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Motor control maintenance and troubleshooting best practices, advice
Electric motors are used to drive actuators and machines in industry and there are many aspects to consider to keep them operating efficiently.
低-voltage NEMA motor acquisition completed
ABB has completed its acquisition of the Siemens low voltage National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) motor business.
Beyond the purchase: How to get the most from your variable frequency drive
For machine control and other applications, controlling motor speed with variable frequency drives can save energy, but it's not as easy as just adding a VFD. What else needs to be considered for motor control system efficiency?
Ultra-low voltage drives market to grow
Interact Analysis research reported global ultra-LV drives market are worth $753 million in 2021. AMR/AGV account for 11% of total market revenues in 2022.
Control Engineering hot topics, February 2023
Control Engineering's most clicked articles in February 2023 included stories on VFD parameters, Microsoft DCOM, superconductivity, control systems and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Control Engineering content: February 13-19, 2023
The top 5 articles from the past week motors, material science innovations, and cybersecurity news.
How to optimize industrial motor communications, Part 3, smart manufacturing
Three thought leaders offer advice on improving industrial motor communications and how doing so helps engineers, in this transcript from an August 2022 webcast. Part 3 covers motor-drive communications for smart manufacturing. Link to other parts.
How to optimize industrial motor communications, Part 2, strategies
Three thought leaders offer advice on improving industrial motor communications and how doing so can help engineers, in this transcript from an August 2022 webcast. Part 2 discusses specific industrial Ethernet strategies for motor-drive communications from three protocols. Link to other parts.
How to optimize industrial motor communications, Part 1, data types
Three thought leaders offer advice on improving industrial motor communications and how better motor communications can help engineers, in this transcript from an August 2022 webcast. Part 1 includes motor-drive communication information discussions from EtherCAT Technology Group, ODVA and PI North America. Link to other parts.
Eight frequently-neglected VFD parameters to optimize
Recognizing variable frequency drives (VFD) parameters such as thermal current, pulse-width modulation and more can help engineers get better performance for many different applications.
Hot topics in Control Engineering for 2022
Think Again: Automation product awards, motors and drives, automation salary and career information, Engineering Leaders Under 40, IIoT implementation help, tutorials on HMIs, SCADA and PLC programming help were among the hot topics of 2022. See top 3 covers and top 10 articles posted prior to 2022.
低voltage ac drive unit sales grow thanks to strong Asia market
Interact Analysis reported that strong unit sales in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region increased growth in the low voltage ac drive market to more than $14 billion in 2022.
Hot Control Engineering motors and drives articles in 2022
The most-viewed articles about motors and drives posted over the last year include VFDs, pulse width modulation, permanent magnet motors and more.
低-voltage ac motor market grows 21.2% in 2022
Rising prices helped the low-voltage ac motor market grow by more than 20% in 2022, but price declines are expected in 2023.
Acquisitions reveal motor supplier strategies
The top three suppliers of low voltage ac motors made waves in the motor and drives space with a string of acquisition announcements in early August. First, WEG announced its acquisition of Gefran’s motion control business.
Integrated stepper motors trim accurate metal forming costs
Backgauges are motorized multi-axis reference edges on press brakes and use smart steppers to reduce system complexity and improve the overall design.
Industrial motor communications: Optimization
How to optimize industrial motor communications is the topic of an Aug. 4 RCEP webcast, and related advice about industrial networks for motors and drives follows.
Energy-efficient drive launched
Yaskawa's ac industrial fan and pump drive solution is designed for all environments.
Direct-drive servo tutorial, application update
年代olving low speed rotary servo applications with direct-drive motors avoids hidden initial costs, while saving money over the life of the machine. Example shows $73,000 annual savings on a widget-making machine.
Questions answered to demystify servo sizing
Extra questions about servomotor sizing are answered here, from a May 17 webcast, archived for a year. More help includes related services and software, more servomotor sizing errors and information needed for servomotor sizing.
Top 5 Control Engineering content: May 30 to June 5, 2022
The most-viewed content from the past week covered the Career and Salary Survey, induction motors, HMI design tips and improving remote operations. Miss something? You can catch up here.
年代ervomotor help: Demystify servo sizing
Webcast has help for servomotor and servo amplifier (servo drives) sizing. Also get some advice below.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 18-24, 2022
Articles about induction motors, wireless instrumentation, heat engines, PWM effects and flue-gas monitoring were Control Engineering’s five most-viewed articles from April 18-24, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Cutting production costs through improved motor management
节能汽车和变速驱动器(VSDs) can help reduce production costs through greater energy efficiency.
Heat engine with no moving parts designed
MIT researchers have design a heat engine with no moving parts, which could help enable a fully decarbonized power grid in the future.
Ode to an induction motor
Recite this induction motor tutorial and savor it; even if poetry really isn’t your favorite.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 11-17, 2022
Articles about PWM effects, Engineers' Choice winners, edge computing, PID-based control systems and evolving pneumatics were Control Engineering’s five most-viewed articles from April 11-17, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Evaluate noise in electric motors
Determining the source can be more difficult than correcting it.
Control Engineering hot topics, March 2022
Control Engineering's most clicked articles in March 2022 included stories on Engineers' Choice winners, variable frequency drives (VFDs), advanced process control metrics, information control, edge technologies and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Your questions answered: Motor management and troubleshooting techniques for ac induction motors
Best practices and tips for motor management included advice on variable frequency drives (VFDs), motor efficiency, motor standards and more.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles March 14-20, 2022
Articles about Engineers' Choice winners, tuning a PM motor, maintenance operations, process control systems and bolstering information control were Control Engineering’s five most-viewed articles from March 14-20, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Picking the right motor condition monitoring system
A motor condition monitoring system is integral to sustainably maintain energy savings and extending motor life expectancy. A 100-hp motor/load consumes 795,118 kWh of energy in a year at 85% efficiency. At 95%, the same motor uses only 691,579 kWh. That’s $48,411 in annual savings at $0.07 per kWh.
Intro to setting up, tuning a PM motor with a VFD
A permanent magnet (PM) motor requires a variable frequency drive (VFD) to operate effectively. See motor comparison table, induction motor vs. PM torque curve, and VFD programming and tuning advice.
Control Engineering hot topics, February 2022
Control Engineering's most clicked articles in February 2022 included stories on Engineers' Choice winners, variable frequency drives (VFDs), neural networks, pulse-width modulation and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Product advice: Why, what, how of new motion control drive
New digital drives are compact, PCB-mountable modules that provide high performance motion control, network connectivity, and power amplification for brushless dc, dc brush and step motors. The miniature devices are for creating embedded control and automation applications, according to a company with a Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice Award product.
How drives can help with predictive maintenance
Modern low-voltage drives are able to offer predictive diagnostic capabilities for manufacturers and reduce downtime.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles February 7-13, 2022
Articles about Engineers' Choice winners, VFDs, motion control implementation, PWM effects and asset management were Control Engineering’s five most-viewed articles from February 7-13, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles January 31 to February 6, 2022
Articles about VFDs, artificial neural networks, machine learning, edge control and smart face masks were Control Engineering’s five most-viewed articles from January 31 to February 6, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
VFDs from the inside out
Variable frequency drive (VFD) vocabulary words: These 50 terms can help properly apply VFDs.
Understanding the effect of PWM when controlling a brushless dc motor
Motion system designers can be challenged when selecting or developing electronics using pulse-width modulation (PWM) to drive brushless dc motors. Heed some basic physical phenomena to avoid unexpected performance issues, along with general guidelines for using a PWM driver with a brushless DC motor. See diagrams, equations.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles January 10-16, 2022
Articles about the most-viewed articles of 2021, machine learning, motor nameplates, the IT/OT relationship and LV drive trends were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from January 10-16, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Hot Control Engineering motors and drives articles in 2021
The most-viewed articles about motors and drives posted over the last year include servomotor types, electric motors, motor types and more.
Growth expected for motor, industrial gear markets
Pent-up demand due to challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to result in strong growth for the motor and industrial gear markets in the next few years.
Decoding your motor’s nameplate
The most relevant information of a motor should be recorded on the nameplate, which includes frame size, voltage, power and more.
Trends in the LV drives market
Market research shows three trends influencing the drives market: functional safety, predictive maintenance and efficiency regulations.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles November 1-7, 2021
Articles about benefits of auto-tuning VFDs, how tomorrow's automation technology will transform workforce, and benefits of cloud-based historian software were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from November 1-7, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
年代olid growth rate projected for the LV drives market in 2021
EMEA regions suffered the greatest drives market decline in 2020, shipping costs and supply issues continue to pose problems, and global revenues will recover to pre-pandemic levels by 2022.
How variable speed drives save energy for manufacturers
Using a variable speed drive (VSD) can help save money and the environment in many different manufacturing applications.
低-voltage drive market projected to have slow, steady recovery
Labor shortages and supply chain disruptions are all coming together to cause a much slower recovery in the low-voltage drive market according to a report by Interact Analysis.
Integrated motor drive for OEM users
马达驱动,惠普UL-certified indu 1到10ction motors and customizable variable speed drives (VSDs).
Differences between NEMA and IEC electric motors
NEMA and IEC motors are similar but have different usual practices; take care when managing a facility with a mixed population
Choosing linear servo motors for the right application
There are several types of linear servo motors and knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each, along with the application they’re best-suited for, is critical.
Benefits of auto-tuning VFDs
An auto-tune helps a variable frequency drive (VFD) control the motor with specific motor settings, and there are many ways to get the best results for a specific setting and situation. See five auto-tuning tips.
Airport logistics market expected to get boost from Asian market
The airport logistics market, which took a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is expected to rebound thanks to a boost from the Asian market, particularly China.
Infrastructure bill projected to grow low-voltage market in key areas
The low-voltage (LV) drives market, like all other markets, dealt with a turbulent 2020 brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it should rebound if the Infrastructure Bill passes.
Motors & Drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management, Part 4
Michael Lyda, motor and drive engineer with Advanced Energy Corp., explains tips and tools for efficient motor management in this transcript from a December 2020 webcast.
Motors & Drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management, Part 3
Michael Lyda, motor and drive engineer with Advanced Energy Corp., explains tips and tools for efficient motor management in this transcript from a December 2020 webcast.
Motors & Drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management, Part 2
Michael Lyda, motor and drive engineer with Advanced Energy Corp., explains tips and tools for efficient motor management in this transcript from a December 2020 webcast.
Motors & Drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management, Part 1
Michael Lyda, motor and drive engineer with Advanced Energy Corp., explains tips and tools for efficient motor management in this transcript from a December 2020 webcast.
US Department of Energy issues final rule for testing small electric motors
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has issued rulemaking on test procedures for small electric motors for more than a decade.
Extra-large capacity high-voltage motor test center launched
The test facility at Sulzer’s Pasadena Service Center in Houston is part of a program of continued investment to better serve users of large ac and dc motors.
Your webcast questions answered: Troubleshooting techniques for AC induction motors
Over their operating lives, most AC induction motors exhibit common problems, from transients to voltage imbalances and single phasing.
Control Engineering hot topics, March 2021
Control Engineering's most clicked articles in March 2021 included stories on the top 5 VFD parameter changes explained, 2021 Engineers’ Choice Awards, the evolution of control systems with artificial intelligence, free PLC programming software for education, and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Control Engineering Articles March 1-7, 2021
Articles about the Spotlight on Innovation: 2021 Engineers' Choice Awards, top 5 VFD parameter changes explained, evolution of control systems with artificial intelligence, and more were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from March 1-7, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Recognize service conditions for motors and generators
It is important to understand the differences between the usual service conditions most motor designs assume and unusual service conditions that lead to unreliable operation and costly shutdowns
Improved stepper motor systems support more applications
年代tepper motor systems deliver more precision than standard variable-speed motors without the expense and complexity of servo motors, and newer high bus voltage options provide additional flexibility. See 5 motor technologies, common uses.
Direct drive vs. geared rotary servomotor: A quantification of design advantage: Part 3
Direct-drive servomotors are becoming more common as range and availability expands for use in many machine and motor applications.
Top 5 Control Engineering Articles Feb. 1-7, 2021
Articles about the 2021 Engineers' Choice Awards, top 5 VFD parameter changes explained, 3 data analysis tips, and more were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from Feb. 1-7, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Your questions answered: Motors and drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management
Webcast presenter answers additional questions on motor management tips and tools.
Direct drive vs. geared rotary servomotor: A quantification of design advantage: Part 2
Testing a direct drive and geared rotary servomotor shows there are some significant differences between the two when actually put into practice.
Grant given to design ultrahigh temperature tolerant alloys
A team of Texas A&M University researchers are investigating a class of metals, called refractory high entropy alloys (RHEAS), that can withstand higher operating temperatures.
Direct drive vs. geared rotary servomotor: A quantification of design advantage: Part 1
A geared servomotor can be useful for rotary motion technology, but there are challenges and limitations users need to be aware of.
Top 5 Control Engineering Articles Nov. 9-15, 2020
Articles about SCADA, HMI and MES projects, the 2021 Engineers' choice finalists, top 5 VFD parameter changes, and more were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from Nov. 9-15, 2020. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Motor, industrial gears market expected to recover quickly from COVID-19 impact
In spite of the losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the geared motors market is expected to have a period of sustained recovery and growth over the next few years.
How to match drives (VFDs, VSDs) to the motor
年代ize a variable-speed drive (VSD) for the application, and ask if a general-purpose drive will do or if more embedded intelligence is needed. Do you need a VSD, variable frequency drive (VFD) or adjustable speed drive (ASD)? (Trick question)
年代lotless versus slotted brushless DC motors
Brushless DC motors are the technology of choice for applications operating at higher speeds. However, two different motor architectures can present a selection conundrum.
Motor repair standard approved
年代tandard describes industry best practices for ac and dc motors and generators reliability and efficiency.
How to field test 3-phase squirrel cage motors
Maintenance of critical machines depends on the diagnostic electrical testing of installed 3-phase squirrel cage motors, interpretation of results and key points of physical inspection
Motor repair answers via Virtual Training Day
Motor repair advice about applications, a motor detective story, and a common misconception about motor designs are among additional answers available after a motor repair educational course.
Top 10 ways to protect your VFD investment
Variable speed drives offer savings, if used properly
Top 5 VFD parameter changes explained
Programming variable frequency drives (VFDs) to fit most industrial applications require only the most basic settings to operate the motor. Understand these 5 VFD parameter changes to optimize VFD programming to fit most motor-drive applications.
10 essential maintenance and troubleshooting tips for VFDs
A properly maintained variable frequency drive (VFD) can provide decades and cost-effective service. Making VFD inspections and maintenance part of facility oversight can improve outcomes.
High-performance motor designs
Motor innovations: Advanced motor technologies influence motor form factors, performance, and efficiencies. Examine how these technology advances can help with your next set of applications.
GA500 AC Microdrive by Yaskawa
Yaskawa's GA500 AC Microdrive is poised to take on today’s challenges of sustainability, flexibility and ease of use.
FlexPro servo drive family by Advanced Motion Controls (AMC)
Advanced Motion Controls’ FlexPro servo drive family, the FM series are equipped with an additional interface board that makes it easy to integrate into your system with standard connectors.
When are VFDs essential?
Engineers should understand variable frequency drive technologies, and the key considerations for designing a VFD to control a motor
Your questions answered: Right-sizing pumps with variable speed drives
Webcast presenter Eugene Vogel answered questions on variable speed drives (VSDs), variable frequency drives (VFDs), and their value for manufacturers.
Hollow-Shaft kit by Posital-Fraba
Posital’s Hollow-Shaft kit encoders feature an open-center form factor that makes them ideal for motor, drive or robot joint installations where it is necessary for the measurement device to fit around a central shaft or centrally mounted structures, cables or pneumatic tubing.
年代urvey respondents offer motor drive advice
Motor drive advice was offered in a write-in question in the Control Engineering motor drive research, summarized in the September issue.
年代martphones help with VFD configuration: Your questions answered
Additional answers provide more details about smartphone programming for variable frequency drives (VFDs).
How to deal with wet or flooded motors
年代altwater becomes a major problem.
2019 Motor Drives Study research
Five trends on buying and, specifying motor drives for industrial automation applications.
Brushless servo motors by Orbex Group
The Orbex Group’s NdFeB-based brushless servo motors that combine high torque, low inertia and various customizable options to improve efficiency in dynamic servo-driven applications.
年代F-series filters by OnFilter Inc.
OnFILTER’s SF-series filters substantially reduce high-frequency leakage currents in pulsh width modulation (PWM) motors and in wiring, assisting in compliance with the requirements of IEC60034-17/-25.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles August 12-18
Articles about digitizing reality, using the cloud for business, long battery life, making the IIoT work, and IIoT's effects on the motor business were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from August 12-18. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Motors, fans, pumps, compressors: IIoT avoids downtime
Think Again: Remote monitoring, sensors, analytics and real-time intelligence is helping those who manufacture, use, and repair motors and attached critical assets to avoid downtime with prescriptive maintenance technologies, says EASA and Plant Engineering research.
Industrial drive specification criteria for success
The key to selecting an industrial drive is to understand how that drive has been designed and constructed to operate in conjunction with other machines and control systems.
Use of variable frequency drives in injection molding saves money
Variable frequency drives (VFDs) improves process cooling optimization and pump efficiency.
Integrated motors offer flexibility with fewer components
Integrated motors save space compared to separate motor and drive components by reducing the number of components in the system, simplifying cabling and reducing costs over conventional solutions.
Three steps to size motors
Proper motor sizing precludes equipment failures, ensures efficiency and reduces maintenance issues.
IIoT’s effects on the motor industry
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) can help companies realize a greater return on investment (ROI) for plant-floor motors, but companies need to know what they seek and want.
eXtended Transport System (XTS) by Beckhoff Automation
The eXtended Transport System (XTS) from Beckhoff Automation combines the advantages of rotary and linear drive principles for motion control and mechatronics applications.
T40B torque sensor by HBM Test and Measurement
HBM’s T40B torque sensor delivers up to 23,000 RPM for a selection of measuring ranges of 1, 2 and 3 kNm and is ideal for applications including test benches, end-of-line tests (EoL) and process monitoring.
年代CA5618 stepper motor by Nanotec
Nanotec’s SCA5618 stepper motor is available in three lengths and with two different windings.
Four risks to consider when choosing a medium-voltage drive
严格规范可以帮助减少downtime, safety and financial risks during a drive’s typical 20-year lifecycle. Examine the details.
Reducing downtime with variable speed drives
Inverter drives are getting smarter and are now able to look after themselves, along with a range of other plant equipment such as fans, pumps, motors and conveyors.
Crydom DRMS by Sensata Technologies
年代ensata Technologies’ Crydom DRMS series of hybrid motor starters are designed to integrate solid state and electromechanical relay technologies to produce a device that can control electrical power delivery to motors as large as 4kW.
Control Engineering hot topics, May 2019
Control Engineering's most clicked articles in May 2019 included stories about VFDs, safe human-robot interaction, sustainable cybersecurity, object-oriented programming, the Career and Salary Survey, and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Industrial market growth a boost to low-voltage motors and drives
The worldwide market for low-voltage motors and drives grew in 2018 thanks to a continued resurgence in the heavy industries such as metal processing, mining and oil & gas.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 29 to May 5
Articles about VFD replacements, object-oriented industrial programming, robotics research and development, evaluating a system integrator, IIoT benefits for manufacturers were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from April 29 to May 5. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Lexium MDrive by Schneider Electric
Captive shaft electric cylinders are now available for Schneider Electric’s Lexium MDrive (LMD) integrated motor products feature captive shaft electric cylinders.
AMP8620 supply module by Beckhoff Automation
Beckhoff’s AMP8620 supply module is designed to provide support for the implementation of modular machine concepts.
VFD: Swap it or upgrade?
There’s a lot to know behind the process of replacing a drive.
Efficient motion system engineering reduces servomotor costs
Configuration using PC-based control software, EtherCAT networks, integrated drives, and one-cable technology (OCT) simplify motion control system design and reduce servomotor costs.
Motion control, motor market experience record 2018 growth
The global motion control and motor market experienced record growth in 2018 with an 8 percent increase over 2017.
低-priced medium-voltage drives can have long-term costs
Consider how reliability and performance impact total cost of ownership (TCO) when buying or specifying medium-voltage drives rather than focus only on the initial price point.
D3 dryve by Igus
Igus’ D3 dryve is designed to control linear and rotary systems completely without software or a personal computer.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles February 25 to March 3
Articles about the Engineers' Choice Awards, control systems with style, selecting a VFD scope, the future of the IIoT in manufacturing, and robotics as a service were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from February 25 to March 3. Miss something? You can catch up here.
