Automation Feb 2012

FEBRUARY 2012 PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY
INDUSTRY FOCUS INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

DRIVES & CONTROLS
Robust drives keep
water flowing
New low cost
SCARA robots
lose weight and save money
SCADA & DATA ACQUISITION
SCADA virtualisation
delivers real benefits
AUTO-FEB12-FC:Automation Jan 12.qxd 14/02/2012 09:10 Page 1
Enter 1
AUTO-FEB12-PGIFC:AUTO-FEB12-PGIFC 08/02/2012 10:57 Page 1
NEWS
4. Connecting Industry website: Re-engineered for 2012 and beyond
5. Robot sales grow by 68 per cent in 2011
6. Bosch research finds engineering is undervalued
INDUSTRY FOCUS: MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
10. Micro product suppor t for medical technology innovators
12. Making developing wireless, cloud-connected medical devices easier
FEATURES
Drives & controls...
14. Robust drives keep water flowing
16. Positioning drives at hear t of carpet recycler
17. Sensors specified for precision measurement
18. Industrial automation: the road ahead
Materials handling & conveying...
21. Shuttle storage system keeps fashion logistics on the rails
22. Mobile system cuts pallet racking floor space in half
24. Ver tical conveyor keeps engine production line running smoothly
25. Modular wide belt conveyor improves flow efficiency
Tracking & traceability...
26. Labelling system provides food producer with full traceability
28. First wireless industrial ID barcode reader with Ethernet
29. Metabolising statistical benefits with SPC
SCADA & Data acquisition...
30. Ensuring an environmental success for potato supplier
32. SCADA vir tualisation delivers real benefits
TECHNOLOGY FILE
33. Infrared system finds fer tilised eggs
34. Positioner combinations close control loop
Managing Editor
Neil Mead Tel: 01622 699193
nmead@datateam.co.uk
Assistant Editor
Heather Ramsden Tel: 01622 699167
hramsden@datateam.co.uk
Publishing Director
Hannah Dedman Tel: 01622 699175
hdedman@datateam.co.uk
Publication Manager
Jo Pilcher Tel: 01622 699177
jpilcher@datateam.co.uk
Advertisement Manager
Kelly Byne Tel: 01622 699195
kbyne@datateam.co.uk
Classified Sales Executive
John McIntosh Tel: 01622 699126
jmcintosh@datateam.co.uk
Studio Manager
Siobhan Nolan Tel: 01622 699121
Classified Designer
Kirsty Hood Tel: 01622 699186
Production Manager
Claire Noe Tel: 01622 699164
Circulation Enquiries
Capsule Publishing Services Tel: 0845 602 7390
E: datateam@capsule-group.com
In a quest to build a better mouse-
trap, Toshiba Machine has taken a
long hard look at how to create a
new breed of SCARA robots that
deliver a host of benefits while at
the same time taking a chunk of
costs out of the equation
TM Robotics (Europe) Limited
T: 01707 290370
www.tmrobotics.co.uk
Turn to page 8 for more details
COVER STORY
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Contents
Automation
Next month... Features in the March 2012 issue of Automation will include: Machine building & frameworks Machine vision systems
PLCs & Industrial PCs Industry focus: Warehousing & logistics Exhibition previews: MACH 2012 and Drives & Controls
Automation FEBRUARY 2012 3
FEBRUARY 2012 PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY
INDUSTRY FOCUS INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
DRIVES & CONTROLS
Robust drives keep
water flowing
New low cost
SCARA robots
lose weight and save money
SCADA & DATA ACQUISITION
SCADA virtualisation
delivers real benefits
February 2012
AUTO-FEB12-PG03:Auto-Jan10-3.qxd 15/02/2012 08:58 Page 1
News Industry
Connecting Industry (www.connectingindustry.com),
the online hub of the UK's leading portfolio of indus-
trial publications has been completely re-engineered
and was re-launched earlier this month.
Connecting Industry is already the UKs largest and
most comprehensive online resource for engineers
and manufacturing professionals, but now it has been
given a complete redesign making it more attractive,
easier to navigate and user-friendly. New search
options, an unrivalled supplier database, interactive
events calendar and rich multi-media content,
together with links to all the major social networks
will ensure that Connecting Industry remains the
number one online source of information for the man-
ufacturing industry. Features of the new site include:
Increased Connecting Industry branding of the
home of the UKs largest and strongest portfolio of
industrial magazines.
Each of the Connecting Industry publications
now has a section of its own so that visitors can go
straight to the magazine/story that is of most rele-
vance and interest to them.
The new site offers a fully interactive, user-
friendly search tool for anyone wanting to read the
latest industry news, quality editorial in the form of
application articles and case studies, and find the
products and/or suppliers they require. The search-
able database allows users to find companies by
product category, geographical location, alphabeti-
cally or by keyword search - and to do it faster and
more efficiently than ever before.
Built-in web 2.0 functionality so that it integrates
seamlessly with social networks. In this way
Connecting Industry will build a community
between magazines, readers and suppliers.
ConnectingIndustry.com will therefore continue to
be the first website engineers and manufacturing
professionals think of when they require the latest
information.
A comprehensive and fully interactive events cal-
endar. Exhibitions, seminars and training events are
a useful way for people in the industry to network
and being able to find them all together in one place
is difficult. ConnectingIndustry.com provides this
service.
The new site makes it even easier to read the latest
digital editions of Datateams industrial magazines,
register to receive printed copies and sign up for
regular e-newsletters.
A brand new and bespoke administration tool
allows our editorial staff to upload the latest news
stories and content quickly and easily keeping the
site up to date and maintaining its position as the
leading online industrial news resource.
Many more advertising opportunities, both in
terms of space and interesting and different ways for
companies to get their message across to our dedi-
cated readership.
Bookmark http://www.connectingindustry.com
now and be among the first to experience a new age
in industrial websites.
Connecting Industry website:
Re-engineered for 2012 and beyond
Comment
As you can see from our lead story
opposite, the new Connecting
Industry website is now live. This
represents a major investment in time
and resources by Datateam to bring
the site up to date and consolidate its
position as the leading source of
information for engineers and
manufacturing professionals.
Weve worked extremely hard on
improving the look and feel of the site
in order to make it faster and easier to
use. Each of the Connecting Industry
magazines now have their own clearly
defined sections on the site, so users
can go directly their own particular
area of interest.
A new feature is the site wide
search, so even if youre not exactly
sure where to find the information you
need you can quickly look for it here.
This includes all articles, suppliers and
even events. And that brings me on to
another new feature, the Events
Calendar. With more industry events
being added all the time, this is the
place to find the latest information
about exhibitions, seminars, open
days and other industry networking
opportunities.
The new site also incorporates the
latest Web 2.0 technology which
adds rich multimedia content and links
to all the major social networks.
Were really pleased with the end
result and Im sure Automation
readers will find it a very useful tool.
As with any online resource it will
continue to grow and develop and Id
welcome your feedback so please let
me know what you think of it.
Neil Mead - Managing Editor
PROGRAMMABLE SAFETY CO
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For further information contact Omron:
Tel: +44 (0)1908 258258
Email: uk@eu.omron.com
Web: www.industrial.omron.co.uk
Flexible Safety Control Solutions...
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scluticn tc t ycur requirements.
AUTO-FEB12-PG05:Layout 1 15/02/2012 09:16 Page 4
Robot sales grow by 68 per cent in 2011
Schaeffler UKs manufacturing
plant in Llanelli, South Wales has
received a national award that
demonstrates the companys com-
mitment to manufacturing quality.
At this years Wales Quality
Awards 2011, Schaeffler UK
received the Chairmans Prize
for Automotive Excellence, a
new category that recognises out-
standing achievements of Welsh
companies operating in this
sector of the economy. The Wales
Quality Award is an annual com-
petition based on the EFQM
European Excellence Model.
www.schaeffler.co.uk
Plant wins award
For the fifth year in a row, Schunk will host the
'Expert Days on Service Robotics' from February 29
to March 1, 2012 at its world headquarters in
Lauffen, Germany. As with all the previous events,
globally renowned industry and academic experts
from the field of robotics will meet to discuss the
key issues for the sector in depth.
The 2012 event will be titled Service robotics -
Quo vadis? As one of the world's leading communi-
cation platforms for applied service robotics, this
event will examine the opportunities and potential
for this rapidly growing emerging market. The
anniversary event will focus on topics such as per-
ception and learning, marketing, robots and compo-
nent design, and robots and people.
It has been almost five years since Schunk recog-
nised the potential for an international service
robotics market and in response, initiated the Expert
Days on Service Robotics in the spring of 2007. For
two days, key note speakers from around the world
will present current trends, the latest research and
promising business models. Two of the honoured
guests will be Professor Dr Roland Siegwart from
ETH Zurich and Steve Cousins of the US robotics
firm Willow Garage. In 2012, the Expert Days will
again serve as an intensive forum for the direct
exchange of ideas between research, industry, busi-
ness and the trade press.
For further information contact your local Schunk
representative or visit www.schunk.com
Schunk hosts fifth Robotics Expert Days
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Enter 3
The latest robot sales statistics compiled by the British Robot and
Automation Association (BARA), reveal that sales have increased by
a dramatic 68 per cent over the last year. Almost all of the major
robotics suppliers to British Manufacturing have reported this trend
which is welcome news from the industry.
The most dramatic growth has come from the automotive or auto-
motive components sectors with growth of 235 per cent and 176 per
cent respectively. Surprisingly both the food and drink and pharma-
ceutical, health and medical sectors reported a decrease of 8 per cent
and 76 per cent respectively.
Mike Wilson chairman of BARA said: We are delighted with such an
increase in industrial robot sales over the year although most of this has
been within the automotive industry. Most sectors have experienced
increases and this represents the best growth statistics since 1997. Average
growth is nearly 70 per cent year-on-year which represents strong sales for
most of the robot manufacturers."
Mike continued "the Government are also putting considerable money behind
the promotion of robotics in UK Manufacturing in recognition that robots actually
create more jobs through growth. Currently over 100 companies are making use of the
free automation review open to any UK manufacturer. This in turn should also enhance
growth in robotics over the next couple of years"
Companies wishing to make use of the free automation review should contact Grant Collier on
0208 773 8111 or visit the website www.automatingmanufacturing.co.uk
B&R Product of the Month
ACOPOSmulti65m
B&R has expanded its line of drives with a series of motor-
integrated servo drives with IP65 protection. The
ACOPOSmulti has always been extremely modular, and it
was the next logical step to merge inverters with the motor
to create servo actuators that can deliver power directly
where it is needed. Configurable modules thus become
easy-to-connect mechatronic units. This not only saves
valuable space in the control cabinet, but also cuts costs
for logistics and commissioning. By combining the latest IGBT technology and
optimized motor types, users profit from the resulting maximum performance. With
three different sizes, the servo actuators cover the entire spectrum, with a torque
range of 1.8 to 10.5Nm and a power range of 500W to 2kW. For applications
that demand more power, an optional fan assembly can be retrofitted for a
performance boost of up to 100 per cent. The ACOPOSmulti65m is fully
compatible with the entire ACOPOS drive series. As a result, it is possible
to utilise all of the tools and features available in Automation Studio as
well as applications created therein. With regard to topology, the new
servo actuator can be employed in either a line or tree structure.
Networking takes place using POWERLINK.
B&R Industrial Automation
T: 01733 371320
www.br-automation.com
AUTO-FEB12-PG04-5:Layout 1 15/02/2012 10:01 Page 5
FEBRUARY 2012 Automation 6
News Industry
In brief
A white paper, based on research
carried out jointly by AC drive tech-
nology company, Vacon and global
computer security provider F-
Secure, provides a detailed insight
into security threats relating to
industrial automation systems. The
paper, which is the result of more
than a years work by Vacon and F-
Secure, identifies and analyses the
nature of the threats as well as
proposing methods for increasing
security. The security in industrial
automation white paper published
by Vacon and F-Secure can be
downloaded free-of-charge from
www.vacon.com
Sato, a specialist in barcode
printing, labelling, and EPC/RFID
solutions, has announced its
acquisition of Argox Information Co,
a manufacturer of barcode printers,
barcode scanners, and portable
terminals, making Argox a member
of the Sato Group of companies.
www.satoworldwide.com
Parker Hannifin Corporation, the
specialist in motion and control
technologies, has signed an
Enterprise Framework Agreement
(EFA) with Shell as a single source
supplier for the provision of instru-
mentation valves, manifolds,
process-to-instrument valves, fit-
tings, tubing, protective enclosures
and related products.
www.parker.com
Laser machine specialist and UK
distributor for Mitsubishi laser cut-
ting machines, World Machinery,
has created the website
www.mitsubishilaser.co.uk
featuring information on the LVP
Series and EX Series. UK cus-
tomers can also get information on
performance, installation, service
support and consumables.
Eriks is to move its Slough Service
Centre into its nearby Core
Competence Centre for Industrial
Hose Technology, streamlining cus-
tomer care by bringing two local
engineering services under one
roof. The Slough Service Centre is
a key location for Eriks, serving a
strong customer base in Berkshire
and West London, Hampshire,
Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and
Surrey. Eriks will also relocate its
Otley Service Centre to the city of
Bradford, improving customer care
by bringing the operation to a new,
purpose-built facility.
www.eriks.co.uk
One of the largest manufacturing and engineering
events of 2012 will be taking place at the NEC in
Birmingham between 17 and 19 April. Drives and
Controls Show, The Plant and Asset Management
Exhibition, Air-Tech, and the International
Fluid Power Exhibition (IFPEX) will form
part of the manufacturing and engineering
series of shows alongside MACH 2012.
Organiser DFA Media believes its series
of events ensures industry professionals will
be able to gain the broadest insight concerning what
industry solutions are currently available. The Plant
and Asset Management Exhibition, being launched
by DFA Media, is a new UK event for the mainte-
nance sector, solely concerned with aspects of the
management and maintenance of physical assets.
Organisers are optimistic the Drives & Controls
Show will exceed both the exhibitor and visitor
numbers of 2010 which had 103 exhibitors, 16 per
cent more than the previous show in 2008.
The co-location of events attracted more than
8,600 visitors in 2010 and Ryan Fuller, exhibition
sales director at DFA Media, believes this figure,
along with visitor numbers will be exceeded as
manufacturing regains confidence.
Next year will include a free highly
focused seminar programme. New for
2012 is the Energy and Safety seminar the-
atre, sponsored by CompAir where themed
panel discussions and seminar presentations
will focus on key energy management topics.
Also new is the Motion and Control Industry semi-
nar theatre to include more technical workshop style
presentations, with practical issues being discussed
concerning the various sectors that makes up Drives
and Controls Exhibition, Air-Tech, and IFPEX.
The Plant and Asset Management Exhibition will
also have two free seminar theatres.
www.drives-expo.com, www.airtech-expo.com,
www.ifpex-expo.com, maintenanceuk-expo.com
Manufacturing and engineering showcase at the NEC
Bosch research finds engineering is undervalued
A survey by the Bosch Group, a leading global sup-
plier of technology and services, has found that engi-
neering is undervalued and misunderstood by adults
in the UK. The research was carried out amongst
1,347 people aged between 18 to 45 years old and in
general shows that many people, particularly younger
adults, see engineering as a back of house function in
business that is not critical to the UK economy.
Peter Fouquet, President of Bosch UK, said: The
findings are concerning given that the engineering
sector in the UK makes up nearly a fifth of the econ-
omy and employs over 4.5 million people.
Combined, engineering and manufacturing con-
tribute around 800 billion to the UK economy.
The research found that only 45 per cent of people
and only 23 per cent of young people thought
engineering was a key industry for the UK economy.
Retail, banking and tourism were all seen as more
important. Respondents also did not see engineering
as a frontline role in business, with 92 per cent saying
that they thought engineers have mostly technical
roles in business and less than two per cent thinking
that engineers are involved in running businesses.
Engineering is also not seen as sufficiently attrac-
tive to young people, with less than half of 18-24
year olds associating engineering with the word
research and more associating it with the word
geeky rather than exciting. In terms of working in
engineering, the research showed that only 11 per
cent overall and only five per cent of 18-24 year olds
would consider a career in engineering and more
men would consider an engineering career (23 per
cent) compared to women (three per cent).
Bosch was founded as the Workshop for Precision
Mechanics and Electrical Engineering in Stuttgart in
1886. It is now one of the worlds largest technology
and engineering organisations and leading innovators.
Bosch employs over 285,000 employees 34,000 of
whom work in R&D and a significant proportion of its
board of management is made up of engineers.
www.bosch.co.uk
Duke of York attends Manufacturing Technology Centres handover
Ahead of its formal opening later
this year, the Manufacturing
Technology Centre (MTC) held a
week of handover celebrations
with the bodies that have funded
it since the need for a UK centre
of excellence for high value man-
ufacturing was first identified
four years ago. Staff and industry
and academic partners at the
MTC were proud to welcome
HRH The Duke of York for a tour
of the new facility.
The MTC is the result of a
40.55 million investment by
Advantage West Midlands and
the East Midlands Development
Agency and is housed in a land-
mark building located at Ansty
Park near Coventry. There are
four initial research partners:
University of Birmingham, The
University of Nottingham,
Loughborough University and
TWI Limited. There are three
founding industry members:
Rolls Royce, Airbus UK and Aero
Engine Controls.
The MTC supports manufactur-
ing businesses and was set up in
response to the UK Government's
Manufacturing Strategy. This envi-
sions the UK as leading the world
in capturing higher value compo-
nents of the global value chain,
whilst consolidating areas of exist-
ing comparative advantage within
high technology manufacturing.
www.the-mtc.org
AUTO-FEB12-PG06:Auto-Feb10-7.qxd 15/02/2012 09:24 Page 6
Enter 4
AUTO-FEB12-PG07:AUTO-FEB12-PG07 08/02/2012 11:06 Page 1
Advertisement feature Cover story
T
oshiba Machine has developed a
new range of SCARA robots that
set new benchmarks for price,
performance, mass and low
energy consumption. The Toshiba
Machine THL models satisfy the grow-
ing demand for affordable, flexible
automation in applications outside of
industries such as packaging, materi-
als handling and welding where robots
have been installed for decades.
The THL range represents more than
simply low cost lightweight robots.
Rather, they are the result of painstak-
ing research and development leading
to a radical new design.
The mechanical challenge facing
robot designers has always been the
ability to marry low mass and low
inertia with the necessary rigidity
from which high accuracy is attained.
Almost always this quest leads to com-
promise. To ensure rigidity, mass
inevitably increases. To compensate
for that, oversized servo motors may
need to be deployed and position
adjustments made via the servo loops.
By lowering the mass, smaller motors
and simplified gearboxes can be used,
which in turn also has the benefit of
reducing power consumption and
hence reducing the price of the resul-
tant robot. The trick is to get the opti-
mum balance between all of the
mitigating factors to ensure none of the
machines performance is conceded.
Much of the reduction in mass is
thanks to the use of lightweight cast
aluminium mechanical components
that have a series of ribbed sections to
provide the rigidity required. As a
result of building the body and arm of
the robot in this manner, smaller servo
motors have been fitted. Moreover,
because the lightweight system gener-
ates substantially less inertia, and
reduced demand for continuous posi-
tion adjustments, a simplified gearbox
has been able to be used.
So, just how successful has Toshiba
Machines design team been in achiev-
ing its objective? Well, the THL range is
up to 50 per cent lighter than other
Toshiba Machine models and the robots
consume 50 per cent less electricity.
Performance compares favourably with
other models and the new robots fea-
ture easier maintenance than previ-
ously. The adage might be applied that
if one can make it better and cheaper,
it cannot fail.
The benefit to end users, apart from
price, is that the new THL robots can
be installed with cheaper, less robust
supports with significantly less need
for vibration suppression a major
advantage for systems integrators.
Available on 500mm, 600mm and
700mm arm lengths, the next surpris-
ing revelation is that all three models
have exactly the same price. Toshiba
Machine explains that since the only
difference between the three robots is
the length of the extruded aluminium
tube that forms the arms main beam,
the cost difference is negligible.
Each robot has four axes of move-
ment including 360 rotational, with
a working envelope of 125 on the
first axis and 145 on axis two.
Maximum composite speed using axes
one and two is an impressive 6.3m/s
for the THL 500, 7.1m/s for the THL
600 and 7.9m/s for the largest THL700.
Cycle time, with a 2kg payload, is
0.45s for the THL 500 and THL 600,
while the THL 700 is only half a
second. Maximum payload is a
weighty 10kg for all three models.
The allowable moment of inertia is
just 0.2kg/m
2
and thanks to the use of
absolute encoders repeatability in X-Y
is a mere 0.01mm.
The new Toshiba Machine THL
robots are distributed and supported
throughout Europe by TM Robotics
(Europe) Limited. To suit the European
markets, the THL robots are controlled
by the proven and popular TS3000
controller, which features easy pro-
gramming, in-built PLC functions and
Ethernet connectivity.
An advantage when it comes to inte-
grating automation is the fact that the
unit allows complete system control to
be handled from the robot controller.
Equipped with 64 I/O as standard, but
expandable up to 166, the TS3000 con-
troller satisfies even the most demand-
ing production line or manufacturing
cell requirements. Impressive process
speeds can be attained by taking advan-
tage of the Toshiba Machine controllers
PASS and NOWAIT commands.
Robot programming is simple and
conducted via a series of dedicated
commands. Furthermore, the TS3000s
Ethernet connectivity makes it simple
to share vision data from a single
camera across multiple robots, reduc-
ing maintenance overheads and instal-
lation costs while increasing efficiency.
TM Robotics managing director
Nigel Smith says: Industry across
Europe, in these times of manufactur-
ing austerity, is crying out for anything
that helps it compete. The new low
cost THL range certainly helps satisfy
that need.
But, he adds, this range of
machines is not simply a value engi-
neering exercise to reduce costs.
Rather it is a thoroughly thought out
remodelling that has resulted in robots
that meet completely new and very
different design specifications.
TM Robotics (Europe) Limited
T: 01707 290370
www.tmrobotics.co.uk Enter 200
New robots lighten the
load on investment
In a quest to build a better mousetrap, Toshiba Machine
has taken a long hard look at how to create a new breed of
SCARA robots that deliver a host of benefits while at the
same time taking a chunk of costs out of the equation
The new Toshiba
Machine THL robots
are distributed and
supported through-
out Europe by TM
Robotics (Europe)
Limited
I denti fi cati on Expert
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Come to the worlds most important
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NEW TECHNOLOGY FIRST
2327 April 2012 Hannover Germany
THINK TECH,
ENGINEER
SUCCESS
New technologies
New solutions
New networks
2327 April 2012
Enter 5
Enter 6
Industry focus Medical equipment
R
eaffirming its commitment to
medical technology innovators as
they design equipment to
improve health and save lives,
Molex Incorporated offers a selected
series of core micro products, which
will be available for purchase, replace-
ment and technical support for up to 10
years, in order to more accurately align
with medical industry design cycles.
Micro interconnect solutions, including
Molex FFC/FPC, board-to-board, micro-
miniature wire-to-board and memory
card connectors, are used in a wide
range of medical device applications.
Molex offers one of the most com-
plete ranges of microminiature fine
pitch connectors to support designers
and manufacturers in the medical
industry, states Anthony Kalaijakis,
strategic medical market manager,
Molex. Our micro connector series
now carries a powerful commitment of
ongoing product availability and sup-
port to help deliver smooth launches
and long product life cycles for medical
devices and equipment.
Molex micro products align with the
trend towards smaller, lighter and
integrated solutions for mobile and
portable medical applications. The
firms core micro products include
some of the smallest and most innova-
tive connector systems available on
the market. For example:
SlimStack 0.40mm pitch, board-to-
board system provides approximately a
25 per cent overall space saving
compared to competitive styles.
IllumiMate 2.00mm wire-to-board
system supplies the narrowest width
of any similar low-power connector
systems, along with significant cost
and performance advantages.
FPC 0.30mm pitch dual-contact
connector offers the shortest length and
most secure FPC retention compared
with similar competitive versions,
while eliminating the need to source a
top- and bottom-style connector when
routing an FPC to parallel boards.
microSD ultra-small 1.28mm
height memory card connector
reduces memory card fly-out and
sticking problems in portable devices
such as mobile phones.
From portable electronic defibrilla-
tors and handheld blood glucose mon-
itors to drug infusion pumps and
medical imaging equipment, Molex
offers innovative interconnect solu-
tions to meet the needs of medical
technology designers today and a
decade from now, adds Kalaijakis.
By blending proven commercial
technologies, cost-effective modified
off-the-shelf and custom products,
Molex is helping to lead the way in the
integration of commercial electronics
into medical applications. Molex
works in conjunction with its medical
equipment manufacturer customers to
develop solutions that economically
support industry compliance and
healthcare needs.
More information
For more information about micro
interconnects for the medical industry,
please visit the website below. To
receive information on other Molex
products and medical industry solu-
tions, readers can sign up for the regu-
lar Molex e-nouncement newsletter at
www.molex.com/link/register
Molex
T: 01252 720720 Enter 201
www.molex.com/industry/medical.html
Molex delivers complete interconnect
solutions for a number of markets
including data communications,
telecommunications, consumer
electronics, industrial, automotive,
medical, military, lighting and solar.
Established in 1938, the company
operates 39 manufacturing locations
in 16 countries.
Micro product support for
medical technology innovators
Molex is offering a 10-year commitment to micro product
availability and technical support reflecting lengthier design
and product life cycles for medical devices and equipment
Molex works in
conjunction with its
medical equipment
manufacturer
customers to
develop solutions
that economically
support industry
compliance and
healthcare needs
Customised float switches for medical use
C
ustomised float switches from elobau, for medical applications, are configured with the
customers application in mind. A typical use in the medical industry would be a dialysis
machine where the cleaning cycle is an essential part of the systems function. This part of
the process proves the biggest challenge for elobaus component - after one patients
treatment water is pumped through the machine and heated to a high temperature, this
heated water flushes through the system and the clean system is ready for the
next patient to begin treatment.
A miniature float switch was designed to suit this application and
the customers functional and material specifications. Special
temperature shock testing was completed by the engineering
department at elobau to validate the correct design. Creating a
reliable product for this application is difficult - the specific design
meant that the miniature float switches were created without any epoxy in
the stem of the float to ensure reliable function of the reed switch during the
challenging temperature cycle. These products can be manufactured using one type of plastic like PP or PVDF and a
correctly specified elobau float switch will not contaminate fresh water and has no issue with harsh chemicals. elobaus
flexibility means that a solution can be found for all medical level measurement applications.
elobau UK T: 0161 2661180 www.elobau.com Enter 202
Float switches from
elobau can be
customised for
medical
applications
e l o b a u UK L t d
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www. e l o b a u . c o m
mue in 6ermuny.
elobau has over 35 years of experience in
magnetically actuated sensors. With more than 20
different product groups, our expertise allows
us to offer a wide range of standard and bespoke
solutions for machine safety, automation and level
sensing applications.
eloProg
configurable safety control unit
safety sensors
IP67 / IP69K
f o r f u r t h e r i nf o r ma t i o n p l e a s e
c o nt a c t u k- s a l e s @e l o b a u . c o m
customised level switches

