neumatic tube system (PTS) might sound like a blast from the past. But, the system – which uses compressed air or
a vacuum to transport cylindrical containers – remains at the forefront of intralogistics. In fact hospitals and medical facilities are
increasingly adopting PTS to send medications, test specimens and physical documents like x-rays as they’re not only fast, but also secure and sanitary. Industrial plants and manufacturers are
matching the speed of industry 4.0 automation by using PTS to send small products across their facilities. Some steelworks are even transporting hot steel samples to laboratories in order to adjust mixing ratios. This cheap and durable technology isn’t,
however, just limited to buildings. Capitals around the world, including Seoul, Doha and Barcelona, are installing rubbish chutes that connect to an underground PTS system. This streamlines waste collection without the need for trucks or people on the streets, making cities cleaner and smarter. The system that offered the speed of email in an age before the internet continues to innovate. For instance, capsules are fitted with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags for tracking and statistics. Some pneumatic tube stations also now offer automated loading and unloading for more efficient operation.
However, this
increasing data capacity comes with added challenges. The pneumatic tube industry needs to find a control cable that can move data quickly and securely, while saving space. To resolve this, LAPP, a market leader for integrated solutions in the field of cable and connection technology, has developed a custom cable.
There are several needs that a cable
within a pneumatic tube system must fulfil: • It needs to be able to transmit a large amount of data collected quickly. • It must transmit data securely. • It cannot be more than one cable width. Data from the system is often used to optimise processes. It can identify flow rates, pressure levels and other system parameters. In this case, access to the real-time data is vital as it prevents issues and shutdowns. Fast access to the data for analysis also enables the streamlining of workflows. One of the biggest benefits of a pneumatic
system is that data within the tube cannot be hacked or tapped into. While the cable does not carry the same sensitive data as the tubes, it is important that it remains just as secure. The final requirement for a cable working with a pneumatic system is that it needs to be as small as possible. There are two functions of the cable: one powering the system, while the other sends data. In most scenarios, this would mean two cables were used. However, laying two cables alongside a pneumatic tube system would be too difficult during installation.
LAPP has developed a cable that solves the challenges posed by pneumatic tube systems. This solution comes from the company’s work with aerocom, a leading manufacturer of pneumatic tube systems. During their 15-year relationship, it has custom-made cable that meets the company’s needs. The cable combines power supply and data
transmission in one to save space. This means that data is sent through the electrical cable rather than through an additional one. Not only does this save space, but it also reduces installation time.
This solution also means the pneumatic tube system doesn’t increase energy
40
consumption. This is because it doesn’t need additional network connection to function. LAPP is also committed to providing highly
secure cables. So, aerocom can be confident the data from its solutions is safe. Alongside these, technical safety is ensured as LAPP’s cables are insulated appropriately. In most cases, they will have a PVC sheath. However, in environments where there are high safety requirements for fire protection, such as hospitals or public buildings, a halogen-free alternative is used.
These bespoke cables meet all of today’s needs, transmitting data safely and quickly. Access to all the data points across the system enables operators to analyse how well the system is operating so they can spot any defects early and prevent large-scale shutdowns. The data also allows the operators to schedule regular maintenance at times where there will be less impact, enhancing operational efficiency. High-quality cabling that provides real-time data to the control centre facilitates this. Jürgen Wörle, of areocom, commented:
“As Swabian tinkering companies, LAPP and aerocom are a perfect match. We distribute a high-quality product and, therefore, enjoy working with high-quality partners.” But the development doesn’t stop there.
While the current solutions fulfil the basic needs of cabling in pneumatic tube systems, LAPP is working behind the scenes to continue developing cutting-edge solutions that meet further needs.
https://lappconnect.lappgroup.com/en/projects/ special-cable-for-pneumatic-tube-systems/
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56
