.safe MOBILE IS940.1 tablet from Extech delivers the performance of a modern Android device, but in a package designed from the ground up for hazardous areas.
Read more...Unified endpoint management in hazardous industrial environments Extech Safety Systems
IS & Ex
The strategic integration of SafeUEM‘s comprehensive end-point management platform with i.safe MOBILE‘s certified intrinsically safe devices delivers a unified solution specifically engineered to address the challenges of managing technology in hazardous industrial settings.
Read more...PC-based control for additive machine tools Beckhoff Automation
Electrical Power & Protection
IRPD is a specialist in additive machine tools. Development is heavily focused on high system throughput and consistently high process quality. This goal was achieved with the help of PC- and EtherCAT-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff.
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.