November 2017System Integration & Control Systems Design
In process industries, demands are increasing for groundbreaking and innovative automation solutions that reduce costs. The greatest potential for optimisation is opened up by implementing a universal platform that covers both industrial automation and process automation. PC-based control from Beckhoff fits this bill by integrating process specific protocols and interfaces, and by offering an extended range of products for hazardous areas. Full implementation of HART functionality, both in the I/O system and in the TwinCAT engineering environment, promotes simple project planning and reliable commissioning.
TwinCAT automation software clearly reduces development efforts in process technology because it facilitates the application of comprehensive HART functions directly from the engineering interface. In this way, the TwinCAT FDT (field device tool) container enables implementation of any field device drivers (device type manager, DTM). Thus, an entire HART configuration can be implemented efficiently using a single tool.
The Beckhoff CommDTM integrates the TwinCAT platform into existing process control systems. With its help, the DTMs can be implemented in any FDT container. This applies to all field devices connected to the HART-capable EtherCAT Terminals. These devices can be configured and parameterised remotely in the known containers without requiring direct PLC access. As a result, system operation is simplified and reduced to the essentials. In addition, the Beckhoff OPC UA server and client enable secure global distribution of process data, as well as convenient system control and remote maintenance capabilities.
Explosion protection integrated into product portfolio
The new, highly compact EtherCAT Terminals in the ELX series are also HART capable. With intrinsically safe inputs/outputs, they enable the direct integration of field devices installed in hazardous areas, Zones 0, 1 or 2, into the automation system. The reduced wiring effort and associated space savings result in an integrated, cost-effective solution for process applications. Furthermore, the new CPX series of control panels and panel PCs makes the high-quality design and advanced multi-touch display technology from Beckhoff available for locations subject to explosion hazards.
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...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...PCS Global PCS Global
System Integration & Control Systems Design Project and industry:
PCS Global led a digital infrastructure initiative in a southern African data centre setting, aiming to merge several essential operational systems into one cohesive platform. ...
Read more...Seamless migration from ET 200M to ET 200SP HA for future-ready automation Moore Process Controls
System Integration & Control Systems Design Project and industry:
Moore Process Controls undertook a modernisation initiative spanning the mining, petrochemical, and oil & gas sectors. This project involved upgrading legacy Siemens ET200M I/O ...
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.
Read more...Project & Industry
System Integration & Control Systems Design Project: Upgrading essential automation and SCADA systems at a coal mine. Outcome: A modern, stable automation and SCADA environment with reduced technical debt and easier support, ready for expansion. ...
Read more...PC-based control for additive machine tools Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
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.
Read more...Robotic positioning system drastically reduces changeover times Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
At the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, California, an advanced robotic system by Square One Systems Design and Beckhoff speeds up high-energy physics experiments.
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