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Enter 7
Enter 8
Industry focus Medical equipment
T
he kit includes the Freescale
Semiconductor Home Health
Hub (HHH) reference circuit
board which enables wired and
wireless connectivity to medical
devices like blood pressure monitors,
blood glucometers, pulse oximeters
and scales. It also features the iDigi
Device Cloud, allowing medical
devices to easily and securely inte-
grate patient data into new, existing
and custom healthcare applications.
Cloud-connected medical devices
help patients get out of the hospital
faster by allowing doctors to monitor
patient status remotely, says Larry
Kraft, senior vice president of global
sales and marketing, Digi
International. This kit makes it easy
to create cloud-connected medical
devices to improve quality of care.
Through the iDigi Device Cloud,
doctors can easily access and analyse
patient data, set up alarms and alerts
and store information.
Telehealth is a growing technology
that allows patients to be monitored
remotely, says Steven Dean, global
healthcare segment manager at
Freescale. According to a Continua
Health Alliance study, remote moni-
toring for individuals with chronic
conditions can reduce office visits by
65 per cent, shorten the length of hos-
pital stays by up to six days on aver-
age, and most importantly, reduce
mortality anywhere from 35 to 56 per
cent. We are excited to work with Digi
to help enable this growing trend.
In addition to allowing management
of remote patient data, the iDigi Device
Cloud enables centralised control of
medical device configurations, set-
tings, firmware updates and device
groups. With iDigi Manager Pro, iDigis
device network management software,
healthcare institutions can rollout large
installations of cloud-connected med-
ical devices in a simple, secure and
cost-effective manner.
Based on the Freescale i.MX28
processor, the HHH reference platform
includes the hardware and software
components necessary for connecting
healthcare devices and user interfaces.
It includes pre-validated secure con-
nectivity with USB, Bluetooth,
Bluetooth Low Energy and ZigBee
medical-class grades, WiFi, sub-1GHz
and Ethernet. Medical device manufac-
turers can use the kit to develop proof-
of-concept prototypes of network
connected medical devices.
Design experts from Spectrum
Design Solutions, a subsidiary of Digi
International, are also available to pro-
vide complete design and development
services, including assistance with
product development and certification
based on the HHH reference design.
The iDigi Telehealth Application Kit
is now available. For more information
about the iDigi Device Cloud, a leading
platform for connecting any applica-
tion to anything, anywhere, visit the
website below.
Digi International is aiming to make
wireless M2M easier by developing
reliable products and solutions to
connect and securely manage local or
remote electronic devices over the net-
work or via the Web. Digi claims to
offer the highest levels of performance,
flexibility and quality, and markets its
products through a global network of
distributors and resellers, systems
integrators and original equipment
manufacturers (OEMs).
Digi International T: 01943 605055
www.idigi.com Enter 203
Making developing wireless, cloud-
connected medical devices easier
Digi International has launched the iDigi Telehealth
Application Kit a development kit that allows customers
to create cloud-connected medical devices
The Digi Telehealth
Application Kit from
Digi International
allows customers
to create cloud-
connected medical
devices. These can
then integrate
securely with
patient data via the
iDigi Device Cloud
Sensor manufacturer expands to meet medical demand
G
ems Sensors & Controls (Gems), the global manufacturer of
customised, application engineered sensors, controls,
solenoid valves and sub-assemblies has expanded its facilities
for the development and manufacture of specialised medical
products. Increased demand from around the world has led the
company to open a new Medical Processing Area at its
headquarters in Plainville, USA; together with a recently
completed expansion of its sensor and controls production
operation this adds a further 1,858m
2
of manufacturing space.
Gems has experienced continued growth over the past 10
years, particularly in the medical sector. The new Medical
Processing Area will allow the company to improve its product
development and manufacturing layouts, providing better
material and product workflow to address the specific needs of customers in the
medical sector, while ensuring safer working areas for employees. The additional
space will also allow Gems to expand its workforce.
Gems has served the medical sector for more than 20 years,
providing ISO13485 certified products for the specialised fluid control
and handling requirements of the medical device, diagnostic, life
science, and biotechnology market segments.
We are delighted with the expansion of our manufacturing
facility, says Patrick Murphy, VP and general manager for Gems
Sensors & Controls. The additional space will allow us to continue to
grow our product offering and serve the unique needs of our
customers around the world. I am particularly excited about the
addition of a dedicated processing area to accommodate the exacting
requirements of our customers in the medical sector, as it will
increase our ability to design new and innovative solutions that are
purpose built for each application.
Gems Sensors & Controls T: 01256 320244 www.gemssensors.com
Enter 204
Enter 10
Feature Drives & controls
I
n water works and waste water
treatment facilities, pumps often
have to process great amount of
liquid. High-performance drives
are therefore necessary for smooth
operation. In such applications, drive
units are often subject to extreme envi-
ronmental conditions, and must be
designed accordingly. But in addition
to climatic conditions, other factors
also play a great role in the choice of
the drive technology supplier. The
total cost of ownership needs to be
taken into account and savings in the
wrong place can result in considerable
additional efforts and expenses.
The waster water treatment plant in
Tunis, which is operated by public
enterprise ONAS (Office National de
lAssainissement), has eight pools in
which mixers powered by two large
geared motors ensure steady circula-
tion. Thereby, the waste water is oxy-
genated, enabling the decomposition
of dirt particles through bacteria.
The plant supplies Tunis and its
metropolitan area with process water,
covering the needs of approximately
2.5 million people. It features drive
technology that is nearly 30 years old
and must be replaced step by step.
A robust design is a must for new
drive solutions, since the units are
installed outdoors and operate non-
stop while the temperature fluctuates
considerably. In winter, the tempera-
ture can drop to -5C, while up to 45C
is possible in summer.
Up to now this has frequently
affected the lubrication of the origi-
nally installed gear units, requiring
maintenance to a problematic extent.
The goal was therefore to implement
lower-maintenance drive solutions
which are well-suited for extreme
environmental conditions.
Avoiding false economies
The original drive technology equip-
ment in the Tunis waste water treatment
plant was supplied by manufacturers
from South and West Europe. However,
the units that needed replacing have
now been discontinued, which means
that spare parts were becoming increas-
ingly scarce and lead times longer. This
fact contributed to the decision to find a
new supplier, which is where Nord
Drivesystems came into play.
The company has been operating a
sales office in Tunisia since 2003,
which had already successfully imple-
mented some smaller-scale projects.
Drive technology from Nord, which is
slightly more costly than comparable
products, is said to require less main-
tenance, thereby minimising operating
costs and optimising the availability of
the plant. ONAS wished to benefit
from these advantages. During the
course of 2009, Nord delivered two
combinations of helical shaft gear
units and Siemens motors which have
since proven themselves during con-
tinuous operation.
Getting a grip on heat
Nord uses a high-quality synthetic
long-life lubricant for the helical shaft
gear units. It withstands the ambient
temperatures considerably better than
mineral oil with the latter, the oil film
would break down at high tempera-
tures, resulting in increased wear and
tear. Each gear unit requires 210l of oil
which has to be changed after approxi-
mately 20,000 hours of operation.
Other manufacturers often stipulate
shorter maintenance intervals, which
makes a considerable difference at a
price of 10-18 euros per litre. An oil
cooling system additionally increases
operational safety in the Nord gear
units: a temperature sensor constantly
monitors the temperature of the lubri-
cant and activates the cooling system
as soon as a configurable limit is
exceeded. In this application, the limit
is 60C. Heated oil is then pumped out,
cooled by an oil cooler and returned to
the gear unit. When the temperature
falls below 40C, the cooling system
switches off automatically.
Drive technology in detail
Currently, two helical shaft gear units
with a 132kW performance from
Nords SK 12382VZ series are installed
at the waste water treatment plant.
They are combined with Siemens
motors via IEC adapters. Nords helical
shaft gear units are available as two- or
three-stage basic types with hollow or
solid shafts, in foot mounted, flange
mounted, or face mounted versions
each with the same housing. Suitable
for integration into limited installation
spaces, they can be combined with
many components from the modular
Nord system. ATEX models and
models with IP55 or IP66 protection
are available on request for all types.
All gear units are manufactured
according to the UNICASE concept,
originally developed by Nord in 1981,
which enables maximum performance
for small gear dimensions and ensures
operational safety, high efficiency, high
output torques, high resistance to axial
and radial loads, low-noise operation,
low maintenance and a long lifetime.
Nord Drivesystems
T: 01235 534404
www.nord.com Enter 205
Robust drives keep water flowing
Robust gear units from Nord Drivesystems
are ensuring smooth operation at a waste
water treatment facility in Tunis
In the Tunis waste
water treatment
facility, the con-
tents of eight pools
are stirred by
robust drive units
Nords low-
maintenance
helical shaft gear
units are operated
with a synthetic oil
lubricant and
thereby resist even
high ambient
temperatures
Enter 11
Enter 12
Enter 13
T
he Fibrebak pile removal system
separates the fibres from the back-
ing and gives separate outputs
suiting both carpet factories and
post-consumer waste. An infeed con-
veyor is manually fed with carpets or
carpet tiles. The carpet is brought to a
horizontal saw blade that is finely
adjustable to the heights of the pile and
backing. Vertical motion is achieved
through 10KN screw jacks and posi-
tional accuracy is achieved with the
aid of motor-mounted 2048 pulse
encoders. Separate out-feeds deliver
fibres to the side of the machine and
backing material to the rear. A touch
screen operator panel is positioned to
the front and side of the machine,
easily accessible for the operators.
One of the advantages offered by the
Lenze system is the way 10 inverter
variable speed drives have integrated
positioning functionality. On the
Fibrebak machine, positioning is
required to set the height of the blade
head, the tracking and the blade grind-
ing wheels. The Lenze 8400 HighLine
inverters feature point-to-point posi-
tioning with the associated travel pro-
files and 100kHz evaluation of encoder
signals, all without need for external
control. Set-up is made simple with L-
force engineer software, and a plug-in
memory module allows drives to be
exchanged without reprogramming.
The Lenze solution ranges from the
motors right up to the screw jacks and
the inverter drives. CAN is the chosen
field bus as it is standard at no extra
cost in the 8400 inverter drives. The
CAN network covers the 10 HighLine
and a further two 8400 StateLine
inverters. The remaining five motors
are fixed speed.
Further system simplification and
cost reduction is achieved by the Safe
Torque Off (STO) option on the Lenze
inverters. This is certified to ISO 13849-
1 Performance Level e meaning that
after a safety stop signal the machine
can be worked on without fear of
uncontrolled movement. The STO
option means that a safety contactor
between the drive and the motor is not
required. Furthermore there is no need
to disconnect the power to the drives so
restart can be instantaneous without
waiting for the drives to boot up. Safe
Torque off is a popular option on all
8400 drives that invariably reduces cost
through system simplification.
A mix of motors and geared motors
is supplied by Lenze. For intermittent
duties such as adjustments, worm
gearboxes are suitable as they are low
cost and the energy losses through
inefficiency are insignificant. The
same applies to the screw jacks which
have short running times. Where the
duty approaches 100 per cent, for
example on the feeds, high efficiency
geared motors are supplied such as the
type GKR, a bevel helical design with
wear-free efficiency at around 96 per
cent. Power ranges from 90W for the
blade tracking up too 11kW for the
blade drive.
Positioning drives at heart of carpet recycler
Sellers Engineers of Huddersfield manufacture carpet
finishing machinery for markets across the world. Its new
patent-protected Fibrebak machine, aimed at the North
American market, processes waste and used carpet,
recovering the reusable fibres. It uses 17 axes of Lenze
drives and 10 of these have built-in positioning functionality
capable of achieving precise machine settings.
Using Lenze drives
has allowed Sellers
to produce a simple
automated system
that reduces costs
through a reduction
in components and
faster build times
Lenze
T: 01234 753227
www.lenze.co.uk
Enter 206
POWER DISTRIBUTION ENCLOSURES CLIMATE CONTROL
We are inventing the future.
Benet from Rittal The System. with its system solutions tailored precisely to the needs of your industry.
Experience a whole new dimension in customer benets with our globally available product diversity, now
summarised for you in the latest edition of our Catalogue 33. Order your copy of the Catalogue now, either
from www.rittal.com/HB33 or by using the adjacent QR code.
T
he In-Chain Strand Condition
Monitor (In-Chain SCM) is perma-
nently installed in the steelmaking
process to enable automatic fixed-
roll alignment and roll-gap measure-
ments to be performed at the beginning
of every casting, without affecting pro-
duction activities. The Penny + Giles
sensors were specified to meet the
stringent requirements of a system that
is robustly engineered to endure the
extremely hostile casting environment.
Commenting for Sarclad, In-Chain
SCM manager Richard Cowlishaw
says: With a continuous cast system
able to produce in excess of $1million
worth of steel a day time is of the
essence, so interrupting production to
measure the condition of the casting
machine could cost steelmakers huge
amounts of money. Installing a Sarclad
In-Chain SCM system ensures that
measurements are taken automatically
at the start of every cast, so that costly
downtime is avoided and quality of
product is maintained.
The Penny + Giles STT280 tilt sen-
sors are fitted to the In-Chain SCM to
measure the fixed-roll alignment of the
casting machine using spring-loaded
blades that tangent pairs of rolls to mea-
sure the angles between them. The data
is then processed to identify rolls and
segments that are out of position rela-
tive to other rolls within each segment.
Sarclad had previously used incli-
nometers, but specified the Penny +
Giles tilt sensor because its compact
size and robust construction proved
more effective and robust for the appli-
cation. In addition, because measure-
ments are taken while the continuous
cast system is moving, inclinometers
were prone to resonate or create a
spike output. In contrast, the STT280
tilt sensor features 3D-MEMS technol-
ogy, which provides a naturally-
damped response that is unaffected by
knocking or vibration. This feature is
especially important for continuous
steelmaking operations where accurate
measurements are vital.
Sarclad also uses Penny + Giles
SRH280DP rotary Hall effect sensors to
measure gap displacement on the In-
Chain SCM system, replacing the
rotary inductive position sensor (RIPS)
used in the original design.
When Penny + Giles introduced the
SRH280 rotary Hall effect sensor to pro-
vide uniform feedback, Sarclad immedi-
ately realised its benefits even though it
was only initially launched as a single
channel sensor. However, the range was
programmable, which allowed the com-
pany to get the maximum resolution
from the 30 degrees rotation output they
required. Sarclad now fits the recently
developed Penny + Giles SRH280DP
two channel version, which can be con-
figured with both channel outputs
increasing with clockwise or anti-clock-
wise shaft rotation, or one clockwise
with one anti-clockwise.
The SRH280DP is fitted as part of a
gap transducer, which has a spring-
loaded rotary arm that extends out to
contact the caster rolls to provide an
absolute measurement for the distance
between the pair of opposing rolls.
The IP68-rated SRH280DP sensor
provides reliable and accurate rotary
position measurement for extreme
industrial environments where shock
and vibration can occur.
Sensors specified for precision measurement
Penny + Giles, a business group of Curtiss-Wright
Controls and designer and manufacturer of high precision
sensing technology, is supplying its STT280 tilt sensors
and SRH280DP rotary sensors to Sarclad to provide critical
measurements for an In-Chain Strand Condition Monitor
Sarclad was so
impressed with the
Penny + Giles sen-
sors that they have
also been installed
on its traditional
Strand Condition
Monitor, which is
the offline equiva-
lent of the online
In-Chain system
Penny + Giles
Controls
T: 01202 409409
pennyandgiles.com
Enter 207
IT INFRASTRUCTURE SOFTWARE & SERVICES
www.rittal.co.uk
Enter 14
I
t could be claimed, with consider-
able validity, that as soon as remote
I/O modules became available, the
process of convergence between
PLCs and DCSs was underway. With
this in mind, its hard to see the con-
vergence of PLCs and DCSs as a new
trend since its already been with us
for at least a couple of decades.
But, of course, convergence continues
to spread and most modern automation
systems of any size now incorporate
intelligent devices such as variable-
speed drives with built-in intelligence,
and electronic operator interface panels
in the field. With all of these devices
linked to the central controller via net-
work or fieldbus connections, it does
indeed become difficult and even, per-
haps, almost meaningless to distin-
guish between the PLC and the
remainder of the automation system.
Except, that is, within the control
panel itself. It is astonishing to realise
that, although conventional hard
wiring of field devices has virtually
disappeared in all but the smallest of
installations, traditional hard wiring is
still very much the norm inside most
control panels.
The wiring runs are, of course,
much shorter inside the panel than
outside, but thats no longer a valid
reason to ignore the benefits that bus-
based panel wiring which is perhaps
better described as lean panel wiring
can provide. This surprising omission
in automation technologies has, how-
ever, finally been addressed, and at