FMX TD400 Tough Drive by FactoryMation
FactoryMation’s FMX TD400 Tough Drive is a rugged ac drive for demanding motor control applications.
年代electing a scope for a variable frequency drive
年代elect the right oscilloscope to fit a variable frequency drive (VFD) application. Consider scope types, probes, and options. See eight factors to consider when choosing an oscilloscope.
Diagnosing motor health: Start with the basics
Temperature, power quality, and torque all are strong indicators of a motor's health.
快速修复电厂汽轮机所需
The repair of a steam turbine, which had a cracked rotor, required some innovative and quick thinking to ensure a quick repair time for a power plant in the Philippines.
Deciding between running or starting torque when picking a motor
Running torque and starting torque have different benefits and users should be aware of their pros and cons when picking a motor for a hydraulic system.
IronHorse MTCP2 by AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect’s IronHorse MTCP2 industrial duty motors are offered in T-Frame (1 to 300 hp) and TC-Frame/C-Face (1 to 30 hp).
HX56-100 hazardous location stepper motor by Applied Motion
Applied Motion’s HX56-100 hazardous location stepper motor is designed for motion control in challenging environments of oil, gas, printing, and paint finishing applications.
Picking the right motor size
Finding the right size is crucial for choosing a motor as well as balancing torque, speed, and inertia for optimal application performance.
Eight factors to consider when implementing a linear motion application
当实施并指定一个线性运动pplication, users should consider many aspects including the required accuracy, speed, and the duty cycle to ensure the best possible performance.
Maintenance, installation guidelines for linear motion applications
Consider these installation, maintenance, and operating tips and advice for a linear motion system.
How to manage multi-vendor motion control architectures
Manufacturers and machine builders may be required to match motors and drives from different brands; careful design considerations can yield successful applications.
What’s in a nameplate?
Information helps the selection of the right motor regardless of application.
Tubular linear servo motor packs punch
Chicago —Shown at NMW, Series 4000 and 5000 direct-drive linear servo motors offer high force per volume in a tubular configuration. Ring-shaped neodymium magnets of alternating polarity line the length of the output shaft, which is the motor's only moving part. The cylindrical stator—also composed of rings (with teeth and slots)—fits around the shaft, producing smooth electr...
Interkama 2001 integrates process automation, software
Düsseldorf, Germany— Interkama 2001, the International Trade Fair for Solutions for Automation in Production and Business Processes, will integrate software, communications, and information technology with its traditional process automation focus here on Sept. 24-28, according to show organizer Messe Düsseldorf GmbH.
Motor starters stress safe, fast installation
Chicago—TeSys D Line ("Telemecanique System"), a new generation of motor starters from Schneider Electric/Square D, was introduced at the NMW show. The new D Line features smaller dc contactors for lower control power (uses less panel space and 75% less power than traditional coils), a mounting/wiring system that cuts panel connection time by 50% without tools, and finger-safe connection...
Add encoders, control algorithms to provide step motor benefits
Drives: Better torque, lower power consumption is possible and the right algorithms in the drive gives lower-cost step motors performance nearing that of servo motors.
Five machine design challenges and how motion controls help
Commercial challenges for machine designers are being address by the motion control industry. See how these five advances can help with motion control designs.
Matrix drive benefits for managing drive harmonics
管理博士陷阱过滤器是一个共同的解决方案ive harmonics, but matrix drives can provide additional benefits for the user without the need for peripheral equipment and costs.
VFDs: six benefits, energy efficiency
Drives: A growing emphasis on boosting energy efficiency and meeting energy requirements are increasing demand for variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Matching motors and drives: Common problems and best practices
而it’s common to use the same manufacturer for a motor or drive, when something breaks down, the choice might not be so straightforward. Knowing what kind of problem and how severe the issue is can help determine what to do next.
Global semiconductor manufacturing equipment sales projected to increase
年代EMI reported worldwide sales of new semiconductor manufacturing equipment are projected to increase 10.8% to $62.7 billion in 2018 thanks to strong growth from China, South Korea, and Taiwan.
Observation wheel demonstrates safety with a view
Case study: Automation’s attention to safety, reliability, and ease of implementation at the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye Observation Wheel.
年代emiconductor machine sales reach record high to start 2018
Global semiconductor machine sales reached $17 billion in the first quarter of 2018 according to SEMI, which is 30% higher than the same period in 2017.
Four control system benefits for mobile machinery
Control system benefits on mobile machine include improved machine and equipment performance, quicker production, and easier maintenance.
Advancing intelligent motion control
Modern manufacturing demands technologies and methodologies focused on minimizing engineering requirements as well as expediting machine motion control by breaking down complex sequences into functional machine modules and linking mechanics, electronics, and software.
年代tepper motor torque basics
年代tepper motors remain popular for industrial motor applications because they are low-cost, rugged, simple, have high torque at startup and low speeds, require little maintenance, and they can operate in an open loop control system.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles Mar. 19-25
Articles about building a machine with motion design software, Big Data analytics, steam trap stations, the 2018 HMI Software and Hardware Study, and fog computing were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from March 19-25, 2018. Miss something? You can catch up here.
年代ervo and induction motors: what is the cost?
Motors should be weighed by the same standard of total cost of ownership by which other assets in the plant are measured.
What to consider when choosing an ac induction motor
There are many aspects to consider when choosing an ac induction motor such as supply voltage, horsepower rating, and the application itself.
Maintenance distributor adds electrical specialties group
Motion Industries announced EIS has become the Electrical Specialties Group of Motion Industries, effective Jan. 2, 2018.
Building a machine using motion design software
Motion design software allows engineers to design machines for improved accuracy and overall performance.
ABB completes integration with Baldor
年代tarting March 1, 2018, Baldor Electric Company, a member of the ABBgroup for more than seven years, will be known as ABB.
Innovations in electric motor technology: the first 100 years
Variable frequency drive (VFD) and other motor advancements that help manufacturers originated from experiments and developments in the 19th century with electric coils and the three-phase induction motor.
Bluetooth connectivity makes VFDs safer, easier to use
Variable frequency drive (VFD) manufacturers are introducing a wide range of product advances that improve performance, simplify installation and operation, and increase safety.
Three major VFD trends
Variable frequency drive (VFD) development is shifting focus away from general-purpose motor controls that are already meeting market demands toward reduced installation costs. Consider industrial VFD installation time, VFD installation space and VFD harmonics.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles September 4-10: PID benefits and challenges, ladder logic, open- or closed-loop control, more
Articles about PID challenges and benefits, ladder logic, knowing when to use open- or closed-loop control, motor efficiency, and robotics on the assembly line were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from September 4-10. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Electromechanical services are essential for minimizing operating costs of rotating equipment
Involving a maintenance partner in more routine tasks and using their expertise can minimize downtime and reduce overall maintenance costs in the longer term.
Research team developing Tesla coil designs
Researchers at The Geek Group National Science Institute have set out on an ambitious program of research and experimentation seeking to discover new uses for Tesla coils (TCs).
Top 5 Control Engineering articles April 24-30: Programmable controller origins, IIoT’s emergence, HMI’s future, more
Articles about the programmable controller's origins, IIoT's emergence, the HMI's future, Ethernet benefits, and matrix drives reducing energy consumption were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from April 24-30. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Inverter with advanced integration
Fuji's Frenic-Ace is a versatile drive with advanced integration capabilities such as applied power ratings, sensorless dynamic torque vector control, and customer customizable logic.
Understanding permanent magnet motors
A permanent magnet (PM) motor is an ac motor that uses magnets imbedded into or attached to the surface of the motor’s rotor. This article provides an elementary understanding behind the terminology, concepts, theory, and physics behind PM motors.
Five questions to ask when selecting a VFD
Users looking to select a variable frequency drive (VFD) need to consider their application, power source characteristics, and other safety and maintenance aspects to ensure that a production plant’s operations remain smooth with minimal downtime.
EC: FR-A800 Plus for Cranes and Hoists, a VFD
运动控制驱动器,电机控制中心:FR-A800 Plus Series of variable frequency drives are application specific drives combined with software specific functions providing 3-phase ac motor solutions for cranes, hoists, and other lifting applications. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: MotiFlex e180 servo drive
Motion Control — Servo drives: The ABB MotiFlex e180 servo drive offers system integrators, OEMs and automation engineers a drive range that is almost limitless in its applications potential. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: MR-J4-TM Multi-Network Servo Drive
运动控制,伺服驱动器:MR-J4-TM多Network Servo Drive combines the industry-leading performance of the MR-J4 family of servos with common industrial Ethernet protocols, including EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, and Profinet. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: Sigma-7 servo amplifier for rotary, linear, and direct drive motors
Motion Control — Servo drives: SGD7 Sigma-7 SERVOPACKS deliver precise, high-speed control for rotary, linear, and direct drive motors in automated machines. They also link to programmable motion controllers, supporting a complete motion automation system. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.
EC: HexGen hexapod positioning system
Motion control, motors: Aerotech's HexGen hexapods provide very high precision, six-degree-of-freedom positioning of heavy payloads at high speeds and large travels for applications in X-ray diffraction, sensor testing, and high-force device manipulation. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: M100 Direct Drive Motor
Motion control, motors: M100 direct drive motors with electromagnetic technology provide low speeds, high torque capabilities to eliminate the need for a gearbox in applications such as conveyors, fans, pumps and packaging equipment. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: iMotion Modular Application Design Kit (MADK)
Motion control, motors: Infineon's iMotion Modular Application Design Kit is a compact and flexible evaluation system that provides a scalable design platform for 3-phase motor drives from 20 to 300 W. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: Platinum e PMAC and Inverter, permanent magnet ac motor and integrated drive
Motion control, motors: The Platinum e PMAC motor is now available as a stock product and upgraded with a complementary ac inverter that improves efficiency, all under the Leeson brand. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.
EC: EPOS4 Module 50/15 position controller with integrated amplifier
Motion control, motors: EPOS4 OEM position controller module, with integrated amplifier, designed for use with brushed dc motors with encoder or brushless EC motors with hall sensors and encoders up to 750/1500 W. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: M-4839 Wide-Band Power Meter
Hardware — Data acquisition: M-4839 accurately measure energy, frequency and power factor with VFDs and other high harmonic environments, and meets DoE requirements as noted in 10 CFR 429 and 431 and others. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: AEGIS Shaft Voltage Tester Digital Oscilloscope
硬件-手持测试、测量、校准: The AEGIS Shaft Voltage Tester Oscilloscope makes it easy to take/capture readings of harmful VFD-induced shaft voltages from spinning motors and to prevent costly bearing damage/downtime by installing AEGIS Rings. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: IER3 Optical Encoder
Machine & Embedded Control — Discrete sensors, machine vision: The IER3 optical encoder provides the highest resolution of its class with a resolution up to 10,000 lines per revolution. The IER3 encoders are ideal for high-precision positioning applications. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: EJ7211-0010 Servomotor Module
Motion Control — Drives, motor control centers: The EJ7211-0010 is an EtherCAT plug-in module that seamlessly integrates with servomotors from the Beckhoff AM8100 series, offering output current up to 4.5 ARMS. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: IndraDrive ML modular universal inverter
Motion Control — Drives, motor control centers: IndraDrive ML is a modular universal inverter, used as a mains inverter or motor inverter. Power ranges from 110 kW up to 4 MW by connecting units in parallel. This is a Control Engineering 2017 Engineers’ Choice Awards Finalist.
EC: Extreme Duck Ultra
运动- - - - - -Motors: Extreme Duck Ultra is an absolutely liquid-proof motor that increases motor life and virtually eliminates plant down time. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.
EC: i500 Inverter Series
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: The i500 is a new inverter series in the 0.33 to 60 hp (0.25 to 45 kW) power range featuring a compact design, scalable functionality, innovative interface options, and a wide-ranging modular system that’s easy to commission, energy-efficient, space-saving, and adapts easily to difference machine requirements. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: Escon module 24/2
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: The Escon module 24/2 is a small-sized, powerful 4-quadrant PWM-based OEM servo controller for the highly efficient control of permanent magnet-activated brushed dc motors and brushless dc motors up to approximately 48 Watts. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: Faulhaber 2057 BHS brushless dc servo motor
运动- - - - - -Motors: While remaining cool to the touch, the high efficiency, slotless design of this brushless dc servo motor features smooth speed control with a wide continuous duty speed range up to 40,000 rpm. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: Faulhaber 3274 BP4 brushless dc motor
运动- - - - - -Motors: The brushless dc servo motor, measuring 32 mm in diameter and 74 mm in length, has massive continuous torque of 165 mNm, weighing in at just under 320 g. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5700 Servo Drive
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: The Kinetix 5700 servo drive provides servo and induction motor control from one platform for large machines with high axis counts and power requirements, saving cabinet space and reducing configuration time and wiring requirements. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Honorable Mention.
EC: Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 527 ac drive
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: The PowerFlex 527 drive is the first ac drive designed to work exclusively with a Logix-based PAC, and uses the same motion instructions as Kinetix servo drives to help simplify machine development and operation. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: Sinamics G110M
运动- - - - - -Motors: Sinamics G110M is a new drive and gear motor system ideal for material handling and conveyor applications up to 4 kW. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: U1000 industrial Matrix drive
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: The U1000 industrial Matrix is a low harmonic drive that provides full power regeneration. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.
EC: Ndrive QLe
Motion Control - Drives, servo drives: Ndrive QLe is a digital, panel-mount, nanopositioning piezo drive that enables coordinated motion between piezo stages and servo axes at much higher rates than other controller/drive products. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: AM8x1x Servomotors
运动- - - - - -Motors: The compact AM801x and AM811x servomotors with One Cable Technology (OCT) from Beckhoff Automation offer a low rotor moment of inertia as well as quadruple overload capacity. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Honorable Mention.
End of China’s commodity super-cycle hits medium-voltage drive sales
Medium-voltage drive revenues declined by more than 10% in 2014 to $2.5 billion as increased competition and lower demand eroded prices, according to the latest IHS research from the Medium-voltage Motor Drives Intelligence Service.
What makes Asia Pacific the world’s largest market of electric motors in automotive applications?
World’s automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation for better fuel economy and to reduce environmental contaminants. Asia Pacific is projected to lead global growth through 2019.
Where are the opportunities for torque and linear motors? The answer is China
According to a new report from IHS Technology, China leads the global linear and torque motors market, due to continuing growth in the electronics, electronic assembly, semiconductor, machine tools and flat-panel display industries.
Optimizing Motor, Drives and Gearbox Systems to Ensure Best Performance and Total Cost of Ownership: Questions and Answers
William Finley answers questions about optimizing motor, drives and gearbox systems to ensure best performance and total cost of ownership.
年代tepper motors for small spaces
Micromo's Faulhaber FDM0620 Series stepper motor expands its family of stepper motors in the 6 to 22 mm diameter range.
12 billion electric motors to be shipped in consumer products by 2018
Already exceeding the number of people on the planet, electric motors used in consumer-oriented products such as cars and electronic devices will continue to ship in robust volumes during the next five years, reaching 12 billion units by 2018.
年代tainless steel roller pinion line
Nexen Group has added stainless steel racks to its roller pinion system to make them corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for the food and chemical industries.
年代ystems and components for additive manufacturing
Aerotech has a wide range of additive manufacturing motion systems and components to fit any application including motors, controllers, goniometers, and custom systems.
Optical absolute encoders
The ROQ/EQN 425 rotary encoder by Heidenhain is available with a solid shaft or hollow shaft with a mounted stator coupling and includes TTL and HTL signals.
Heavy duty electric actuator, multi-axis positioning
The EGC-HD electric actuator absorbs lateral forces and torques with recirculating ball bearing guides and has a multi axis and modular positioning system.
Hybrid motor starter has energy efficient relay system
年代iemens' Sirius 3RM1 hybrid motor starter is designed as both a direct-on-line starter and a reversing starter and has an energy-efficient relay system that reduces maintenance demands and extends the motor's life.
Custom firmware helps with smart motor programming
Moog Animatics has designed Class 5 SmartMotor firmware to accept DMX protocol and can use multiple SmartMotors on the same network as well as simplify programming with advanced motion control features.
Motion control shipments contract
Global shipments for motion control products fell 7.7% in the first quarter of 2013 though there are indications the market still has strong demand. Shipments of motion controllers and AC drives posted growth; support services grew nearly 15%
Medium duty encoders, solid or hollow shaft
The Koyo medium duty encoders now include PPR models and are available in push-pull or differential configurations.
Drives and motion accelerator toolkit wizard
Rockwell's DMAT now has a system development wizard designed to simplify the machine-design process and guides users through a step-by-step process that includes input about machine requirements and CAD drawings.
Washdown AC motors are designed for rugged conditions
The WSS stainless steel AC motors from Omega Engineering are dipped and cured in polyester insulating varnish and are designed for rugged conditions like water treatment and machine shops.
Motion control shipments contract slightly in 2012; optimism for 2013
The Motion Control Association (MCA) reports that global shipments for 2012 fell by 1% because, in large part, of global shocks like the Eurozone crisis. MCA member companies indicate optimism for 2013, however.
Packaging machinery module
The Pic-N-Place module is designed to pick products efficiently thanks to a color-coded docking station and it can operate on a continuous basis without interruption.
年代mart motor controller
Allen-Bradley SMC-50 smart motor controller from Rockwell Automation provides advanced monitoring and protection for OEM users and is rated at 200 V-690 V AC and is designed for normal-duty applications.
Compact AC drive profit margins down in 2012 but forecast to improve
Due to intense competition and the penetration of new lower cost compact drives, profit margins declined in 2012.
年代ervodrive control improvements augment machine tool performance
Applied automation: Upgraded vertical honing machines introduce new capabilities, higher accuracy/safety, and new model designations. New servo technology for spindle, stroker, and tool-feed add new capabilities to reduce cycle time and expand processing options.
Permanent magnet motors
NovaTorque has expanded their Electronically Commutated Permanent Magnet (ECPM) motors to include 3 hp and 5 hp models. They are designed to be more energy efficient and have high power density.
年代ervomotor technology contributes to productivity
年代ervo drive control: Improved computing power advances servo motor technology. Fast processors in PC-based controllers (especially multi-core PCs) enable updates to multiple servo control loops while handling machine control logic.
Encoder manufacturer moves to new, larger, facility
Renishaw's associate company, RLS d.o.o., which specializes in the manufacture of solid-state encoders, has moved to a new facility in Komenda, Slovenia, that is three times larger than the old one.
Linear drives with manual pitch control
Uhing Model RG linear drives from Amacoil have adjustable pitch, enabling variable speed without changing drive motor speed.
Digital microstepping drive prevents motor position errors
The SureStep line by AutomationDirect now includes a digital stepper drive that is designed to prevent position error from electrical noise on command signals.
Design program for drive components
The Easy Explorer design program by Lenze analyzes user-entered data to determine inverter and geared motor combinations and also provides CAD and ePLAN data for additional information.
Variable frequency drives supplied for retrofit project
年代iemens is supplying two Robicon Perfect Harmony VFDs to the Otter Tail Power Company for their plant in South Dakota as part of a $490 million environmental retrofit project that is scheduled for completion by 2015.
年代ingle-chip motor controller
The cSPIN stepper motor controller by STMicroelectronics simplifies design and does not require motor-control software.
configur直线电机系统able track and multiple movers
New XTS from Beckhoff combines multiple motion control technologies into a versatile transport system. Video: See the XTS in operation.
EC: NovaTorque Gen2.0 PremiumPlus+ ECPM Motors
Motion Control: NovaTorque's new motor is a radically innovative electric motor design that uses low-cost ferrite magnets to deliver the efficiency of rare-earth permanent magnet motors at a price competitive with standard induction motors. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.
EC: Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 753 AC Drive
Motion Control - Drives: The Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 753 AC drive with a power range of 0.75 to 7.5 kw/1 to 10 horsepower (400/480 volts) is 20% smaller size than previous PowerFlex 753 offerings. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice Award winner.
EC: AKD PDMM
运动控制伺服驱动器:AKD PDMM结合了high-performance multi-axis motion controller, complete IEC 61131-3 soft PLC, EtherCAT master, and AKD servo drive in one, compact package. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.
EC: Servo Inverter i700
Motion Control - Servo drives: Designed for multi-axis applications, the i700 simplifies machine design, build and commissioning. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.
EC: Equipment Monitoring System
Process Control - Process sensors: The Raytek Equipment Monitoring system is a plug and play, early warning device used for asset monitoring and predictive maintenance of low to medium voltage switchgear, electrical panels, motors, gearboxes and critical process equipment. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.
