Industrial Technology

Smarter PLCs and HMIs now rival SCADA systems

The traditional boundaries between SCADA-based control systems and PLC-based control systems were, if not fixed, then at least relatively clear, with SCADA typically being the favourite for process applications and PLCs for discrete, sequential control. But as those boundaries have blurred, many users who would previously have considered a SCADA system as their best option might today find they are better served by a compact PLC linked to an HMI.

23rd April 2016

New display sizes for Visu+ HMIs from Phoenix Contact

Phoenix Contact is expanding its existing range of HMI devices for the Visu+ visualisation software with four additional display variants. The new 4.3in, 9.0in, 12.0in, and 15.4in display sizes give system planners even more choice. The HMIs are fitted with the latest ARM Cortex-A8 processors. The improved processor power gives the user up to ten percent faster image refresh and reaction times. This means the visualisations created with the Visu+ software will run even more smoothly. Detailed and complex operating and monitoring interfaces can be created and access to machines and systems intuitively designed. The 1GB flash memory and 512Mbyte RAM provide adequate resources for complex visualisation concepts.

23rd April 2016

Easy line control and monitoring

A focus for B&R is simplifying line control and monitoring, and the company has introduced new technology based on PackML. With just a few mouse clicks, a convenient line monitoring system can be implemented using B&R’s APROL process and factory automation system, with the solution based on OMAC’s PackML standard, which can be applied to virtually any machine.

23rd April 2016

Vision 600 HMI from Products4Automation

New from Products4Automation is the Vision 600 HMI, which the company says offers high performance with reduced costs and is the perfect complement to any SCADA system. The Vision 600 HMI is a compact industrial human interface with a flat front panel touch screen. Featuring an IP65 rated front panel with optional scratch resistant surface, fan-less design, Windows compatibility, a wide range of memory options and screen sizes ranging from 7in to 21in – the versatile Vision 600 is well adapted to end user requirements.

23rd April 2016

Additional poles add flexibility to Ex connectors

Harting has extended the Han Ex intrinsically safe connector family with a number of new standard inserts and housings that offer users greater flexibility by providing additional contact numbers.

23rd April 2016

CFD software drives Ilmor"s engine upgrade for Indycar

Step-change developments in the accuracy and resolution of renowned engine design company Ilmor’s CFD capability have slashed development times by around 50 per cent whilst also providing a 75 per cent reduction in prototype build cost for its 2016 Indycar engine development project.

23rd April 2016

Overview brochure from ETA

Hot off the press for 2016 is a new 44 page product overview brochure from ETA Enclosures. This new, easy to navigate publication shows ETA’s range of ex-stock enclosure products and thermal management solutions.

23rd April 2016

Subcontractor produces fully CNC machined mountain bike

North Bucks Machining (NBM) has produced a fully CNC machined mountain bike, improving on conventional designs by removing the weaknesses of weld seams on the joined hollow tubes. The NBM design is built around solid aluminium billets and i-beam technology to scallop out the sides of the frame to reduce mass, with rib thicknesses machined down to 5mm while retaining structural integrity.

4th April 2016

"Rittal - The System" on show at Drives and Controls 2016

Rittal will be showcasing some of its leading enclosure technologies at Drives and Controls 2016. Visitors to Rittal’s Stand D230 will be able to view its innovative modular enclosures, power distribution, and climate control systems, commonly specified as the No.1 choice for protecting critical equipment. Of particular note will be the presence of the new, award-winning Blue e+ climate control system which was launched last year to great acclaim thanks to its outstanding energy savings and flexibility.

24th March 2016

ACI launches online industrial fan selector

To assist all online visitors to its website, ACI has developed a new fan selection feature. The selector helps visitors quickly process the selection of the optimum ACI product. Entering the operating parameters using a simple interface, users will be given a clear list of fans that meet the criteria entered.

23rd March 2016