Category Archives: Automation/Robotics

Advanced Micro Updates NR60E2 Series of Encoders

Advanced Micro Controls Inc. (AMCI), adds features to their NR60E2 series of networked absolute rotary encoders. The features include a Profinet interface, E2 Technology, Hub Shaft (Blind Shaft) Option, and Stainless Steel units.  These rotary sensors provide an overall measuring range of 16 bits (single-turn resolution) plus 14 bits (number of revolutions), for 30 bits total. The AMCI NR60E2 networked encoders are 100% compatible with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Schneider PLCs that support EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, or Profinet. With both single-turn and multi-turn versions available, AMCI’s networked encoders are ready for any application.

NR60E2 Networked Absolute Rotary Encoder Features:

  • EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP & Profinet
  • Integrated, Dual-Port Switch
  • Single-turn resolution up to 16 bit
  • Multi-turn resolution up to 30 bit
  • IP67 Ingress Protection Rating
  • Solid shaft and hub shaft versions
  • Stainless steel units available
  • Programs using PLC’s native software

NR60E2 Ethernet Encoders are offered in either a 63mm diameter package with hub/blind shaft mounting style, or a 58mm package with flange or servo mount options.  Stainless steel units are also available.  There are three M12 connectors supplying power and network connectivity, with either side or end connect versions available.

AMCI’s  E2 Technology is a multi-protocol approach to Ethernet distributed I/O that makes moving from one industrial Ethernet protocol to another simple.  Supported protocols include EtherNet/IP, Modbus-TCP, and Profinet. A web server integrated within the NR60E2 facilitates network configuration changes. The NR60E2 has a built-in Ethernet switch and dual network ports, offering fault-tolerant networking; DLR for EtherNet/IP & MRP for Profinet, which can detect a break in the network and redirect the network traffic maintaining communication and system up-time.  The embedded switch also provides a network connection for additional devices without increasing the nodes on the Ethernet switch.

The NR60E2 networked encoder is resolver based and supplies absolute position feedback without glass discs or sensitive LED components, enabling it to withstand high levels of shock and vibration. The IP67 rated package is the solution for single-turn and multi-turn position applications requiring protection from dust and water ingress. Solid shaft and hub shaft versions are also available to satisfy a variety of applications.

For more information, visit Advanced Micro Controls website.

Optris Announces CTratio 1M, 2M Quotient Pyrometers

Optris has developed a ratio pyrometer. Quotient pyrometers are designed to provide constant measurement results even with a dirty lens or for objects that move within the measurement area (e.g. metal rods or wires).

The concept is based on the previous CTratio, which has been used in many installations, with fiber optic lens and separate processing electronics.

The addition of a model with spectral sensitivity at 1.45-1.75 μm (2M) now allows measurements to be made from as low as 250° C. The models were also expanded upwards by calibration methods – a maximum of 3000 °C can now be measured.

The quotient pyrometer’s measurement error is 0.5 percent. Due to the adjusting time of 1 ms, fast processes can also be monitored.

A highlight of the CTratio is the targeting laser used now, with a wavelength of 520 nm. For temperature analysis, Optris supplies the software Ratio Connect as standard, which can detect and evaluate temperature measurement data. The user can set also parameters for the device easily in-situ, or via the standard USB interface and the free Android app IRmobile.

For more information, visit Optris website.

Process Introduces PSC-52LT Thermometer

Process Sensors Corp., a division of KPM Analytics, introduced its single color digital non-contact infrared thermometer to the workplace. The digital PSC-52LT with integrated laser aiming operates in the 8-14µm spectral range and is designed for temperature measurement of low reflective surfaces and materials. Typical applications for this thermometer include paper and packaging, food, glass and ceramics, conveyed materials, wood and composites, and textiles.  It is also ideal for rubber, plastics and gypsum board applications.

The PSC-52LT operates in the 0° to 1000°C (32° to 1832°F) temperature range with adjustable sub-temperature ranges.  It features an adjustable response time of 100ms, and is capable of measuring spot sizes from 0.24” (6mm). The sensor’s standard loop-powered 4-20mA linear output signal facilitates implementation into existing measurement and control systems.

The PSC-52LT can be connected to a computer via USB interface. The sensor’s parameters (transmissivity, ambient radiation, etc.) are adjusted through the operator’s PC, with the exception of emissivity. Emissivity must be changed utilizing the potentiometers located on the rear panel of the sensor.

The PSC-52LT is contained in a stainless steel housing with a sealed quick disconnect cable connector. A heavy duty protective jacket with integrated air purge unit is used for harsh environment applications. A USB PC interface cable is optional and a full range of accessories is available.