EC: ISS-Industrial Start/Stop with Smartstart Motor Protection
Power - Motor control: Cerus' ISS starters with Smartstart Motor Control Modules combine control, electronic motor protection, and automation system I/O in one unit, making them the industry's most advanced motor start/stop controls. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice Awards Honorable Mention.
EC: µIPM Power Modules
Power - Motor control: The highly integrated, ultra-compact, PM power modules are designed for high efficiency appliance and light industrial applications including compressor drives for refrigeration, pumps for heating and water circulation, air-conditioning fans, and automation systems. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.
Muhammad Mubeen, President of Phoenix Tech Consulting, Presenter for Webcast
Muhammad Mubeen presents for the October 23 Control Engineering Webcast "Servo vs. Induction Motors: Which should be considered for what applications?"
Video: Motion systems drive robotic dolphin
Case study: Quicksilver Control developed special motion control system software to control a robotic dolphin; 14 actuators were driven by a closed-loop step-motor controller. Link to videos.
Custom direct drive motor systems
Applimotion offers custom drive motor systems with precision encoders and bearings in unique packages. Design engineering services will integrate ULT, UTH, UTS, and UTO frameless motor kits into application-specific direct drive motors.
Permanent magnet motors outperform induction motors in many applications
Permanent magnet synchronous motors offer significant advantages on high-energy-consuming and high-dynamic applications, compared to induction motors. See table, photo gallery.
Technologies inside: Permanent magnet servomotors
Kollmorgen B-series motors and large Kollmorgen Cartridge DDR motors provide advantages for some applications previously served by induction motor systems.
Current sensing switch for motor monitoring
The ASXP Current Sensing Switch from NK Technologies is designed to solve maintenance requirements for single- and three-phase motors
Integrated servo drive-motor reduces panel space, saves time
The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 6000M drive-motor by Rockwell Automation combines servo motors and drive technologies into one package, which reduces panel space and installation time.
年代tainless steel motors for washdown applications
The IronHorse stainless steel motors by AutomationDirect feature 304 stainless steel frames and shafts and are designed for washdown applications.
Industrial start, stop controls
The ISS motor controls from Cerus accepts dry voltage inputs of up to 250 V AC for activation. One model can accept 208-600 V AC and motor loads up to 40 A.
Increase system energy efficiency with motor and drive tools
Lenze L-Force Drive Solution Designer (DSD) software design tools, L-force MF ac motors, and the energy-saving VFCeco (Voltage Frequency Control economic) feature in Lenze 8400 inverter drives can reduce energy use and pollution, conserve resources, and lower energy costs without sacrificing productivity.
Advanced microstepping drive
The STR2 stepper drive features advanced microstepping and current control with anti-resonance.
Technologies for filtering mechanical resonance with intelligent servo drives
Control machine resonance—the “white noise” generated by machine motion—in servo-driven printing and converting machines. Bosch Rexroth intelligent servo drives provide advanced programming tools, diagnostic features, and integrated filtering capabilities to combat mechanical resonance.
Roller pinion system and precision ring drive
imt 2012: Nexen辊齿轮系统(RPS)precision ring drive (PRD), which are designed for motion control challenges and rotary positioning applications, respectively.
Chinese light vehicle telematics market set for rapid expansion
Although the OEM in-vehicle telematics market is still in an early phase in China, forecasts say it will soon become a billion dollar market.
BRIC countries benefit from local industrial motor controls production
As these emerging economies become more developed and labor costs in the countries rise, shifts towards other developing regions are inevitable as suppliers look to take advantage of the benefits an emerging market offers for industrial motor controls.
Compact DC drive
ABB DCS800-EP Panel Drive is available up to 600 hp and is designed for heavy-duty applications in the steel and pipe mill industries.
年代peed and precision paired with high holding forces
Hybrid drive technology from Rexroth combines the strengths of hydraulic and electric drives.
Angle encoders can connect with controls
Heidenhain RCN 2000, 5000 and 8000 series encoders can connect with Fanuc controls. They also feature optimized scanning and evaluation electronics.
Making good motor decisions
正确的电机尺寸最大effic至关重要iency, as is making the right rewind-versus-replace determination.
Variable frequency drive cables support large horsepower motors
Belden introduces MCM VFD cables to support large horsepower motors.
Motor manufacturing plant to support water company in Israel
年代iemens has agreed to supply 10 vertical motors for the Mekorot National Water Company in Israel to help with the country's water demand.
Example: Driving a chain conveyor with a gear motor and VFD
如果你从头开始一个新的应用tion, you have to determine how hard the motor needs to work to do the job.
Insurers to monitor drivers
Car insurance companies are planning to offer young drivers the opportunity to install a surveillance camera in their car, and in exchange receive a discount of 15% on their insurance.
Ametek completes Dunkermotoren acquisition for $320 million
Ametek buys Dunkermotoren GmbH, a manufacturer of advanced motion control solutions for a wide range of industrial automation applications. It joins Ametek as part of Ametek Precision Motion Control, a division of Ametek’s Electromechanical Group (EMG).
Gearboxes, motors, geared motors: Assembly and logistics facility opened in Illinois
Lenze opened its Mechanical Product Assembly and Logistics Center in Glendale Heights, Ill., which will support electro-mechanical manufacturing operations for gearboxes, motors, geared motors, including inverters and servos.
Intelligent servo motor size reduced 25%, retains full power
Dunkermotor reduces size of its 45mm iBLDC (Intelligent Brushless) motors with integral 4-quadrant speed controls by 25%, while maintaining power, torque, efficiency.
Factory tour advice
Think Again: Recent factory tours offer critical advice to help manufacturers gain efficiency, quality, and more.
Cut Chiller Energy Costs by 30%
Industrial Energy Management: Prepackaged retrofit for centrifugal compressor chiller also said to reduce required maintenance and extend operating life.
年代ervo linear actuators with roller, ball screw
The IMA55 and IMA22 servo linear actuator by Tolomatic integrate a servomotor and a ball or roller screw designed for several uses.
Motion control market finished strong in 2011
The Motion Control Association reported that orders for motion control products increased 17.7% in 2011 and overall gains increased 4% over 2010.
Motor designs focus on energy efficiency
Of the total cost of ownership of an electric motor in an industrial or commercial application, approximately 2% is the amount paid to purchase the motor. The remaining 98% is the cost of powering the motor over its lifetime.
Motor feedback system
The F14 Motor Feedback System by A.C.E. and Hengstler is designed to allow easy mounting with high tolerance to motor shaft movement.
Motor line expanded with 98 ratings
Baldor's Super-E motors , which have an internal AEGIS bearing protection ring, have 98 new ratings. The ratings expands the 4 pole line of TEFC and ODP designs. 575V TEFC motors were also added.
Vogl named chairman for motion control group
Andrew Vogl of Kollmorgen is named Chairman of MCA, replacing Bill Allai of National Instruments, who remains on the Board as Past Chairman.
Customized wing motor for motor mounting
The swing servo is designed as a direct drive for motor mounting while also being applicable for rollers. Wittenstein's swing servo is also known as the wing motor.
Medium voltage market powered by oil and gas industry
A report by IMS Research indicates that the high price of oil in 2010 and 2011 will increase investment for production capacity expansion
年代emi-conductor soft starters
The SR33 semi-conductor soft starters are designed to control three-phase ac induction motors.
Frequency inverter with Powerlink
The ACOPOSinverter P84 has an integrated Powerlink interface and a performance range of 0.37 to 500 kW.
EC: VLT FlexConcept drive
Motion control – Drives: The VLT FlexConcept from Danfoss is a unified and optimized drive solution specifically engineered to satisfy the efficiency, flexibility, and reliability demands of the food and beverage and packaging industries. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice award winner.
EC: EL7201 Servo Terminal
Motion control – Servo drives: The Beckhoff EL7201 terminal integrates a complete servo drive for motors up to 200 W into a standard 12 mm I/O terminal housing. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
EC: MR-JN Servo
Motion control – Servo drives: The MR-JN series of servo drives from Mitsubishi Electric Automation feature a "one-touch button" that automatically completes auto-tuning on the machine. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.
EC: EasyHandling modular motion control system
Motion control: EasyHandling from Bosch Rexroth is comprehensive system solution for handling operations that bundles drive and control technologies and mechanical components, and standardized interfaces in a scalable offering. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice award winner.
EC: L-force Three-Phase MF Motor
Motion control: The cost-effective and innovative MF Motor from Lenze increases efficiency during partial load and reduces energy use by up to 30% when operating with a frequency inverter. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.
Universal input express card
The Aaxeon Technologies MSC-208C is designed for universal compatibility with new and legacy devices for increased flexibility.
Linear inductive position sensor for clamping technology
Balluff's BIP linear inductive position sensor is non-contact and has linear travel of 40mm and resolution of 14 microns.
Miniature linear positioning stage
Aerotech's MPS50SL is designed for accurate measurement and testing in space-constrained applications.
Traversing drive assembly operates automatically
Amacoil/Uhing's level winding drive doesn't require programming or electronic control.
AC low-voltage motors revenues to triple in China by 2016
IMS Research forcasts that low-voltage motors, even with the mandatory transition from IE1 to the more expensive IE2, will triple in revenues thanks to the growing economy.
Variable frequency drives, inverters for open, closed loop control
Hitachi America Ltd. Industrial Components and Equipment Division, among offerings at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2011, showed the L700 Series of Industrial ac variable frequency drives and inverters.
年代oftStep microstepping technology
Testra Corporation's SoftStep technology for microstepping allows for quieter and more efficient motion, even at high speeds.
Torque measurement system with digital telemetry
Honeywell's TMS 9250 uses non-contact digital telemetry technology for improved accuracy in measurement data and performance.
4-quadrant positioning motion controller
Dunkermotoren USA's motion controller is designed to control brushless and brushed DC motors through CANopen networks or as a standalone with digital and analog I/O.
年代lotless brushless DC servo motors
Ametek's Pittman family of slotless, brushless DC servo motors come in three frame sizes and incorporate 3-phase slotless stators, 4-pole rotors, and neodymium magnets.
Energy Efficiency: Regenerative Braking
Instead of wasting the potential energy associated with the BackEMF voltage of a vehicle's electric motor via heat loss, it can be used to recharge the battery and therefore recover energy for higher system efficiency. Certain manufacturing processes can be made more efficient in similar ways. See diagrams, graphics, and equations.
AC current displays have visual indicators
CR Magnetics' three new AC current displays have visual indicators to better relay measurements of electrical current flow.
High power AC drive market expects strong growth
ARC Advisory Group predicts strong market growth through 2015 thanks to demand from emerging and growing economies like the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries.
Magnet motor line uses permanent magnets
林马拉松SyMax电机e uses a permanent magnet design to improve energy efficiency.
Integrated servomotor actuator
Tolomatic's IMA55 integrated motor-actuator is capable of delivering up to 3,000 pounds of force and is designed for use in high-duty-cycle industrial applications.
Tiny linear servomotor is piezo application replacement
Nippon Pulse America's Linear Shaft Motor, which is 4 mm in diameter, is reportedly designed to be a replacement in piezo-type applications.
低power AC drives study: investments, energy savings
ARC Advisory Group's study said low-power AC drives will see grow due to increased emphasis on energy savings and more investments in energy efficiency. "These drives offer quick payback periods due to energy savings and better process management with increased motor control," ARC said.
Compact inverter drive with mount for motors, gearboxes
Lenze Americas' 8400 motec drive is equipped for all drive functions while maintaining energy efficiency. It can mount on motors, gearboxes and brakes, the company said.
Dunkermotoren to change name for North American market
German-based Dunkermotoren has announced it will change its name to Dunkermotor in North America as a way of recognizing its growing presence in the region, the company said.
Brushless DC motor used for oil exploration
BEI Kimco Magnetics designed a BLDC motor (brushless DC) for oil exploration.
PACs for motion add IEC 61131-3, PLCopen programming
Yaskawa expands MotionWorks IEC programmable automation controllers (PACs) for motion control to allow programming with IEC 61131-3 and PLCopen standards, the company said.
Emerging economies drive medium voltage motor market
IMS Research said economies with less expensive labor forces like China, India and Brazil will drive the market for medium voltage motors through 2015 while the U.S. and Europe will grow less quickly.
Three-phase AC motors
AutomationDirect IronHorse added three motors in speeds of 1200, 1800 and 3600 RPM. The three-phase industrial duty T-frame and TC-frame TEFC motors feature ribbed cast iron frames to ensure maximum cooling.
Rare-earth magnet supply and cost issues
Dramatic price increases have occurred recently for rare-earth magnet materials, used in permanent magnet (PM) motors and electric generators. Supply shortages may also be in store for users of permanent magnets derived from those materials. The big picture is probably not as bleak as some have suggested—due to innovative design changes, alternative magnet materials, streamlining the lengthy processing of rare-earth magnets, and developing new sources. However, this challenge has no short-term solutions.
No shortage of direct-drive wind turbine developments
Large wind turbine projects: Judging by project and product announcements for direct-drive wind turbine technology in the first half of 2011, this market sector appears to be steady. Larger capacity turbines and offshore applications are among trends gaining traction. See photos.
年代haft angle rotary sensor gives 360 degree absolute position feedback
Piher International PST-360 is a rotary sensor designed to be more smaller and compact in a through-hole design.
Weekly News: Control Engineering Aug. 2 newsletter summary
Weekly News newsletter for Aug. 2, 2011, included: New graphical design and programming software, larger motors rewound, high-speed safety network, easier machine connections, new solar farm at manufacturing site
Baldor to sell ABB low-and-medium voltage motors
Baldor has agreed to sell ABB motors. This allows Baldor to sell a wider offering of motors that meet worldwide standards, especially for hazardous conditions.
Larger rewinds in less time
GE’s new lower-cost, onsite motor rewind capability claims to help increase plant effectiveness.
年代MMA, motors and motion group, elects new officers
During the SMMA conference, the group elected a new president and two at-large board of directors, among others, to help guide the motors and motion organization.
Global Perspectives: European efficiency labels for electric motors
Euro motor efficiency: Control Engineering Europe’s Suzanne Gill reports on the effects of June 2011 European motor regulations, relating to the energy efficiency rating of induction motors. Link to more information, including U.S. comparison.
Integrated motor designs create new opportunities within packaging machinery
Integrated motors sales into the packaging industry are forecasted to continue growing after a 48.8% growth in 2010, according to IMS Research study.
Closed loop dc speed control
Omega’s OMDC-MD series, a compact programmable dc speed control, features adjustable min/max speeds, with pulse input capacity of 50,000 pulses per minute
2 million standard drives produced
The two millionth ACS550 drive rolled off the production line in April, marking it the first for an ABB drive series to reach the two million unit production mark.
NPN transistor added to high-performance bipolar power transistors
年代TMicroelectronics' 3STR1630 is an NPN transistor that offers a combination of high current capacity, collector-emitter blocking voltage and ultra-low collector-emitter saturation voltage.
Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation selects PTC’s Windchill as enterprise PLM
PTC’s PLM software suite enables significant vehicle development process improvements for global automotive OEMs, the company said.
Camera viewer links to I2C bus of USB, GigE cameras
IDS offers a convenient and fast way to perform simple tests on image processing hardware expansions.
Linear drive offers option for automatic shaft cleaning, lubricating
Uhing linear drives are available with a combination shaft scraper/grease fitting option, allowing drive shafts to be cleaned and lubricated while in use.
年代emiconductor machine productivity compounded with XY positioning
Airglide LED Wafer System from Dover Motion is a maintenance-free positioning platform available with wider base for increased stiffness over travels up to 1 meter.
Brushless DC compressor with variable flow at pressure output
Thomas Division has designed a compact, high performance brushless DC compressor, for applications with a higher performance to weight ratio requirement.
Increasing motor efficiency with power factor control
Maximizing energy efficiency of a motor drive application using classic, interleaved power factor control (PFC).
Power generation for industrial electric carts
博世“GPA”直流电机是可用的installation in industrial electric carts, generating a nominal torque of 2.2 Nm, breakaway torque of 11 Nm.
Voice Coil Stage offers sub-micron positioning
The VCS-2020 Voice Coil Stage features a ¾ inch dia. aperture in a fully-contained system
Housed motors range extended: Smallest high-pole ac servo
Wittenstein has expanded its housed motor range to include the traditional premium motors, industrial motors design for the OEM Market, and what's said to be the world's smallest high-pole ac servo motor.
Portable 4-channel oscilloscopes for harsh environments
Fluke ScopeMeter 190 Series II are a family of hand-held portable oscilloscopes designed for harsh industrial use and are safety rated for CAT III 1,000 V / CAT IV 600 V environments. The four-channel scopes can perform differential floating measurements and have a fast sampling rate, up to 2.5 GS/sec and 400 pico second resolution.
Harmonic linear belt drive (HLD) actuators; longer than 3 m
OEMDynamics update HLD 60-H3 actuators, greater lengths without performance loss.
GPA motor features power, design attributes essential for powering stacking machines
Bosch GPA motor features enough power for powering positioning arms of mobile, stationary stacking machines.
Wireless electric Rolls-Royce
Have the ultimate in luxury and satisfy your inner technology geek all at once.
Norwood Manufacturing Plant obtains official API 547 Monogram certification
年代iemen’s Norwood Manufacturing Plant was certified to use the API 547 Monogram, in conformance with API specifications for design, manufacture of electric motors.
Linear and torque motors: China slashes rare-earth exports
IMS Research said rare-earth material price increases are creating healthy profits for Chinese companies and related partnerships.
低voltage AC motors revenues to double by 2014, IMS Research said
IMS Research forecasts robust revenue growth expected in this market over the next four years, driven by legislation mandating sales of higher efficiency, more expensive motors. Link to Control Engineering articles about motor efficiency.
Which industry sectors will fuel China’s machinery production?
IMS Research forecasts that China’s machinery production is in a phase of steady growth, by 2014 revenues will account for 24% of world total.
ABB acquires Baldor Electric Company
ABB announced it completed acquisition of Baldor Electric Co. in a $4.2 billion transaction today, including $1.1 billion in debt. ABB said the move advances its strategy to become a leader in the North American industrial motors business and a global leader for movement and control in industrial applications.
ABB buys 89% of Baldor common stock in tender offer
ABB Ltd (NYSE: ABB), provider of power and automation technology, and Baldor Electric Company (NYSE: BEZ), provider of industrial motors, announced successful completion of the cash tender offer for the common stock of Baldor.
年代teel-housed Dodge HD spherical roller bearing
Baldor produces the Dodge Steel-Housed S-2000 HD spherical roller bearing, available in multiple configurations.
ABB’s bid for Baldor gets U.S. antitrust approval
ABB’s pending acquisition of Baldor Electric receives U.S. antitrust clearance; all regulatory conditions to closing are now satisfied, the companies say. Tender offer for shares expires Jan. 25.
Power, Propulsion System orders for deep water drill ships won by ABB
ABB won marine orders worth $35 million to provide power, propulsion, drive systems to provide top operating reliability, efficiency for new deep sea drill ships
年代pring-engaged rail brakes feature large, adjustable friction facing area
年代pring-engaged rail brakes made by Nexen feature large, adjustable friction facing area, minimizes rail wear, for broad range of linear motion control applications.
年代ervo gearbox available in high speed, hollow shaft versions
Wittenstein offers the alpheno servo gearbox, power density up by 130 percent compared to previous models, available in multiple versions.
Class T fuses provide protection for panel boards, ac drives
AutomationDirect's TJN series 300 V ac and TJS series 600 V ac fuses are fast-acting fuses in a compact, space-saving size, ideal for use as the main fuse protection for panel boards, load centers, meter stacks, and ac drives.
年代ynchronous belt drive system adds 5% efficiency over V-belts
Baldor’s new Dodge synchronous belt drive system uses Dodge HTR and HTRC Tracker belts; the system is energy efficient, maintenance free.
Linear stepper motors for automation industry applications
The Saia ULE Series Linear Stepper Motors small size and advanced performance make them well suited for use in automation applications, able to be mounted in space-restricted applications.
Motors deliver more efficiency than NEMA Premium
The NovaTorque Premium Plus+ motors offer higher efficiency and smaller size at a price competitive to current NEMA Premium induction motors.
Mini dc gear motors develop high torque
Nidec Copal’s OD miniature dc gear motors develop high shaft torque, speeds ranging from 1400 rms down to 40 rpm
Video: Motor efficiency basics from Incremotion
Learn about motor efficiencies and trade-offs within motor design, as explained by Dan Jones, president, Incremotion, in a brief tutorial video. Mark T. Hoske, CFE Media, and Control Engineering, asks a few questions. 3:02 minutes
Drive serves low power applications
An addition to the ACOPOSmicro product family from B&R allows users to integrate different drive types, changeover from a stepper motor to a servo version.
