DAC 2021_12

54 n NEW PRODUCTS November/December 2021 www.drivesncontrols.com Leuze has released a system that uses IO-Link to integrate digital sensors cost-effectively into automation systems, and to extend these systems flexibly and economically. The MD7 IO-Link modules and connected sensors and actuators can be commissioned, configured and monitored via a Web browser. Backwards compatibility means that older sensors can be added to systems with the latest specification. The IO-Link masters work with a choice of protocols. They support Ethernet-based fieldbus protocols for real-time communications, as well as Modbus TCP for connecting to simpler PLCs, operating terminals or Scada systems. They can be integrated into cloud-based systems or, using theWeb-based configuration, operated as stand- alone systems. TheWeb server with an IODD interpreter can configure connected IO-Link devices. Diagnostic and status information can be collected either on the device or via aWeb server. IO-Link sensors integrated into the MD7 system can transmit process and diagnostic data, device information and event messages. Ethernet-based I/Omodules can combine the data and connect the machine modules to higher-level systems. If a sensor needs to be replaced, the master uploads the configuration to the new device automatically. M12 power connectors allow the modules to be powered irrespective of the Ethernet protocol. They are said to deliver about 80% more power than 7/8" connectors. In daisy-chain applications, more modules can be wired together without needing extra power, cutting installation and wiring requirements and saving space. Leuze Electronic 01480 408 508 www.leuze.com Brammer Buck & Hickman has expanded its Mecaline brand to include more than 3,000 pneumatic products. The items are interchangeable with leading brands, simplifying replacement or modification and reducing downtime associated with time spent trying to find the right parts for an application. The Mecaline pneumatic products, designed in collaboration with global manufacturers, include hoses and fittings, couplings, tubing, cylinders, valves and accessories. The products are manufactured to strict specifications to meet industry standards and to deliver cost- effective long product lives. Brammer Buck & Hickman www.mecalineparts.com https://uk.rubix.com/mecaline IO-Link systemmakes it easier to implement automation installations More than 3,000 pneumatics products are interchangeable with leading brands Mclennan has signed a UK and Ireland distribution agreement with the Chinese hybrid stepper motor manufacturer Moons , which claims to be one of the world’s three largest manufacturers of these motors, with annual shipments of more than 10 million. Moons’range covers Nema frame sizes 8–42 in a choice of stack lengths and with two- or three-phase unipolar or bipolar windings. The 200 and 400 step/rev motors have high-fill windings for higher torque than similar-sized motors, as well as low-inertia rotors for faster acceleration. www.mclennan.co.uk Stober has added Profinet functions to its SC6 and SI6 drive controllers using the optional SU6 functional safety module that supports the STO and SS1-t safety functions via PROFIsafe. The controllers can be used for systems up to SIL 3, PL e, Cat 4. Users can implement emergency stops in accordance with EN 13850, for instance, or prevent unexpected start-ups in accordance with EN 14118. The communication interfaces are also Profinet-certified. The SC6 offers up to two axes with output currents up to 2 x 19A. The multi- axis SI6 supports currents up to 50A. www.stober.co.uk Sick has expanded its Max family of linear encoders, extending the space-saving, cost and maintenance benefits of the non- contact magnetostrictive measurement technology to smaller hydraulic cylinders and harsher operating conditions. The rugged Max30, thought to be the smallest in-cylinder magnetostrictive linear encoder available, is suitable for cylinders with piston diameters of 30mm or more, rod diameters of 20mm or more, and with stroke lengths up to 1.5m. The 48mm Max48A, for stroke lengths up to 2.5m, has a stainless-steel enclosure and axial wire orientation to cope with the harshest environments. www.sick.co.uk Sick has announced a customisable light tower with three operatingmodes – signal light, level meter or animation – to communicate machine status and to alert personnel to emergencies or the need for maintenance. Unlike traditional light towers which are restricted by modular assemblies of different colours at set positions, the Sick Smart Light Tower has 20 sets of LEDs that can be programmed to display 21 colours, either illuminated continuously or flashing, strobing or pulsating at user-specified frequencies. The tower can connect to a PLC or PC via IO-Link, allowing users to program displays and audible signals graphically on a PC. It can be configured to show real-time data from sensors and other devices and to visualise changing levels such as fill, temperature, pressure, speed or cycle times. An optional buzzer can support the visual signals with a choice of audible alarms and melodies. The IO-Link connection can use unshielded cables, and needs fewer input and output cards. It can link the tower to a PLC to display higher- level management and performance data. The tower can be used with presence detection sensors to display the progress of totes on a conveyor, for example. Any jams can be located and messages generated to tell operators how to respond. Bright LEDs around the circumference of the tower can be seen over long distances. Up to five vertical segments can be configured for simpler status indication applications. The IP65- protected tower can be used on fixed or mobile machines. Sick 01727 831121 www.sick.co.uk IO-Link-based smart light tower offers more options