September 2021

61 www.drivesncontrols.com September 2021 NEW PRODUCTS n Danfoss has added a mains-loss detection function to its VLT AutomationDrive FC 302 VSDs, avoiding the need to install separate mains phase monitors to protect motors from mains losses. The function, which detects supply losses within 2s, reduces system complexity and is said to save around £100 in material and installation costs, as well as reducing commissioning and engineering time. The function is activated during set-up. The drive monitors the mains voltage automatically to provide warnings or trips, and can send real-time mains status to a PLC via fieldbus. www.danfoss.com WEG has released decentralised drive packages consisting of itsWG20 gearboxes, Eusas motors andMW500 VSDs.The compact packages are said to consume less energy, have smaller footprints, and bemore flexible than traditional drives. Applications include warehouse systems and conveyor belts, and speed-controlled fans, pumps and filling systems.TheVSDs are available in 0.12–9.2kW, 380–480V and 0.12–1.5kW, 200–240V ratings.TheWG20 gearboxes are available in helical, parallel shaft and helical-bevel versions.The Eusas motors can operate in a frequency inverter mode, doubling the power at a constant torque. www.weg.net Wittenstein claims that its latest planetary gearbox has a torque density up to 144% higher than its closest rival, as well as offering twice the torsional rigidity, a 2.5 times better tilting moment capacity and a 15% reduction in length. If you want to achieve comparable performance, the XP+ High Torque gearbox can be 30% shorter and 50% lighter. The gearbox is aimed at applications requiring high positioning accuracy and repeatability, frequent changes of direction and short cycle times. The gearbox can be equipped with Wittenstein’s smart cynapse sensor module which incorporates a datalogger and IO-Link interface, supporting connections to drive axes and machines. Digital services can monitor the gearbox operation, increasing uptime and predicting possible faults. Torsional backlash is said to be less than one arc-minute over the gearbox’s service life. Initially, the new series includes a coaxial planetary gearbox in four sizes, with five gear ratios and three output shapes. Other variants are planned. Wittenstein 01782 286427 www.wittenstein.co.uk Schneider Electric has announced a new generation of MCCBs (moulded-case circuit- breakers) with wireless connection functions said to “revolutionise” installing, maintaining or upgrading the breakers . The ComPacT MCCBs are the same size and shape, and have the same footprint as previous models, simplifying retrofitting. IoT-ready wireless auxiliaries give users improved insight into their electric distribution systems. A semi-transparent front faceplate makes it easy to see which auxiliaries are at work in the breaker, and that they are positioned correctly. The breakers’ EverLink connectors provide quick, reliable and bare- cable connections. Built-in DIN rails allow the breakers to snap easily into place. Modular plug- and-play accessories expand their monitoring capabilities. Schneider Electric https://www.se.com/uk/en Planetary gearbox has ‘highest power density on market’ Micro-Epsilon has launched a non-contact 3D inspection system for detecting defects in reflecting surfaces such as polished or painted metals, glass, mirrors, painted plastics and galvanised surfaces. Based on the deflectometry principle, the reflectControl sensor projects a striped pattern onto an object’s surface and uses cameras to record any distortions in the pattern caused by defects. When inspecting flat surfaces, the sensor can detect flatness deviations of a few μm. Measurements take less than two seconds. The sensor can be used in a stationary mode for monitoring processing/assembly lines, or mounted on a robot to perform inline inspection. It is suitable for 100% inspection tasks such as 3D shape inspection of semiconductor wafers, quality inspection of flat glass, and surface inspection of mirrors. One version (RC130) measures shape defects of shiny objects and provides a 3D image of the surface, allowing the topology of the components to be determined. It is optimised for tasks on production and assembly lines. Another version (RCS110-245) has an integrated controller and is designed for stationary measurements or integration into machines. Micro-Epsilon 0151 355 6070 www.micro-epsilon.co.uk 3D sensor detects defects on shiny or reflecting surfaces MCCBs with IoT-ready wireless connections will ‘revolutionise’ installation and maintenance Comau has announced a collaborative robot (cobot) that can switch automatically from running at industrial robot speeds (up to 6 m/s), to a safe collaborative mode when a human enters its working area. When the operator leaves, the six- axis Racer-5 cobot returns to full speed. The cobot has a 5kg payload capacity, a reach of 809mm and a repeatability of 0.03mm. Comau says that its new machine counters the belief that cobots are slow. It will allow users to automate sophisticated manufacturing processes without sacrificing speed, precision or collaborative intelligence. The dual operating modes will allow them to install a single high- performance system rather than two separate robots. The cobot has TÜV Süd-certified safety functions and can be used without protective barriers, cutting safety costs and floorspace. Built-in LED lighting indicates the workcell status. Electrical and air connections are located on the forearm, enhancing agility and minimising the risk of damage. Comau UK 01788 554500 www.comau.com Dual-role cobot combines high- speed operation with safety