Lunchtime project for automation and control engineers
This LeaveMeAloneBox is made of LEGOS. Making one of these (Legos or otherwise) might be a fun lunchtime project for automation and control engineers... before next Halloween? See video.
Brushless permanent magnet ring motor, 14-inch diameter, 60 kW
ThinGap 14050 Ring Motor was developed under DARPA contract using patented ThinGap technology. The 14-inch diameter dc motor produces up to 60 kW, with smooth torque and speed because the design produces no rotor-to-stator magnetic forces, no cogging, no eddy current losses, and no hysteresis, company said. It has stainless steel rotor and up to 10,000 rpm.
Food-grade servomotors, FDA-compliant
Pack Expo: Beckhoff Automation introduces the food-grade AM3000 Synchronous Servomotors in new wash-down variant. IP67 design permits use in other harsh industrial environments.
EC: Elite High Capacity Coriolis Meter
Process Sensors - flowmeters: Micro Motion, a division of Emerson Process Management, Elite High Capacity Coriolis Meter. The CMFHC4M is the largest Coriolis flow meter available for measuring accurate mass, volume, density, and temperature of both liquid and gaseous fluids. This is a Control Engineering 2011 Engineers' Choice (EC) Award winner.
EC: ANT130-XY
Motion Control - robotics: Aerotech, Inc., ANT130-XY. The ANT130-XY provides design engineers with an extremely small footprint and profile XY stage that can deliver nanopositioning performance (1 nm mechanical resolution, 50 nm repeatability, 250 nm accuracy, and 1 nm in-position stability) in either a laboratory or factory floor setting while providing convenient, useful travel lengths from 60 to 160 mm in both X and Y. This is a Control Engineering 2011 Engineers' Choice (EC) Award winner.
Compact controller meet demands of a motor disconnect
The Bryant line of manual motor controllers (MMC) now available through AutomationDirect is UL listed as “suitable as motor disconnects.”
机床运动控制与partnersh扩大ip
After making an initial announcement on this topic Oct. 7, Siemens Industry Inc. Drives Technologies Motion Control Machine Tool Business asked Control Engineering to rescind the information on Oct.
More designs added to line of premium efficient motors
New motors include 26 premium efficient ratings designed for the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) industry, over 50 washdown, paint-free and all-stainless-steel premium efficient ratings, and over 70 premium efficient unit-handling ratings. With the latest additions, Super-E motors will be available in almost any configuration for specific applications. Motors carry a full, three-year warranty. General-purpose ratings are available from stock from 1 to 450 horsepower. Premium efficiency custom motors are available through 15,000 horsepower.
Energy savings, sustainability propel use of low power ac drives
Globalization is driving the use of advanced automation and energy-saving equipment worldwide, says ARC, and this will result in an increased use of low power ac drives.
Product Exclusive: Advanced clamp meter family from Fluke Corp.
Fluke Corp. introduces an advanced family of clamp meters to meet all requirements for testing and maintaining electrical systems, industrial equipment and controls, and commercial and industrial heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Fluke iFlex Flexible Current Probes expand the measurement range of compatible Fluke meters to 2500 A AC.
Video: Festo talks steady growth in the manufacturing industry
Plant Engineering content manager Bob Vavra and Festo group manager Frank Langro discussed the signs of steady growth in the industry.
Dual voltage SCR dc motor speed control, up to 2 hp motors
The OMDC-250 Series variable speed dc control offers flexibility, reliability, and value, according to Omega Engineering. The general purpose control is rated and tested to 2 horsepower.
Motors, power control: Honda EV-neo could deliver beer by Dec. ’10
Green beer will roll in Japan in December 2010, courtesy of Honda's integration of a brushless electric motor, power controls, a Toshiba lithium-ion battery in the Honda EV-neo electric scooter.
Design, test custom servo motion algorithms to improve robot, gantry performance
MechaWare 4.0 software from Kollmorgen leverages Matlab and Simulink; control algorithms minimize system weight and power consumption, and eliminate vibration for optimized mechanical system performance.
Automatic motor identification and system configuration
Embedded parameter chip enhances B&R's family of servo, synchronous, and torque motors. Machine builders and end users can field swap motors of varying performance without adjusting program files or drive configurations.
Rockwell Automation, Cisco release EtherNet/IP ‘reference architecture’ implementation guide
Design guide provides engineers and IT professionals with detailed guidance on deploying EtherNet/IP technology plantwide.
Avoid cage creep
Back to Basics: When using linear roller bearings, various anti-cage creep mechanisms can help retain accuracy by limiting unwanted movement.
Rockwell delivers newest version of RSLogix 5000 software
年代ingle development environment for multidisciplined control systems has more than 30 new capabilities, including integrated motion on EtherNet/IP and high-integrity add-on instructions.
低vibration motor exceeds IEEE STD 841-2009
年代iemens Industry Inc. has introduced a new design concept for the low vibration version of its rugged SD100 IEEE841 motor. The frame, bearing housings, stator and rotor employ the company’s most technologically advanced designs to surpass the vibration requirements of the IEEE Std 841-2009, which requires 3,600 rpm motors to operate with a maximum filtered vibration of .
Flywheels: A Power Protection Alternative
For some control applications, a brief power outage or brownout is an inconvenience. However, for the majority of computer-controlled processes, even a momentary glitch in the power supply is completely unacceptable, as well as costly. The traditional means of guaranteeing a continuous power supply has been the use of battery-based uninterruptible power systems (UPSs) along with engine gen-sets.
Motor for oil & gas down hole measurement while drilling applications
BEI Kimco Magnetics offers high-performance motor for a down hole measurement while drilling (MWD) application. Key to the down hole tool string design was a motor capable of operation at elevated winding temperatures of up to 220 °C and pressures approaching 30,000 psi. The motor is used to position a sensor that would take measurements of the materials encountered during oil exploration ...
EtherNet/IP servo drive
The Allen-Bradley Kinetix 300 EtherNet/IP indexing servo drive from Rockwell Automation provides machine builders and end users with the ability to standardize on a single communication network for easier commissioning, configuration and startup. The control solution — including HMI, programmable automation controllers, I/O and motion — can be connected via Ethernet.
Business conditions, expectations improve, say NEMA electroindustry firms
年代ince December 2009, business confidence has increased markedly among NEMA electrical equipment manufacturers, report says.
Bright Automotive to apply electric drive technology to postal service vehicles
Postal delivery vehicle with integrated electric drive train expected to be placed into real-world testing this summer in Washington, D.C.
Motion control: EtherNet/IP servo drive enables single network solution
Machine builders can eliminate need for dedicated motion control network with this Rockwell Automation drive.
Permanent magnet DC motors from AutomationDirect
IronHorse permanent magnet DC 56C frame motor line includes totally enclosed non-vented and totally enclosed fan-cooled models.
Bourns circuit protection for generator low-voltage control interfaces
Universal solution can prevent equipment failure due to miswiring during installation, Bourns explains.
Power over Ethernet adds efficiency, flexibility to wireless solar for SCADA: Carlson Wireless Technologies
Carlson Wireless Technologies used Power over Ethernet (PoE) to help increase system efficiency of solar-powered wireless products by up to 45%, eliminate inverters, and expand allowable cable length.
Control EngineeringNorth American edition, March 2010
Control Engineering magazine's March 1, 2010, North American edition contains eight feature articles, application stories, columns, news, products, tutorials and more, covering automation, controls, and instrumentation.
Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid: Two 60 kW motors; electrical flywheel, no batteries
Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid racing technology uses electrical front axle drive with two electric motors developing 60 kW driven by a flywheel that takes its energy from braking.
Mitsubishi Electric sets world records in solar cell conversion efficiency
Reducing resistive loss in polycrystalline silicon photovoltaic cells enables a 19.3% efficiency rating for photoelectric conversion.
Washington Dulles International Airport gets energy efficient escalators
Kone EcoStart motor efficiency controllers incorporates Power Efficiency Corp.'s E-Save technology.
年代tep motor drives deliver price and performance
Applied Motion Products introduces STR step motor drives, available in 4 amp and 8 amp versions.
年代ervos help all-electric tube bending machine suppliers; see list
List shows manufacturers active in the all-electric tube bending machine marketplace worldwide; manufacturers also make traditional hydraulic-powered machines for the larger market sector.
Machine design: New ball bearings withstand washdown conditions
Baldor's new bearings have patented features that retain lubrication, keep contaminants out.
Carbon Motors begins work on recyclable vehicle
Cleared to develop former automotive brownfield site in Indiana, Carbon Motors will design, develop, manufacture, distribute, service, and recycle purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicle.
HMIs: Display wall technology brings flat panel LCDs to small control rooms
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics delivers super narrow bezel LCD displays. This human machine interface for the control room has a 46-in. diagonal screen and is designed for applications that need the robustness of a video wall without the expense or required real estate, Mitsubishi says.
Heliodyne develops new controller for solar water heating system
Remote management of units possible using the Rabbit RCM5450W core module for network connectivity and intelligent control.
年代D100 IEEE841 Electric Motor
年代iemens The SD100 IEEE841 Electric Motor from Siemens is a low-vibration, NEMA Premium efficient motor for severe duty applications, such as pumps, blowers and fans. Siemens says it’s a completely new motor design for 125 - 400 hp, 3,600 rpm applications. The motor is built to yield vibration limits below the very strict requirements of the IEEE 841 standard, especially at 120 Hz levels.
New series of NEMA motor starters
N101 Series NEMA motor starters from Omega Engineering provide 24 V dc control power. The pulse width modulated (PWM) coil controller minimizes coil power consumption. Units feature exclusive internal 24-bit floating point math calculations with RMS calibrated current measurement, as well as a unique “alarm without trip” option that supports critical, must-run applications.
年代urvey: Harsh Duty Cabling & Connectors
Engineers voice their opinions in a Control Engineering-Molex Inc. survey about the criticality of harsh duty cabling and connectors as they relate to production failures, equipment downtime, and industrial network connectivity.
Omron Electronics CX-One Lite v4.0 – Micro PLC Version software
Omron Electronics releases CX-One Lite v4.0 - Micro PLC Version. It supports EtherNet/IP, latest PLC and HMI products, and full IEC 61131-3 programming.
年代mart Choppers electrify motorcycle technology
年代iemens teams up with Orange County Choppers to develop all-electric "Smart Chopper."
Motion control: Absolute and ‘turbo fast’ motor feedback system
年代ick Stegmann Inc. introduces the TTK70 motor feedback system, an absolute, non-contact linear measuring system that precise and highly reliable absolute position determination for linear motors in a diverse range of applications.
Motion control: High-performance servomotors for demanding motion control applications
西门子公司引入了新的模型1 ft7家族,a line of high-performance servomotors for demanding motion control applications such as machine tool CNC interpolation, production machine web handling, and more.
Omega Engineering offers N101 Series NEMA motor starters
N101 NEMA motor starters from Omega Engineering feature internal 24-bit floating point math calculations with RMS calibrated current measurement, as well as a unique "alarm without trip" option.
Alpha Wire adds reliability to material handling
Premium wire and cable solutions help provide continuous uptime, lowering costs, and increasing productivity, says Alpha Wire. See photo.
ABB realigns automation divisions
ABB, manufacturer of power and automation technologies and solutions, is reorganizing its automation divisions to align activities more closely with those of its customers. ABB says the changes will enable the company to take advantage of growth opportunities in service, expand its presence in the discrete manufacturing sector and better respond to the increasing demand for energy efficient sol...
Why is improper EMI grounding so common?
Despite their demonstrated benefits, variable-frequency drives (VFDs) have a tendency to generate electrical noise (EMI) and be susceptible to interference. In a recent article, Frank Bartos explains how drive design and installation techniques can minimize EMI. Here, he discusses the importance of proper grounding and bonding.
Video plant tour: The heart of a wind turbine
The slow and graceful rotation of a wind turbine hides the hard work and huge stresses on the mechanical components and structure. The speed-increasing gearbox handles all the torque in constantly changing conditions. See how they're built.
Reduce the risk of system migrations
An integrator experienced in quick wiring adaptor tools can provide time- and cost-savings, and thus reduce downtime and risk.
Corrugator Retrofit
As industries realign and companies look to protect assets and leverage capital budgets to the fullest, machine owners are motivated to delay the purchase of new equipment and make strategic investments in existing machines to keep them running longer. Old machines often can be made to function like new; retrofits to control systems and human interfaces help information flow. See photos.
ABB realigns automation divisions, aims to enhance growth opportunities
ABB Automation Products and Robotics divisions will be regrouped into two new divisions - Discrete Automation and Motion, and Low Voltage Products. The Process Automation division will add the instrumentation business from the Automation Products division.
ABB realigns automation divisions in a move said to enhance growth opportunities
ABB Automation Products and Robotics divisions will be regrouped into two new divisions - Discrete Automation and Motion, and Low Voltage Products. The Process Automation division will remain unchanged except for the addition of the instrumentation business from the Automation Products division.
Dassault Systemes Announces New Release of Abaqus FEA from SIMULIA
低er Development Costs and Accelerate Innovation through Improved Realistic Simulation Capabilities
Green technologies now a significant portion of Siemens revenues
The Wall Street Journal reports that, with revenues of $34 billion, green technology now represents more than one quarter of Siemens' total expected sales. Joint energy management solution with SAP also released.
Energy Micro claims world’s most energy efficient microcontroller
EFM32 Gecko microcontroller family is said to deliver 4x increase in battery life.
Motion control module handles complex tasks for up to 30 axes
Omron's Trajexia-PLC motion controller module for CJ platform PLCs uses a Mechatrolink-II Motion bus for independent axis position, speed or torque control.
年代oft motor starters provide low-cost motor control alternative
AutomationDirect恒星柔软的初学者来说,可用in 5A to 40A sizes, are overcurrent protected and feature two DIN-rail mountable frame sizes.
Universal Robotics, Motoman partner on 3D vision systems
Vision software and industrial robots will be combined to make materials handling more accurate, efficient and cost-effective.
年代mart, safe, sustainable manufacturing solutions: Rockwell Automation
Plant-wide optimization, better machines, and s sustainable production are how Rockwell Automation seeks to help manufacturing.
Motor control: AC drive supports multiple languages, complies with global standards and certifications
Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 753 AC drive provides flexibility, increased productivity for general-purpose motor control applications.
Applimotion ULT Direct Drive frameless motors get larger through holes
Applimotion ULT Direct Drive frameless motors enable new applications, such as camera vision systems; Applimotion now offers some of the thinnest radial cross-section motors available.
年代mall motors: Nidec Copal sub-miniature step motors in 4, 5, 6, 10 mm sizes
Tiny step motors: Nidec Copal developed a new family of sub-miniature step motors; the smallest is a the LPD4 with a 0.157-in. (4 mm) outside diameter by 0.32-in (8.5 mm) axial length, rated at 3 V dc input.
Belden new platform software: Connect multiple rings of Profinet, EtherNet/IP Ethernet protocols
Hirschmann Version 5.0 Platform Management Software enhances network availability, Belden says.
For linear motor applications: LLT profile rail guides
New SKF LLT profile rail guides integrate a unique “all-around” sealing system and other design features to protect against contaminants, increase repeatability, provide smooth-running performance, and promote longer service life with minimal maintenance. Guides suit linear motion applications in the material handling, injection molding, packaging, medical device, printing, and wood...
Understanding Valve Actuator Diagnostics
Electric motor-operated valve actuators can tell you a lot about their condition if you take advantage of sophisticated diagnostics available from current designs combined with networking protocols. This tutorial can help you put those capabilities to work. Link to related articles.
Linear motor actuator series
New Yaskawa Sigma Trac SGT series of linear motor actuators are available. Sigma Trac integrates Yaskawa linear motor components into a factory engineered and assembled linear actuator based on the STF Series design, introduced in 2002. This new Sigma Trac design (SGT Series) includes reduced machine design complexity and commissioning time compared to using individual components.
Guest commentary: Low-cost, high-return process control improvements, part 3
In the third of a three-part essay, George Buckbee, P.E., vice president of marketing and product development for ExperTune, considers a number of very practical ways you optimize your plant control systems and improve profitability.
Fuji Electric expands support for ac drives
Fuji Electric Corp. of America (FECOA) is providing 24 hour telephone support five days a week.
年代iemens and Winergy open ‘green’ wind turbine manufacturing facility
Winergy Drive Systems Corp. and Siemens Drive Technologies have opened a second plant in Elgin, IL, to meet the growing demand for alternative and renewable energy sources. The new plant currently stands at 170,000 square feet, but can be expanded up to 330,000 square feet. Winergy is said to be the largest producer of wind turbine gear drives in the United States.
Denim manufacturer takes control upgrades into its own hands
After seeking to outsource control upgrades for its refinishing lines and rebeamer operations, Mountain Vernon Mills successfully upgrades the mill's high-precision controls on its own and saves more than $40,000 in the process.
Changing instrumentation, building motorcycles
Re: Schneider Electric and Orange County Choppers to build hybrid motorcycle, Online news, 09/24/2009 That’s cool, but……. “As one of the premier builders of custom motorcycles, Orange County Choppers will bring an unprecedented level of expertise and creativity to showcasing our mission (of energy efficient management methodology) through their design.
Video: Bison Gear’s ‘Lean 2.0′ journey integrates demand planning
Bison's executive vice president comments on the company's "Lean 2.0" journey, whose goal is to achieve level loading of the Illinois manufacturer's increased production capacity.
年代iemens SH630 Above NEMA ac induction motor announced
Based on the technology of the larger SH710 motor, the SH630 ac induction motor is the newest member of Siemens' H-compact Plus series.
Eaton’s new M-Max machinery drives increase efficiency, reliability
年代ensorless vector adjustable frequency drive family includes both single- and three-phase models.
Machine building: Precision linear motor stages from Danaher Motion
Mini Mag Stages give higher accuracy, throughput to instrument manufacturers and machine builders.
Bosch broadens line of dc electric motors for industrial applications
Applications for geared and non-geared electric motors include welding equipment, medical equipment. power tools, appliances, and more.
AC permanent magnet motors
Conventional ac induction motors are universal in application to the point that you would be hard pressed to find an industrial facility or even a residence without one. However, in this energy conscious age, manufacturers are hitting the limits of efficiency in this design. On the other hand, permanent magnet (PM) motors can offer higher efficiency levels than induction motors since they have ...
Motors: Baldor anticipates IE3 standard
Although Europe's IE3 minimum efficiency standard for new electric motors doesn't take effect until 2015, Baldor already has range of IEC frame types that it's making alongside its NEMA Premium motors for U.S. markets.
年代ystem integrators list leading industries served in the 2009 Automation Integrator Guide
Food and beverage industries are served by 51% of the system integrators in the Control Engineering Automation Integrator Guide, which includes information from 1,878 system integrators. Other industries are...
Embedded energy and communication modules for Smart Grid sensing, control, and metering
Grid MicroCircuits' EC-2xxx family of modules for communication, networking, and energy management can be used to develop OEM products into application-specific edge devices in an energy network.
Chicago waste water project awards control platform contract to Emerson
Ovation control system deployment included in phase two and three of multi-year upgrade project.
年代afe Position Measuring
安全正成为一个日益重要的话题in machine and plant construction. This has become evident in legislation and tightened safety requirements in national and international standards designed to protect human beings, material assets, and the environment. The goal of functional safety is to minimize or even eliminate the risks that can occur during normal or impaired operation of...
Reliable Operations for Perishable Products
With its equipment installed in ice cream manufacturing plants all around the world, it’s handy to have a way to troubleshoot and edit operating and safety programs from centralized locations. As it designs and deploys its industrial ice cream plants, Gram Equipment uses Rockwell Automation’s scalable and flexible platforms to help provide the monitoring and control it needs to ensu...
Estimate your potential energy savings
5-step savings estimator from Yaskawa Electric shows how to compare variable frequency drive performance savings to other methods of motor volume control. Now includes downloadable calculator!
Clean linear actuators come in three classes
HaydonKerk Motion Solutions' Haydon specialty Clean Linear Actuators are available in three different class levels. Designed for contamination sensitive applications and environments within systems under high vacuum, the motors limit contaminants and out-gassing in vacuum environments.
Power companies leverage ARRA to boost industrial efficiency projects
Billions of dollars are becoming available for boosting the energy efficiency of equipment used in industrial facilities.
Italian packager finds robotic success with Wittenstein gearheads
Robot simplifies food industry product handling, partnership ensures quality. Combined planetary gearhead and ac servo motor reduces installation space more than 20%. See photos; links to related robotics, motion, and vision resources.
