FEATURE MACHINE BUILDING, FRAMEWORKS & SAFETY
sponsored by
DECENTRALISED IO SYSTEM AUTOMATION SIMPLE
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stablished in Norwich in 1974, over the years Mills CNC has undergone a remarkable transformation in its size and
structure – most notably, its extensive range of services. Today, the company’s core business is split between the supply and service of DN Solutions Machine Tools and its Automation Systems division, specialising in the design and delivery of industrial and collaborative robot systems and solutions to manufacturers. With the business growing, so too has
the company’s requirements for innovative electrical components and systems. Chris Ingham, controls & systems engineer, commented: “The addition of the Automation Systems division presented us with a wealth of new opportunities. Our aim was to make automation more accessible. Our systems are flexible and powerful, but what sets us apart is that our automation solutions are simple to understand, program and operate.” He added: “We needed a partner that
understood the advantages of our automation solutions and could provide the electrical systems and components for these cells that could enhance productivity – whilst also keeping to our core aim of making automation more assessable for our end customers.”
SWITCHING TO CUBE67+ I/O Murrelektronik is a global leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of automation solutions. Its four core lines can be divided into: Power Supplies and Control, Interfaces, Cables/Connectors and IO Systems. Its UK branch was founded in 1983, with its clear vision to provide innovative electrical installation solutions, tailor-made to each application, a testament to its success over the years. “We first started using Murrelektronik
electrical automation solutions in 2019 when we had an urgent requirement for connection technology,” explained Ingham. “Over the years, the ever-growing range of electrical automation solutions and exceptional technical support has enabled us to benefit from Murrelektronik’s seamless, cost-effective and innovative technology. “More recently, the Murrelektronik technical
team came to see our SYNERGi Automated Manufacturing Cells. It was an advantage that they already knew our business and could quickly understand the issue. At the time we were using a range of different electrical products from a range of suppliers inside the control panel, including IP20 I/O. Our cabinet size was dictated largely by the requirement to house the IO. We were able to quickly
Right: Cube67+ takes IO points out the cabinet and abolishes complex wiring issues
20 DESIGN SOLUTIONS APRIL 2025
rationalise this, simplify the wiring and thus reduce the wiring time.” Murrelektronik’s solution was to use Cube67+ to decentralise the IO points out of the cabinet and abolish all the complex wiring issues. A more bespoke installation was needed here as Mills CNC SYNERGi systems offer multiple options for their customers, so the system needed to be both flexible and compatible with a Fanuc Robot Controller. “At this point in the system design, it is a huge advantage to have the expertise of the Murrelektronik applications engineers,” explained James Clark, Murrelektronik national sales manager. “Murrelektronik technology is all about making industrial automation as simple, seamless and cost- efficient as possible with decentralised installations. Combined with the expert
knowledge of the UK technical team, we have an incredible combination of innovative, proven solutions, technical know-how and resources to support our customers in embracing a zero-cabinet installation.” He added: “Murrelektronik also offers
holistic digital services supporting installation, commissioning and maintenance. This extra support is a game changer – our customers are well supported, knowing that Murrelektronik application engineers can also help with any teething issues further down the line.” The switch to Cube67+ I/O system was
relatively simple, and with most of the IO now being in the field, it meant the control panel size could be reduced, the wiring become more efficient, and the commissioning would be streamlined when locating any issues because the input or output is now localised to the IO.
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