Drives & Controls Magazine February 2023

Murrelektronik launches the first completely decentralized automation platform. Bringing all automation components into the field without control cabinets. Vario-X combined with a Digital twin saves time and money in all project phases: planning, installation, operation, and service. Growing digitalization, shorter development cycles, increasing customer requirements and a shortage of skilled workers – the world of automation is changing at breakneck speed. As one of the world leading manufacturers of electrical solutions for industrial automation, Murrelektronik is at the forefront and leading the way with its newest innovation. Presenting Vario-X - a modular, highly flexible automation platform that allows all automation functions to be implemented completely decentrally (i.e. without a control cabinet) for the first time. Paul Culley, Sales Engineer for Murrelektronik UK explains more about the revolutionary platform and how its modular and customizable format is a real game changer for machine builders and plant installation companies. “At its simplest level, Vario-X achieves 100% decentralized automation without control cabinets and without compressed air. It is fully networked, pluggable and cost efficient. Vario-X ensures reliable voltage, signal, data management and the seamless integration of decentralized servo drives. It can also be integrated into larger control systems as a node on a network, allowing for simple zoning of machines to be achieved.” Modular format– a customized solution At the heart of Vario-X are robust, IP67 rated waterproof and dustproof modules, which include power supplies, controls, disconnect switches, safety technology (available late 2023) and I/O connections. They can be easily assembled side by side on a rugged backplane with integrated mechanical mounting profiles. Once assembled, the Vario-X solution can be easily attached to all common mounting systems without further protection and, in extreme cases, is rugged enough to be stepped on without damage. Equipped with a multicore CPU, Vario-X can meet all control requirements and be easily integrated into all higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks as an open control platform. 100% cabinet-free automation – 40% faster installation The installation and cabling of devices is plug-and-play with standard M12 and MQ15 connectors, eliminating wiring errors and reducing assembly time. This also eliminates expensive and time- consuming installation work in the control cabinet -populating components, stripping and landing wires, labeling and grounding individual components. To extend the modular concept for your machine control, additional stations can easily be distributed around the machine and connected to each other, like adding an Vario-X: The days of the control cabinet are numbered COVER STORY Vario-X is a modular and highly flexible automation platformwith which all automation functions can be implemented completely decentrally i.e. without control cabinet architecture for the first time. Photo: Murrelektronik GmbH