FEATURE yIndustry 4.0 & IIoT
Latest high-temperature connectors can stand the heat
M
anufacturers are now investigating how they can best apply Industry 4.0 digitalisation processes to
existing production plant environments in order to improve productivity levels and reduce costs. A direct consequence of this
approach includes implementing a more modular approach to production platforms. This can involve either the application of new modular machines into a production line or the retrofitting of existing installed equipment to support a more modular and decentralised interconnected control system solution. This strategy can now be
followed for some of the harshest environmental plant conditions, such as those where equipment might be sited in areas with high operating temperatures. In the past, limitations in the operating performance of a connector have often meant that equipment has had to be hard-wired in such situations. However, Harting’s new Han High Temp range of connectors now supports the flexibility of applied connectorisation in such conditions. As a result, reduced wiring complexity means that such an installation can be optimised and maintenance costs reduced.
Typical end-user applications include
support for modular production cells within metal production foundries and rolling mills, including integrated electrical heating control feeds to die-cast tools and electric furnaces which may be applied in various high- temperature material processing areas. In addition, they can significantly extend
the service maintenance intervals of integrated removable mould tools within modularly designed plastics injection moulding machines for the latest high- temperature materials, resulting in
reduced line downtime. Similarly, opportunities may be found in tyre manufacturing and chemical processing plant environments.
Design features Harting has used its
considerable technical
expertise to develop special connectors for providing
reliable solutions for such high- temperature environments. For example, bulkhead-side connector
seals must not melt or adhere to other integrated component parts over the full operating temperature range. Consequently, Harting has opted for a non-stick coated high- temperature-resistant rubber version, which avoids bonding between the hood and housing even if they are left mated for a number of years. Many of the hood and housing coatings and
lacquers available on the market are not suitable for long-term use at high
temperatures as they can cause melting which can, in turn, lead to mated parts sticking together. Thanks to the application of a special surface treatment of the aluminium die-cast hoods and housings, Harting has been able to dispense with any potentially detrimental additional protective coating finish. The insulating body and contacts must both
withstand the high ambient conditions of the location and the additional heat generated inside the housing when under mated load. Harting has selected high-temperature- resistant copper alloy contacts that maintain constant electrical properties when heated. In addition, high-temperature LCP plastic insulators ensure long service life. As a result of the above mentioned features,
Harting’s Han High Temp connectors are able to permanently withstand operating ambient conditions of +200°C, provide extended operating lifetimes and ensure reduced line downtime compared to competitor solutions.
CONTACT:
Harting Tel: 01604 827500 E:
salesuk@harting.com Web:
harting.com/UK/en-gb
Linked systems demonstrate safe communication for Industry 4.0 applications I
ndustry 4.0 combines production with the latest modern information technology and automation
systems. This is based on intelligent, digitally linked systems that connect plant and machinery. KUKA and KEB Automation have developed a solution that demonstrates how this works in practice. In this field, KEB Automation is offering a new
solution for implementing connectivity to KUKA robots in various applications. With the C6 HMI LC, KEB now offers the possibility to both exchange data and to control and program the KUKA robot. The KEB system combines display, using an HMI, and control, via a PLC – in a single machine. This simplifies the complexity of the system and reduces costs. EtherCAT, as a powerful fieldbus, also facilitates connection to the robot. Working from individual customer requirements, KEB offers several
implementation solutions to suit a wide range of applications: Using the C6 HMI LC, the user is able to display information – such
5 October 2018 | Automation 0
as the current position of the robot – via a corresponding display concept and can exchange data between the robot and the HMI. The function module library ‘mxAutomation’ from KUKA,
which is based on PLC open standards, allows programming, diagnosis and manual operation of the KUKA robot via FB modules of the PLC. The library introduces almost all KUKA programming language commands into the PLC. Motion control of the axes is then performed by the robot itself. In addition, the KEB solutions enable integration of
safety controls to the system. The C6 Safety PLC from KEB uses ‘Safety-over-EtherCAT’ as a secure fieldbus protocol for data transmission and communication with the robot,
whereby safety functions can be implemented via the robot.
To view an example of KEB and KUKA systems working together, visit:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiSuYRue7qc
automationmagazine.co.uk
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