PSCSpot for Windows software is standard equipment provided for storage, processing and evaluation of real time measured data. It provides statistical analysis of data, export of measured data as test files and creates Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The software also provides an integrated report function with customized templates for Microsoft Word and an integrated calculator for calculation of optics parameters.

For more information, visit Process Sensors website.

MSA Introduces General Monitors FL500-H2 Flame Detector

Process and plant engineers responsible for the safe use, production, or transport of hydrogen (H2) will find MSA’s General Monitors FL500-H2 Flame Detector is specifically designed for the protection of oil/gas refineries, chemical plants, fuel stations, and other sites managing large volumes of the gas.

Hydrogen is a colorless, odorless, highly flammable gas that is compressed under pressure and stored in tanks for industrial usage.  If the gas escapes the tank holding it and is released into the air, the oxygen in the air makes it highly combustible and dangerous. The consequences of failing to detect leaking hydrogen can cause catastrophic plant accidents.

The FL500-H2 is an Ultraviolet/Infrared (UV/IR) flame detector designed specifically to detect hydrogen (H2) fires. The FL500-H2 sensors monitor optical radiation emitted by a hydrogen flame in both the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectral ranges while at the same time rejecting false alarm sources common within industrial job sites.

The detector’s flame sensing technology relies on the ultraviolet sensor to provide a response (<3 seconds) and the infrared detector monitors radiation emitted by a flame over a wide 130-degree field-of-view. UV/IR sensor technology is suited for both indoor and outdoor use.

The FL500-H2 provides a number of alarm signalling output options including instant and timed fire alarm relays, 4-20 mA analog output with HART, as well as RS-485 Modbus RTU.  The FL500-H2 also supports HART revision 7 and is fully FieldComm compliant.

The FL500-H2 Detector features an automated self-check of its optical path and electronic circuitry. Every two minutes, the detector’s built in self-check technology known as Continuous Optical Path Monitoring (COPM) performs an optical and electrical check. These self-check routines are designed to ensure the optical path is clear and the electronic circuitry is operational.

The FL500-H2 Optical Flame Detector addresses a range of application needs.  It is ideal for sites where large volumes of hydrogen are managed including: petroleum refineries, chemical plants (ammonia, ethylene), H2 gas generators, H2 fuel cell production, H2 fuel stations, H2 test facilities, rocket launch sites, and merchant H2 manufacturing plants.

The FL500-H2 comes with global agency approvals: CSA, ATEX, IECEx, and CE Marking.  Classifications include: Class I, Div 1, Groups B, C, D; Class II, Div 1, Groups E, F, G; Class III, Type 6P; Ex db IIC T5 Gb; Ex tb IIIC T100°C Db II 2 G D; and IP66/IP67.

For more information, visit MSA website.

POSITAL Announces Explosion-Proof TILTIX Inclinometers

POSITAL has extended its TILTIX family of inclinometers (tilt sensors) to include explosion-proof models designed to operate safely in environments that contain potentially dangerous levels of explosive dust or gases. These devices have been certified in compliance with IECEx and ATEX directives and are suitable for use in mines, oil and gas facilities, agricultural applications, chemical plants, woodworking factories and milling operations.

Explosion-proof TILTIX inclinometers have been carefully evaluated to ensure that there are no hotspots or exposed electrical components that could ignite fires or cause explosions in the presence of flammable dust or gases. They are certified for use in mines and underground (Group I, Ex I M2 Ex e mb I Mb) and in above-ground workplaces (Group II,  EX II 2G Ex e mb IIc TX Gb – explosive gases – and EX II 1D Ex ta IIIC TX Da IP65 – flammable dust).

Like other TILTIX inclinometers, the new models are available in single-axis (0-360°) or dual-axis (± 80°) versions and feature resolution as high as 0.01°. Accuracy is up to + 0.1°. Available communications interfaces include DeviceNet, CANopen, Modbus RTU, SSI and analog output. Analog models can be programmed so that the full range of electrical output is set to span a predetermined range of mechanical motion. Rugged aluminum or 316 stainless steel housings are offered, with other materials available by special order. These housings have environmental protection ratings of up to IP67.

For more information, visit POSITAL website.

Novotechnik Introduces RSA3200 Series Sensors

Novotechnik US introduced the RSA3200 Series of Hall effect angle sensors feature auto-diagnostics, fully redundant versions and ultra-EMC tolerance for use in harsh environments and high reliability applications.

Measurement angle of the RSA3200 Series is factory programmable for range maximum between 60° to 360°. Optional linkage lever that attaches to shaft, provides additional mounting options.

Output versions are CANopen, SAE J1939 as well as analog: 0.25 to 4.75, 0.5 to 4.5 V and 4 to 20 mA. Resolution is 12- or 14-bit and repeatability is typically ≤ ±0.36° for CANopen output and ≤±0.1° for all other outputs.

