Automation & Control Products

The Aventics Series 625 Sentronic proportional pressure control valves feature a control deviation of less than 0.5% to deliver accurate, electronic proportional pressure control and provide the flexibility needed to support sophisticated pneumatic control engineering applications. Data acquisition software included with Series 625 Sentronic valves also make it possible to quickly startup, monitor and control valves on a PC. Four valve sizes from 1mm up to 20mm support a comprehensive range of flow rates, from 55 liters per minute to 4,700 l/min. Pressure capabilities range from vacuum levels up to 50 bar, which can reduce the overall number of valves required for a machine design. Housing material is available in brass, aluminum or stainless steel and sealing material in nitrile or fluoroelastomer options. Three sets of connectors are available: M12 5-pin, M12 8-pin and M16 7-pin.

In response to a growing market trend in the North American data center market, LS ELECTRIC has designed a new MCCB with monitoring capabilities specifically for the North American market.

LS ELECTRIC receives UL certification on their latest Smart MCCB (molded case circuit breaker) with monitoring capabilities, allowing them to compete in the North American market.

Adding Competition and Choices to the North American Market

Aiming to tap into the $5 trillion North American data center power equipment market, LS ELECTRIC has introduced a new UL-certified smart circuit breaker. This "Smart MCCB" enhances power monitoring and communication, responding to the growing demand for smart solutions in the energy sector. With its launch, LS ELECTRIC aims to compete effectively in North America by providing reliable and efficient power solutions for data centers, leveraging local supply chain trends.


The latest MCCB MCCB lineup includes various MCCB devices with monitoring capabilities for smart applications. Image used courtesy of LS ELECTRIC

The company aims to use the enhanced features of its Smart MCCB–the first UL-certified product from an Asian company–to gain a competitive advantage over European and U.S. manufacturers in pricing and delivery. This includes plans to boost its market presence by tapping into the growing trend of diversifying power equipment suppliers worldwide. LS ELECTRIC hopes to be a key supplier for the growing need for power solutions focusing on energy reliability and efficiency, especially in data centers.
 
Molded Case Circuit Breaker and its Functions

An MCCB, or molded case circuit breaker, is an electrical device used to protect electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits. It automatically interrupts the power supply when it detects a fault, preventing damage to equipment and reducing fire risks. MCCBs are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings and come in various current ratings and configurations.

The new MCCB has recently received a UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification. The certification gives LS ELECTRIC the qualifications to sell its Smart MCCB product lineup in the United States. The devices are designed to provide circuit protection and monitoring capabilities. The monitoring ability of the MCCB fits with the growing industry trend of digitizing many industrial processes for improved efficiency and downtime reduction.

The MCCB includes advanced features that conventional models lack, such as accurate measurement capabilities and RS485 and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements provide better monitoring, diagnostics, control functions, and optimized performance for Energy Management Systems (EMS). In addition, the UL Smart MCCB has upgraded its measurement accuracy and communication features to fulfill the stringent reliability and connectivity demands of power systems in data centers.

The UL Smart MCCB has a high reliability rating. The built-in keypad also allows for adjustment of various measurement and diagnostic values. An integrated display module lets users access measurement data, including current, voltage, and power. These enhancements help reduce the time and effort technicians and engineers spend accessing and using the valuable data provided by the MCCB devices.

Regarding fault detection, the units have been designed with safety in mind. A trip unit in the MCCB activates the circuit breaker immediately after a fault is detected. There are several different models of trip units to fit individual user needs. The other models include ETSi (basic model), ETMi (with RS485 communication), ETHi (with voltage measurement), and ETLi (with wireless communication).

Wondrwall, a cleantech business based in Manchester, has unveiled a new, intelligent heat pump system. Utilising cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence, the company claims that the new heat pump can deliver significant carbon and cost savings for homeowners.

Wondrwall says the innovation has the potential to be “game-changing” for both homeowners and housebuilders, and that it will redefine what is thought possible in terms of low carbon energy efficiency. In a first for the company, which had previously prioritised infrared and direct-electrical heating systems, the Wondrwall air source heat pump provides homes with efficient heating and cooling technology.

Energy efficiencies are generated and comfort maintained through the integration of the heat pump with Wondrwall’s AI-powered Home Energy Management System (HEMS). Sensor technology within the Wondrwall system allows the HEMS to learn the thermal performance of the home, typical energy use and user preferences in order to adapt flow temperatures and heating schedules based on occupancy and user behaviours.