least one bus-based lean panel wiring
system SmartWire-DT from Eatons
Electrical Sector is now available.
This allows all of the devices
within a control panel, such as motor
starters, HMI panels and even conven-
tional pushbuttons and indicator
lights, to be connected to the central
controller, whether its a PLC or a
smart relay, via a simple daisy-chain
connection. Conventional control
wiring is eliminated.
Its important to note that with the
best lean panel wiring systems, special
components are not needed. Instead,
inexpensive interface units are added
to standard components in exactly the
same way that an auxiliary contact
block is added to a contractor.
Benefits of lean panel wiring
Some of the benefits of this technology
are instantly apparent. It cuts panel
wiring time, for instance and, since it
virtually eliminates the possibility of
wiring errors, the time needed to test
panels is also greatly reduced, as is the
risk of problems during commission-
ing. It is also clear that modifications
to the panel can be made much more
easily instead of having to carry out
extensive wiring changes for even the
simplest modification, all thats
needed is to daisy chain the new com-
ponents to those already there.
Possibly the biggest benefit, how-
ever, is that the use of lean panel
wiring facilitates the flow of informa-
tion between components mounted in
the panel. A suitably equipped motor
starter could, for example, report the
running current of the motor and the
status of the protection device to the
central controller, where this informa-
tion could be processed and used to
initiate further actions, such as sending
a message to the HMI panel alerting the
operator to an impending overload
condition before a trip actually occurs.
Put simply, adopting lean panel
wiring can greatly improve the trans-
parency of the automation system.
Since fieldbus- and network-based
field wiring already supports informa-
tion exchange, the addition of lean
panel wiring means, in essence, that
any information about any aspect of
the automation systems operation and
status can be made available wherever
its needed.
This transparency is one of the key
elements needed for lean automation,
which is one of the reasons that the
description lean panel wiring for the
new bus-based panel wiring systems is
preferred. The growing uptake of lean
automation is arguably a much more
significant trend than PLC/DCS con-
vergence. Lean manufacturing is a
well-known concept that is based on
identifying all sources of waste and
inefficiency in a process and eliminat-
ing them. Lean automation extends
this concept to automation systems,
slimming down control panels, simpli-
fying wiring, increasing data trans-
parency and enhancing performance
while reducing overall costs.
With the introduction of lean panel
wiring, lean automation can now
cover every facet of manufacturing
processes, from the ERP system right
down to an emergency stop button,
and from the SAP package down to
individual sensors.
Trend for convergance
In summary, there certainly is a trend
for PLCs and DCSs to converge and
this trend is continuing because con-
vergence has already been shown time
and again to deliver excellent results.
This much is hardly news.
What is news, however, is the emer-
gence of lean control panel wiring sys-
tems that mark one of the final stages in
the transition from traditional control
system technologies to modern net-
work- and bus-based technologies. This
greatly facilitates the implementation of
transparent automation, and that most
definitely is a trend worth watching.
Eaton Electric
T: 08700 545 333
www.eaton.com Enter 208
Industrial automation: the road ahead
A recent Frost & Sullivan report highlights the convergence
of programmable controllers (PLCs) and distributed control
systems (DCSs) as an important market trend, but also notes
that this is a technical strategy that has yet to demonstrate it
can yield the expected results. Stuart Greenwood of Eaton
Electrical argues that this trend is, in fact, well advanced and
is already delivering excellent results
Stuart Greenwood
of Eaton Electrical
Put simply, adopting lean panel wiring can
greatly improve the transparency of the
automation system
Enter 15
Enter 16
AUTO-FEB12-PG:AUTO-FEB12-PG 10/02/2012 09:39 Page 1
Feature Materials handling & conveying
T
he first Knapp Fastbox has been
installed at the site of third-party
logistics supplier, JCL Logistics,
in Werndorf, Austria.
Fastbox is essentially a tall storage
tower for containers, trays or cartons,
served by the ultra-rapid lift module
from Knapps OSR Shuttle storage
system. Any number of these Fastbox
buffers can be located directly adja-
cent to the order picking stations and
used to store fast-moving products,
such as lines that are included in
current promotional campaigns.
The short transport distance from
the picker and the ultra-fast handling
combine to ensure maximum picking
speed for these frequently required
goods. Fastbox modules can also act as
a buffer for order containers or as a
means of sequencing containers ready
for robotic palletisation or route-opti-
mised vehicle loading. The Fastbox
towers can be up to 12 metres in
height, with the number of levels
variable according to container height.
Craig Rollason, head of sales and
marketing for Knapp UK, explains:
When combined with the random
storage of the OSR Shuttle system, the
Fastbox solution allows the needs of a
much wider range of customer appli-
cations to be met. In other words,
Fastbox makes the OSR Shuttle suit-
able for fast-movers, as well as
medium-movers and slow-movers.
The solution is therefore attracting
considerable interest in the market.
The solution supplied by Knapp to
JCL Logistics allows both hanging and
flat-packed garments to be handled
with ease. JCL Logistics has more than
60 sites across 25 countries and pro-
vides distribution services for a
number of clients including a major
Swiss fashion retailer. The company
recently invested over 18 million euros
in its 45,000m
2
Werndorf facility.
The distribution centre accommo-
dates some two million hanging gar-
ments, 15,000 containers and 10,000
pallets. Designed to use automation to
meet both B2B (retailer) and B2C
(online consumer) demands in a flexi-
ble way, the site features not only
Knapps proven OSR Shuttle solution,
but also the overhead conveyor sys-
tems of Knapp subsidiary, Drkopp
Frdertechnik.
Shuttle-based storage
At the heart of JCLs order picking opera-
tions lies Knapps shuttle-based storage
system. The OSR Shuttle system fea-
tures an independent shuttle on every
level of the storage cube, served by ded-
icated lifts at the aisle ends. This system
is said to achieve up to six times the rate
of totes in/out than a traditional auto-
mated storage and retrieval system
(ASRS), while having about 20 per cent
less footprint and using less than 10 per
cent of the energy consumption. This
power saving is achieved through
energy recuperation from the braking
process, the use of sophisticated soft-
ware to optimise power requirements
without loss of performance and intelli-
gent design to minimise shuttle weight.
Ergonomic picking
JCL placed great emphasis on the
design of the new facilitys worksta-
tions to ensure that they would be as
ergonomic as possible. This not only
shows consideration for the physical
needs of workers but also ensures
maximum productivity. As well as
allowing plenty of natural light in the
work area, user-friendly materials
such as warm-to-touch wood and
cushioned fascias were incorporated
into the design of the picking stations.
Knapp UK
T: 01844 202149
www.knapp.com Enter 211
Shuttle storage system keeps
fashion logistics on the rails
Leading warehouse automation supplier, Knapp, recently
handed over the first installation of its Fastbox solution,
designed to speed up the picking of fast-moving products
Knapp Fastbox
system installed at
JCL Logistics in
Werndorf, Austria
Video system helps resolve service issues
W
arehouse automation supplier, Knapp has launched a video-based troubleshooting service
for its customers. Available as an addition to any service contract, Knapps KiSoft Web Eye
allows live, bi-directional video and voice transmission to identify and resolve service issues at
the customers site. Wearing the fully mobile kit, a client employee or a Knapp engineer can
transmit live images and sound from the actual location of any problem to Knapps customer
service experts at the companys headquarters in Graz, Austria. This 24-hour service uses WLAN
technology to connect with the customer network and allows hand-drawn sketches, videos or
instructions to be sent quickly and easily, directly to the operators display on-site.
Ebb Kretschmer, head of customer services for Knapp UK, comments: KiSoft Web Eye is a
really clever piece of kit that results in clearer communication of service problems and, consequently, much faster
resolution of any issues. As well as being used for real-time scenarios, the equipment can also be used for long-term
monitoring. With the record function, users can perform time-delayed analyses that help to pinpoint trouble spots.
O
ften seen as a system only
required by large companies,
Komori, a small to medium
sized manufacturer and sup-
plier of printing production equip-
ment and machinery, recently
purchased a mobile racking system
from SSI Schaefer that has now been
installed within its new premises in
Leeds, Yorkshire.
Reduced spend
The reduction in pallet racking floor
space in Komoris case 372m
2
(floor
footprint of existing pallet racking
layout) less 195m
2
(floor footprint of a
mobile pallet racking layout) equals
180m
2
floor space saved also meant
that the company was able to reduce its
required spend when looking at new
premises to move its operational facility.
Darren Etherington, parts manager,
Komori, says: We have achieved sig-
nificant space and cost savings as a
result of Schaefers mobile pallet rack-
ing system which is good news for the
business storage capacity is often
scarce and expensive but this system
has allowed us to gain high density,
easy to access storage space without
having to pay out for larger premises
than necessary.
Stewart Hardy, area manager, SSI
Schaefer, says: Mobile racking sys-
tems are the ideal alternative for using
existing space more cost-effectively
whilst storing manifold or varying
goods. Our systems consist of rack
units mounted on a carriage; hence the
rack units are mobile and save the
space which a conventional racking
system would require for aisles.
He continues: According to the
requirements of the customer, our
racking systems are designed for vari-
ous weights and heavy load mobile
racking systems move on rails, pow-
ered electrically. Racks for light and
medium loads can be operated manu-
ally and without tracks.
Mobile racking advantages
In direct comparison with traditional
compact warehouse systems, the
advantages of mobile racking systems
include:
Space utilisation - for the same
volume of warehoused goods, mobile
racking systems require 40 percent less
space than stationary racking systems.
Warehouse volume - in the same
amount of space, up to 85% more
warehouse volume can be stored using
mobile racking systems instead of con-
ventional systems.
Building planning - with a space
utilisation percentage of 65 85 per
cent, the use of mobile racking systems
can have a positive effect on the over-
all costs of a warehouse building.
SSI Schaefer
T: 01264 386600
www.ssi-schaefer.co.uk Enter 212
Mobile system cuts pallet
racking floor space in half
Komori UK has achieved a 50 per cent
reduction in pallet racking floor space thanks
to the installation of a more cost-effective
mobile system designed by SSI Schaefer
Komori UK has
made a 50 per cent
saving in required
pallet racking
space thanks to a
mobile solution
from SSI Schaefer
Semi-automated cart improves battery changing efficiency
A
recent innovation from motive power specialist,
EnerSys is a four-tier battery handling system.
This is said to reduce significantly the footprint of
lift truck battery change and charge operations,
facilitate easy maintenance and maximise opera-
tional safety. Four-high battery banks are a natural
development for larger operations which demand
maximum flexibility and allow extra capacity through
modular expansion as the business grows.
The configuration of the installation allows main-
tenance engineers to work safely and without
disrupting normal warehouse operations while a
proportion of the battery bank is taken offline. All-
electric drives for lift and travel eliminate the use of
hydraulics used in previous models. This simplifies
service and maintenance.
The Pro-Series BBE-QS is a semi-automated
electric powered change cart which runs on con-
cealed rails alongside the rows of chargers. When a
battery change is required, the truck approaches the
changing area, its battery disconnected and a trained
member of staff completes the change. The BBE
extracts the battery from the truck onto its on-board
roller bed and then pushes the battery into place for
charging. Changing a battery is a quick and simple
one-man job with no manual lifting or handling
which can be accomplished in around two minutes.
Enersys Motive Power T: 0161 727 3800
www.enersys.com Enter 213
R. A. RODRIGUEZ (UK) Ltd.
TURNING IDEAS INTO
ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS
Tel: 01462 670044 Fax: 01462 670880
Email: info@raruk.com
Compact Power
Weight
and space saving
linear/rotary actuators
+ custom drive solutions
www.rarodriguez.co.uk
I D E N T IB A D G E
20 Year Anniversary Cel ebration
20% O F Fyour FIRST FEBRUARYO R D E R
when you quote discount code:AF20
w w w. i d e n t i b a d g e . c o m T: 020 8645 2555 F: 020 8645 2333
Applicable to new and existing customers. Once only use.
Enter 18 Enter 19
Enter 17
T
he new facility at Ricardos
Technical Centre in Shoreham,
West Sussex provides a near clean
room production environment
and has the capacity to produce 4,000
engines annually across two daily
shifts. Its core is a 10-station vertical
conveyor mini-line supported by
incoming materials inspection and
line-side delivery of components. Each
station is equipped with a sophisticated
MacDonald Humfrey Human Machine
Interface (HMI) providing guidance to
each operator on the precise sequence
of operations required at each stage of
assembly. The tools and assembly
equipment used at each station are
instrumented, and provide data
directly into a central warranty data-
base for each engine built, providing
complete finished product traceability.
Each line station is interlocked via
its HMI to ensure that all operations
and checks have been successfully
completed and recorded before the
line can be indexed and the engine
moved forward to the next station. In
addition to the main production line,
the facility includes a cylinder head
sub-assembly line, dress area and an
end-of-line hot test cell that enables
the performance of every engine pro-
duced to be fully tested and validated.
The brand new facility was speci-
fied, designed, constructed and com-
missioned in just 18 months.
No Fault Forward assembly
This is the first time Ricardo has man-
ufactured an engine, so Exmac
Automations previous experience of
No Fault Forward (NFF) assembly on
a similar engine build project for
Harley Davidsons V-Rod engine was
invaluable. The V-Rod line was a fully
automated EMS-driven loop system
but, as there was less space in the new
Shoreham facility, Exmac worked with
Ricardo to determine the number of
stations required and understand the
various processes they would need for
engine assembly, how engine blocks
would be loaded and unloaded from
the line, the type of DC-tooling, and
the level of control required, etc.
The design of the Exmac handling
system allows Ricardo to load engine
blocks onto the line and rotate them at
any of the 10 assembly stations. The
system is also indexed manually to
allow greater control over the assembly
process, provide the flexibility to
accommodate long cycle times and
enable Ricardo to achieve batch produc-
tion of single engines or different
engines as required. To meet the specifi-
cation within the space available Exmac
designed a compact 10-station back-to-
back manual line that takes up very
little floor space in the new building.
Engine blocks are fixed to light-
weight trolleys using a vertically
mounted slew ring and quick release
plate, which mates with a bracket
located on the engine bell housing.
Whilst the engine block is locked in
place, it can also be rotated through
360 degrees to allow complete access
for operators. An engine starts its build
sequence at station one and when all
assembly functions at that station are
completed the control system allows a
stop to retract, enabling the operator to
push the trolley to a holding position
until station two is clear. The system
then allows the trolley to be pushed to
station two where the same stop and
lock procedure holds it in place for
that stations assembly functions to be
carried out and so on to station 10.
Trolleys run in a steel track to facili-
tate manual handling by operators; and
a latched turn-post at each end of the
line (providing a swing-gate effect)
allows trolleys be re-directed to the
opposite side of the line after assembly
operations at station five are completed.
When a trolley reaches station 10 the
engine block has been transformed into
a fully assembled, complete engine.
Bespoke HMI
Exmac-designed mechanical locking
systems accurately locate and secure
trolleys in position at each station,
whilst also ensuring that they cannot
be released until the MacDonald
Humfrey HMI system confirms that
operators have completed all required
tasks at each station, and assembly can
continue on a no-faults-forward basis.
The bespoke HMI system developed
for the Ricardo engine line takes oper-
ators step-by-step through the process
of building an engine, providing
detailed on-screen information and
visual aids at each of the 10 stations,
and even including instructions for
every bolt to be tightened and its par-
ticular torque and angle.
In order to optimise the two-hour
engine build sequence, Ricardo also
uses the HMI system to monitor the
lines indexing against real-time opera-
tor performance.
Exmac Automation T: 01905 721500
www.exmacautomation.co.uk Enter 214
Vertical conveyor keeps engine
production line running smoothly
MacDonald Humfrey Automation (MHA) and sister company
Exmac Automation have joined forces to help automotive
engineering specialist Ricardo create a state-of-the-art 600
square metre assembly facility to build a new high
performance engine for the new McLaren MP4-12C road car
A Siemens PLC
drives the
mechanical
operation of the
line. It is backed up
by a server-based
PC system that
drives the build
instructions
Whilst this is a
manual system and
trolleys are pushed
to each of the 10
stations, they are
locked and
released by key
switches at each
station; enabling
Ricardo production
engineers to verify
the status of every
aspect of the build
E
verything in the wide belt con-
veyor, from the smallest compo-
nent to horizontal plain bends
and fully functioning conveyor
modules, is standardised for easier
engineering, simple maintenance and
trouble-free operation. The modularity
in design is said to make assembly and
modifications effortless and the
system can be adapted to many differ-
ent requirements.
This is what our customers demand
a standardised, modular plastic belt
conveyor that is quiet, sturdy, safe and
with high reliability, says Gran
Abbestam, product manager at FlexLink
for aluminium and pallet conveyors.
FlexLinks new conveyor system
meets the highest standards in