Sealing to IP 67/ IP6K9K for housing and a stainless steel D-shaft also contribute to making the RSA3200 suited to automotive, marine and off-highway vehicle applications. Suitable for safety applications based on conformance to DIN EN ISO 13849. Electrical connector is a Micro Quadlock system.

The RSA3200 Series conforms to ISO 11452 and ECE standards for EMC immunity including pulses and interference fields. Operating temperature range of the RSA3200 Series is -40 to +125 °C, withstands shock and vibration up to 50 g and 20 g respectively. Life is >30 million movements and MTTF is ≥ 300 years.

For more information, visit Novotechnik website.

AutomationDirect Announces Schmersal Joystick Selector Switches

Schmersal joystick selector switches have design features that make them suitable for food processing, pharmaceutical, and medical applications. The joysticks comply with the special cleaning requirements of the food industry to prevent cross-contamination, particularly when used in machines that process raw goods.

The IP69K rating also makes the joysticks suitable for marine applications, traffic systems, commercial vehicles, and any dusty, dirty environments. Blue bellows versions are used in the food processing industry to assist in the detection of foreign materials, and gray bellows versions are used for other industrial and outdoor applications.

Standard 22mm mounting makes the joysticks installed using a central knurled mounting nut; standard M12 connections are used. The spring-return momentary contact joysticks allow operators to move to 2 or 4 positions.

Schmersal IP69K rated joysticks from AutomationDirect are cULus and CE approved and have a 1-year warranty.

For more information, visit AutomationDirect website.

Fujitsu Introduces FWM7RAZ01 24GHz Doppler Radar Sensor

Fujitsu Components America, Inc. has introduced a 3-channel, 24GHz Doppler radar sensor with a wide speed-detection range and high interference tolerance. The module and evaluation kit facilitates the rapid development and evaluation of various non-contact, movement sensing products even without high-frequency RF electronics expertise. Target applications include human vital sign and fall monitoring, structural and mechanical movement detection, machine maintenance, and more, for the healthcare and industrial markets.

FUJITSU Wireless Modules 24GHz Doppler Radar Sensor

The FWM7RAZ01 supports IF (I/Q) output signals from 1Hz to 1 MHz enabling it to wirelessly detect movement speeds from 6 mm per second to 6 km per second, within a 30-meter range. Although 1 MHz of Doppler Effect is not observable in real-world applications, it is effective for detecting signal interference. To prevent signal overlap, the system can select a different channel and avoid misdetection before it happens.

The FWM7RAZ01 Doppler radar sensor consists of a 24GHz transceiver, TX and RX array antennas, IF amplifier, MCU, DAC, E2PROM and an LDO voltage regulator all integrated into a single, compact module measuring 30mm x 44mm x 9.5mm. Pin header terminals positioned on the back of the module simplify integration, even for designers who aren’t familiar with high-frequency circuits.

Compared to other detection methods like infrared, ultrasound and laser scan, 24GHz radio waves are more stable and less affected by environmental conditions, such as weather, temperature, illuminance, sound or dirt. The waves also easily penetrate clothing, curtains, glass, and most wooden structures.

Samples of the FWM7RAZ01 Doppler radar sensor and evaluation kit will be available in February 2020. For more information, please contact sales.

About Fujitsu Components America, Inc.

Fujitsu Components America, Inc. markets and distributes electronic and system components and sub-systems throughout North and South America. Products include relays, touch panels, thermal printers, wireless modules, connectors, and input and pointing devices. The company is headquartered at 1230 E. Arques Ave., M/S 160, Sunnyvale, CA 94085.

For more information, please see us.fujitsu.com/components.

MicroPower Introduces MSR192K-16A Switching Voltage Regulator

Micropower Direct’s MSR192K-16A is a switching voltage regulator that provides up to 16A of output current.

The MLSR192K-16A operates from an 8.3 to 14 VDC input, producing a single tightly regulated output at up to 16A. The output can be adjusted over a range of 0.7525V to 5.0V. Standard features include efficiency as high as 95%, low noise operation and tight line/load regulation. Protection against short circuit and over current faults is standard.

The MSR192K-16A is protected against short circuit and over current faults. A control input allows the unit to be turned on/off remotely. Units are available featuring positive or negative logic for this feature. The MTBF of the MSR192k-16A series is greater than 1.0 Mhours (per MIL HDBK 217F).

Fabricated as a miniature, unpotted (open board) unit, the MSR192k-16A is only 1.299 x 0.531 x 0.327 inches (33.00 x 13.50 x 8.30 mm). The pin-out is industry standard. Each model is specified for operation over the industrial operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C with no heat sinking required. Cooling is by free-air convection.

For more information, visit Micropower website.