May 2019System Integration & Control Systems Design
Open PC and EtherCAT-based control technology is ideally suited for optimising logistics processes and responding to changing market trends. With open interfaces, modularity and scalable performance, it is the perfect fit for intralogistics solutions that are custom-tailored to individual requirements, while delivering technological and economic competitive advantages at the same time. Components for system-integrated connection to the cloud make it easier to implement IoT and Industrie 4.0 concepts in smart warehouses.
Due to its openness, PC-based control technology from Beckhoff fulfils the requirements for end-to-end networking of intralogistics, production and distribution – all key challenges in the sector. PC-based control is based on a comprehensive portfolio of advanced industrial PCs, TwinCAT automation software, EtherCAT as a fast communication system, decentralised I/O components and highly dynamic drive solutions. Integrated, cost-effective and flexible system planning is assured by the performance-driven scalability of the control platform, the flexible support for different fieldbus systems and the same programming and configuration software across all performance classes.
The TwinCAT automation software suite bundles all necessary machine functionalities: from PLC to motion control, robotics, HMI, safety and measurement technology through to integration of vision systems and cloud solutions. Open interfaces allow effortless integration of control functions into existing system and database structures. With support for standardised protocols, such as OPC UA, Beckhoff provides the prerequisites for implementing secure cloud communication in the smart warehouse. Users also benefit from the openness of the control architecture through the unrestricted choice of a cloud solution. All systems concerned – I/O to warehouse management and eCommerce – can be fully connected.
Why integration defines the next competitive edge in pulp and paper
System Integration & Control Systems Design
ABB’s Arvin Ramjee argues that fragmented automation, assembled from different suppliers at different stages of a plant’s lifecycle has become one of the pulp and paper industry’s most overlooked commercial risks, and that true integration, rather than surface-level connectivity, is what delivers measurable business value.
Read more...Integrated automation enhances water treatment at dairy facility Process Dynamics
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and reverse osmosis system at a major South African dairy processing facility, achieving a 50% reduction in the client’s water utility costs.
Read more...XPlanar aids innovation in laser processing Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Aalborg University is among the first in the world to test Beckhoff’s XPlanar intelligent transport system in advanced laser processes, achieving micrometer-precise workpiece positioning and dramatically shorter lead times compared with traditional tool-based manufacturing.
Read more...Intelligent process control is reshaping cement production in Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Advanced process control, predictive analytics and automation are helping African cement producers cut energy use and stabilise output as they contend with rising electricity costs and tighter margins.
Read more...XPlanar aids innovation in laser processing Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Aalborg University is among the first in the world to test Beckhoff’s XPlanar intelligent transport system in advanced laser processes, opening the door to faster, tool-free production of metal parts.
Read more...Process Dynamics – Integrated Automation for Dairy Water Treatment Process Dynamics
System Integration & Control Systems Design Project and industry
Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and Reverse Osmosis (RO) system at one of South Africa’s ...
Read more...New SI programme strengthens Schneider Electric’s partner ecosystem Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Schneider Electric’s SI Energise 2.0 programme offers system integrators a competency-based framework to develop deeper expertise in EcoStruxure and AVEVA software, enabling them to deliver full-lifecycle industrial automation solutions.
Read more...AI and smart solutions for underground proximity detection systems
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Booyco Electronics explains why fitting proximity detection systems underground is far more complex than installing sensors, and how integration, data and intelligent analytics are helping mines manage the challenge.
Read more...Why cloud-ready BMS is reshaping building operations Schneider Electric South Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Smart sensors and non-contact radar are reshaping industrial measurement, feeding connected platforms that predict failures before they happen.
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.