To enable industry-wide collaboration and support the rollout of low carbon heating solutions in new build homes at scale, Wondrwall is also opening up its proprietary technologies to other heat pump manufacturers.

Specifically, its HEMS system will be available for other heat pump manufacturers to integrate with, creating the potential for intelligent homes that go beyond ‘smart’ and efficient homes irrespective of your preferred supplier.

Daniel Burton, CEO at Wondrwall, says, “Our new intelligent heat pump system has the potential to be a real game-changer for the industry. By launching our first heat pump, we are working to ensure our HEMS solution is aligned with prevailing industry standards.

“Not only are we launching a best-in-class new heat pump that generates impressive energy efficiencies, but we are setting a benchmark for collaboration with manufacturers in order to have a truly transformative effect on the UK’s new build homes.

“We want to see Wondrwall’s amazing AI technology bring about major carbon savings and will develop the products the industry needs to see that happen.”

Trials undertaken by Wondrwall, in collaboration with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, found that in an average new-build home using the Wondrwall solution to control the heat pump reduced energy bills by 87% when compared to the same home with just the heat pump alone. The heat pump delivers grid flexibility, matching energy needs to grid needs without impact on the homeowner and reducing downtime.

The unveiling of the heat pump comes weeks before the Future Homes Standard is fully adopted, which aims to rapidly increase the building performance of new homes in the UK. The Future Homes Standard aims to ensure new homes built from 2025 produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than those constructed under the current regulations.

Dependent on building fabric, homes with Wondrwall’s heat pump and HEMS solution will achieve a net zero rating with zero carbon emissions.

The launch of the heat pump follows hot on the heels of Wondrwall’s Energy Services Contract (ESC) product, allowing housebuilders and homeowners to eliminate the ‘green premium’ and install solar PV, battery storage and EV charging points with no upfront cost.

Mark Lufkin, Chief Product Officer at Wondrwall, notes, “On its own, this heat pump has multiple benefits for homeowners and housebuilders. From its quiet operation to its adaptive start/stop technology, we expect it to be a hit with those looking to achieve cost savings and energy efficiencies that exceed current Future Homes Standard performance.

“The results from the DESNZ trial were very promising, reducing energy bills by 80% compared to homes with just a standard heat pump. We felt we could do better though with closer integration of the heat pump and the rest of the Wondrwall solution.

“With the launch of this new heat pump, we aim to demonstrate the art of the possible when it comes to heat pump energy efficiency. However, opening up our API to other manufacturers will mean that all heat pump manufacturers will also be able to benefit from the AI-powered savings Wondrwall’s HEMS can offer.

“This is a first for us, and the industry, and we are very encouraged by the interest generated so far.”

The EL4374 EtherCAT Terminal is a multipurpose analog I/O module for -10/0 to +10V or -20/0/+4 to +20mA signals that can be used for standard automation tasks at a rate of 1 ksps per channel. The terminal combines two analog inputs and two analog outputs in a compact 12-mm housing. Engineers can individually parameterize these channels for current or voltage mode using Beckhoff’s TwinCAT 3 automation software. The analog inputs and outputs are digitized with a resolution of 16 bits and transmitted to the higher-level automation device under galvanic isolation. With a signal measuring range of +107% of the nominal range, the EL4374 terminal also supports commissioning with sensor values in the limit range and evaluation in accordance with NAMUR NE43. The terminal’s high output power allows a load of up to 750Ω at 20mA.

The OmniCore intelligent automation platform delivers robot path accuracy at a level of less than 0.6mm, with multiple robots running at high speeds of up to 1,600 mm per second. This opens new automation opportunities in precision areas such as arc welding, mobile phone display assembly, gluing and laser cutting. Overall, OmniCore enables robots to operate up to 25% faster and to consume up to 20% less energy compared to the previous ABB controller. With more than 1,000 hardware and software features, OmniCore enables customers to design, operate, maintain and optimize operations easily via the platform’s Absolute Accuracy and PickMaster Twin features as well as hardware options spanning from external axis and vision systems to fieldbuses.

Tolomatic has introduced five new RSX high-force electric linear actuators to meet a broader range of applications. These high-force actuators may be a better option than traditional hydraulics.