reliability and safety we have looked
into every detail with regards to
operator safety and working
environment. adds Abbestam. We
have worked hard to eliminate
potential pinch points and obtain very
low noise level. The flat, smooth belt
surface minimises the risk of scratches
and the sturdy guide rails prevent
items from falling off, allowing for the
safe handling of sensitive products.
The conveyor is available as
components, modules or a complete
system. The three widths, 322, 424
and 626mm make it suited for
handling cartons, bundles, bags and
other large individual items that
require the stable support of a wide
chain. Equally important, it allows
large flows of smaller products.
The vertical bends and length up to
15m allows efficient and simple
layouts in three dimensions without
additional elevators in constant flow.
With a maximum conveyor speed of
40m/min, the capacity is setting new
standards for modular belt conveyors.
We have reached 100 per cent
modularity and new capacity levels
with regards to the conveyor speed.
Last but not least, the design solution
opens the door for future
developments, concludes Abbestam.
FlexLink Systems UK
T: 01908 327 200
www.flexlink.com Enter 215
Modular wide belt conveyor
improves flow efficiency
A modular plastic belt conveyor system from FlexLink is said to be an efficient solution for the
transportation of large individual items and flows of smaller products
FlexLink is a world leading supplier of production logistic solutions and have a long
history serving companies of all sizes, in the UK and around the world.
Our fully compatible range of modular conveyors are flexible enough to be re-configured,
expanded and rebuilt with minimum production stoppage for total cost effectiveness.
From stainless steel to aluminium and pharmaceutical to FMCG we have experience
in improving production efficiencies in any environment, without compromising quality
or knowledge.
Contact us, FlexLink Systems Ltd, today at info.uk@flexlink.com or call on 01908 327200.
Endless possibilities
www.flexlink.com
Enter 20
Feature Tracking & traceability
C
urrently all butter manufacturers
in Ireland are required to assign
every pallet of butter produced
with a unique label combining
information including the manufac-
turer, weight, lot number, pallet
number and best before date.
Zetes is internationally recognised as
a leading expert in the field of print and
apply and was a natural choice of sup-
plier. The company currently works
with manufacturers from all sectors of
industry to provide effective printing
and labelling solutions, including
advanced serialised labelling solutions
for the pharmaceutical sector to combat
counterfeiting. It was as a result of this
expertise that Glanbia decided Zetes
had the right skills to implement a
unique labelling solution for its butter
division.
We were concerned that this new
customer requirement would have an
impact on our production costs and so
looked for a solution that required
minimal levels of human intervention.
Our IT department initially recom-
mended we work with Zetes as local
specialists in automated identification
and data capture, says Gerry Warren,
butter store manager at Glanbia.
Glanbias application has been
installed at the end of each butter pro-
duction line and works in conjunction
with their existing pallet wrapping
system. Pre-loaded pallets of butter are
placed onto a wrapping turntable
ready for shrink-wrapping and a trace-
ability label is affixed after this stage
once the correct pallet is automatically
identified. The print and apply solu-
tion developed by Zetes uses wireless
technology and MCLNet as its commu-
nication and dispatching programme.
This directs the Motorola wireless
handheld scanner, Datamax A Class
printer hardware and a Zetes dedi-
cated print and apply applicator unit.
Using the MCL programming lan-
guage, Zetes has effectively turned an
ordinary industrial printer into an
intelligent device able to capture infor-
mation from a variety of different data-
bases and combine the results to create
a unique number for each pallet, with-
out the need for additional PCs. The
unique pallet number is produced by
combining both the lot and best before
date information.
After loading, the pallets existing
barcode label is scanned and a new
label combining any additional pro-
duction and traceability information
required is generated automatically. To
complete this stage, the printer effec-
tively recognises individual pallets
before they are shrink-wrapped on the
production line and is able to generate
the correct label for application after
wrapping.
By integrating the label printer with
Glanbias product database, details
relating to lot number and expiry date
can be captured and combined with
manufacturer information in a single
label. The label is then transferred to
the applicator pad ready to be affixed to
the pallet following shrink-wrapping.
Glanbia estimated that without the
print and apply solution from Zetes,
they would require extra staff to manu-
ally produce labels and apply them to
the finished pallets.
The solution is completely auto-
mated and our only involvement is to
replace label rolls when they run out
says Warren. It has eliminated the
need for additional staff to manually
produce labels and there has been no
impact to the volumes of finished
goods we can dispatch each day. We
are delighted with Zetes solution, it
does exactly what we require and
always runs smoothly.
Robert van Vliet, managing director
of Zetes Ireland says, This is a mis-
sion critical solution for Glanbia. The
advantage of Zetes approach using
MCL to create intelligent print and
apply devices, is that the solution is as
robust and reliable as possible to deal
with Glanbias busy and demanding
customer requirements.
Zetes T: 0845 520 0180
www.zetes.co.uk Enter 216
Labelling system provides food
producer with full traceability
Glanbia estimated
that without the
print and apply
solution from Zetes,
it would require
extra staff to
manually produce
labels and apply
them to the finished
pallets
Wireless chip tracks beverage dispensing
I
DCs ZigBee wireless mesh technology is playing a major role in tracking - in real time - the
dispensing of beverages in the hospitality industry. The ZigBee low power wireless technology
makes it possible to track when, where, what and how much beer or spirit is dispensed. The
resulting data is then routed to a back office PC, or direct to the web via IDCs ZB104 Ethernet
Gateway, for analysis. IDCs ZigBee chip is a key element in the Bonzi wireless beverage
metering system, which provides a control system for the hospitality industry. Bonzi comprises
a family of wireless products that delivers control solutions for every aspect of beverage
dispensing that integrate with most major point-of-sale (POS) systems. IDCs ZigBee chip
integrates snugly into the Bonzi pouring head; the chip in no way impinging on the pouring
process: it transmits each pour wirelessly for comparison with registered sales, improving stock
and cost control and highlighting any discrepancies. Any number of the ZigBee-equipped pouring heads can be used at any
one time, each providing specific and accurate pour information to a secure onsite PC,via a IDC ZB104 Ethernet Gateway.
IDC T: 01332 604030 www.zig-bee.co.uk Enter 217
Glanbia, one of Irelands largest food manufacturers, has implemented a
print and apply solution from Zetes. The solution developed enables
Glanbia, whose famous butter brands include Kerrygold and Avonmore, to
comply with a new customer requirement for full product traceability and
the highest possible quality standards
17-19 APRIL 2012 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Halls 3 & 3A
organised in association with
The event is co-located with Plant and Asset Management,
Air-Tech, IFPEX (the International Fluid Power Exhibition),
MACH, Electrex, National Electronics Week and
IPE&E (Independent Power Energy & Electricity). Together, the
eight shows provide an integrated networking and exhibition
platform for engineering decision makers.
Running alongside the exhibition will be a comprehensive
FREE seminar programme.
You will need to pre-register to ensure places on the seminars
of your choice.
Pre-register as a visitor, and book your places on the free
seminars, by going to
www.drives-expo.com
For information about exhibiting contact:
Doug Devlin t: 01922 644766
m: 07803 624471 e: doug@drives.co.uk
Simon Langston t: 01353 863383
m: 079000 95826 e: simon@dfamedia.co.uk
The Perfect Fit
The following companies are Primary Partners
of Drives & Controls 2012
Proven sensors and system solutions for greater efficiency
90YEARS 1921 - 2011
sales: 0161 282 4700
www.balluff.co.uk
industrial identification
comprehensive system expertise
many years of experience
Balluffs Industrial RFID (Radio Frequency
Identification) systems provide data tracking
and error proofing solutions such as machine
tool, flexible assembly, production,
automation, warehousing, logistics, and
distribution tracking. With over 25 years of
experience providing industrial RFID
solutions, Balluff will help you minimise loss
and expense from error-prone operations and
maximise quality operations and material flow.
RFID UHF
- operating range of 6m
- detects and processes multiple
data carriers at the same time
Enter 21
Enter 22
Advertorial Tracking & traceability
T
he new wireless communication
module and base station with
Cognex Connect capabilities is
now available for users with
extended range cord free code reading
applications. Cognex Connect provides
the most flexibility for communicating
via Industrial Protocols such as
EtherNet/IP, Profinet, MC Protocol and
others in addition to traditional support
for USB and RS-232. The DataMan
8000 series is the only industrial hand-
held ID reader to support industrial
protocols for both corded and cordless
models, allowing for easy integration,
reduced installation costs and remote
access to diagnostics.
The new wireless reader provides a
long working range up to 100m
with a large memory capacity for read-
ing codes when offline or out of range.
The rugged DataMan 8000 series is
designed for the factory floor and offers
the industrys most advanced code
reading technology using two powerful
algorithms, 1DMax and 2DMax. These
patented technologies provide the
most advanced decoding available for
reading virtually every type of code,
every time, with unsurpassed read
rates, regardless of size, quality, print-
ing method or surface. The DataMan
8000 series also offers liquid lens vari-
able focus technology which allows a
user to read small 2-D direct part marks
(DPM) as well as long linear 1-D bar-
codes with a single reader.
The base station comes standard
with a spare battery charger built-in
and is compatible with industry stan-
dard Ethernet, USB and RS-232 cables.
Common to all DataMan 8000 series
models is the systems unique modular
design allowing any reader to change
between corded RS-232/USB commu-
nication to Industrial Ethernet or to
wireless with field exchangeable inter-
face modules.
The communication modules offer
security for customer investment as
well as flexibility enabling users to
modify their deployment and commu-
nication methods to meet future
requirements. The base station for the
wireless model is equipped with sepa-
rate communication ports for USB, RS-
232 and Ethernet options making it the
most versatile choice in the series.
This addition to our DataMan 8000
series makes it truly the most flexible
and advanced handheld reader out
there, says Carl Gerst, vice president
and business unit manager, ID
Products. We are happy to provide a
cordless reader that has unique fea-
tures in addition to the incredible
functionality that is standard for all
DataMan 8000 readers like reading
robustness, advanced lighting and
optics and field interchangeable com-
munication modules.
The new DataMan 8000 series is
available in two base models:
DataMan 8500
The DataMan 8500 readers incorporate
patented UltraLight technology from
Cognex for superior image formation on
any mark type and surface. UltraLight
illumination provides dark field, bright
field and diffuse lighting all in one
electronically controlled light.
DataMan 8100
The DataMan 8100 includes all of the
features of the DataMan 8500 readers,
with bright field illumination. The
DataMan 8100 readers are ideal for
applications that require superior code
reading performance without specialty
lighting.
For more information about the
DataMan 8000 series of industrial
handheld ID scanners, visit
www.cognex.com/8000.
Cognex UK
T: 01327 856040
www.cognex.com Enter 218
First wireless industrial ID
barcode reader with Ethernet
Cognex Corporation has announced a new wireless
version for its next-generation DataMan handheld industrial
ID scanner, the DataMan 8000 series
The rugged
DataMan 8000
series is designed
for the factory floor
and offers the
industrys most
advanced code
reading technology
using two powerful
algorithms, 1DMax
and 2DMax
Expanded logistics barcode scanning
C
ognex Corporation has announced the new DataMan 300 barcode reader for
high speed logistics applications such as tote scanning, label print and apply
verification, and carton code reading. The new DataMan 300 is a complement to the
powerful DataMan 500 reader which has proven itself throughout its introductory
year as the new choice for the logistics, retail fulfilment and distribution markets.
We saw an industry that has been relying on laser technology and knew that
we could offer a better, yet affordable, image-based solution for high speed
logistics applications, says Carl Gerst, vice president and business unit
manager, ID Products. He continues, The DataMan 500 reads 1-D or 2-D codes
presented in any direction at high speeds for postal, parcel and package sortation as well as presentation scanning. The
DataMan 300 is now available to take on fixed 1-D code reading for high speed tote scanning and print and apply lines.
The DataMan product line of barcode scanners can consistently provide higher read rates than laser scanners. With
this new release, the Cognex algorithm, 1DMax+ is paired with Hotbars technology which dramatically increases the
decoding speed of damaged or poorly presented 1-D linear barcodes used in the logistics industry.
Hotbars uses texture to locate barcodes at any orientation, and then extracts high-resolution 1-D signals for decoding.
Hotbars combines superior signal fidelity with lightning speed, giving this next generation of Cognex DataMan readers
unprecedented performance. Camera-based barcode readers can help the logistics industry achieve: Higher read rates that
can reduce costs and increase throughput; Visualisation to access data for continuous process improvement; Lower
equipment costs because imagers have no moving parts; Future proofing as 2-D matrix codes are becoming more
prevalent through all industries.
To learn more about all DataMan products for logistics barcode scanning applications, visit www.wecanreadit.com
Automation FEBRUARY 2012
Feature Tracking & traceability
B
eing part of a large company (ABAgri), which
has a diverse variety of products covering a
large market, ABN is conscious of its regula-
tory obligations as well as its hard-earned
reputation. Product quality and consistency are
two vital ingredients in the companys output.
ABN aims to be the supplier of choice of the
British pig and poultry industries by providing
innovative feed solutions to meet the needs of their
customers.
Rodger Morris, finished product quality manager,
is responsible for all aspects of quality control and
microbiological monitoring. In the past, he says,
experience, knowledge and simple averages were
the tools of the trade along with a good eye.
However, understanding changes in raw materials,
eg wheat and barley, due to climatic and seasonal
conditions, has become a significant part of the job.
The method of using simple averages is no longer
up to the standard and statistical techniques have
become much more a part of the job. Geographic
variations can affect protein, oil and, therefore,
energy value among other things, we need to be
able to advise customers of the analysis of raw
materials and finished feeds to give them confi-
dence in what they are buying.
Automated comparison of results
Ensuring that the products are fit for purpose
requires the recording of hundreds of data values (a
precursor to adopting SPC), and a complex man-
agement matrix has been used, but this remains
costly in terms of man hours.
Since the summer of 2008, Morris, with a close
team, has introduced NWA Quality Analyst to
handle the statistical inputs and outputs involved.
ABN currently has a three-user licence and is con-
verting to an SQL database to replace the spread-
sheet-based system used until now. As part of the
implementation, some customers will have the
ability to use the system remotely.
The software provides automated comparison of
results versus targets for such parameters as protein,
oil, moisture, minerals and microbiological compo-
nents. Implementation has already provided
improved management of out-of-specification events
and performance and has had a significant positive
impact on time and, therefore, effectiveness.
As with all processes at ABN, the procedure
adopted for choosing suitable SPC software was
thorough and precise. With very demanding inter-
nal and external customers and stakeholders, we
needed to be sure that we were buying into some-
thing that would accomplish our immediate aims
and cover all foreseeable eventualities, continues
Morris.
Main software criteria
Starting with the basic how do we use statistics?
Morris and his team evaluated all available systems
and invited two suppliers to make recommendations.
Among the main criteria were ease of implemen-
tation, ease of linking to LIMS (Laboratory
Information Management Systems), ability to link
to SQL databases and relevance to ABN data and
techniques. Ease of use was also a major factor.
In addition to meeting all the obvious criteria,
NWA Quality Analyst appealed because the people
at Adept were able to show the benefits of stronger
links with users and customers through online
access, enthuses Morris.
In the final analysis, it was not only the product
but the quality of the people that persuaded ABN to
go with the NWA software. Adepts approach was
professional and efficient, their personnel proving
knowledgeable and willing to help throughout the
sales and implementation phases, says Morris. He
points to the initial presentation and subsequent
speed of response as highlights of the Adept service
and this, allied with the products superior quali-
ties, makes a compelling case for considering
NWA for any SPC application.
Morris is now looking at NWA Quality Monitor
and NWA Quality Analytics Server software to
complement NWA Quality Analyst and is happy to
report that Adept Scientific is an important part of
the ABN business.
Adept Scientific
T: 01462 480055
www.adeptscience.co.uk Enter 219
Metabolising statistical
benefits with SPC
Following an extensive evaluation exercise with UK supplier Adept Scientific,
NorthWest Analyticals (NWA) SPC (Statistical Process Control) software, NWA
Quality Analyst, has become an integral part of ABNs raw material and finished
product quality effort, adding significant benefits to the companys customer
relations as well as providing cost reductions and more effective use of time
* More than 20,000 sensors.
* Factory Automation.
* Process Automation.
* Hazardous Areas.
* Harsh Environments.
* Measurement &
Inspection.
* Miniature Sensors.
* Vision Systems.
* Machine Safety.
* Vehicle Detection.
* Flow & Temperature.