Diagnostic info gone awry?
Feedback to print and online articles on diagnostic information, intrinsically safe operations, and more.
Redundancy is Key to Glass Plant’s Future
Combining a very intense and hot continuous process with long periods between shutdowns calls for a robust and resiliant control system. This application uses a redundant control system and reused prior control cabinents and wiring.
Fuji Electric extends ac drives warranty
For the past several months we've been hearing about car companies extending warranties and even allowing you to bring your car back if you lose your job—all to help make the case for not delaying a purchase decision. This novel approach appears to be working its way into the industrial equipment market as well.
Looking at electric drive efficiency
variable-frequency drives (VFDs) provide dramatic energy savings in myriad applications with varying loads and speeds. While power and energy savings are key benefits, VFD efficiency is also of interest because drives can experience significant efficiency losses at partial load operation-much like electric motors.
Go Beyond Motors to Reduce Energy Use
With energy costs impacting every business, and growing concerns about how burning fossil fuels is affecting the world’s climate, companies of all sizes are exploring ways to make their operations more energy efficient. The use of high-efficiency motors would appear to be a logical solution. But motor efficiency does not always equal energy savings.
Embedded control: Develop inductive touch sensing HMIs more easily
Microchip Technology's Analog Front End processor makes it easier, more cost effective to develop inductive touch sensing user interfaces.
Toshiba breaks ground on NEMA Premium motor plant
Toshiba Industrial Products Asia Co., Ltd. in Vietnam will manufacture motors for sale in Vietnam, North America, China, Southeast Asia, and Japan.
Variable speed drive from Schneider Electric delivers energy efficiency
The Altivar 12 variable speed AC drive delivers flexibility, performance and energy efficiency in a compact package.
Fuji Electric extends ac drives warranty to three years
Fuji Electric Corp of America (FECOA) announces that, as of April 1, 2009, the warranty period for component general purpose ac drives and commercial packaged energy-saving drives has been extended to three years.
Predictive Emissions Monitoring for Regulatory Compliance
New environmental regulations are putting increased pressure on manufacturers to measure and record their emissions more accurately on a continuous basis. Not only are manufacturers accounting for emissions’ impact on the environment—as required by regulations—but many also seek to reduce regulatory compliance complexities, costs and risks, and capitalize on emission trading p...
Tutorial: Running down interference to improve device performance
EMI and RFI can ruin your sensor data, and trying to trace sources can drive you nuts. There are solutions.
Controller reduces motor electricity costs
Three-phase and single-phase Motor Efficiency Controllers for industrial and home appliance use reduce electricity costs for motors that run at a constant speed. The company estimates E-Save Technology has the potential to save $1.7 billion in electricity a year in industrial applications in the U.S. alone.
Networking: New encoder profile for SERCOS III
A specification for this real-time Ethernet protocol is being developed and will be available November 2009.
Design News Gadget Freak: Electric motorized mountainboard
At Colorado State University, engineering students built an electric motorized mountainboard for their mechanical engineering class. Design News Gadget Freak shows the souped-up motor-driven electric skateboard.
年代ynchronous servo gear units
Increased flexibility and productivity for automated production systems is delivered by SEW-Eurodrive in a new family of synchronous servo gear units. The modular product line creates more than 6,000 integrated solutions that combine servo gears with synchronous servomotors. Low backlash, higher torque ratings, and better accuracy are among attributes. This is a Control Engineering North American print edition Product Exclusive.
Automation drives efficiency, lowers cost
Ever since Fernando Serpa began making end-of-line packaging machinery in 1981 for Serpa Packaging Solutions (www.serpapackaging.com), the company’s philosophy has been to improve upon its existing products. So when Serpa reintroduced its signature P200 balcony case packer, it turned to Bosch Rexroth Corp.
NEMA Premium efficiency motor rebate program in U.S. energy bill
U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has adopted a NEMA-advocated provision that creates a premium energy-efficient motor rebate program, also known as a “crush for credit” program, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). By unanimous support, Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) successfully offered the amendment to the Senate’s draft c...
Balancing energy use, production capabilities
Packaging machinery OEMs need to find a way to set themselves apart to succeed, and one way may be with attention to energy efficiency. Doug Burns, practice lead for sustainable production at Rockwell Automation, says, “We are starting to see end users ask for energy data and add it to their primary decision points of cost and performance.
Report from Hannover, Daily Innovation Focus: explosion-proof sensors, efficiency certification
This daily report from Hannover Fair focuses on explosion-proof sensors, zero-defect strategies, TUV energy efficiency certification, hazardous environment coils, and three-in-one servo drives. See photos and related links.
Report from Hannover: Buzzwords include ‘Pleasantly surprised’
Crowds were strong Tuesday at Hannover Fair. Link to other coverage.
Earth Day: 5 ways manufacturers can drive productivity, energy efficiency
年代ee more of Earth Day from NASA Source NASA: This image from Apollo 17, and others like it, captured whole hemispheres of water, land and weather. This photo was the first view of the south polar ice cap. Almost the entire coastline of Africa is visible, along with the Arabian Peninsula.
Earth Day: 5 ways for manufacturers to drive productivity, energy efficiency
Earth Day tips for manufacturing: Siemens identifies top 5 ways for manufacturers to drive productivity and energy efficiency, with measurements, motors, drives, and energy monitoring. See also NASA's view of Earth Day (photo, link).
Report from Hannover: Wind in the sails for Hermes Award winner
Energy is the central theme at the Hannover Messe trade fair 2009. Wind turbine generators, superconducting cables for transmission lines, and smart meters are among technologies highlighted. Use of a synchronous generator eliminates need for frequency inverters and reduces driveline weight 20% in the award-winning wind turbine shown.
Report from Hannover: Daily Innovation Focus
In this daily report from Hannover Fair, we focus on developing projects and technologies of particular interest to the Control Engineering audience. This report focuses on three new initiatives from the Fraunhofer Institute. See photo. Link to other Hannover Fair coverage.
Machine builder wins control panel design contest: 60% less space, 30% less wiring
CP Packaging won the 2009 Control Engineering panel design award, based on a poll at www.globalelove.com during March. The company’s design for plant-floor machine control panels focus on saving space, assembly, and startup time as key considerations, especially in rugged environments. This and five other panel design tutorial videos remain available for viewing and comment. Look inside the CP Packaging panel design and the others, as well.
Motion control: How to choose an actuator of 4 ft. or less
In its conversion of motor torque to linear thrust, the single axis ball screw actuator is king. Here are 8 factors to consider when selecting one.
New family of DC brushless motors and controls
DC brushless motors and controls from Baldor will allow adjustable speed applications to benefit from brushless technology.
Power over Ethernet Plus: Ideal for factory automation
25.5 W to 51 W/Port Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) Plus technology suits the needs of factory automation, says Microsemi Corp. Is it better than Power with Ethernet? Post your views.
Control and simulation technologies play key role in EcoCAR challenge
National Instruments announced its contribution as a platinum sponsor for EcoCAR: The NeXt Challenge, a new collegiate vehicle engineering competition. In the competition, students will reengineer a 2009 Saturn VUE with advanced technology to reduce environmental impact while retaining consumer appeal.
In support of ‘Made in America’
而the taxpayer is being asked to fork-up billions of dollars to bail out the automotive industry, the Big 3 continue to waste hundreds of millions of dollars every year on plant automation alone. General Motors, Chrysler, as well as Ford, do not allow competitive bidding on automation control devices while protecting their old, inefficient and outdated suppliers.
DC measurements: voltage vs. current
It is generally preferred to make voltage measurements rather than current measurements because, when set up properly, voltage measurements are safer for the equipment being measured. This is particularly true when the meter is physically far away from the measurement point, forcing you to use long test leads.
NEMA Premium efficient motors with aluminum rotors
年代iemens Energy & Automation, Inc. announces a new line of NEMA Premium efficient motors with aluminum rotors. These new motors help customers meet the year 2010 mandatory efficiency requirements of the 2007 Energy Independence & Security Act and provide higher efficiency at a lower cost. The motors offer the same horsepower and rugged housing as Siemens' copper rotor-based NEMA Premium ...
Economic downturn not expected to affect sales of low voltage drives
Worldwide market for low voltage ac and dc motor drives will grow in 2009.
Baumuller’s new line of servo drives meets coming specs
New generation b maXX 5000 servo drives will meet new European specifications. See photo.
Rotary fan feeder machine design delivers high speed, small batch accuracy
Aso can package bandages faster than ever with a machine designed by its in-house engineering group.
Compact and smooth servo actuator
TPM+ power servo actuator from Wittenstein features very high torque and compact length—50% shorter than conventional gearhead motors.
Pure analog throughput for very high brushless motor resolution
Unit is designed for applications such as very high resolution inspection systems, metrology instruments, and medical applications.
年代imulation software shows how a drive works
Magnetek Inc. has released its new Impulse drive simulation software, a Microsoft Windows-based software program that lets the user program the functions of a variable frequency drive. The Impulse drive simulation software lets the user experience how a drive works to help simplify the overall use and serviceability of Impulse variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Unified communications: Microsoft pushes forward with its collaboration vision
Having access to Web conferencing and instant messaging to collaborate with colleagues, supply chain partners, and customers is a good thing. But doesn't it make more sense to collaborate while working with a business application rather than exiting it to start up a collaboration tool? "Affirmative," say some at Microsoft, and in particular, Andres Caldera, senior product manager.
Efficiency improvements a recession breaker?
Though it came a bit later to the automation industries than to much of the rest of the economy, the recession has definitely settled in and doesn’t appear to be on its way to lifting any time soon. Everyone in the industry knew this inevitable slowdown would come, but what surprised many was the swiftness with which it arrived.
NEMA supports Obama call for national efficiency standards
NEMA looks forward to working with Secretary of Energy Steven Chu and DOE to improve codes and standards, avoiding a patchwork of state rules.
High power motors: Nanocrystalline cores reduce over voltage
Nanocrystalline cores are designed for use in high power inverter systems and turbine generator drives. See photo.
Drive simulation software: See how a drive works
Experience how a Magnetek Impulse variable frequency drive works, from any PC with Microsoft Windows.
Filling the gaps in S&OP
Dealing with constraints is part of the daily routine at Phoenix-based On Semiconductor. Whether it involves creating demand scenarios or determining supply levels, numerous factors must be considered when moving goods down the supply chain. “During forecasting, we try to have the right amount of capacity, and also stage the right level of inventory,” says Ravi Vancheeswaran, dir...
Motor Summit 2008 advances energy-efficiency efforts
Motor Summit 2008 publicized new developments in energy-efficient electric motor systems—including drives, pumps, fans, compressors, and material handling equipment. Held in Zurich, Switzerland, Nov. 24-26, the event drew some 130 motor system experts and professionals from research, government, and the private sector representing 21 countries.
European motor efficiency developments
Although an effective date isn’t expected before 2011, mandatory minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for electric motors are coming to Europe in 2009. This will promote energy-efficient (EE) motor systems that can save up to 30% of the 70% of industrial electricity used by motors, according to Prof.
年代COPE it out: Manhattan expands supply chain optimization portfolio
Global supply chain optimization provider Manhattan Associates announces the next evolution of the Manhattan SCOPE (Supply Chain Optimization– Planning through Execution) portfolio, which now houses the Extended Enterprise Management X-Suite solution, the new Total Cost-to-Serve supply chain platform application, and the latest release of Manhattan Supply Chain Intelligence. The new and updated additions to SCOPE are said to give Manhattan customers a clear view of the power of an optimized supply chain network. “Our platform applications and X-Suite solutions help companies execute supply chain strategies that optimize results across functions as a whole, rather than taking a traditional‘siloed’ approach, creating a significant advantage for our customers,” says Eddie Capel, an executive VP for Manhattan Associates. “With these additions, customers will receive real-time insight to supply chain events as they occur, along with key process analytics and detailed cost breakdowns—information that drives faster, more intelligent decision-making on all supply chain issues.” Extended Enterprise Management, Supply Chain Intelligence and Total Cost-to-Serve are browser-based solutions that deliver key analytics via detailed reports to enable companies to optimize the functions of the entire supply chain network. • Extended Enterprise Management (EEM): The newest X-Suite solution is designed to connect with trading partners and customers to provide the overarching visibility and event management capabilities required to successfully manage inventory through global supply chains. EEM manages order fulfillment and automates communications with customers with end-to-end visibility, tracking and monitoring of orders, shipments and inventory from sourcing to delivery. • Manhattan Total Cost-To-Serve (TCS): TCS, a new supply chain platform application, works with Manhattan SCI to provide detailed reports and analysis to give a complete picture of the financial supply chain and enable companies to make better sourcing, routing and fulfillment decisions based on the total cost of serving each customer.
Design, prototype, test motor applications more easily
Arrow Electronics, Altera Corp., and National Semiconductor Corp. announced availability of a jointly developed MotionFire motor-control development platform for North American customers. The FPGA-based MotionFire platform is said to help engineers quickly and cost-effectively design, prototype and test motor applications.
Drives: Calculate the savings to visualize the impact
The savings analyses provided by energy savings calculators can offer a detailed breakdown explaining where, how, and what exactly you are spending and saving over time.
PTC advances environmental product design and regulatory compliance offering with new acquisition
突触T的PTC拥有业务资产echnology Inc, a provider of environmental regulatory compliance solutions to customers including Motorola, Microsoft, Sony Ericsson, Visteon, Delphi, IBM, GE, Beckman Coulter, Teradyne, and Cisco.
EtherCAT Technology Group: Working on new safety drive profile
EtherCAT permits open, vendor-independent configuration and control of safety functions in drives; Ethernet protocol makes stride in motion control.
Compact variable frequency drives for 0.25 hp to 3.0 hp motors
A range of Carlo Gavazzi variable frequency ac motor drives is suitable for general-purpose motor applications from 0.25 hp to 3.0 hp.
Entry-level process controllers have low power consumption
Mitsubishi Electric has released two entry-level process controllers for its Q Series programmable automation controller (PAC).
Electric avenue: Zero Motorcycles revs up S&OP with SaaS-ready BI
Zero Motorcycles is all about what’s changing—from its patented battery technology, electric bike design, and lightweight materials to its hybrid direct sales/independent reps go-to-market strategy. And just like its high-performance bikes, the two-year-old company is racing to add to the product line to extend market reach in 2009.
Energy Management: First Steps Toward Greater Efficiency
This article series provides specific examples of how engineers can identify and address - at relatively little or no cost - principal sources of energy waste in their production facilities. Part one focuses on facility and machine power use and motors and drives. Part two will focus on energy reuse and application-specific energy savings.
Practical energy efficiency
It’s ante up time. By clearly stating that we had an education agenda in mind when initiating regular coverage of sustainable engineering in November, Control Engineering made a commitment to provide readers with critical how-to information on the topic of sustainability—just as we’ve done for more than five decades for control and automation technologies...
Direct-drive linear motion expands its applications
Direct-drive linear (DDL) motion technology had its start in the machine tool industries: high-quality machining, honing, grinding, punching, and laser cutting. Linear motor systems have expanded into gantries/material handling, flying cut-off equipment, metal forming, assembly shuttles/conveyors, and food-processing machinery and other applications. See photos, supplier table, links to related stories.
Linear motors: Will the lights stay on for linear motion component production?
全球经济衰退可能force manufacturers of linear motion components, such as ball screws and linear guides, to mothball production lines or close factories, says market analyst for IMS research.
Linear motion: New patent addresses maglev stability
A developer and manufacturer of linear synchronous motor products and systems used in assembly automation, material handling and transportation applications, has been awarded a U.S. patent related to magnetic levitation (Maglev) systems. The MagneMotion patent builds on a prior patent for using one magnetic structure to provide suspension, guidance and propulsion of vehicles on a guideway, eliminating a level of complexity and costs found in other maglev systems. Link to video.
Motor sizing: Microsoft Vista issues resolved for VisuaSizer database
Copperhill Technologies introduced a new version of its VisualSizer-Professional, said to be a generic (manufacturer independent) servo motor sizing and selection software for motion-control engineers with more than 6,000 motor / drive / amplifier combinations.
Focus on ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE: Reducing EMI from 3-phase drives
Drive current variations due to PWM switching are the root cause of EMI from 3-phase drives. Reducing them reduces interference.
网络:EtherCAT fo工业以太网协议r motion control, Power over Ethernet
EtherCAT, an industrial Ethernet fieldbus, continues to make strides in motion control and governing organization enhanced specifications to allow use of IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Focus on FAILURE ANALYSIS: How switching transients reduce motor life
PWM switching transients induce voltage spikes that ruin winding insulation, and common-mode currents that destroy bearing surfaces.
CE Engineers’ Choice: Motors, Drives & Motion Control
Voting for the 2008 Control Engineering Engineer's Choice Awards is now closed.
Direct-Drive Linear Motion Matures
This distinct motion technology eliminates all rotary-to-linear conversion devices between motor and load--such as ball screws, gear boxes, rack-and-pinions, and belts - to obtain high-dynamic performance in a growing number of applications.
Embedded control: Solid-state research aims at advanced devices
Researchers study unique properties of complex material systems at nanoscopic scale to improve semiconductor devices.
Motors, drives and motion control: Green Hills Software tapped for Saab UAV
Flight control project to rely on GHS development tools and secure RTOS.
PACMotion controller serves complex motion applications
GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms' motion controller is designed for the high-end needs of complex applications.
EMI from drives: How to control high-frequency noise of adjustable speed drives
Adjustable speed drives (ASDs) Electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) can be reduced. Here's one way. See more diagrams, photo.
年代upersizing Our Way to Energy Inefficiency
Of all resources on which modern manufacturing is dependent, energy is arguably the most fundamental. It is also a resource that has long been taken for granted. However, rising energy prices and compliance concerns related to greenhouse gas emissions in some industries are increasingly leading operators to critically assess their energy usage.
Internal disconnect switch on the SMVector drive simplifies motor maintenance
Lenze-AC Tech released the SMVector Frequency Inverter (see photo) with a highly visible internal disconnect switch on NEMA 4X (IP65) enclosed drives. The switch removes power to facilitate service and maintenance. Use of the disconnect switch reduces downtime for....
Power factor transducers
CR Magnetics Inc. introduced a new series of power factor transducers designed to sense the phase angle difference between ac current and voltage signals. This allows the correcting of power factors to save on utility energy costs. The CR6300 series of power factor transducers will perform work for motor loading, measure timing, correcting power factor and other applications. This was an October 2008 Control Engineering North American print edition Product Exclusive.
Flowmeter: Ultrasonic design thrives on difficult, dirty liquids
Flowmeter has no problems with applications that could clog or fool other sensor configurations.
年代un-readable display technology: How it works
As more processes are controlled by HMI, market demands for outdoor LCD applications are increasing. Beijer Electronics has released the Exter Sun-Readable HMI range, an optimal combination of technologies suitable for petrochemical and waste treatment fields. Tutorial of related technologies follows, with photo.
Growth: Expansions, acquisitions in U.S., abroad
Overseas and in North America companies are expanding. In China Opto 22 has a new office, and Danfoss is doubling its space in Illinois (see photo). The Swatch Group and Smartrac N.V. agreed on a deal with Sokymat Automotive GmbH. Also, Ametek, Hima, and Lantronix are...
Energy efficiency included in U.S. financial bailout package; NEMA likes it
With energy efficiency and renewable energy provisions in the legislation, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) today praised Congressional passage of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, H.R. 1424; President Bush signed it into law.
World’s largest high-speed VFD
西门子能源和自动化Robicon说Perfect Harmony Drives have reached a technical milestone with the introduction of an 8 MW variable frequency drive (VFD) that operates with an output frequency of 500 Hz. Siemens claims it is the world's largest high speed VFD, and says the drive's power-cell-based multilevel arrangement provides a unique topology that allows operation up ...
Building-block style Cartesian motion systems
A new approach to Cartesian motion systems from Bosch-Rexroth provides building-block style modular design of material handling, pick-and-place, palletizing, inspection, and related applications. The camoLINE system includes electromechanical and pneumatic axes, bolt-together connection technology, and aluminum structural framing, which allow engineers to create the best fit for their applicati...
Mitsubishi releases 3 CNC machines
Mitsubishi Electric has released the C70, M70 and M700 CNCs. The C70 CNC rack-based solution for manufacturing cells, transfer lines, and rotary index machines controls up to 16 axes. Using the multiple system function, the C70 CNC is capable of controlling up to seven program paths simultaneously and thus reduces overall machining line cost.