Tolomatic’s addition of five new linear actuators attempts to persuade traditionalists to switch from hydraulic to electric systems. These linear actuators include forces of up to 66,000 lbf (294 kN) and have some advantages over hydraulic systems. Let’s explore the capabilities, specs, and benefits of electric over hydraulic systems.


This image clarifies Tolomatic’s RSX actuators' force capabilities, which forms the argument for replacing traditional hydraulic systems. Image used courtesy of Tolomatic

RSX Electric Linear Actuator Spotlight

Although the primary selling point of the newly introduced RSX Electric Linear Actuators is their high-force capabilities, they also have many other specifications that may persuade users to make the switch.

The RSX linear actuators are designed to provide cleanliness and durability. They have an IP67 option to protect against dust and water and a food-grade design option. Users can feel confident that these actuators meet standards for various industries. Additionally, these actuators feature a heavy-duty internal bumper that protects moving components at both ends of the stroke, where wear and tear are commonly compounded. They also have high positional accuracy, with the roller nut capable of ±0.0102mm/300mm and the ball nut ±0.102mm/300mm.
 
Multiple Options Available

These actuators are available in ball and planetary roller screw-driven designs. These options allow users to decide which actuator best suits their needs. The deciding factors depend on the user's requirements, such as power density, linear velocity, life expectancy, accuracy and repeatability, and relative cost. Roller screw designs allow for more power density because of the extension of contact points, allowing the load to be distributed more evenly.

Ball screws have lower power density and life expectancy but offer increased efficiency in high-speed applications, with a 90% efficiency rating. In contrast, roller screws have an 80% efficiency rating. Whether users lack accuracy needs but require power density or prefer the most life expectancy, Tolotmatic actuators suit application needs.

Tolomatic offers a super-duty option known as the RSX096 oil-cooled option. This option suits applications that need higher duty cycles and power than traditional grease and lubrication designs can handle. The oil-cooled option design efficiently transfers heat throughout the moving components of the cylinder, allowing it to handle a 100% duty cycle while also providing a long life expectancy. It's the best of both worlds.


This is an image of the RSX096 Oil Cooled Option Actuator. Image used courtesy of Tolomatic

Electric Vs. Hydraulic Actuators

When choosing between hydraulic and electric actuators, several factors must be considered to ensure the best fit for your application.

Hydraulic actuators can produce high forces and speeds, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications, but they may not offer the same level of precision as electric actuators. Electric actuators provide better precision and control, making them ideal for applications requiring accurate positioning.

They also require less maintenance and eliminate the risk of fluid leaks, making them cleaner and more environmentally friendly. Additionally, electric actuators are suitable for a wide range of environments, including extreme temperatures and cleanroom settings. They are typically more energy-efficient as they convert electrical energy directly into mechanical motion.

Electric actuators generally have a higher initial cost but lower operating and maintenance costs in the long term. In contrast, hydraulic actuators, though often used in harsh environments, can be affected by temperature changes and require robust sealing, leading to higher long-term maintenance and operational costs. These factors will help you determine the best actuator type for your needs.

Nidec Drives has launched Control Techniques KI-Keypad Plus, its most technically advanced drive user interface to date.

According to the company, this is designed to make drives easier to use and add operational flexibility to applications and machinery. The KI-Keypad Plus reportedly enables the user to gain easy access to the key drive features needed to improve the machine’s performance, whether it’s running a simple conveyor or a complex multi-axis motion system. It also comes with FastStart which guides the user through the drive configuration process.

The new larger and clearer colour display reportedly allows the drive status information and parameter descriptions to be easier to read. The addition of Bluetooth allows for remote and flexible connectivity to Nidec’s suite of PC Tools for commissioning and programming tasks.

The KI-Keypad Plus allows for flexible and simple system monitoring. The keypad can show up to 10 user-selectable parameters on the status screen, which can be scaled individually with custom units to best suit the user’s application. With its trouble-shooting help feature, errors can be identified and resolved thanks to in-depth error code definitions, suggestions of possible causes and recommendations for action. The keypad is certified to rating IP54 (NEMA 12).

The KI-Keypad Plus has built-in PIN protection that ensures no unauthorized amendments are made to the drive settings. Additionally, the KI-Keypad Plus is a multilingual solution, featuring seven standard languages, with scope to add more if the user requires it.