More Sensors,
More Solutions
Barcode Reading
Pick to Light
Traceability

Mo ee SSennsso s, s, rr rr
Mo ee SSoluutionns rr

ra raccceeability ty TT

Picck to to Light

Barc rccoode Re Reead ading

Enter 23
Feature SCADA & Data acquisition
O
n the face of it cleaning and
packaging potatoes for retail sale
is a simple operation. However,
water usage has significant eco-
nomic and environmental issues. In
todays markets all aspects of processing
are placed under scrutiny and Branston
knew that its water usage needed to be
improved, not only for its own benefit
but to meet the stringent requirements
of supplying a major retailer.
Water in large volumes is needed to
process the potatoes and this was caus-
ing significant cost and environmental
concerns to Branston. The company
has a borehole on site, with water
abstraction undertaken with a regulated
licence from the Environmental agency.
Mains water is also available to the site
but with some supply restrictions.
Branston needed a safe method to recy-
cle the water rather than continuously
drawing water and contacted MSE
Systems for a solution.
Membrane BioReactor
MSE Systems supplied a complete
water treatment plant, called a
Membrane BioReactor (MBR), which
has met the customers requirements.
MBRs combine activated sludge treat-
ment with a membrane liquid-solid
separation process. The membrane
component uses low pressure micro-
filtration and eliminates the need for
conventional clarification techniques
and tertiary filtration.
The process of recycling the wash-
ing water is complex as the water has
to be purged of both the inevitable soil
content and the nitrogen and phospho-
rus from fertilisers and organic conta-
mination. Other aspects of repeated
water use such as chemical build up
were anticipated and these were dealt
with through granulated activated
carbon absorption. The filtering and
treatment process includes solids sep-
aration, aeration, carbonaceous oxida-
tion and nitrification, final membrane
filtering, granulated activated
carbon absorption, ultra-violet treat-
ment and chilling to 10C for reuse.
Branston has laboratory equipment to
monitor the system and to analyse the
water which confirms environmental
compliance and provides data to oper-
ate the plant. This equipment is
located at Branstons South West site
where the analysis for this site and the
Lincoln site is carried out. Up to 90
per cent of water at the South West site
is now recycled, with any waste being
safe to return to the public system.
Visualisation and automation
The control and automation of the
plant was undertaken by InControl
Systems using Wonderware technol-
ogy. At the Seavington site this uses
Wonderware InTouch SCADA and
data collection, with PLC control
using a Rockwell CompactLogix. The
automation system has 25 closed loops
and 50 analogue monitoring points.
The InTouch SCADA which visualises
the entire system was used in plant
tuning as well as continuous monitor-
ing of plant operation. However, this
system was already applied at the
Lincoln site so the South West site
was integrated to the county-wide
automation architecture which uses a
centralised system (located at
InControl Systems) and thereby keeps
the IT infrastructure requirement at
client sites to a minimum.
Integrated information service
MSE Systems knew that its MBR water
treatment installations would require
monitoring for optimum performance
and in particular to ensure that the
membrane filter system was running to
specification. This requirement, as
well as numerous other monitoring
and remote access requirements, was
integrated by InControl Systems to pro-
duce the MyMSE Server Architecture.
MyMSE is based on Wonderware
System Platform technology which has
allowed master objects to be developed
for such applications. In use these well
developed and tested objects are
simply deployed repeatedly to produce
the particular application. This has the
effect of reducing project development
and commissioning time thanks to
thorough master object development
and subsequent use of multiple
instances of each object. PLC program-
ming is also pre-specified by each
master object, bringing standards to
Ensuring an environmental
success for potato supplier
Branston has been suppling high quality potatoes since
1968. The company has sites in Lincoln, Scotland and
Seavington near Ilminster and it is here that a new method
of water treatment has produced both operational savings
and enhanced environmental credentials. The project was
undertaken by MSE Systems in conjunction with InControl
Systems using manufacturing automation software
products from Wonderware, provided by SolutionsPT
The centralised
system provides
historisation of data
from all sites using
Wonderware
Historian and sub-
sequent information
dissemination by
Wonderware
Information Server
The project was
overseen by
Branstons develop-
ment project
manager, Heiko
Gramsch, who says
the system met with
all requirements
and that it delivered
significant business
benefits in utility
saving, in meeting
retailers environ-
mental expectations
and in the smooth
running of the site
Automation FEBRUARY 2012
bear at the PLC level and allowing PLC control
and Supervision to become tightly integrated.
Access control is managed by Microsoft
Active Directory. Detailed trend displays are
available to all users, centrally, at client site, and
remotely via zero-touch web browsers. The
trends offer in depth insights into the process
and have been of particular use both in process
tuning and in on-going monitoring.
Geo-SCADA
The use of Wonderware System Platform creates
a library of tested master template objects which
are held centrally within the System Platform
Galaxy Repository. Instances of these templates
are deployed to each site as required. Additional
clients and their site deployment are thus read-
ily facilitated. This also helps with Continuous
Improvement as master template objects can be
updated and the resultant changes deployed
remotely.
A further development of the core central
system will allow extended Geo-SCADA func-
tionality. This will display each client site on a
map with an instant indication of status and of
any alarms. This feature will ensure that any
problems are dealt with immediately. MSE and
InControl will also be able to respond to any
client site plant and control problem by
instantly being aware of an issue and also by
periodically monitoring particular aspects of the
plant from a long term view of availability.
Jan Hemper, InControl Systems says:
Wonderware System Platform was the ideal
solution for this geographically spread project
owing to its functionality and also to its effi-
ciency in application development engineering.
Customer benefit
Branstons general manager at the South West
site, Ian Wait, says: The system provided by
MSE and the information technology from
InControl takes care of management expectations
for the water treatment plant. Wait adds that he
has web access to the system at any time and from
any location. Remote access information has been
augmented by the use of advanced diagnostics
developed by InControl which utilises
Wonderware Information Server Web Parts in
conjunction with Microsoft SharePoint. This
allows authorised users to automatically obtain
their required selection of reports by email.
The system also records use of the sites bore-
hole water abstraction and produces reports and
readings that are used to ensure that the site is
within Branstons Environmental Agency licence.
Furthermore a complete overview of water inputs
and outputs to the site, which is measured by
flow meters, is automatically maintained in the
sites history and corresponding trend displays.
The water treat-
ment plant at
Branstons
Seavington site
SolutionsPT
T: 0161 495 4600
www.solutionspt.com
Enter 220
Speedigus rapid tooling service: You get
real moulded igus
parts in the next few

days. Send us a 3D model to try it.
its speedigus
/speedigus
igus
(UK) Limited Phone 01604 677240 Fax 677245

