Next generation temperature controllers

Temperature Measurement

November 2004 Temperature Measurement Information Security

Omron's E5CN range of general-purpose panel mounting temperature controllers has recently been further enhanced. All of the features of the previous models remain whilst some new features have been added.

Two main E5CN types are available - a temperature input type (thermocouple and Pt100) and a process input type (analog mA and V). Both types feature improved sampling and control update times (from 500 ms to 250 ms) whilst the backlit LCD display is larger, making it easier to read from a distance. The displays also incorporate a three-colour change display (orange/green/red), to give a clear visual indication whether within the set temperature range or above/below it.

The display is now 11-segment, compared to the 7-segment displays on the previous models. This allows for programming menus to be written in text, which is easier to understand. Each menu can be customised as required - partially or fully hidden depending on requirements. This reduces the possibility of operator tampering and makes operation easier and less confusing.

Other novel new features include an alarm delay timer that prevents unnecessary alarms by allowing for process disturbances, like an expected temperature drop, for example, when a new oven load has been inserted. It is also possible to select the alarm operation during setpoint ramp to prevent unnecessary alarms during the initial start-up phase.

Relay, voltage and current output types are available as standard, with a long-life relay output type (a million operations minimum) available on request. Seven different option units are available, giving combinations of RS485 communications, heater burnout/SSR failure detection, event inputs, a second voltage control output (should voltage heat/cool control be required) as well as a unique 3-phase heater burnout option. The second voltage control output can be configured to be a third alarm if so desired whilst the 3-phase heater alarm can detect a (partially) broken heater or a SSR short-circuit in a 3-phase configuration. The communication protocols have been extended to now include Modbus in addition to the Omron standard CompoWay/F protocol whilst the maximum baud rate has doubled to 38 400 bits per second.

A 2-point temperature input shift has been introduced as standard, whilst the minimum control period has been halved from 1 to 0,5 s. The controllers themselves have an IP66 rating making the E5CN particularly suitable for the food, pharmaceutical and biochemical industries where regular wash-downs are performed. The controllers conform to UL, CSA and IEC safety standards, and are CE marked to all relevant EN directives.

For more information contact Steve Green, Yelland Control, 011 579 2613, sgreen@yelland.co.za, www.yelland.co.za

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Temperature Measurement

Next generation temperature controllers

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