The Hand/Off/Auto features are present in the version of the KI-Keypad Plus, designated for fan and pump applications when paired with the Control Techniques Pump Drive F600 or HVAC Drive H300. The KI-Keypad Plus acts as a universal interface to Control Techniques drives. It is compatible with the flexible Commander C range, specialist pump, HVAC, and elevator drives, as well as with the high-performance Unidrive series and dynamic Digitax servo ranges.

Two 12.7mm stroke linear voice coil motors—the LVCM-013-019-02M (metric) and the LVCM-013-019-02 (imperial)—are brushless high-speed linear servo motors with a high-force-to-size ratio of 0.81N and a peak force of 2.55N at 10% duty cycle. Featuring low inertia and high acceleration/deceleration, these miniature linear servo motors have high accuracy and high repeatability when operated in a closed loop as a DC servo motor. With a length of 30.2mm at mid-stroke, the LVCM-013-032-02M has a M3X0.5 threaded mounting hole in the center of the housing and the coil end; the LVCM-013-032-02 has 4-40 UNC-2B threaded holes for easy integration. Control electronics such as single and multi-axis servo controllers and linear encoders are available for both motors.

IDEC has recently unveiled its newest Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) with a built-in Human Machine Interface (HMI), boasting several I/O ports and a 16 million color 4.3” display.

The FTIJ PLC+HMI is one of the easiest HMIs to read and interface. It combines a capable controller with a brilliant HMI and will likely be used in many industrial and manufacturing settings. By combining the PLC and the HMI into one unit, IDEC has beefed up its processing capability to ensure quick calculations and decisions are made. The FTIJ PLC+HMI has dual CPUs, one for the PLC and one for the HMI. This keeps tasks organized, providing a degree of separation between user inputs and displays in the HMI from the process control occurring in the PLC while still integrating these systems.


The IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI. Image used courtesy of IDEC

Features of the FTIJ PLC+HMI

Regarding connectivity, the FTIJ PLC+HMI has eight built-in DC I/O ports, configurable as discrete or up to two 4-20 mA analog channels. Each channel can be scanned at up to 20 kHz, meaning data can be collected quickly, and short-lived events can be captured. Two-wire RTD and thermocouple measurements can be made with this device as well. All channels have 12-bit resolution.

Data can be transferred using several common industrial protocols, including MQTT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and many others. Furthermore, data can be directly ported to email or Twitter/X, though care must be taken to preserve trade secrets and data not meant for the public.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of this device is its display. With 16 million colors, the 4.3” (480x272 pixel) display is bright and readable in virtually all lighting conditions. The display is a capacitive touchscreen that can be operated even with gloved fingers. It has fewer touch screen layers, meaning less light loss through the touch screen, yet maintains its responsiveness.


The PLC+HMI can expand its I/O ports by adding I/O cartridges. Image used courtesy of IDEC

The integrated PLC+HMI can also add I/O cartridges, expanding the total number by up to eight digital or four analog I/O ports. With up to 22 total I/O ports, the device delivers the connectivity needed to operate.
 
Advantages of an Integrated PLC and HMI

In edge computing, the idea is to separate tasks, divide them among devices, and move them to the “edges” of the network. However, there are some cases where integrating a few essential components provides advantages.

In the case of the IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI, integrating the PLC and HMI together reduces the system's complexity and installation at a few key points. It also takes up less room in instrumentation cabinets, as both devices are combined into one package.

This controller is not meant to replace every single PLC in an edge computing-capable automation system but rather to replace frequently used components or components that benefit from a local HMI for local control and display of process parameters.

The IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI will likely see plenty of use in large manufacturing facilities with many machines, process monitors, etc. It may also catch on with machine builders as a controller and interface for single pieces of equipment.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation has collaborated with Dispel to provide on-site zero trust network access from remote locations securely. Facilities can connect to the remote region through Dispel-enabled Mitsubishi Electric iQ-R Series WinCPU R102WCPU-W or the RD55UP12-V C Intelligent Function Module and are compliant with NIST/IEC 62443 standards. Dispel’s unified platform gives control and visibility over industrial systems and user access through a centralized dashboard designed with cybersecurity controls, including NIST 800-53, NERC CIP and IEC 6244. Dispel protects against cyber threats by utilizing dynamic Moving Target Defense infrastructure to continuously reconfigure and encrypt data pathways to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. With more than 20 million hours of safe operation, Dispel’s Zero Trust Remote Access platform includes features such as password vaulting, privileged access management, session recording, vendor self-management, just-in-time access and endpoint isolation.