speedigus@igus.co.uk order-service: Mon-Fri 8-8, Sat 8-12
Lightning fast
but no grease
Enter 24
A
s automation solutions become
increasingly complex, it follows
that the effort required to main-
tain both hardware and software
will also increase. PCs must be pro-
vided with suitable specification and
Operating Systems to support the
applications. Whilst in operation,
these systems must be constantly
reviewed and updated normally
through the application of security
patches, updates, service packs and so
forth. This will apply to every
installed system and application pro-
gram during the lifetime of the system.
To reduce the amount of ongoing
administration and maintenance effort
associated with update issues, the
automation world is turning increas-
ingly to virtualisation and the oppor-
tunity it provides to decouple
applications from hardware.
This creates the ability to centrally
manage the application and simplify
back up and restoration of the system
environment. Client environments can
be installed just once and distributed
among one or two virtualisation
servers using virtual sessions
(instances). It is also much easier to
implement IT security solutions on
central virtualisation servers than via
numerous client stations. Last but not
least, virtualisation eliminates the
restriction of target devices to a partic-
ular hardware, allowing even more
complex applications to run on simple,
low-cost, and robust thin clients.
Clients and servers virtualised
One of the innovations of Service Pack 2
of the Simatic WinCC Version 7 SCADA
system is the virtualisation option for
both WinCC clients and WinCC servers
on various hardware platforms.
Through this option, owners of medium
and large automation solutions, as well
as smaller multiple station and single
station systems have the ability to
reduce hardware, administration, and
maintenance costs.
The virtualisation is based on
VMware ESX(i) 4.1 - one of VMwares
globally-established hypervisor appli-
cations for virtualisation. It is installed
on central (and ideally redundant) vir-
tualisation servers with adequate per-
formance in order to ensure
appropriate background allocation of
available system resources (CPUs,
work memory, storage media, commu-
nication, etc.) among the virtual client
and server applications.
Key here is the fact that this type of
virtual server can accommodate up to
25 virtual client sessions of different
types without these sessions affecting
each other all on a single hardware
platform. Access to these virtual client
sessions is via Ethernet using a stan-
dard Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
session. This means that there is no
longer a need for powerful client side
hardware, which opens the door for the
use of simple, compact, and low-cost
thin clients, such as robust PDAs or
panels without rotating parts, e.g., with
Solid State Disk (SSD), for operator
control and monitoring in the field.
As a result, it is much easier to
choose a client and to use clients in
harsh industrial environments, includ-
ing hazardous areas. If a failure occurs,
it is possible to use a thin client with
higher or lower screen resolution
without making any additional set-
tings, which minimises downtimes.
Consolidation reduces costs
The ability to operate several WinCC
servers and/or client sessions on a cen-
tral platform (also away from the field
level) reduces PC hardware and net-
work components, as well as acquisi-
tion costs and ongoing operating costs
for power/maintenance/spare part
considerations. The number of client
sessions is limited only by the perfor-
mance capability of the virtualisation
server and not by the SCADA system.
Administration and maintenance
An important advantage of virtualisa-
tion is that the operating system and
automation application(s) no longer
have to be individually installed
and maintained on every client.
Virtualisation reduces this to a one-time
installation or a central updating of the
VMware and of a small number of dif-
ferent client sessions on the server.
Simplified protection from
malicious software
Every inadequately protected operator
control station having a USB port,
floppy disk drive, or hard disk drive is
potentially vulnerable to a certain
degree to malicious software and
requires more effort in this regard than a
virtual system solution. This is because
the lack of interfaces in simple thin
clients makes them generally less vul-
nerable to malware than fully-fledged
PCs. Providing security at a central loca-
tion requires much less effort, quite
apart from the fact that the operating
systems of professional server solutions,
which frequently are not Windows-
based, are generally at a lower risk.
Increased availability
In virtualised solutions, it is possible to
achieve high levels of availability
even when system components require
replacement through the use of RAID
systems. Software can be updated
during operation, clients can be added
to or removed from the system, and the
switchover from one client to the other
can take place within a few seconds. In
addition, a configurable alarm manage-
ment function is available which noti-
fies the operator in the event of system
errors or when critical system loads are
reached. All of this contributes to high
availability and productivity.
SCADA virtualisation delivers real benefits
Virtualisation for SCADA systems brings many benefits such
as time and cost savings, greater levels of security and
operational efficiency advantages. A new service pack for
Siemens WinCC Version 7 SCADA system provides owners
of automation solutions, the means to reduce hardware,
administration, and maintenance costs. Tony Chapman from
Siemens Industry Automation highlights some of the key
areas where SCADA virtualisation can add real value
Tony Chapman from
Siemens Industry
Automation
Siemens Industry
Automation & Drive
Technologies
T: 0845 7705070
www.siemens.co.uk
/automation
Enter 221
With its MAC502 reader,
Pepperl+Fuchs is launching a
stationary universal code reader
that can read all common 1-D and
2-D codes (26 different code sym-
bologies) at speeds of up to 10m/s
and 30 readings per second.
With a large depth of focus, the
code reader can reliably read
codes at distances from 60mm to
190mm without having to make
any mechanical or electronic
modifications. Small Data Matrix
codes and large barcodes are
detected due to the large read
field of up to 110mm x 70mm.
There is no need to install config-
uration software to parameterise
and operate the code reader, as
these tasks are handled by a
modern web interface provided
by a web server integrated in the
code reader. A prerequisite is that
the code reader is connected to
the company network or a PC via
the integrated Ethernet interface.
The web interface is accessed
by entering the IP address of the
reader in the address line of any
Internet browser, enabling the
code reader to be configured with
a convenient user interface on
any PC. The code reader has a
code quality output to prevent
the loss of readings. If this falls
below a predefined value, the
user is warned in plenty of time.
Pepperl+Fuchs
T: 0161 622 6308
www.pepperl-fuchs.com
Enter 224
Products Technology file
Enclosures suit
the food industry
Food safety is an ongoing concern and
Rittal has invested significant engineer-
ing resources to ensure its enclosures
meet the hygiene requirements in the
food and processing industry.
Enclosures of all types are required to
operate critical processes and Rittal
has engineered a range of stainless
steel enclosures to help increase pro-
ductivity whilst, at the same time opti-
mising hygienic protection.
Whether on the plant floor of a
bottling facility or in the clean room of a
meat processing plant, Rittals stainless
steel enclosures and human machine
interface (HMI) products are said to be
engineered to suit the application.
Constructed with 304 and 316L stain-
less steel and certified up to IP69K, the
enclosures are said to be suitable for
food and beverage applications where
sanitation concerns necessitate fre-
quent wash downs. Stainless steel
construction and innovative design can
result in higher productivity, greater
system availability and improved
cleaning capabilities.
Rittal
T: 01709 704000
www.rittal.co.uk Enter 227
High precision
clamping device
The Tribos polygonal clamping tech-
nology from Schunk is a comprehen-
sive program for high-precision tool
clamping. From micro to volume cut-
ting, the patented clamping system
delivers permanently high true-running
accuracy, vibration damping and the
possibility to pre-adjust the length to
exactly where you want it. The modified
universal clamping device is now said
to clamp all Tribos mountings quickly,
precisely and energy-efficiently.
The fully automatic Tribos SVP-4 is
more compact and lighter while a new
type of pump ensures the device works
more quietly. It can be actuated with a
220V alternating current from the grid,
or for mobile use by battery. An intu-
itive operational concept simplifies the
clamping operation.
The TRIBOS polygonal clamping
technology is available for all conven-
tional machine tool interfaces. It is
used in the automotive, aerospace,
mould & die, medical technology and
in the machine and plant building
industry.
Schunk Intec
T: 01908
611127
gb.schunk.com
Enter 225
ABB can now offer a complete range
of high-efficiency motors for explo-
sive atmospheres with the launch
of IE2 motors in frame sizes 80 to
132. Its range of IECEx/ATEX
certified motors now covers frame
sizes 80 to 450, with power ratings
of 0.55kW - 950kW. The motors are
rated at efficiency class IE2 at 400V 50Hz.
The motors are available in two to eight pole versions,
in all protection classes. High-efficiency means savings in energy costs
and reduced CO
2
emissions while also offering the advantages of
increased safety, longer lifetime, lower maintenance, higher reliability
and uninterupted production.
An improved fastening of the fan cover on sizes 80 to 112 prevents
vibration problems, while detachable forged steel feet offer maximum
durability and resistance to shock loads. Motors for explosive atmos-
pheres are not covered by the EU MEPS energy saving regulations, but
they are included in IEC standard 60034-30. Demand for high effi-
ciency motors for explosive atmospheres is increasing, and ABB can
now meet this demand with a range of products in all protection types.
ABB T: 01925 741111 www.abb.co.uk/energy Enter 226
Explosive atmosphere motor range
Visio Nerf, headquarted near Nantes in France has created an infrared
vision system using Sony cameras to rapidly identify fertilised eggs
and incubate them to hatching to prepare for Thanksgiving and
Christmas seasons. The system connects a proprietary CPU and light-
ing system with a Sony XC-EI50 near infrared camera.
The vision system is able to accurately analyse a wide range of stan-
dard egg varieties, including turkey, duck, pheasant and chicken, and
processes over 50,000 eggs per hour; depending on egg species and
incubation tray conditions, this can increase to 150,000 eggs per hour;
many orders of magnitude greater than even the most skilled candler.
And the adoption of the technology is proving phenomenal, with a
rapidly growing number of hatcheries using it; not just to meet the
Christmas demand but to also to meet the constant demand for other
birds, notably the 50 billion
chickens reared globally for food
each year.
Sony
www.sony.net
Enter 222
Sensor module with adjustable trip alarms
Infrared system finds fertilised eggs
The HS-510 dual trip amplifier module from Hansford
Sensors is suitable for operation with the Hansford
Sensors range of industrial accelerometers in situa-
tions where vibration levels need to be monitored,
tripping alarm relays at predetermined points.
The HS-510 will accept inputs of 0 to 10 Volts DC or
4-20mA, which can be direct from the HS-420 indus-
trial accelerometers or via other Hansford Sensor mod-
ules such as the HS-530, HS-535, HS-556 or HS-557.
The front panel digital display allows the operator to
set the trip values which when exceeded operate the
internal dual relays, the contacts of which can be used
for visual or audible alarms or to control or shutdown
machinery or process plant. This application is said to provide the engineer with a sys-
tem offering full protection for valuable plant and machinery. The relays are rated 3Amps
at 240 Volts AC in normally open or closed format, in latching or non-latching modes.
The compact HS-510 module measures only 114.5 x 99 x 22.5mm.
Hansford Sensors T: 0845 680 1957 hansfordsensors.com Enter 223
Code reader for all common codes
AUTO-FEB12-PG33:Auto-Feb10-32.qxd 14/02/2012 14:42 Page 33
Products Technology file
Mini temp transmitter is big on features
Omegas TX-M12 series of temper-
ature transmitters are a new range
offering improved performance
over conventional in-head
devices. Housed in a rugged stain-
less steel enclosure, they are said
to provide fast, secure and water-
tight connections for both the
sensor and the instrumentation.
At a fraction of the size of stan-
dard head-mounted transmitters
measuring 38mm diameter with a
height of 20mm and weighing just
100g, they are ideally suited to a
broad range of applications.
They can accept a variety of
resistance sensors, including
Pt100, Pt500 and Pt1000, Ni100,
Ni1000 and variable resistance up
to 10,000 ohms. The integral M12
connectors maintain IP67 protec-
tion, whilst allowing for a quick
and simple change of sensor.
Omega
T: 0161 777 6611
www.omega.co.uk Enter 229
Positioner combinations close control loop
Burkert UK has expanded its
range of products for providing
complete process solutions in
the food, pharmaceutical, bio-
technology, medical and water
treatment sectors, with the
introduction of a range of 2/2
stainless steel ball valves,
available manual or complete
with quarter turn single or double acting
rotary actuators, and the facility for low
cost positioning control via Burkerts
innovative side control positioner.
Supplied in port sizes from 1/4 to 4in,
threaded, flanged, weld or clamp ended,
and suitable for use up to +120C (and
down to -10C), the 2652 and 2655 ball
valves are equipped with stainless steel
PTFE seals for use with gaseous
and liquid media. They are sup-
plied with quarter turn pneu-
matic rotary actuators, which
have optical position indicators,
mechanical feedback and pilot
valve connections for NAMUR
pilot valves, or Burkert Side
Control positioners.
Complementing the 2652/2655 units
for more precise valve operation is
Burkerts low cost type 8791 BASIC
positioner. Suitable for a wide range of
applications, the 8791 BASIC is suitable
for use in harsh environments due to its
protection class IP65/67.
Burkert T: 01453 731353
www.burkert.co.uk Enter 228
Bearing materials for the food and bev processing industry
Bearings specialist igus UK now offers a range of bearing products that are
blue in colour for easier detection in the food and drinks industry. The
new iglidur A350 polymer plain bearing material is FDA-approved (Food
and Drug Administration USA) and the igubal polymer material can also
be recognised by metal detectors; both materials are manufactured com-
pletely from tribo-optimised plastic.
In the UK the contamination of food is illegal under The Food Safety Act
1990, that states: It shall be a defence for the person charged to prove that
he took all reasonable precautions and exercised all due diligence to avoid
the commission of the offence by himself or by a person under his control.
The use of a visually detectable product with a colour not naturally found very often in nature is a rea-
sonable precaution, explains Matt Aldridge of igus UK. For this reason, blue-coloured products have
become the de facto standard blue-coloured items, ranging from plasters to hair nets, are now widely used
in food preparation areas and large scale mass produced food lines, which is why weve developed a blue
range of bearings designed specifically for this industry.
The igus igubal detectable plastic range includes lubricant and maintenance-free rod end bearings and
clevis joints, flange, pivoting and pillow block bearings, which are suitable for dry use at application temper-
atures ranging from -30 to +80C. They can run in liquids as well as chemicals, and are corrosion-resistant.
igus T: 01604 677240 www.igus.co.uk/bluebearingforfoodindustry Enter 230
New range of
modular cabinets
Fulfilling a wide variety of uses for
industrial control applications and built
on a rugged frame structure ENUX
modular cabinets are available fully
assembled or supplied as Flat-Pack for
ease of handling.
ENUX is available in over 90 frame
sizes with single door, double door and
a stylish Plexi-Glass door option.
A key feature on offer is the innova-
tive Lever style latch design offering
good aesthetics and functionality
which also colour matches with the
cabinet roof and plinth base to provide
a modern clean appearance.
The ENUX range of modular cabinets
is complimented with a host of service
offerings that allow greater customisa-
tion, flexibility and convenience.
ETAs assemble-to-order pro-
gramme, including enclosure painting
and machining enables customers to
specify the degree of assembly that
best suits their requirements.
ETA Enclosures
T: 01709 386630
www.eta-enclosures.co.uk
Enter 231
Protection from
electrical hazards
Users of the Allen-Bradley CENTERLINE
2100 motor control center (MCC) from
Rockwell Automation can help reduce
workers exposure to live voltage with
SecureConnect. This new, optional
safety feature allows operators to dis-
connect the power from an individual
MCC plug-in unit without opening the
enclosure door or entering the arc flash
boundary. SecureConnect enables per-
sonnel to disengage an individual MCC
unit from the power source before
opening the door to perform mainte-
nance or troubleshooting, which can be
done at the unit or remotely.
SecureConnect addresses safety at
the unit level, adding a third tier to the
Rockwell Automation safety portfolio
for low-voltage MCCs.
Rockwell Automation
T: 0870 242 5000
uk.rockwellautomation.com
Enter 233
Evolving ergonomics with multi-touch
In the area of consumer electron-
ics, multi-touch has not only
changed the ergonomics of
devices, it has changed user habits
as well. In industrial automation,
this technology has the potential
to make machine operation more
intuitive, faster and safer - in
essence, to bring about a revolu-
tion in ergonomics for machine
and system visualisation units.
At the SPS/IPC/Drives exhibition
in Nuremberg, B&R introduced
devices that allow multi-touch
input in industrial environments.
It promises an increase in
usability by simplifying system
operation while increasing the
level of safety at the same time.
Operations where one hand is
used to open up a menu while the
other sets parameters setting are
definitely a possibility. This
would eliminate the need to jump
back and forth between sub-
menus.
Operational safety can also be
increased by implementing meth-
ods such as blocking certain
actions until an additional button
is pressed simultaneously with
the other hand.
B&R Industrial Automation
T: 01733 371320
www.br-automation.com Enter 232
SHOWCASE Advertorial
TruTorque
screwdrivers
A
n important development in torque tools has
taken place with the launch of an innovative
range of Norbar TruTorque torque screwdrivers.
The selection includes adjustable tools providing
exceptional flexibility of use and also fixed torque
versions, P Types, that have been designed for the
production environment and pre-set for specific
workplace demands.
These new Norbar products are safe, easy-to-use
and extraordinarily accurate, to better than the
International Standard. They offer high performance
capabi l i ti es for deal i ng wi th a wi de range of
precision tasks requiring sensitive and safe screw
connection. These include:
Electronic assembly
Automoti ve appl i cati ons such as assembl i ng
crash sensors, inertia reel fixtures, airbags and
interior trim.
Fitting cutting tool inserts
All adjustable tools are supplied with traceable
calibration certificates.
Norbar Torque Tools Ltd.
Tel: 01295 270333
Web: www.norbar.com enter 800
Precision Fluid Dispensing
Workstation Ultimus V
E
liminates variability by removing operator guesswork from the
process. The amount applied is determined by a combination of
(1) air pressure, (2) dispense time and (3) tip size. To make identical
dots or fill cavities with consistent volumes of material, the user
adjusts air pressure to achieve the desired flow rate and then sets
deposit size with the digital timer.
For fluids that change viscosity, the Ultimus V high-precision
dispenser can store and automatically adjust dispensing settings to
keep the amount of fluid applied constant.
Can be mounted on robot to automate the process
EFD International Tel: 01582 666334 Email: europe@nordsonefd.com enter 801
Active Brake Rectifiers
- Clever Connections which save Time & Effort
M
urrelektronik's active brake rectifiers make connecting DC brakes easier. Now
the contactor and rectifier modules are combined! So far, brake components
were installed separately: in the control cabinet and on the terminal board of the
motor. Now, with Murrelektroniks active brake rectifiers, they are included in one
compact component. The DC brakes are controlled directly from the control
cabinet. And thanks to the integrated semiconductor switch, they never require
maintenance. The active brake rectifiers receive a signal from the PLC via a 24 V DC control input. A
semiconductor switch, which never wears out, controls the rectified output voltage of the brake. In the
initial state the DC brake is mechanically closed, and then is released when the magnetic coils are
activated. Approved mains voltages from 230 to 480 V AC make Murrelektronik brake rectifiers suitable
for various applications. They also have UL approval which ensures they can be used worldwide. The
active brake rectifier can be installed easily thanks to the pluggable spring clamp terminals. Pluggable
components for the control input and output voltage enable quick and safe installation.
Murrelektronik Ltd. Tel 0161 728 3133 Web: www.murrelektronik.co.uk enter 803
Novotechnik RFC4800 series
'touchless technology'
T
owcester UK January 2012: Voith Hydro Wavegen, the Inverness based
marine renewable wave power specialists recently completed installation of
the world's first commercial wave power plant. Located in Mutriku in Northern
Spain the 300 kW plant is based upon Wavegen's Nearshore Oscillating Water Column (OWC)
technology which employs Novotechnik RFC4800 series 'touchless technology' non contacting angle
sensors supplied by Variohm EuroSensor. Recognising the considerable benefit of this renewable and
abundant energy source, the Basque Energy Board (EVE) commissioned Wavegen's Nearshore OWC to
be built into a new breakwater that was required to provide sea defence protection for the harbour at
Mutriku. The technology has enormous worldwide potential for ocean facing coastlines and small
islands. The civil structure at Mutriku has 16 integrated Wells turbines that are located above a large
chamber with an opening that is submerged under the water. As the ocean swell rises and falls so does
the water level in the chamber. Rising water compresses the chamber air which is forced through the
turbine generator. The falling water then sucks the air back through the turbine into the chamber. The
Wells turbine is driven in the same direction irrespective of the air direction. The electricity generated
is conditioned and exported to the grid enough to power 250 homes.
Variohm Tel: 01327 351004 Web: www.variohm.com enter 802
Relay Modules for easier system debug!
F
use failure indication makes plant maintenance
quicker ensuring the customer can get, up and
working again with minimum delay. Colter Products
are offering a NEW range of off the Shelf Din rail
mounting relay modules that offer fuse failure
indication for each relay output. The modules use
the Bussmann mechanical fuse failure indication on
each circuit to provide an alarm signal which can
be connected to a PLC which in turn can flag an
alarm on a SCADA system directing maintenance to
an identifiable individual relay. The modules are
particularly useful in large control systems. 1,4,8
&16 channel relay modules are available as shown
in the photograph. Relay Coil voltages are typically
24Vdc but 12 & 48Vdc are also offered.
Colter Products Ltd. Tel: 01371 876887 Web: www.coltergroup.co.uk enter 804
RDP transducers in
demand from UK
space industry
W
i th the growi ng i mportance of the UKs
expandi ng space and satel l i te i ndustry,