年代implify control of asynch motors
inve SEW-Eurodrive Movitrac LTE B是一个频率rter that simplifies control of asynchronous motors. It is available in three sizes with a standard IP20 or IP55/NEMA 12k housing, and the power range has been extended to 15 HP for NEMA 1 units and 10 HP for NEMA 12. New control algorithms provide improved motor control performance, especially at low speeds.
年代mart devices and linkages
In the northern Netherlands, high-quality magnesium chloride salt deposits lie 1,500 meters below the surface. About half a million tons are extracted every year by Dutch chemical corporation Nedmag Industries Mining and Manufacturing. Shell established the Nedmag site in 1979 because of its extensive natural gas reservoirs.
Troubleshoot networks with wireless measurements
Agilent Technologies Inc. has introduced two new options for handheld wireless measurements on its E6474A network optimization platform. The solution allows full drive test functionality to run on a compact, handheld Ultra Mobile PC. Benefits include the ability to discretely and simply collect drive test data both indoors and outdoors, helping wireless service providers troubleshoot complex ne...
Motor Summit 2008 touts global cooperation on energy efficiency
Promoting international cooperation toward more efficient electric motor systems involving pumps, fans, compressors, and various mechanical traction applications is the objective of the 2nd annual international Motor Summit, Nov. 24-26, 2008.
PID pump control: Sleep mode saves wear, energy
If your control system uses variable speed pumps in PID loops, there may be conditions where the controller calls for very slow operation, which can harm pumps after prolonged periods of time. Hitachi has created a microdrive that allows a pump in such circumstances to go into a “sleep mode.” This avoids idling pumps during low demand periods and saves energy. Links to explanatory documentation follow.
ACS Motion Control: Modular system, robotic tuning, stand-alone controller
ACS Motion Control introduced MC4U control systems that integrate controllers, drives, power supplies and additional I/O and networking capabilities; ACS motion controllers have advanced tuning tools for general automation and robotics; and SPiiPlus-LF motion controller is fast and accurate with sampling rate of 20kHz.
Technology Driven Beer Production
After two years of construction and an investment of more than 300 million euros, the new brewery of Heineken España S.A., in Sevilla, is nearly completed. The facility has earned the nickname “Jumbo” because of the magnitude of the project, its high degree of technical sophistication, and the remarkable speed at which the project has been completed. See photos; link to related tutorial.
Machine Vision: Advanced Technology for Industrial Tracking and Tracing
Machine vision finds use in myriad and varied manufacturing applications, but has moved into the spotlight recently for its role as one of the most useful means for managing the tracking and tracing burdens most manufacturers face today. What is this technology, and how does it fit into the scheme of regulatory and quality issues companies must manage?
Rugged network option: Molded M23 cordsets offer shielding
Turck can mold its 6- and 8-pin M23 powerfast connectors (see photo), which can be shielded by connecting a braided shield to the coupling nuts. Advantages include IEC IP67 protection,....
Embedded control: 3 companies help embedded-system developers
Microprocessor, RTOS, and development tools providers collaborated to produce a complete reference design platform to help embedded system developers get new designs out the door faster and at lower cost.
Green engineering: Automated system makes engine repair eco-friendly
Auto repair facilities faced with underperforming MPFI valves generally just replace them. This is expensive for the car owner and leads to issues of recycling the old parts. A better solution is to automate cleaning and testing. See explanatory diagram.
ISA Expo, electronica: Sensors help define cold fusion, power supplies
Cold fusion will be a special keynote topic at ISA Expo 2008 in Houston in October and the following month electronica 2008 will highlight a variety of power supply technologies. Process sensors, instrumentation, and power protection and power control technologies are involved.
Wind power demand drives Siemens expansion
年代iemens Drives Technologies is building a second plant in Elgin, IL, for its drives technologies business to increase production of drives for wind turbines. Siemens, the largest producer of wind turbine gear drives in the U.S., designs and manufactures mechanical gear drives for the wind industry as well as for the cement, coal and minerals, and oil and gas industries.
Automation, IT Find Teamwork Pays
Controls and information system personnel are building joint teams that are optimizing manufacturing operations in new ways. Business pressures and technology advances both enable and encourage the collaboration.
ABB extends general machinery drives
ABB extends ACS0 general machinery drives to 15 hp at 240 V and 30 hp at 480 V to deepen application choices for OEMs and system integrators. Photo, link for more info.
Carrier Grade: MontaVista Linux complies with 3 key telecom specifications
Carrier-grade edition claimed to be first to comply with three industry specifications.
CAN control: Intelligent drive for servo applications
New servo drive combines motion controller, drive and PLC functions.
年代ustainability: NEMA, EEI help with efficient transformer purchases
Energy efficiency of year 2010 starts now. Electric utilities will more quickly incorporate energy-efficient electric transformers into their distribution grids because of...
Inverted SCARA robot for packaged goods
Adept Cobra s800 Inverted IP65 SCARA robot from Adept Technology for the packaged goods market is a high-performance robot system for mechanical assembly, material handling, packaging, machine tending, and other operations requiring fast, precise automation. The model saves space, is impervious to dust, dirt, and liquid, and provides cost-saving expansion capabilities with Adept SmartServo.
Optimizing Pump Energy Use
Given that the bulk of electricity generated in the U.S. comes from burning fossil fuels, electric power consumption of any kind causes emissions of greenhouse gasses (GHGs). Wastewater facilities use electricity in all parts of the process, including offices, but the largest consumers are electric motor-driven pumps.
年代tepper drive: OEM controller/driver adds CANopen
QuickSilver added a CANopen option to its smallest closed-loop stepper-motor controller.
Embedded drive: PC-mounted servo drive upgrades multi-axis designs
Compact Accelnet-Micro drive, built onto user PCBs, simplifies mounting, cabling, and connectors.
High-torque steppers: Enhanced-design stepper motors deliver more torque
Enhancing magnets in the stator claimed to provide more than 25% more torque output across the entire speed range.
HE motors: Prepare for high-efficiency mandates
能源独立和安全法案》的一部分(EISA) addresses efficiency levels of industrial electric motors, and will go into effect December 2010.
Freescale: Forum starts; ECG chip, radio control standard, MRAM
Freescale starts a four-day technology forum today, partnered on the first electrocardiogram on a chip, recently joined a radio frequency standards group, and formed a company for magnetoresistive random access memory.
年代afety-Related Position Measuring Systems
measurin HEIDENHAIN提供安全位置g systems that are based on pure serial data transfer via EnDat 2.2 and can be used in safety-oriented applications. A safety-related position measuring system can be used as a single-encoder system in conjunction with a safe control in applications with control category SIL-2 (in accordance with IEC 61 508) or performance level “d” (in accordance with ISO 13 849). The safe transmission of the position is based on two position values generated
MagneMotion debuts shuttle at ATX; wins award; gains partners
The turnkey manufacturing and assembly automation transport system integrates linear synchronous motors, standard, aluminum track, and vehicle components to form a flexible product transport. A multi-million dollar grant....
Mining system reduces ground currents
Zero Ground announces its High Frequency Extraction System (HFES), which reduces high-frequency ground currents. The HFES solution was engineered for use wherever ac induction motors operate in conjunction with variable frequency drive (VFD) applications, and for applications where large switching power supplies are used.
80-inch control room display
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America's Presentation Products Division has introduced MegaView Wall 8482, a video wall cube that measures 80-inches diagonally for use in large command and control centers. The cube is said to be suited for large data wall installations, particularly where viewers sit far back from the screens.
Giving Chocolate its Crunch
当销售的产品受到欢迎production limitations, it’s time to take a good look at the manufacturing systems. Mars Austria found itself in that situation with the Mars Delight candy bar product family. In response, the company effectively doubled production by implementing a new production line that integrates advanced automation technology with intelligent proces...
Living With Safety Testing
而we take it for granted, the fact that your plant doesn’t burn down due to an electrical fire and your computer doesn’t electrocute you may owe much to safety standards and testing labs. Those logos and stickers on all manner of equipment should remind you that much goes into keeping you, your home, and your plant safe.
年代lotless brushless dc servomotors provide quiet operation and extended life
皮特曼无槽无刷直流伺服电机提供的smooth and quiet operation associated with slotless stator construction and exhibit the extended service life typical with brushless technology.
NEMA1 drive reaches 30 hp
Lenze-AC Tech released higher power, enhanced SMVector NEMA1 drives. According to company officials, the drive excels in traditional VFD applications as well as in environments where inverter technology was once considered too costly.
年代olaHD: Name change, power filters with surge suppression
新势力与浪涌抑制过滤器设计ned for mounting on standard DIN rails.
Enhanced variable frequency drives; NEMA 4X inverters
Higher power NEMA1 drives and better enclosures for inverters are among recent product introductions from Lenze-AC Tech. Photos show…
Motor drives sales parallel rising energy concerns
The worldwide low-voltage motor drives market continues to surpass everyone’s expectations. According to IMS Research, early indicators suggest the market had another stellar year in 2007 as it continued its recent trend of double digit growth, and in some regions, even surpassed the growth of 2006.
Enclosure cooler: NEMA 12, small, uses compressed air
Exair’s new Side Mount Kits make the mounting of a NEMA 12 Cabinet Cooler possible when an electrical enclosure has limited space on the top or side making cool air from compressed air.
High-quality HMI access goes where it’s needed most
When you want to provide the best, you need to attend to all the details. Integrated Web Finishing Systems, or i-Web, is a supplier of inline and offline finishing equipment and systems for the graphic arts industry. Formerly JetWeb USA, the company has supplied the global printing industry for more than 25 years.
Advances in Control Loop Optimization
There was a time when “control loop optimization” meant selecting the proportional, integral, and derivative tuning parameters for all of the PID controllers in a plant so as to optimize the closed-loop performance of each loop individually. Loop tuning is still a critical element of loop optimization, but thanks to recent advances in control theory and commercial software products,...
ABB update: User conference, exhibition, flow, SCADA, wireless
Updated: Users and specifiers of process, plant and utility automation equipment, software and services gather here April 29-May 1 to discuss successes, business challenges, and technologies, at the ABB Automation World 2008 Users' Conference and Exhibition. Technologies discussed include SCADA (shown), along with wireless, flow, and analyzer technologies (new photo, info added May 1).
Drive guide: Book introduces engineering concepts of motors and drives
马达和驱动器:实用技术指导troduces engineering concepts of motors and drives in a way that can be easily understood by engineers and technicians.
Application: Linux to ControlLogix solution uses OPC
年代oftware Toolbox creates a "magical" solution for real-time data integration.
Hardened version of Accelnet servo drive
Panel-mounted drive suites extreme industrial environments with extended temperature, humidity, shock ranges.
Tech breakthrough: Omni-ID takes patented passive RFID to harsh environments
Omni-ID was spun off last year from defense and security technology supplier QinetiQ to commercialize high-performance, passive UHF RFID solutions in harsh environments. The company is involved in numerous pilots, including one with Metro Group, a diversified retail and wholesale/cash-and-carry corporation based in Germany, for a cold storage facility; and Honda in the U.K., for automotive parts.
More motor drives sold than expected
The worldwide low voltage motor drives market continues to surpass everyone’s expectations, says IMS Research.
Wireless success story: Land Rover complements trackside replenishment system with RFID-based vehicle location
An ongoing relationship with the codeveloper of an assembly track lineside parts-replenishment system has led to the rollout of a real-time vehicle locating system at Solihull, U.K.-based Land Rover—neatly leveraging an existing investment in wireless technology at the company’s 308-acre assembly plant.
Configurable motion helps OEMs
Rack-based modular control system can control up to eight rack servo drives and 64 distributed axes via CANopen.
Industrial Ethernet: Modules, online learning, interfaces
Industrial Ethernet modules, online courses, and interfaces are among recent offerings.
Going green: Automation is key to China’s aggressive energy plans
In recent decades, extreme atmospheric conditions such as snowstorms, sandstorms, rainstorms, high temperature and drought have all occurred across China. Global warming caused by over-consumption of carbon-based fuels is regarded as a significant cause. Therefore, improvements in energy usage has been a central focus of concern in China.
Better motor use through control
Reference platform for brushless dc motor control engineers to quickly incorporate new controls into appliances, power-tools, fans, pumps, and other products
500 hp inverters: Lotta ponies!
Hitachi America introduced a high-capacity SJ700 Series of inverters, up to 500 hp.
年代hhh! Get rid of cogging with dc motors
New brush-commutated dc motors deliver quiet, smooth operation for data storage, medical/biotech, semiconductor processing, and automation applications.
On-the-job training: Kids, engineering, fun
Question: How do you get kids excited about a career in engineering? Answer: Make it fun. Phoenix Contact celebrated National Engineers Week by hosting hands-on learning activities for local sixth-grade students.
Clouds in the forecast: IBM and EU launch joint research for an emerging shared-infrastructure approach
IBM is leading a joint research initiative of 13 European partners to develop technologies that automate fluctuating demand for IT resources in what is called a cloud computing environment. Called RESERVOIR—also known as Resources and Services Virtualization without Barriers—the joint project will explore deployment and management of IT services across different administrative domains, IT platforms, and geographies.
Medium voltage drives
Back to Basics: Medium voltage drives are those putting out 600 V or more. Motor/drive sets operating at “medium” voltages up to 24,000 V have been built and operated. Generally, such drives are variable speed ac drives intended for high-power applications. They typically achieve power regulation by pulse-width modulation to match drive power with mechanical load requirements at the desired speed.
Enhancing motor harmony
Efficient automation systems translate into true energy savings. A major step in that direction has focused first on industrial electric motors because of their vast installed base and continuing growth. Researchers say 300 million industrial motors are running worldwide, with 20 to 30 million being added yearly.
ABB claims industry’s most compact VFD
ABB introduced OEMs and system integrators to the most compact and slimmest motor drive in ABB’s component drive range. The small-horsepower model ACS55 variable frequency drive is rated from 0.25 to 3 horsepower.
Brushless motors and controls feature adjustable speed
Baldor Electric Company announced a new series of brushless adjustable speed controls and servo motors designed to provide customers the advantages and benefits of brushless technology for adjustable speed applications. The company says these motors and controls promise less maintenance, quieter operation, higher torques, and more efficiency in smaller packages that competing products.
Flash memory added to smallest digital signal controllers
Expanded low pin count 16-bit Digital Signal Controller (DSC) portfolio
Promising partnerships: RFID Consortium creates one-stop licensing; TAGSYS steps up frequency-agnostic infrastructures
年代even companies with patented RFID technology have organized the RFID Consortium LLC to streamline licensing of patented UHF RFID technology essential for developing solutions. The overall goal is making it less costly and cumbersome for companies to employ patented RFID components—hence a single clearinghouse for licensing a broad array of technology.
Better integration: Software pairs servo drives, motors
Uxbridge, MA – Lenze-AC Tech has introduced MotionMatch sizing software for its servo drives and motors. Company officials describe the combination of MotionMatch motor sizing software and MotionView drive configuration software as a powerful and simple way to manage motion control.
Greater efficiency: Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
Rosslyn, VA — Many control technologies support efforts to measure energy use, as well as use it more efficiently. A new energy law, helped along by National Electrical Manufacturers’ Association (NEMA) advice, followed a year-long legislative process culminating in congressional passage in December. President Bush’s Dec. 19 signature made the bill into law.
Energy as a Process Variable
Industrial energy consumption is becoming a larger issue every day, and it should be. For a host of reasons, companies and individuals need to consider how they use energy and make every effort to curtail its use on all sides. Almost 30 years ago, President Jimmy Carter characterized energy independence for the U.
IBM sees three key areas appropriate for RFID
IBM recently looked at its 2007 RFID efforts in the automotive and aerospace industries, identifying special value in areas that included reusable container management, yard management, and work-in-process (WIP) tracking. “We looked at the top 13 cases developed from client requirements in automotive and aerospace—including seven in the value chain and six in manufacturing—and...
Motor selection: Motor sizing software developer starts Google group
Copperhill Technologies started a VisualSizer Group through Google Groups in order to increase interaction with all engineers using any version of the company’s VisualSizer generic (manufacturer independent) servomotor sizing & selection application for motion control engineers.
More motors: Siemens completes $30 million Norwood, OH, plant expansion
Norwood, OH – End users, machine building OEMs, and system integrators may have an easier time selecting and using motor-related technologies because of a $30 million Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. investment to revitalize an electric motor manufacturing facility in Norwood, Ohio.
Free trade, energy bill: NEMA offers applause, appeals
Rosslyn, VA – The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) thanked the Senate for its recent approval of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, following on the House of Representatives' vote last month. In separate news, the organization praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passing energy legislation with NEMA-advocated policies.
Looking ahead to 2015: How will the world be more energy efficient?
年代pecial Report CUSTOM ADVERTISING NEWSLETTER To SUBSCRIBE | To UNSUBSCRIBE | CHANGE YOUR PROFILE | PRIVACY POLICY December 3 , 2007 Top Story Looking ahead to 2015: How will the world be more energy efficient? As the world’s demand for energy grows with economic development, the obvious question is where will energy come from in the future, and how will it be used? Since many of ABB’s products and services are directly related to energy production, transmission, and consumption, we consider those questions daily throughout our company. A recent issue of our ABB Review looks at the world in 2015, and offers some predictions as to how the world will produce and consume energy. Energy efficient solutions will be a major element of that picture with wider deployment of technologies that are under development today. In the online edition, we present a broad spectrum of applications of our technologies that boost energy efficiency.
运动控制器:支持多个电机类型
表现运动设备有限公司(PMD)宣布广告vanced capabilities for its Magellan programmable motion processor to directly support multiple motor types in single and multiple axis applications. The company says that reduced application design time is achieved using these ultra-high performance ICs to create motion control applications supporting all major motor types including dc brushed, brushless dc, step motors and pulse and direction motors.
IEEE Workshop: Industrial energy efficiency, productivity
Baltimore, MD—Difficult times lie ahead for resolving U.S. energy needs; for industry, that includes resources, efficient usage and power / energy management. Presentations by energy-arena manufacturers, government experts, and consultants comprised the IEEE Industrial Energy Efficiency Workshop in Baltimore, MD (Oct. 22-23, 2007). Sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers’ Industry Applications Society, this inaugural workshop addressed industrial energy issues.
Automation Fair: Belden expands line of symmetrical variable frequency drive cables
Richmond, IN– Belden has expanded its line of variable frequency drive (VFD) cables that carry power from industrial ac drive systems to ac motors. Product additions include eight new symmetrical ground design, 3-conductor 16 to 2 AWG, VFD cables.
Automation Fair 2007: Technologies at Chicago’s McCormick Place
Chicago, IL—The 2007 Automation Fair event, hosted by Rockwell Automation, is an opportunity to hear about the latest success stories and new manufacturing solutions from Rockwell Automation and its partners. The week includes user events starting Monday, Nov. 12, “Manufacturing Perspectives” for media and analysts on Nov. 13, and a conference and exhibits Nov. 14 and 15, all intended to provide information of interest to the industrial automation business community.
Wireless: Steel mill applications show communication reliability
In two application success stories, two companies, Honeywell and Emerson , prove that their wireless platforms can survive and operate in steel mills, which have to be one of the most hostile industrial environments. Examining these applications makes the point that those radios can handle tough assignments and save money in the process. Honeywell’s example is at Nucor Steel in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The main application is the electric arc furnace, the main vessel in which scrap steel is melted for recasting into slabs.
Virginia Tech: Develops humanoid robot with NI LabView
Austin, TX - Engineering students from the Robotics & Mechanisms Laboratory (RoMeLa) at Virginia Tech have developed a bipedal humanoid robot using National Instruments LabView graphical system design platform. The Dynamic Anthropomorphic Robot with Intelligence (DARwIn) was developed to study human locomotion for research and development of prosthetic limbs.
Built-in features save installation, add-on costs for ac drive
Cost- and performance-conscious facility operators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will appreciate new, full-featured, easy-to-use ac drives from GE Consumer & Industrial: the AF-60 LP Micro Drive for small motor controls, AF-600 FP Fan & Pump Drive for HVAC and pump applications, and AF-650 GP General Purpose Drive for control of mixers and material handling applications.
AC Adjustable Speed Drives
Users want their drives easy to setup and program, and they plan to buy more of them, according to a Control Engineering survey of subscriber preferences for ac adjustable speed drives (also known as variable frequency drives or VFDs), conducted with help from Reed Research. Generally respondents prefer plain-vanilla open-loop Volts/Hz drives, more than in 2005.
Really need a servo? Here’s how to decide
Do you really need a servo? Can an induction motor with a feedback device provide a better solution for specific applications? Looking at definitions and performance characteristics for servos and induction motors may move the decision along. Servo motor system: A servo is not just a motor. It is a closed loop motion system composed of a controller, a drive, a motor and a feedback device, usual...
