March 2021

46 n NEW PRODUCTS March 2021 www.drivesncontrols.com Sick has announced a modular safety controller that focuses on responsive performance, ease of use, and saving space in control cabinets. The Flexi Compact controller – which sits between the Flexi Classic and Flexi Soft models – offers response cycle times of up to 4ms and real-time diagnostics. The 46mm-wide CPU needs less space than many rivals. The controller is based on slim modules with a one-click, fit- and-release mechanism for easy handling and exchange. There is a choice of two CPUs, each with 32 I/Os. One has an extra Ethernet connection. To this, 16- connector, 14mm-wide XTDI and XTDO I/O cards and up to 12 other expansion modules can be added, ensuring future-proof scalability. EtherCat or Profinet gateways support integration with higher- level PLCs and Industry 4.0 applications. Each gateway has a display and pushbutton controls for easy commissioning and real- time diagnostics. HMI integration is possible via an optional Ethernet port that supports Modbus and SLMP protocols over TCP/IP. Sick’s free Safety Designer engineering tool offers access to 256 function blocks and safety documentation via a drag-and- drop interface. A removable SmartPlug with a USB port allows rapid data transfer and configuration exchange for efficient set-up and commissioning. A safety-certified high-speed EtherCat backplane bus enables efficient data communication and rapid response times. It allows safety distances to the machine to be optimised, and shorter cycle times to be achieved in dynamic processes. Sick 01727 831121 www.sick.co.uk ifm electronic is offering a family of inductive proximity sensors with M8 threaded bodies that are just 30mm long, yet they have a sensing range of up to 6mm for non-flush-mounting versions and 3mm for flush-mounting types. The robust IES2xx sensors have protection ratings up to IP69K, and are suitable for applications where space is limited or where a low-weight sensors are needed. The sensors have corrosion- resistant stainless-steel bodies and an operating temperature range of –40 to +85ºC. They are available in two- and three-wire flush- and non-flush-mounting versions, configured for either normally open or closed operation. Four status LEDs at 90-degree intervals around the circumference show the sensor’s switching state at a glance, irrespective of its orientation. Options include connecting cables up to 50m long, mounting clips and clamps, stainless-steel angle brackets and fixing nuts. ifm electronic 020 8213 0000 www.ifm.com Modular safety controller saves cabinet space 30mm-long M8 proximity sensors have 6mm range Motion controls with built-in drives target OEM machine-builders ACS Motion Control – part of the Physik Instrumente (PI) group since 2017 – has launched the first in a new line of motion controls with internal drives aimed at cost- sensitive applications for OEM machine-builders. The ECMsm (Economical Control Module) is a compact, all-in-one, two- or four- axis controller that provides up to 5/10A per axis from a 12-48V DC supply. A “unique”multi-processor architecture uses powerful control algorithms to achieve “best-in-class” performance, while a universal servodrive technology allows designers to integrate and control most types of motors and stages, including brushed, brushless, voice coil and stepper types. The software language and tools are the same as for ACS’ high-end motion control platforms. The controller is aimed at OEMs that need flexibility, value and ease of integration. Its industrial packaging and software tools minimise integration efforts to reduce time to market. ACS Motion Control 01234 756360 https://acsmotioncontrol.com Thomson Industries has launched a high-duty-cycle (up to 100%) electric linear actuator intended to work in harsh conditions. The Electrak LL actuator is designed to last up to 600km – more than 10 times further than standard actuators. Based on a ballscrew-and-nut assembly with a manual override, the actuator has two bearings to handle bidirectional loads, as well as a built-in brushless motor and drive. This provides constant speed regardless of the load, and eliminates the need for standalone controls, Built-in functions provide constant monitoring of critical parameters such as end-of-stroke, voltage, current and temperature. The actuator can withstand temperatures from –40 to +85°C. Its coated, painted and sealed housing is rated to IP69K (static) and IP66 (dynamic), and it resists UV radiation, water jets, high- temperature/high-pressure washdowns and other forces. Thomson Industries www.thomsonlinear.com/elect rak-ll NSK has released an upgraded drive for its PS/PN series of Megatorque motors, with increased safety and usability.The new EDD drive is interchangeable with the earlier EDCmodel. An improved connector prevents incorrect insertion, while a locking mechanismhelps to avoid accidental unplugging from the drive.The separate single-phase power supplies for 200-230V and 100-115V AC systems have been replaced by a single 100-240V device. Analogue inputs are now standard for controlling speed and torque, and the maximum input frequency of the pulse train position has risen from 1MHz to 2MHz for quicker positioning in high-speed operations. www.nskeurope.com Rugged linear actuators are designed to last up to 600km