demand for specially manufactured transducers from
RDP Electronics Ltd is increasing. The completely
sealed transducers use low outgassing materials to
standards specified by NASA for applications in
space. In parti cul ar avoi di ng the potenti al for
contamination of other components on a space
vehicle for example optical devices such as mirrors
or cameras, due to expelled gases from transducers.
RDPs manufacturing process mimimises the risk of
damage to the transducer by means of slow pressure
changes and also by modifications to ensure that
there are no sealed cavities in which a pressure
differential could cause damage. Out-gassing into
the vacuum of vapour escapi ng from i nternal
adhesives and varnishes is reduced by controlled
baking of the transducer to thoroughly dry out
such materials.Transducers for the space industry
are also fully welded ensuring any residual vapours
are sealed inside the unit.
RDP Electronics Ltd.
Tel: 01902 457512
Web: www.rdpe.com enter 805
Auto-Feb12-PG_AUTO 14/02/2012 10:30 Page 35
New modular
industrial
patch panel
M
IPP i s the fi rst
modul ar i ndustri al
patch panel in the market
able to combine copper and
fi ber management i n one
solution offering significant
space and cost savi ngs.
Belden has introduced the
new MIPP, a termination
panel for cables that need to
be connected to acti ve
equipment such as switches, Industrial Ethernet
devices and any other device with an Ethernet link,
offeri ng greater system rel i abi l i ty and ease of
i nstal l ati on. The MIPP provi des the i deal
connecti on between Bel den cabl es and
Hirschmann switches and is designed to have the
same look and feel as the Hirschmann range of
products. Using patchcords to connect to active
equipment, cables can be terminated outside the
cabinet in an organised and structured manner to
ensure the highest level of reliability. Installation is
qui ck and easy, savi ng ti me and si gni fi cantl y
reducing initial set-up costs, whilst at the same time
contributing to greater reliability and easier and
more efficient system management, requiring less
mai ntenance. Wi th a l i ghtwei ght al umi ni um
structure which increases its overall versatility, the
MIPP, can easily be mounted on a DIN Rail, or it
can even be fixed at the sides of the cabinets simply
using a wall mount plate.
Belden
Tel: 1-800-235-3361 Web: www.belden.com
Multi-channel controller
has a larger display and more I/O options
I
mpress Sensors & Systems has launched a compact, multi-channel controller
with large touchscreen colour TFT display and up to 72 digital I/O. The new
CMC-141 controller is the big brother of the CMC-99, providing all the same
functionality and features, but also offering a larger 5.7-inch (320 x 240 pixels)
backlit display, more I/O, a universal input card that can accommodate a range of sensor inputs. New
counter inputs are provided too, as well as additional flow meter and rate meter inputs. The CMC-141
can simultaneously record all channel data at a maximum speed of 10Hz (ten samples per second). The
unit provides up to 1.5GB of internal data memory, which is sufficient to continuously save data from
all input channels at a speed of 1 sample per second for more than 2 months (125,000,000 samples
in total). The operator can download saved data using a USB flash memory disk or remotely via
Ethernet. The CMC-141 provides three card slots on the reverse of the controller, each comprising 24
I/O pin options, which enable the user to choose any combination of inputs and outputs to suit the
application. For example, up to 72 analogue current or voltage inputs could be used; up to 36 relay/SSR
outputs; 36 thermocouple inputs; 18 RTD inputs; or a combination of these. The unit also incorporates
a 24V DC digital input, enabling relays and triggers to be set up.
Impress Sensors & Systems Tel: 0118 981 7980 Web: www.impress-sensors.co.uk
Easynest offers automatic true-shape
nesting for Vision T5
E
SAB Cutti ng Systems EasyNest adds automati c true-shape nesti ng
capabilities to its Vision T5 CNC controller. By integrating with ESABs
EasyShape library, EasyNest makes part nesting easier than ever. Parts can be
added from the shape library, imported from CAD files, or imported from
existing part programs. The operator simply enters the sheet size and the
desired number of each part. The Vision T5 then generates as many sheets as
necessary to fit the required parts. EasyNest permits automatic nesting right
at the machine, eliminating the need to purchase off-line programming software for many applications.
Many small shops prefer to have the machine operator also do the programming and nesting, and
EasyNest makes this easier than ever. It lets an operator quickly generate nests using one or more
programs to be cut from the same material, maximizing plate utilisation. This not only saves time in
programming but also reduces the machine set-up time by cutting multiple parts in one set up. An easy-
to-use wizard interface takes only minutes to learn, with no CAD or nesting experience required.
EasyNest automatically adds lead-ins/lead-outs based on material type and thickness.
ESAB Cutting Systems Tel: 01264 332233 Web: www.esab.co.uk enter 807
Bifold releases Direct
Mount NAMUR Solutions
B
ifold Group introduces their range of direct mount solenoid
valves, manifold and accessories for general valve actuator
applications. These valves are available in 3/2 or 5/2 5/3 port
configurations. Compact in its design, the solenoid valve features a NAMUR mounting pattern
according to VDI/VDE 3845 designed to mount to any NAMUR valve actuator thus reducing actuator
response times, space requirements and also negating the need for a back plate. Installation costs are
lower as the need for tubing, fittings, brackets and assembly labour are greatly reduced. All mounting
screws and seals are included with the valve. What differentiates the Bifold design to any other on the
market is the unique patented mounting/spacer block which is free to rotate through 360. This
feature avoids the solenoid housing from coming into contact with the switch box and ensures the
Filter Regulator remains upright at all times. Our system will accommodate all valve actuators in any
orientation = NO RESTRICTIONS.
Bifold Fluidpower Ltd. Tel: 0161 345 4777 Web: www.bifold.co.uk enter 808
Malvern and IIT
announce
a new partnership
I
nternati onal Innovati ve Technol ogi es (IIT,
Gateshead, UK) is working in partnership with
Malvern Instruments to incorporate new in-line
particle size distribution analysis systems in its
speci al i st l ow energy mi l l i ng equi pment. IIT
specializes in the design and manufacture of a new
patented powder milling technology and associated
classification equipment. Installation of a Malvern
Insitec in-line particle size analyzer as part of the
system will enable real-time optimization of particle
size distribution in the milled material, accelerating
the development of powder milling and processing
solutions that combine excellent product quality
wi th l ow power consumpti on. IIT i s typi cal l y
approached by customers targeting a well-defined
particle size distribution specification, especially for
products such as abrasives, where particle size
directly influences product performance. Currently
engineers develop a solution with reference to off-
line data.
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Tel: 01684 892456
Web: www.malvern.com enter 811
Kee Safety utilizes QuantumX in
product development
B
erkshire-based safety specialist, Kee Safety is using a range of HBM
products to ensure that its latest Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
conforms to European Standard EN 795:1997 for anchor devices in
protecting workers against the possibility of falls from height. Kee Safety
uses HBMs Quantum MX840, U9B force transducers and catmanEasy software for the research and
development of its horizontal life line, KeeLine, in both dynamic drop tests and static tests on full-scale
built-up roofs at its factory. KeeLine is a wire-based personal protection system that comprises 8
mm grade, 316 stainless steel wire with electro-polished brackets and detachable travellers to provide
flexible, continuous protection for up to three users working at height. The system is suitable for fitting
on roofs or horizontal/overhead structural applications. It has been developed for use by working
teams carrying out essential roof top maintenance tasks, and incorporates an Inline Shock Absorber
that minimizes loads to an acceptable level for both the user and structure in the event of a fall. The
Inline Shock Absorber allows the KeeLine system to be installed to lightweight modern roof
constructions with minimal or no roof penetrations.
HBM Tel: 0208 515 6100 Web: www.hbm.com enter 809
enter 810
enter 806
Intelligent Universal Stator
T
he new Kistler KiTorq torque measuring flange system operates without an
antenna ring and has standard flange geometry conforming to ISO7646 for
easy installation. The open stator design allows faster installation whilst
minimising the risk of damage and easier visual inspection during testing. The
universal, intelligent stator may be used with any KiTorq rotor of the same
speed rating for greater operational flexibility. A choice of 500, 1,000, 2,000 or
3,000 Nm measuring ranges is available each with an accuracy class of 0.05%
of range. The system has an excellent torque signal bandwidth of up to 10 kHz
and a 60 pulses per revolution speed output. A single, intelligent stator can be
used with any KiTorq rotor of the same speed rating and will automatically recognise the rotor
measuring range. This minimises hardware investment as one stator may be used with rotors of
differing ranges for different applications. Installation is simplified by the contactless, digital telemetry
that does not require an antenna ring. The lack of an antenna ring has not reduced the precision of
the sensor which has an excellent signal bandwidth of 10 kHz and accuracy of better than 0.05%. The
stator supplies frequency, analogue and digital signals outputs that are fully scalable via an RS-232 or
USB interface.
Kistler Instruments Ltd. Tel: 01256 741550 Web: www.kistler.co.uk enter 814
Laser marking
polypropylene aids
traceability
L
aser marking traceability codes provides a permanent easily readable code without the use of inks
or paper labels for a perfect green labelling solution. UK distributor Laser Lines Ltd offers the
compl ete range of Synrad CO2 l asers i deal l y sui ted for thi s l aser marki ng appl i cati on.
International Battery (IB) is a green technology company providing rechargeable lithium-ion cells and
batteries. The outer covers of their battery cells require both in-process and after-the-sale traceability
information for each cell. However, traditional adhesive printed labels did not adhere well and were
prone to lifting or peeling. IB discovered that the Synrad CO2 laser marker was the perfect solution as
the laser mark is permanent and easy to read. It also eliminates the consumables inherent in other
marking processes (ink/paper labels) which further reinforces International Batterys green business
philosophy.
Laserlines Tel: 01295 672500 Web: www.laserlines.co.uk enter 815
Variohm EuroSensor
adds new triaxial accelerometer to
vibration sensor range
T
owcester UK January 2012: Vari ohm
EuroSensor has added a new tri axi al
accelerometer to its vibration sensor range that has
improved in-band signal fidelity and a 50% increase
in dynamic range over previously available models.
The new 993B-7-M12, from Variohm's distribution
partner, Meggitt Wilcoxon Research Inc., has a
rugged hermetically sealed design that is well suited
for general purpose preventative maintenance use
on motors, pumps compressors and other critical
rotating equipment - and with its robust M12
connector and easily replaced cable assemblies, is
equally suited to permanent mount or field portable
hand-held use. The 993B-7-M12 offers simultaneous
3-axis monitoring with 100 mV/g sensitivity over a
60 g peak accel erati on range, wi th frequency
response to 10 kHz in Z and to 7 kHz in X and Y. The
low noise accelerometer design includes built-in
IEPE amplifiers to minimise out of band signal
influence and includes EMI/RFI shielded electronics
as well as reverse wiring protection.
Variohm
Tel: 01327 351004
Web: www.variohm.com enter 817
Anixter Component
Solutions
Catalogue
45 now available
L
eading component and cable accessories supplier,
Anixter Component Solutions, are pleased to
announce the l aunch of thei r new product
catalogue. A notable addition to the catalogue is
the extensive range of PCB terminal blocks, fuses,
fuse holders, indicators and modular push buttons
from their new supply partner Camden Boss. With
over 2,000 new product lines the catalogue provides
300 pages of comprehensive product specifications,
making it an ideal tool for both the purchasing and
engineering based user. Other new products include
Si l i cone and rubber based potti ng compounds,
flexible conduit contractor packs, energy saving
switches and sensors and various new styles of PCB
pillars and spacers.
Anixter Component Solutions
Tel: 01202 865222
Web: www.anixtercomponents.com enter 812
New Touchscreen Interlock
Management System
D
utch interlock specialist Netherlocks has now launched its new Interlock
System Information (ISI) Touch Screen key management device. As a
standalone unit or integrated into either a key cabinet or control panel, the
ISI Touch Screen stores all relevant information about an interlock system in
a digitised, centralised, user-friendly format that is easily accessible by any
operator without a need for specialised training. All relevant interlock keys
are shown on screen, and simply touching them will display detailed
information about the key itself and the related system: system name,
operating sequence logic, P&ID and Location. Additional buttons are present for on-screen instructions,
general interlocking information and Netherlocks contact details; company-specific content can also be
added if desired. If a printer is connected, operating sequence instructions can even be printed out for
future reference away from the console. By making clear information about the lock system and safety
procedures easily available to everyone in the workplace, the ISI Touchscreen helps to keep all workers
well-informed to reduce confusion, enhance productivity and improve plant safety.
Netherlocks BV Tel: +31 (0)172 471 339 Web: www.netherlocks.com enter 813
Portable arc welding solutions
for tough professional work
T
he renowned Murex Tradesarc range consists of robust and durable
welding units designed for the professional welder. They feature large
cable connectors for higher durability and an impact resistant polymer and
aluminium casing. The Tradesarc 150 and 200 are light and easy to carry, yet
the size does not compromise the important cooling of the internal
components. Large heat sinks and clever design ensures a cooler running
machine with a longer life expectancy when used in harsh working
environments. The design also helps to keep all sensitive parts inside the
machine clean and dust free. The Tradesarcs are built in accordance with
IP23, so they can be used outdoors - even in the rain. The Tradesarc 150 and
200 are 230 volt single-phase power sources equipped with a Power Factor Correction (PFC) circuit
making it possible to use the full range of the machine on a 16 A fuse. The PFC also protects the
machines against fluctuating mains voltage and makes it safer to use with a generator. Both Tradesarcs
can work with extra long mains cables, over 100 m, giving a very large working radius. The control
panel of the Tradesarc 150 has only one knob for current setting making it extremely easy to set.
Murex Tel: 0800 3893152 Email: info@murexwelding.co.uk enter 816
New 3-D animation and graphics
features in simulation software
R
ockwell Automation today announced the release Software Arena
simulation software v14.0. The latest version includes the new
Visual Designer tool that allows users to build realistic 3-D animation
and dynamic business graphic dashboards in an intuitive drag-and-
drop environment. With the new functionality users can better
visualise simulation models and more effectively communicate the
impact of process changes to operations and business management,
promoting faster user adoption, time-to-value and overall greater total benefits of ownership. Arena
software helps businesses analyse the impact of "what-if" business ideas, rules and strategies by
creating a simulated environment before they develop or implement a new process or technology. By
simulating or modeling the process in a virtual environment, Arena software can provide added
guidance to users that are analysing the best approach to a situation. For example, an oil producer can
determine how to most effectively queue oil tankers at a port for faster loading and shipment, or a food
producer can determine how to produce more packaged goods without increasing waste.
Rockwell Automation Tel: 0870 242 5000 Web: uk.rockwellautomation.com
Raytek expands its
MI3 pyrometer series
B
erlin Raytek adds two shortwave spectral
model s to i ts MI3 range for non-contact
temperature measurement. The new 1M/2M models
measure more accurately than longwave infrared
sensors, in particular reflective surfaces. They cover
a wi der measurement range than any of the
competitors products. A single model measures 500
- 1,800 C (1 m) or 250 - 1,400 C (1.6 m).
Measuring points can therefore be set up extremely
cost-effecti vel y, especi al l y si nce up to ei ght
individually addressable heads can be connected to
a single MI3 communication box a further unique
selling proposition of Raytek's MI3 system. The
fieldbus-capable communication box with an LCD
display is available either in a metal or in a top-hat
rail housing. Of course, the shortwave sensors have
all the advantages of the MI3 series: they offer
excellent data reliability, since the measured value is
converted into a digital signal directly in the sensor
head; they are easy to use and enable plug and play;
they are rugged (IP65) and offer excellent EMC
characteristics; and they can be used in ambient
temperatures of up to 120 C without cooling.
Raytek GmbH
Tel: +49 30 / 47 80 08 - 412
Web: www.raytek.de enter 818
ASCO Numatics G3 valve island with increased intelligence and
LCD for visual status and diagnostics
Latest G3 platform features a unique graphic display that supports
plain-language messaging for diagnostics, shows set-up information
and also allows self test functions
A
SCO Numatics G3 fieldbus next-generation, electronic platform valve island, is easy to assemble, install,
commission, and maintain, and features a graphic display for easy commissioning, visual status and
diagnostics. The robust connections are quick, easy to use and make the platform highly distributable.
The new G3 valve island offers increased intelligence in the form of new diagnostic functions and
enhanced plug-and-play capabilities for individual modules. The graphic display (in place of the usual LED
indicators) supports plain-language messaging of diagnostic information at both the module and
communication node level. The messages give the user direct information and this makes it easier to detect
shorted and open load, shorted sensor/cable, low and missing power, and missing module. It also allows
self-test activation and provides a log of any network/distribution errors.
The G3 Series product line is a completely modular system. Protected to IP65/NEMA 4, the G3 electronic
modules plug together, using an innovative clip design, allowing easy module removal/replacement
without dismantling the whole manifold. This makes the system highly user friendly. Additional flexibility
is incorporated because the same modules can be used in either centralised or distributed applications.
SPEEDCON M12 connector technology allows for fast and efficient turn I/O connector insertion and
the power connector scheme allows the output power to be removed while inputs and communications are
left active. An Auto Recovery Module (ARM) protects configuration information during a critical failure.
The G3 supports up to 256/544 inputs/outputs with one communication node of up to 32 valve
solenoids per manifold and up to 16 manifolds per communication node. One node supports 16 I/O
modules-analogue I/O, digital I/O (NPN & PNP) and the unique distribution system allows system efficiency
by allowing the same modules to be used in either centralised or distributed applications. The G3
interfaces to valves with flow from 275 up to 3820 l/min ANR.
Communication protocols supported include DeviceNet, DeviceNet w/Quick Connect, EtherNet/IP,
PROFIBUS-DP, CANopen, PROFINET, MODBUS/TCP, DeviceLogix, and Powerlink. The G3 electronics interface with the highly modular Numatics generation 2000
Series, ISO 5599/2 and ISO15407-2 Series valve lines, to further enhance the modularity and flexibility of the entire system solution.
The G3 range of valve islands has many applications in packaging machinery, conveyors, robotics and valve piloting used in industries that include food
processing and machine automation.
ASCO Numatics Ltd. Tel: 01695 713600 Web: www.asconumatics.co.uk enter 821
Ocean Optics
Expands OEM Team
T
o meet the growing global demand for its OEM engineering
services, Ocean Optics (www.OceanOptics.com), the industry
leader in miniature photonics has appointed David Creasey,
Ph.D., to the newly created position Director of OEM Business.
Creasey will lead the companys dedicated OEM sales and
engineering teams in providing expert integration support to
original equipment manufacturers. Creasey joined Ocean Optics
in May, 2010 as OEM Sales Manager for EMEA (Europe, Middle
East, Africa) and has achieved significant growth in these
regions, working with customers from product inception to
product release. He received his BSc. (Hons.) and PhD in
Chemistry from the University of Leeds (United Kingdom).
Ocean Optics Inc.
Tel: +1.727.733.2447 Web: www.oceanoem.com
enter 819
enter 820
BUYERS GUIDE 01622 699126
BUYERS GUIDE
GRIPPING SYSTEMS & ROBOT ACCESSORIES
Market leading manufacturer of quality gripping and automation systems.
Parallel, angular and centric grippers / rotary, swivelling and linear units /
robot toolchanger systems / anti collision, overload protection & insertion
units / force sensors / rotary (electric / pneumatic) feed through units / Lirax
linear units for gantry applications and compact linear units with integrated
energy feed through for pick and place applications.
Schunk Intec Ltd
Cromwell Business Center, 10 Howard Way, Interchange Park,
Newport Pagnell MK16 9QS
Tel: 01908 611127 Fax: 01908 615525
E-mail: info@gb.schunk.com Web: www.gb.schunk.com
CONTROL SYSTEMS AND AUTOMATION
ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
Nordson EFD is the worlds leading
manufacturer of precision dispensing
systems for applying controlled
amounts of the adhesives, sealants,
lubricants and other assembly fuids
used in almost every industrial
manufacturing process.
Fluid Dispensers Valve Systems
Dispense Tips and Components
Solder Paste Industrial Robots
2-components fuid dispensing systems
+44 (0)1582 666334
europe@nordsonefd.com
www.nordsonefd.com/ads/am-1010
FLUID PRECISION DISPENSING EQUIPMENT
Stepper motors and drives
Servo motors and drives
DC motors and drives
Motion Controllers
Gearboxes
Rotary & Linear slides and tables
Operator panels
TOTAL MOTION SYSTEMS LTD
Unit 19, Lea Hall Enterprise Park,
Wheelhouse Road, Rugeley,
Staffordshire, WS15 1LH
Tel: + 44 (0)1889 577576
Fax: + 44 (0)1889 570023
Email: sales@totalmotionsystems.co.uk
Web: www.totalmotionsystems.co.uk
COUPLINGS
Dispensing Equipment
for all your liquid
dispensing needs!
3 and 4 axis robots
Bead and dot application
Accurate, repeatable
dispensing
Easily programmable
Eliminates operator error
Henkel Limited, Technologies House, Wood Lane End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4RQ
Phone 01442 278100 - Fax 01442 278071 - Email technicalservice.loctite@uk.henkel.com - www.loctite.co.uk
BUYERS GUIDE
VIPA Ltd | 6 Kempston Court, Kempston Hardwick, Bedford, MK43 9PQ | Tel: 01234 924324 | email: info@vipa.co.uk | www.vipa.co.uk
High Speed - up to 30 times faster than comparable PLCs
Supports STEP7 from Siemens or WINPLC7 from Vipa
Ethernet interface built-in as standard (Vipa 300S PLCs)
Wide range of Modules, Remote I/O, Modems and Accessories
Comprehensive range of Touch Panels & Line Displays
Total Solutions - IPCs, Drives, Motors, Motion Control & Complimentary Products
Automation & Drive Solutions from Vipa

