Quick coupler is food friendly
August 2007
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
The stainless steel version of the BradConnectivity Ultra-Lock connection system from Woodhead is specifically designed and engineered to meet the stringent sanitary requirements of food, beverage and pharmaceutical manufacturers. This system has been designed for the connection of sensors and control devices features and features unthreaded stainless steel connectors, IP69K protection and patented 'push-to-lock' technology for faster, easier and more secure connections.
The BradConnectivity Ultra-Lock connection system has been engineered to meet stringent sanitary requirements
The company pioneered this threadless connection system, which is used to quickly and securely connect sensors and control devices used in plant floor automation systems, such as conveyors and robotic bottling and processing lines. The M12-compatible system comprises a series of integrated distribution boxes and cord sets built on Woodhead's patented push-to-lock technology. This enables fast, easy installation without turning the coupler. Control system assemblers simply push down to connect and pull up to disconnect. This reduces assembly time and effort and minimises assembler fatigue. Ultra-Lock connectors stay fully mated, even under the stresses of machine vibration and cable pulls, eliminating the risk of intermittent connections.
The system's push-to-lock connectors are made of 316 stainless steel with an absolutely smooth surface to prevent the transfer of bacteria and/or contaminants during processing and equipment wash-down. Similarly, their secure fit and threadless design prevents the lodging of any foreign material within threaded grooves. The threading in traditional M12 connectivity systems is one of the main reasons why such quick-connect systems have not gained acceptance in the food and beverage industries in the past.
The typical compression seal used in threaded connectors is dependent on how tight the operator makes the connection - too loose can allow moisture to penetrate, too tight can cause damage to the O-ring seal, which can also let in moisture and create electrical difficulties. The Ultra-Lock O-ring seal is an IP69K-rated radial seal that is operator-independent and maintains a constant pressure seal against moisture.
The seals in this system have been tested to 10 MPa water pressure at close range, so they are able to withstand the frequent equipment wash-downs typical in food and beverage plants.
For more information contact Chris Huxham, Shorrock Automation, +27 (0)12 345 4449, [email protected], www.shorrock.co.za
Further reading:
Innovative cable entry for maximum flexibility and efficiency
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
icotek is setting new standards in terms of flexibility, efficiency and space-saving with a new series of cable glands.
Read more...
Safety-critical fibre optic systems in mining
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Omniflex highlights the importance of fibre optic technology in in enabling systems in the mining industry to transmit shutdown commands reliably over tens of kilometres and verify that they have been executed.
Read more...
Compact integration of 3A and 4A connectors
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
With the new AT-HA grommet, icotek is expanding its innovative IMAS-CONNECT adapter system with a forward-looking solution for industrial use.
Read more...
Space-saving I/O module for control cabinets
ifm - South Africa
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
The IO-Link I/O module from ifm simplifies integration of sensors and actuators with conventional wiring in the control cabinet as well as in field applications with low IP protection class requirements.
Read more...
The future of industrial connectivity
LAPP Southern Africa
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Designed to meet the demands of modern industry, the EPIC DATA RJ45 connector from LAPP delivers a combination of durability, performance and versatility suited to demanding industrial environments.
Read more...
Hybrid connectors for distributed automation
Beckhoff Automation
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Beckhoff’s ECP and ENP connector series combine power with signal and data communication by means of One Cable Automation (OCA) and thus significantly reduce cabling work.
Read more...
Power distribution reinvented
Rittal
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Rittal has developed the RiLineX, a modular busbar system that redefines how power is distributed inside electrical enclosures.
Read more...
Flexible, lightweight disc couplings for advance
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
BMG has expanded its extensive portfolio of quality branded couplings with the introduction of the ESCODISC FIL series, a new generation of flexible, lightweight disc couplings.
Read more...
Bayonet connectors with extreme shock and vibration resistance
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
ITT Cannon’s versatile and extremely reliable series of CA bayonet connectors are available through Powell Electronics, a specialist in connectors for mission critical applications including defence, aerospace and industrial.
Read more...
High temperature threaded line vacs
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
EXAIR’s 3/8 NPT high temperature threaded line vacs convert hose, tube or pipe into a powerful in-line conveying system suitable for use with high temperature materials or in areas of high heat up to 482°C.
Read more...
printer friendly version