Control Engineering Editorial Team
Editorial & Business Offices 2000 Clearwater DriveOak Brook, IL 60523 USA(630) 288-8000 • Fax: (630) 288-8580 EDITORIAL STAFF: David Greenfield Mark T. Hoske, Editor-in-Chief Renee Robbins, Senior Editor Peter Welander, Process Industries Editor Frances Baetiong, Art Director Consulting Editors: Frank Bartos, Consulting Editor Jeanine Katzel, Consulting Editor Dick Johnson, Consulting Editor Vance J. VanDoren, Consulting Editor International Bob Gill, Editor, Control Engineering Asia Kenny Fu, Editor in chief, Control Engineering China Milan Katrusak, Control Engineering Czech, Editor-in-Chief Michael Babb, Editor, Control Engineering Europe Tomasz Golebiowski, Editor-in-Chief, Control Engineering Poland Inna Lukasik, David Greenfield Editorial Director 678/654-1692 david.greenfield@reedbusiness.com Specific areas of coverage: Global Manufacturing Sustainablity Business Trends & Analysis Software Mark T.
Motor control: Piezomotors get model-free adaptive control
In a close collaboration, model-free adaptive control developer CyboSoft and nanoscale motion provider Physik Instrumente have developed the custom MFA Tiger controller for piezomotors, which the developers claim provides stable, smooth, fast and precise performance from start-up and under all operating conditions.
Assemblies: Lifting pillars precisely position large loads
年代KF’s “TMS” telescopic lifting pillars can provide fast, quiet, and precise movement of large loads, such as diagnostic imaging tables used in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear imaging, x-ray, and similar medical applications.
Motors: Flat brushless dc motors maximize speed while minimizing size and vibration
Portescap, a Danaher Motion company, introduced nuvoDisc, which the company characterizes as an innovative family of flat brushless dc miniature motors with a small footprint (32mm diameter and 11.7mm length) engineered specifically for markets where miniaturization is key, such as portable respirators and barcode scanners.
年代un powered engineering: College students enter solar decathlon; solar energy race car
年代olar energy engineering has heated up with help from university students, Texas Instruments and Woodhead Industries. Automation, instrumentation, and controls benefit from solar energy for powering of remote instrumentation, sensors, and controls, as well as through development of lower powered devices.
Industrial control equipment sales rising, says NEMA
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) tracks industrial control equipment, among other numbers, and at present, the trend looks good according to the organization’s “Primary Industrial Control Index” through mid-2007. Industrial control equipment, a $2.6 billion U.S. market, is primarily used in industrial applications for the control or regulation, or both, of ...
Durable peristaltic pump
Watson-Marlow Bredel’s 720 Series peristaltic pump is designed for accurate metering and dosing of corrosive, abrasive, and sensitive fluids, and is ideal for the contamination-free transfer of acids, paints, oils, inks, dyes, or waste slurries found in many markets. It is said to provide increased capacity and tighter flow control than other pumps from the company.
Dynamic system simulation
This is the final article of a five-part series reviewing various programming approaches to complex systems. Previous articles have focused on ladder diagrams, function block diagrams, textual programming, and statecharts. This article explores a programming model for describing and simulating the behavior of dynamic systems as they change over time—an often essential step in the design o...
NMW: General purpose motors from AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect jumped into the general-purpose motor market by introducing their IronHorse general purpose ac motor line. The company’s first broad-range family of electric motors, the series includes rolled-steel and cast-iron designs in the most popular sizes. IronHorse motors are available in single- and three-phase models, and power ratings from one-third to 300 hp. The company made the announcement concurrent with its National Manufacturing Week 2007 exhibit.
Motion: Sensors help ensure stir-welding repeatability
The friction stir welding process was invented in 1992 at The Welding Institute (TWI) in Cambridge, U.K. The solid-state welding process, combines extruding and forging, and is not true welding. The method was not created specifically for aluminum but is definitely well-suited for it.
Drives: Mitsubishi introduces compact variable frequency drive
Mitsubishi Electric Automation introduced its latest compact variable frequency drive (VFD), the E700. The new VFD will replace the company’s E500 model. According to a company spokesman, the E700 offers a host of new benefits for the user, while being simple for an existing E500 customer to move across to it.
Cyber security: ABB controller gets certified
ABB’s System 800xA Extended Automation AC 800M controller has received Achilles Controller Level 1 cyber security certification from Wurldtech Security Technologies, a provider of security products and services for industrial automation.
Fieldbus Foundation: End user Podcast, host test kit released
Fieldbus Foundation released a podcast describing fieldbus user experiences in the process industries. In other news, the organization made available a Host Test Kit DD Application Test Module that tests functionality of a fieldbus host conformance with the Foundation Host Interoperability Support Test (HIST) profile specification.
年代OA approach to simulation drives business agility, reduce integration costs
MSC.Software’s SimManager fully integrates with IBM software and strategy for SOA.
Honeywell delivers process, quality control to China’s largest containerboard maker
Honeywell will supply its Experion Process, Machine and Drives (PMD), Da Vinci quality control system and ProFlow and AquaTrol cross-direction control system to China-based Nine Dragons Paper Ltd.
Controls Ease Startup
年代mooth project startup, despite a large ongoing investment, can require starting from scratch to realign the automation system closer to the original vision, according to a system integrator that worked on such a project. Graphical software tools can augment automation system implementation, including: Drivex Inc.
年代ynchronous servomotors provide precise dynamic control
Dynamic performance, precision, adaptability, and long service life are the key advantages of the new DS/CM line of synchronous servomotors, according to manufacturer SEW-Eurodrive. The servomotors provide an economical solution for highly dynamic applications like material handling, packaging, and crane and hoist control.
110 V dc input on 3 KVA 2U rackmount inverter
The Schaefer family of pure sine wave inverters is expanding with the AEP-U3000R-110x Series of 3 KVA rackmount products with 110 V dc input to offer benefits over modified or quasi-sine wave units by delivering “clean” output power for better efficiency to power sensitive loads and heavily inductive loads.
年代ervo or no? How to decide
Do you really need a servo? Can an induction motor with a feedback device provide a better solution for specific applications? Looking at definitions and performance characteristics for servos and induction motors may move the decision along. Servo motor system: A servo is not just a motor. It is a closed loop motion system composed of a controller, a drive, a motor and a feedback device, usual...
Application stories and video on Galil microsite
Rocklin, CA—A new microsite is available from Galil Motion Control where visitors can find current news and products from the company.
Free-swinging robotic leg shows natural motion
年代hane Migliore, NSF Graduate Research Fellow, Georgia Institute of Technology is developing a robotic leg with free-swinging movement for performing neuromuscular experiments.
Free trade, education: NEMA, IEEE ask Congress to act; energy bill to Senate
Rosslyn, VA, Washington, DC —The U.S. Congress continues to get prompting and encouragement on free trade, energy legislation, and science and technology competitiveness from industry advocates such as the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and IEEE-USA , an organizational unit of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc. NEMA is urging Congress to approve the pending legislation to open trade negotiations among the U.S. and the countries of South Korea, Panama, Peru, and Colombia.
Feedback system
The company introduces SinCos SEK 52 servo-motor feedback systems with HIPERFACE interface. The product features a design that eliminates components that tend to wear, significantly increasing reliability and uptime, while reducing power consumption, the company claims. It also features integral scanning to automatically compensate for errors common to standard motor feedback systems.
Decentralized Control: Understand the advantages
Moving motor-control functions from a central control cabinet onto a machine or the plant floor puts control devices closer to the motors actuating the process. With appropriate planning, explains SEW Eurodrive (www.seweurodrive.com), such designs deliver significant cost savings in engineering time and materials, and through the automation's life cycle.
More energy-efficiency awareness needed
工程师有一个隐式的目标来设计和成矿d efficient equipment, but cost tradeoffs affect the process of how efficient to make products or systems. While not a new consideration, cost of energy to run equipment has grown to be a major issue for users and producers of automation systems. Optimizing energy efficiency requires a “system view,” including the drive and gear redu...
Dual-loop drive
The co. has added the XtraDrive-DL to its XtraDrive Servo System product line. The new dual-loop (DL) model focuses on precision accuracy within the high-speed system as it automatically senses and compensates for inaccuracies that repetitive motion, temperature variances and component wear cause. The product features two encoders that allow the drivers’ control algorithm to function more...
CANopen enabled servo motor controller
低cost CANopen servo motor controller, Silverdust IGC, from QuickSilver Controls Inc., is a single axis controller which can be configured for peer-to-peer, master, or slave, allowing the controllers to share I/O with other CANopen enabled Silverdust controllers or third party CAN-open devices. The controller includes serial communications (RS-232, RS-485), CANopen, and 7 I/O.
Motion control: Mini servo drives save space
Three miniature servo drives from Elmo Motion Control Inc. support up to 2,400W and achieve high power density coupled with SimplIQ intelligence.
Motion control cards deliver high speed motion trace
The Prodigy motion cards from Performance Motion Devices (PMD), [www.pmdcorp.com] provide real-time, high-speed servo trace capture with 40 KB onboard dual-port memory.
AMR ranks the leading supply chains
The universe for companies considered is the Fortune Global 500. Financial performance (60 percent) and individual analyst assessments (40 percent) determined ranking.
Process Automation by Siemens Click here for more information
Optimizing Energy Consumption and Improving Operational Efficiency Through the Use of Smart MCCs in Process Automation Systems
New CEO: Siemens Automation & Drives seeks larger presence in U.S.
Orlando, FL—Siemens Automation & Drives is the global automation leader and is pursuing broader recognition in the U.S., according Dennis Sadlowski, who assumed the role of president and CEO of Siemens Energy & Automation as of July 1.
Nucor adds temper mill to cut-to-length line
Atlanta—A new wide temper mill will be added to Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa Inc.’s existing cut-to-length line, under a recent contract with Siemens Metals Technologies Div.
Hewlett-Packard tops MBT 2007 ranking of IT vendors
This year's Manufacturing Business Technology Global 100 has a new No. 1: Palo Alto, Calif.-based Hewlett-Packard. HP is the world's largest IT company, reporting 2006 fiscal year revenue of $91.7 billion, thus surpassing IBM by a narrow margin. Suffice to say, HP is firing on all cylinders. In the past, printers and ink cartridges comprised most of the profits, but today other units make big ...
Front-runner in on-demand software model accelerates apps test-drives
Imagine browsing supply chain applications and test-driving them just like music lovers do with iTunes. Some say this “Try before you buy” model is the wave of the future, and Salesforce.com has been at the forefront of this movement. The San Francisco-based supplier of customer relationship management (CRM) systems has set the standard for on-demand applications, which it is now e...
Energy Efficient Motion
能源成本运行许多汽车lifetimes is much more than the actual capital cost of the motors themselves. So if energy efficient motors cost so much less in the long run, why don't more people buy energy efficient motors? 1. They cost more upfront. 2. End-users may not realize or directly benefit from the lifecycle savings (capital cost of the motor plus energy cost to run the...
By the Numbers – 2007-07-01
1 extra percentage point of motor efficiency is worth, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, well over $500 per year with a 200 hp motor. Adding a percent point of efficiency to even a 50-hp motor can save well over $100 a year. For more, see “Energy Efficient Motion” article in this issue.
In Search of Satisfaction
During the month of May 2007, Control Engineering magazine gave its print and online subscribers a chance to talk about satisfaction. Specifically, we asked readers to rate their satisfaction with vendors and their products in 12 categories: DCS software; networking hardware; industrial computers; single- and multi-loop controllers; embedded hardware; historian software; linear motors; process ...
TI floating point DSCs enable greener industrial apps
Helping industrial control designers increase energy efficiency and system performance, Texas Instruments announced what it's calling the industry's first floating point digital signal controllers (DSCs). The new TMS320F2833x devices provide 300 million floating point instructions per second (MFLOPS) performance at 150 MHz while providing the lower costs typically associated with fixed point processors.
Update: NEMA energy efficient motor initiatives
国家自行制造商协会(NEMA) is helping to increase energy savings by encouraging purchase of the most energy efficient motor available, including the strategy of making replacements instead of repairs.
Wireless: New controller meets universal restrictions
Otek Corp. offers a Tucson, AZ—The Otek Corp . model MBWC (Multi-Band 2-Way Wireless Controller) features four universally acceptable radio frequency (RF) bands (315, 433, 868, and 915) without changing hardware (HW) or firmware (FW).
Cyber security: When is an attack, an attack?
This story is a little scary: On August 19, 2006, the Brown’s Ferry Nuclear Power Station had an incident where the variable frequency drives (VFDs) running the reactor recirculation pumps on Unit 3 tripped and stopped. Operators shut the reactor down manually. Everybody was OK and everything following the actual event happened as it was supposed to.
Ethernet networking: Sandhoefner joins packaging workgroup board of directors
At the OMAC user group conference in Florida in early 2007, Markus Sandhoefner, sales manager with B&R Industrial Automation Corp. joined Siemens’ Bill Henderson as a technology provider representative to the board of directors of the OMAC Packaging Workgroup (OPW).
Micro motor drive for OEMs
Danfoss displayed recently introduced electric drives. VLT Micro Drive is intended for OEM usage such as small machine tools and industrial laundries. VLT Automation Drive in the 11-75 kW power range with IP20 sealing now offers substantially smaller sizes and easier installation than prior models. High power VLT AutomationDrive FC 300 provides output up to 1.
Networking: Industrial Ethernet expands globally, SmartMotor shows a way
Adoption of Ethernet in industrial settings is expanding globally, with evidence coming by report and by example.
Frost & Sullivan awards Hitachi America for technological excellence
Frost & Sullivan selected Hitachi America, Ltd. as the recipient of the 2007 Frost & Sullivan Award for Excellence in Technology & Product Value in the variable speed drives market.
Variable speed drives: Hitachi earns technology excellence award
Palo Alto, CA— Hitachi America Ltd . is the winner of the 2007 Frost & Sullivan Award for Excellence in Technology & Product Value in the variable speed drives market. Announcing the honor F&S said, “The company has an unmatched ability to pioneer vector control technology and build solutions to enable customers to achieve operational excellence.
NEMA: Tax breaks for motor efficiency; economy improves
美国国家电气制造商协会(NEMA) and The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) agreed on changes and additions to federal standards for energy-efficient motors, and gave their suggestions to the U.S. Congress. The organizations recommended several motor efficiency provisions.
Hannover Fair 2007: Hermes prize goes to innovative laser vision system
With red exclamation points as a design theme, Turkey as its partner country, and a spirited speech from German chancellor Angela Merkel, the 60th annual Hannover Messe began Sunday, April 15, 2007. In addition to music provided by pneumatically controlled stringed instruments that played themselves, the highlight of the industrial trade fair’s opening ceremonies was the awarding of the ...
Building a skilled workforce: Initiative seeks ways to end shortages
年代t. Charles, IL— A new manufacturing initiative is establishing basic training programs designed to educate manufacturing workers and help create and implement ways to alleviate the anticipated shortage of skilled and qualified industrial employees. Bison Gear is joining forces with other manufacturing, governmental, and educational leaders to develop a talent pool of better-qualified employees that includes plans to offer long-term stable employment. The decision to invest in an educational program can ensure a stronger economy with a skilled workforce engaged and thriving in our communities, says Bison Gear, encouraging anyone looking to train in a high-growth field to consider this initiative.
Advice: Machine vision applications…subscribers tell all
Oak Brook, IL —A recent survey of Control Engineering subscribers uncovered advice about selection and application of machine vision technologies. A table of showing percentages of machine vision applications among respondents follows below the tips. The May 2007 North American print edition of Control Engineering will include more about the survey, along with leading vendors' products in: " Machine vision: now is the time ." Control Engineering subscribers are asked monthly to provide input about a particular product area.
Automation industry: B&R lauded by China, expands in Spain
B&R Industrial Automation Corp. is making news internationally with a new Spanish subsidiary and an award from the China Packaging Machinery Association.
Automotive sensor input IC
ZMD31150 integrated circuit from Servoflo is reported as a highly accurate, fast CMOS for amplification and correction of resistive bridge type sensors.
NEMA motors lower electric bills
年代iemens Energy & Automation NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) Motors from Siemens reach the highest efficiency levels in the marketplace for industrial standard motors. Offered in aluminum and cast iron frame configurations, these motors include high efficiency and industry-leading NEMA Premium efficient designs to help motor users lower energy costs and extend service life.
Model 940 PositionServo requires no enclosure
Lenze/AC Technology Corp. Unlike most servo products, the Model 940 from Lenze/AC Technology Corp. combines many technological advances in a standard product. It has standard TCP/IP protocol so drives can talk with each other and any standard Ethernet device; EPM, a removable memory module with drive programs, can be moved from drive to drive; multiple motor technologies to run synchronous brus...
Plant tour: Behind the scenes at Bosch Rexroth
Plant tours, business prospects, and R&D spending were highlights of Bosch Rexroth’s recent 2nd Global Technology Summit, which catered to some 80 technical editors and analysts from around the world. Topics included industrial and mobile hydraulics, electric drives and controls, pneumatics, linear motion systems, and semiconductor manufacturing.
MR-J3 Series ac-servo systems eliminate vibrations
Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. MR-J3 Series Servos are available in a variety of interface methods and can be used in position, speed, or torque control for both rotary and linear servo motors. The industry’s first “Advanced Vibration Suppression Control” function eliminates vibrations created by the mechanical system.
Tutorial: Mitigating parasitic turn-on effect in IGBT-output drives to improve drive performance
Bottom IGBT parasitic turn-on due to Miller capacitor One of the common problems faced in a majority of industrial motor applications is the cross-conduction phenomenon caused by parasitic Miller capacitance in the insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) output transistors. The following tutorial examines the technical and economic trade-offs of using four different techniques to mitigate the affects of a parasitic turn-on due to a Miller capacitor. 1,200 V IGBTs are commonly used in a majority of 3-phase motor inverter applications. These industrial products not only require safety insulation and noise isolation, but also control and special protection functions to ensure reliable operation.
Motor efficiency: NEMA expands energy saving program to 50 Hz
Rosslyn, VA —Motors globally will be more efficient thanks to a new energy-efficiency standard from NEMA , the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, for the 50 Hz motor. The 50 Hz standard thus joins the 60 Hz motor as part of the NEMA Premium motor program , and will help North American machine builders, end-users, and system integrators that work globally. The NEMA Premium Motors 50 Hz Standard, expected during early spring 2007, will allow the manufacturers that participate in the NEMA Premium Motors Program to manufacture and market NEMA Premium motors in 60 Hz and 50 Hz configurations worldwide. It will also allow manufacturers of 50 Hz integral motors to license the NEMA Premium brand, promoting energy-efficiency brand. NEMA Premium Motors are recognized as the leading energy-efficient integral motors in North America.
Linear motion technologies move people, baggage in Spain
Acton, MA —Linear synchronous motors (LSM) will power airport baggage handling and automated people movers at the Passenger Terminal Expo 2007, March 27-29, at Fira de Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain, according to MagneMotion , a developer and manufacturer of assembly automation, material handling, and transportation products that use electro-magnetic technology. The demonstration will feature MagneMotion’s MagneMover DB 1.0, a new modular track and vehicle product designed to complement its QuickStick LSM technology. The system can transport nominal and oversized airport baggage loads at speeds up to 10 m/s while precisely tracking bags via built-in position-sensing technology.
U.S.-made: ac gearmotors, drop-in replacements
年代harq 207 series parallel shaft gearmotors are the first of 11 new gearmotor designs from the company this year. West Chicago, IL —Designed as direct drop-in replacements for many high-volume OEM applications, the new Sharq 207 series parallel shaft gearmotors are the first in a family of 11 new gearmotor designs the company is introducing in 2007. American made and powered by 1/20 hp, UL and CSA recognized ac motors, the four standard models in the Sharq 207 series offer torque ratings from 42 to 113 in.-lb, with 2 to 29 rpm output speeds at full load current of 1.3 A. Rated at 115 V, 60 Hz, the Sharq 207 series employs shaded pole electric motors, with clockwise rotation as standard. Totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) design offers high output in a compact 4.94 in.
Mining application: High-security Ethernet switches for data control
专为恶劣的环境中,这些快速、高-security Lynx Ethernet switches from Westermo have a 20 ms reconfiguration time, the world's best off-the-shelf performance for Ethernet switches, company says. This mining application has a full industrial Ethernet redundancy ring that monitors and controls the facility. Fast, high-security Lynx Ethernet switches have a 20 ms reconfiguration time, and offer the world's best off-the-shelf performance for Ethernet switches, according to Wedron Silica in a mining application.
