Gefran’s new generation of integrated machine automation products greatly simplify the task of machine automation. The machine integrator and systems rebuilder can now buy their MMI, PLCs, intelligent SSRs with PID and sensors from a single source.
Geflex - an all-in-one PID-SSR - a super building block
This advanced intelligent power SSR (or is it a Power PID controller?) is a fully programmable PID solid-state relay. Described as an "integrated control and power system for multizone temperature control," the Geflex product is a perfect marriage of a SSR and a PID controller, all in one DIN mount module with various bus connection possibilities.
* The Geflex concept cuts down on 30% of cabling and installation time.
* The SSR-PID controller can be located close to the switched load and to the temperature sensor and communicates with a range of MMI interfaces via modern bus connections.
* Available in Profibus, Modbus or on a CAN-OPEN bus, the Geflex offers opportunity to simplify machine design and layout.
In practice, the benefits include lower design and manufacturing costs - and less cabling for the maintenance technician to wade through on site. Troubleshooting a machine in a production environment is quick, resulting in less downtime and maximising production time.
Possibly the biggest benefit is the effect on the machine PLC. Running many PID control loops within the PLC always slows it down. Adding Geflex offloads this overhead onto the control point - where it should be - resulting in a far superior control on each loop while reducing the size of the required PLC, with the associated cost savings.
Programming Geflex is easy, with plenty of power available
Set-up, programming and operator interface is via a PC or the new Chatty range of matching man-machine interfaces or the DigiStar industrial PCs from Gefran. The Winstrum software is similar to the version used for the panel mounted controllers and digital indicators from Gefran.
* Geflex GFX master modules carry a fieldbus interface, slave modules are external.
* Available in ratings between 25 A and 120 A switching capacity.
* Geflex can handle single and three-phase loads up to 480 V a.c.
* Geflex control offers all modern PID functions (14 control algorithms).
* Up to three relay outputs for cooling and 6 configurable alarms.
* Digital input for dual set-point selection, auto-manual switching or for resetting of latched alarm functions.
The PID-SSR has more functions for automation than conventional PID controllers, as the on-board current transformer monitors the load and reports on load failure immediately. An optional voltage transformer also allows monitoring of the mains voltage, power and energy levels.
GiLogik universal fieldbus PLC
Gefran has long been known for its dedicated automation systems for the plastics and packaging machinery industry. Now GiLogik takes this concept to a holistic integration level, whereby all parts can be supplied from a single supplier, including the PLC.
* GiLogik fieldbus PLCs are modular and form the heart of any automation task.
* With a wide choice of GiLogic CPUs, Profibus, DeviceNet and Ethernet TCP/IP interfaces, CAN-OPEN and serial bus RS485 interfaces communication to all interfacing equipment is possible.
* GiLogik offers a wide range of I/O modules, including axis control.
* GiLogik offers compatible instruction set with the Siemens S7-300 series programmed in Step7 language.
DigiStar industrial PCs
GiLogik communicate to the DigiStar range of industrial panel mount PCs from Gefran via Ethernet TCP/IP. Multiple GiLogik PLCs can be linked via Profibus and interface directly to CanOpen sensors like the magneto-restrictive potentiometers and pressure sensors from Gefran. Direct communications to the Geflex PID-SSRs via Modbus or Profibus ensures a matching system throughout.
Normal SSRs now repairable
Gefran has released a new range of standalone solid-state relays and power controllers in its 2003 product line-up. The GS series SSR has exchangeable elements and a space-saving vertical form factor with the same hole spacing as the conventional black block type. This allows machine upgrading to higher rated SSRs within the same space, it makes the changeover from mechanical contactors to solid state switching possible without panel change. These product changes fall within the goal of Gefran to ensure reduced costs for their clients when modernising existing machines.
Setting new standards
Gefran says that it has finally achieved the goal it set more than three years ago: to offer the machine manufacturer and OEM a complete range - MMI, intelligent control via modular PLCs, intelligent switching devices in the panel and a line-up of sensors, which include load cells, pressure transmitters, potentiometric devices and temperature sensing all working as one high-performance system.
In southern Africa, UniTemp has been supplying and backing the Gefran products for more than seven years. Through a network of distributors the new range will be introduced in 2003 to the manufacturing sector in all geographic areas as well in the neighbouring countries.
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