on Court, K t s emp d | 6 K t A L Lt VIP PA

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el: 01234 92432 d, MK43 9PQ | TTe or

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PLC
From the control
cabinet
... Power supplies
... Transformers
... Power monitoring
... Suppression & filters
via the interface
... Relays
... Signal conditioning
... Interface modules
... Light towers
passive or active
into the field
... M12 & M8 connectors
... Valve connectors
... Distribution systems
... Fieldbus
YOUR SYSTEM PARTNER
Murrelektronik Ltd l Phone 0161 728 3133 l www.murrelektronik.co.uk l sales@murrelektronik.co.uk
FIELDBUS SYSTEMS
T: +44 (0)1959 563345
E: info@review-displays.co.uk
www.review-displays.co.uk
Designed to last
- Supports AMD T44R or T56N processors
- AMD Fusion A55E controller Hub
- 24-bit dual channel LVDS
- DDR3,1333Mhz memory support
- mSATA Nand Flash socket
- Dual Gbe LAN
- Serial ATAIII RAID
- Industrial grade
components
- Local design-in support
- Long product life
- Cost effective design
- Two year warranty
MINI ITX
RUNNING 24/7
CALL OUR TECHNICAL SUPPORT TEAM
FOR FURTHER DETAILED INFORMATION
Industrial motherboar
MIN
RUNNIN

d designed for 24/7 operation. Industrial motherboar
I ITX
NG 24/ 4/7

Local design-in support -
components
Industrial grade -
AIII RAID TTA Serial AAT -
Dual Gbe LAN -
A Nand Flash socket TTA mSAAT -
DDR3,1333Mhz memory support -
VDS 24-bit dual channel LLV -
oller Hub AMD Fusion A55E contr -
Supports AMD T44R or T56N pr -
Designed to last

DDR3,1333Mhz memory support
oller Hub
ocessors Supports AMD T44R or T56N pr

RMA
wo year warranty TTw -
fective design Cost efff -
oduct life Long pr -
NFO I D E L AI ET TA D ER H T R FU R FO
T R UPPO S L ICA HN TEC R LL OU A C

ON TI MA AT
TEAM T

INDUSTRIAL PC SOLUTIONS
BUYERS GUIDE
PLCS
Que Associates Limited
Phone 01926 410371 | info@que-online.com | www.net.que-online.com
TB20 Distributed Fieldbus I/O System
Separate terminal, electronics and base modules
Hot-plug electronic modules
lreely cohhgurable auxiliary cohLacL
lower module ihLegraLed ihLo Lhe heldbus-coupler
16 channel I/O modules
Modular with a compact size
Its different!
TB20.
POWER + PRECISION
ServoFit
P Planetary Gear Unit

www.stober.co.uk
Phone 01543 458 858
Helical gearing for extremely quiet running and
backlash stability. Robust solid shaft.
b Gear ratio range: 3 100
b Acceleration torque: 10 3000 Nm
M
1
2
U
K
GEARBOXES FOR SERVOMOTORS
MACHINE VISION
STEMMER I MAGI NG
supplies an extensive range of products from the world's leading
suppliers of machine vision components and systems: cameras,
illumination, frame grabbers, lenses, software, and smart cameras.
Our dedicated support team can shorten your time to market, pro-
viding invaluable engineering support working alongside your team
and offering expertise and advice on the latest vision developments.
STEMMER I MAGI NG LTD
The Old Barn, Grange Court
Tongham, Surrey
GU10 1DW
Phone: +44 1252 780000
Fax: +44 1252 780001
info@stemmer-imaging.co.uk
www.stemmer-imaging.co.uk
BUYERS GUIDE
Hot Spots.
ThermoView
Pi20
Process Imaging Camera
Cool Solutions.
Automated Thermal Imaging Made Easy
See your plant processes in a whole new light with the Raytek

ThermoView Pi20 process imager and DataTemp
Pi software.
IP54-rated thermal imaging camera
Intuitive, full-featured software
Multi camera support
Built-in Ethernet standard
System or process alarm outputs
The Worldwide Leader in Noncontact Temperature Measurement
Call 01908 370000 for application assistance or visit www.raytek.com
N
e
w
!
SENSORS
Contactless measuring principles
Electrical angles up to 360
14 Bit resolution
Programmable angles (non-linear)
Analogue and digital outputs
Redundant output
Programmable switches
Versatile housing options,
starting from 13mm
Sealed to IP69
Custom options
HOLDINGS
Company
Email: sales@variohm.com
Web: www.variohm.com
Tel: +44(0)1327 351004
Fax: +44(0)1327 353564
magnet
sensor
Free floating position magnet
Made-to-measure.
For your project.
www.sensortechnics.com
Sensortechnics UK & Ireland
McGowan House, 66C Somers Road
Rugby, Warwickshire CV22 7DH, UK
Phone: +44 1788 560426
E-mail: info@sensortechnics.com
PRAXIS-ORIENTATED
Besides offering a wide choice of standard products Sensortechnics is particularly
specialised in the development and manufacturing of customised sensors and sensor
systems. With made-to-measure solutions we enable our customers to be highly
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ERHFIRIGMEPWSPYXMSR
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forward to a new challenge.
CUSTOMISED SOLUTIONS LEVEL SENSORS
FLOW SENSORS PRESSURE SENSORS
Spaces available in
the Automation
Buyers Guide with
prices starting
from 900
for 12 months
Call Jon
on 01622 699126
SENSORS
Service from Bosch Rexroth
Bosch Rexroth, formerly known as Indramat
and Bosch offer:
These services are available for control systems,
servo drives, servo motors & PLCs
Contact Service on:
Telephone: +44 (0)1285 863049
Freephone: 0800 169 6624
Email: servicebrc@boschrexroth.co.uk
www.boschrexroth.co.uk
Local repairs
Field service
Genuine spare parts
Warranty up to 5 years
SERVO MOTORS AND DRIVE REPAIRS
WAGO Limited
Triton Park
Swift Valley Industrial Estate
Rugby CV21 1SG.
Tel: 01788 568008
Fax: 01788 568050
E-mail: ukmarketing@wago.com
www.wago.com
WAGO, innovators of the world-renowned spring pressure connection
concept, are fully committed to ongoing development in electrical,
electronic and I/O technology. The WAGO range includes I/O system
components for leading protocols as well as
electronic interface and power supply modules,
the WINSTA modular wiring system and
terminal blocks and connectors.
TERMINAL BLOCKS & CONNECTORS
AUTOMATION
Advantech Europe B.V. -
www.advantech.eu/eautomation
BTM Automation - www.clinching.co.uk
FIELDBUS SYSTEMS
Murrelektronik - www.murrelektronik.co.uk
FLUID PRECISION DISPENSING EQUIPMENT
EFD International - www.efd-inc.com
GRIPPING SYSTEMS AND ROBOT ACCESSORIES
Schunk Intec Ltd - www.schunk.com
LINEAR MOTION
igus UK - www.drylin-w.com
MACHINE GUARDING SYSTEMS
Leuze Electronic Ltd - www.leuze.co.uk
MACHINE VISION
Stemmer Imaging - www.visionelements.co.uk
MACHINE VISION SYSTEMS
OPTICAL DATA TRANSMISSION/MEASUREMENT
PHOTOELECTRIC SENSORS
SAFETY SYSTEMS
SENSORS
Sensortechnics - www.sensortechnics.com
Sick (UK) Ltd - www.sick.co.uk
TERMINAL BLOCKS & CONNECTORS
Wago Ltd - www.wago.com
VISION SYSTEMS
Stemmer Imaging - www.visionelements.com
Website Locator Industrial Website Snapshot & Key Industrial Website Addresses
Spaces available in the
Automation Buyers Guide with
prices starting from 900
for 12 months
call Jon
on 01622 699126
BUYERS GUIDE
Enter 2
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FEBRUARY 2012 PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY

INDUSTRY FOCUS INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

parts in the next few

(UK) Limited Phone 01604 677240 Fax 677245

P Planetary Gear Unit

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