AC Tech improves service options
Industrial automation engineers can count on better customer service for motors, clutches and brakes from Lenze/AC Technology ( AC Tech ), since the company consolidated their operations in its Uxbridge, MA headquarters facility. “Having all manufacturing, service and sales [concentrated in] one location will enhance our customers’ experience” says Gene Wood, General Manager and Director of Service at AC Technology Corporation. “We are always looking for improvements, whether it is innovative thinking that makes our products the leaders in performance, or in the logistics of providing our customers with unparalleled service and support.” A member of the Lenze Group, AC Tech develops, manufactures, markets and supports a range of motion control solutions, including servo drives and motors, clutches and brakes, gears and gear motors and variable frequency AC motor drives. According to company officials, the automation supplier had been assembling, selling and supporting all geared motors, clutches and brakes out of a remote location in Emporia, KS.
年代ystem control: Current monitoring simplifies conveyor control system
在一个分裂铁心电流传感器了leg of a motor's power feed provides a voltage output proportional to the motor's current draw. That signal can then provide feedback for a control system to maintain constant load or to provide alarms should the system jam or break. It's possible to reduce the number of sensors needed in any complex motion control system by paying attention to drive motor current and its relation to the motor load.
Retrofit: Petro-Canada avoids buying all new motor control centers
Petro-Canada, one of Canada's largest oil and gas companies, chose Eaton to retrofit a competitor's existing motor control centers (MCCs) with new "wrappers" for $150,000, a substantial dollar savings over replacing existing MCC's with new ones. When Petro-Canada began transforming its Rebecca Street facility from a refinery into a distribution center, it asked Eaton and its current MCC supplier for a solution that would enable it to use its existing MCCs and replace FVNR NEMA starters with reduced voltage starters, which could communicate on Modbus TCP/IP to a PLC. The project, at Petro-Canada in Oakville, Ontario: Had minimal available space to replace FVNR (full voltage non-reversing) NEMA starters with reduced voltage starters in the competitor's motor control centers (MCCs); Retrofit existing MCC's (including FVNRs, "tri-paks," and limiters) with Eaton S811 Soft Starters and new wrappers manufactured by Eaton's Mississauga, Ontario, satellite plant; and Saved time and money, avoided full replacement; gained Modbus TCP/IP communications. The small size of Eaton's S811 device was said to be a key factor to the success of the retrofit. An integrated "run bypass" contactor also reduced space needed for the retrofit; the D77D-EMA enabled the customer to obtain critical motor data from the S811 (communication capability). Noteworthy was the unusual challenge of trying to retrofit a competitor's MCC with a SSRV in a "wrapper" sized for a NEMA starter, according to those involved. —Edited by Mark T.
ELC PLC features no-rack design
Eaton Cutler-Hammer ELC (electronic load controller) programmable logic controller from FactoryMation LLC includes built-in I/O connectors on its CPUs to operate as a standalone controller and can add expansion modules to its no-rack design by snapping them into mating connectors.
年代ervo drive mounted on motor
IndraDriveMi next generation drive system from Rexroth includes the drive, motion control, and logic control mounted on the motor.
Combined forces: Schneider business unit joins sensor control brands
年代chneider Electric has assembled a number of separate, well-established brands in the motion-control market to form a global enterprise under the name Custom Sensors & Controls (CST). Control engineers will continue to see the affected brands, including Kavlico, BEI, Crydom, Newall, Crouzet, and Systron Donner, and benefit from the combined companies' marketing, manufacturing, distribution,...
Poetry in Motion
If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, I suggest you visit one show where the industrial technology will impress you just as much as any of the other attractions the strip might offer—at least if you’re an engineer. KÀ, by Cirque du Soleil at MGM Grand, is unlike any other show you may have experienced.
Compact rotary switches
Cam-operated rotary switches from c3controls are for on-off, changeover, multi-step, Ammeter, Voltmeter, motor reversing control, and load-break applications.
Robotic expansion: Transbotics partners with Kuka
Facility infrastructure developer Transbotics entered a “Systems Partner Agreement” with robotic-arm maker Kuka Robot Group. The agreement allows Transrobotics to offer Kuka industrial robots to customers as part of the company’s Tailor Made automated handling systems. For 25 years, Transrobotics has specialized in the design, development, support and installation of automation solutions with emphasis on automatic guided vehicle (AGV) technology. As a complete automation solutions company, the firm manufactures, installs and supports various automation technologies, including AGVs, robots, conveyors, batteries, chargers, motors, and other related products for a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace/defense, food and beverage, paper, publishing, entertainment, microelectronics, plastics, and primary metals. Headquartered in Augsburg, Germany, Kuka Robot Group is said to rank among the world’s leading suppliers of industrial robots.
Combined forces: Schneider business unit joins sensor/control brands
Moorpark, CA — Schneider Electric has assembled, over the past few months, a number of separate, well-established brands in the motion-control market to form a global enterprise under the name Custom Sensors & Controls, or CST for short. Control engineers will continue to see the affected brands, including Kavlico, BEI, Crydom, Newall, Crouzet, and Systron Donner, and benefit from the combined companies' marketing, manufacturing, distribution, and field service capabilities, Schneider Electric suggests. Three CST divisions address the transportation, industrial, and aerospace and government/military markets served by the component brands. Charles L.
Brushless ac servo amplifiers
ACS300 Series low voltage, digital brushless ac servo amplifiers from Automotion Inc. use a DSP-based architecture to provide software-selectable torque, velocity, or position mode operation.
Embedded motors: Micro motor mounts on a circuit board
UP10's micro-motor fits onto a printed circuit board like any electronic component. UP10 has developed a modular piezo-ceramic micro-motor with off-power hold and fast and precise positioning. According to the company, it can be integrated easily into many applications, especially those for control and regulation, at a cost similar to conventional dc motors. The piezo-ceramic motor is direct drive, so it needs no gears.
Controllers: Software, network enhance multi-axis controllers, drives
此举旨在让工程师们关注solving application problems instead of integrating control components, Festo announces SEC-AC-SMLC Multi-Axis Controllers, which meet motion control, logic, and I/O needs. Their programming platform, CoDeSys, is based on the IEC61131-3 standard and offers a suite of programming languages. The ServoWire digital drive network simplifies implementation and reduces the chances of errors. Festo offers four models of the SEC-SDD drives with continuous output currents ranging from 2.4 to 14 A RMS/phase operating at 115VAC or 230 VAC.
Most popular: Top 20 Control Engineering stories of 2006
Oak Brook, IL —The top 20 most popular Control Engineering articles of 2006 follow below, according to monthly rank of the number of times they were accessed at www.globalelove.com . Thanks for reading! 1. Weblog Project: Baton Rouge Wastewater Pump Station SCADA System 11.
年代mall-engine test system
VersaDyne small engine test system from Sakor Technologies Inc. tests 2- and 4-cycle engines.
Closing the skills gap: Grant to help build competitive workforce
Washington, DC—A half-million dollar grant to a manufacturing organization seeks to bring higher education opportunities to more people. The Lumina Foundation awarded $538,000 to the Manufacturing Institute/Center for Workforce Success (the research and education arm of the National Association of Manufacturers) and its partners for Business Champions, an initiative to catalyze business l...
Model-following process control
All feedback controllers are designed to eliminate errors between the process variable and setpoint. Model-following controllers do so by forcing the process variable to reach the setpoint along a specified trajectory. The user defines the desired trajectory by creating a mathematical model that represents an idealized process—a process that would be easier to control if it could somehow ...
Need speed? Is there a delta robot in your future?
You've seen them at shows. You've marveled at their speed and agility. Perhaps you've even thought one might be useful in your application. They are delta robots, and one just might be in your future because the patents on the original design are about to run out. That will open the field for more vendors to add them to their product lines and for developers to come up with more design variations.
Feedback: Matching moments of inertia
Dear editor: I read your article (CE, 12/06, p. 18, “Technology Update: Matching moments of inertia”) with interest. Having spent 38 years in R&D on machine tools at G&L I am quite familiar with "inertia match" indexes of performance for industrial machine servo drives. Control Engineering published an article on inertia match a number of years ago.
Visualizing temperature
Just as thermal imaging is becoming white hot for predictive equipment maintenance, industrial engineers are becoming increasingly aware that it makes an excellent primary sensor to keep control systems on track. Thermal imaging, or thermography, maps the surface temperature of an object by means of the infrared (IR) radiation it emits.
Robotics: Servomotor has high power to volume
MiniMotor 2057 S 024 B Featuring high power-to-volume ratio and electronic commutation suit the brushless DC-Servomotor series 2057xxx B from Swiss motor manufacturer Minimotor SA for many applications, including medical devices, factory automation, robotics, aerospace, and aviation. Motors incorporate high-energy rare earth magnets that give the motors a very responsive mechanical time constant of only 8 ms. A Faulhaber skew winding in combination with the laminated stator provides good heat dissipation and high overload capability.
Controls Market: Rare double-digit: growth tallied for large motors and generators
Worldwide market for large motors and generators grew 11% in 2005 to become a $1.6 billion market, according to a new study from IMS Research . This is seen as exceptional growth for such a mature industrial market that typically grows 2-3% a year. The large motors and generators market has been well-positioned to benefit from recent economic trends, exemplified by the fast growing economies of India, Brazil, and especially China. Application areas for these large electrical machines are concentrated in areas that supply growing populations.
年代imple, low-cost vibration meter
Model 240 V-Alert vibration meter from Balmac Inc. is said to take the guesswork out of vibration measurements.
Bi-polar chopping driver board
NPAD10BF bi-polar chopping driver board from Nippon Pulse America offers up to 1/16 micro-stepping and an input range from 12 to 30 V dc.
Flat-panel LCDs: Backlighting brightens displays
LED backlighting technology from CI Lumen Industries offers numerous advantages for display panels including higher brightness with less heat generation at lower power consumption. Patent-pending LED backlighting development from CI Lumen Industries is suited for a variety of display panels. According to the company, the technology addresses concerns for power consumption and heat relevant elevated brightness levels.
Application closeup: Extreme cleaning application for medical tubing
Products in medical devices have very critical cleaning and sanitation requirements prior to use with patients. Even something as simple as Teflon tubing has to go through a sophisticated cleaning process after being extruded. Arion Engineering has designed and built a system to etch tubing that will ultimately be used for catheter applications. The cleaning process takes three steps: The initial etching process uses a heated, super-saturated solution of metallic sodium dispersed in naphthalene.
Brush, brushless gear motors
Line of 16 mm miniature brush and brushless dc gearmotors and motors from Nidec Copal Corp. includes three types to serve a range of automation instrumentation.
Matching moments of inertia
Actuators have to develop forces to overcome both dissipative forces (friction) and inertial forces. That is, to move anything from position A to position B, you have to first apply force to accelerate the thing from a state of rest to some state of motion, then apply (usually smaller) force to maintain it in the accelerated-motion state against friction, and finally apply a force to decelerate...
Baldor buys Rockwell motion unit for $1.8 billion, stock
Baldor Electric Co. signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Reliance Electric Co. and certain of its affiliated companies from Rockwell Automation for $1.8 billion. The Rockwell Power Systems business, previously reported up for sale, markets products under the Reliance Electric and Dodge brand names.
Ultra-low harmonic drive earns double gold “Product of the Year” award
"It is satisfying when engineers and subscribers to the media… raise their hands and say, 'look, this is a good, right product for the realities of my real-life, real-time applications,'" said Ken Graber, ABB, Low Voltage Drives after receiving the news that the company's line of ultra-low harmonic drives received an award. The double-gold Product of the Year award was from Consulting and Specifying Engineer ( CSE ), a Reed Business Information publication and Control Engineering sister publication. Each year, CSE holds a Product of the Year competition to identify the best, peer-reviewed new products in the engineering disciplines CSE regularly covers: automation & control, electrical, fire protection, HVAC, lighting, motors/drives, security & communications and power quality/reliability. Harmonic distortion originating in drive electronics of large motors can feed back into the facility's electrical power system, interfering with proper operation of sensitive equipment, such as computers.
EMI Noise Checklist by Danaher Motion
This document is provided courtesy of Danaher Motion (www.DanaherMotion.com) to assist servo system users with applications that are experiencing problems due toelectromagnetic interference (EMI) noise. It collects the experience of Danaher Motion engineers who have solved many noise problems in the field.
New product: User-programmable incremental encoder
Users can reconfigure incremental encoder angular resolution. Sick Stegmann 's DRS61 CoreTech Incremental Encoders use a simple USB connection and programming software to empower customers to freely program the number of encoder lines from 1 to 8,192, as well as the width of the zero pulse. This flexible programmability allows users to use a single type of encoder that can be programmed at any time, in any location, for any application. Customer programmability is a particularly attractive new feature for end-users, OEMs, consulting engineers, system integrators, and distributors.
Thermal performance: Resistor offers three ways to dissipate heat
BHP75 Series power resistor from TT electronics' BI Technologies SMT Div. features an insulated tapered venturi bonded to the substrate for maximum heat dissipation Munich, Germany —Non-molded power resistor rated up to 75 W from TT electronics BI Technologies SMT Div . was developed, says the company, to give design engineers an open screened substrate device for applications requiring superior thermal performance.
Machines in motion: Communication modules added to drive
Three communication options-RS-485/Modbus, CANopen, and DeviceNet-are now available for SMVector drive from AC Technology, a member of the Lenze Group. Pop-in modules can be factory-installed or inserted into existing products. Uxbridge, MA —SMVector drive from AC Technology , a member of the Lenze Group, now features three communication options: RS-485/Modbus, CANopen, and DeviceNet.
NEMA: More sustainable growth for controls in North America
A declining housing industry is tempered by a recent overall gain in business confidence, according to recent reports from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) . The mixed economic indicators translate into NEMA’s prediction for slower, more sustainable growth for the electrical industry in North America. On Nov.
Baldor to get a piece of Rockwell’s action
Baldor Electric Co. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Reliance Electric Co. and certain of its affiliated companies from Rockwell Automation for $1.8 billion.
Programmable, incremental encoders
DRS21 CoreTech incremental encoders from Sick Stegmann Inc. are now available in a freely programmable version to allow users to program the width of the zero pulse and the number of lines from 1 to 8,192.
Opening Up Motion Control
Motion Control CUSTOM ADVERTISING NEWSLETTER To SUBSCRIBE | To UNSUBSCRIBE | CHANGE YOUR PROFILE | PRIVACY POLICY November 8, 2006 Top Story Opening Up Motion Control Traditional motion control engineers may consider some of Sergey Lototsky's observations either flawed or downright blasphemous. But the director of product research and development for AC Technology , a member of the Lenze Group, believes the motion control industry can and should make use of global open standards. Q: You've been quoted as saying "We [the motion control industry as a whole] would be better served to embrace open standards just as the PC industry has…" Please explain. A: Agreeing to global standards creates a win-win situation for all parties.
年代ERCOS III in real time
年代ERCOS III is the latest version of the interface, using industrial Ethernet as its transport mechanism and copper and fiber-optic physical media; SERCOS I and II versions only used fiber-optics. SERCOS is an acronym for SErial Realtime COmmunications System, a digital motion control bus that interconnects motion controls, drives, I/O modules and sensors.
Motion firm gets new funding
More funding for a magnetic levitation technology provider could eventually translate into 80% savings in lifecycle costs for your next conveyor system, according to estimates. MagneMotion, a developer and manufacturer of assembly automation, material, and transportation systems that use electro-magnetic technology, has secured a $3 million mezzanine round of funding for growth and marketing o...
Exclusive: Position drive adds Ethernet port
Model 940 PositionDrive from AC Technology, a member of the Lenze Group, now includes a 10/100 mbps Ethernet port.
Exclusive: Stackable plug connectors for power distribution
Duplicon, stackable, IP67-compliant plug connector system from Phoenix Contact, is said to offer uninterrupted communication from the mounting rail in the control cabinet across the decentralized power distributor to device connections in the field.
New technology boosts energy efficiency of single-phase motors
Power Efficiency Corp., a developer and manufacturer of advanced energy savings technologies for electric motors, says it has successfully completed internal tests on a new microprocessor-based technology for reducing electric power wasted by single phase alternating current induction motors. These motors, typically found in shop tools and light commercial and industrial equipment, waste electricity when lightly loaded. While the new technology attacks power waste in any lightly loaded motor, the new approach is most suitable for single-phase motors. This approach uses a new algorithm run by software on a microprocessor to achieve energy savings claimed to be over 30%.
Online Update for October 13, 2006
To SUBSCRIBE | To UNSUBSCRIBE | CHANGE YOUR PROFILE | PRIVACY POLICY October 13, 2006 Highlights Sponsored byRockwell Automation Among the benefits of multi-drive systems is their ability to optimize energy use through the precise control of motors, a function that becomes increasingly important as energy supplies become more strained. According to ABB, Automation Products, Low Voltage Drives, a multi-drive is built from industrial drive modules connected to a common dc bus bar, a construction that results in such benefits as savings in cabling, reduced line currents, and simpler braking arrangements. How Extreme are these Machines? Decide for yourself. Cast your vote! Click here.
Repair or replace? End-users, integrators get more repair options
If capital budgets to replace equipment are unavailable, tapping into operating and maintenance budgets for repairs can be another viable option. Also, reducing complexity of repair vendors can ease maintenance responsibilities by simplifying the question: "Who's responsible for what?" End-users and system integrators have the option of fixing equipment through expanded Schneider Electric repair services, for more than 120,000 products from more than 2,500 manufacturers. Telemecanique Automation and Control Repair Services has expanded its business and reportedly now offers enough breadth to single-source repair or replacement of an automation and control equipment line, regardless of manufacturer. Expanded services provide industrial end-users with one-source service for electronic repair, including products from multiple vendors of ac and dc drives, servo motors and motors, HMIs, automation equipment, PLCs, metering, and other equipment.
协议转换器连接Profinet
Anybus Communicator for Profinet from HMS Industrial Networks is an intelligent protocol converter that connects automation devices with a serial interface to Profinet.
Linear motors increase
Many companies are seeking to purchase complete industrial automation systems rather than components assembled in-house. Engineering staffing reductions in recent years has accelerated this trend and influenced the direct drives market, says IMS Research. A recent IMS Research study on direct drives says the global market for linear motor (LM) systems, forecast to be $354.
年代iC Semiconductors
而all-silicon power transistors have an enviable record of performance growth, they may be reaching their limits for high-demand power switching and control applications. A newer semiconductor material, silicon carbide (SiC), promises a range of potential benefits: much smaller, more efficient devices with drastically reduced switching losses, low leakage currents, higher switching frequenc...
年代ERCOS interoperability demo to be exhibited at Pack Expo 2006
年代ERCOS Interoperability Demo architecture will be shown at Pack Expo 2006. SERCOS interface trade associations will exhibit a SERCOS interoperability demo at Pack Expo 2006 , Oct. 29 - Nov.
MUS series motors feature high performance in a small package
磁铁的设计帮助亩系列无刷tors. MUS Series brushless motors from AC Technology, a member of the Lenze Group, was designed to be the most cost-effective motor available in the smallest package size. The motors are fitted with high flux density neodymium iron boron magnets, reducing rotor inertia.
VFDs in 40- to 60-hp range
Danfoss Drives’ VLT AutomotiveDrive variable frequency drives now come in the 40- to 60-hp range.
年代ervomotor suitable for piezo replacement
Linear shaft motor from Nippon Pulse America Inc. has a 4-mm shaft and weighs 9 g, making it suitable for piezo-type applications. Radford, VA— Linear shaft servomotor, smallest offered by Nippon Pulse America Inc ., has a 4-mm shaft diameter, small forcer size (10 x 10 mm), and strokes as long as 40 mm, and weighs 9 grams to make it a suitable replacement in piezo-type applications. Absence of friction makes the device quiet; the only mechanical contact section is the linear guide.
DC motors with skewed armature design
Pittman Series 8000 brush-commutated dc motors feature a 7-slot skewed armature design to minimize magnetic cogging (reluctance torque) and promote smooth and quiet operation.
Dynamometers test all types of small rotary devices
位于MI - MicroDyne系列的小型汽车动力学amometers from Sakor Technologies is suitable for a wide range of automotive and aerospace testing applications. Devices are capable of testing all types of small rotary devices such as motors, pumps, generators, and compressors. MicroDyne is a four-quadrant unit engineered for low power applications. Versions are available in sizes from 100 W to 5 kW.
Baldor: 3 U.S. expansions
Baldor Electric Co. completed three U.S. expansion efforts, two in manufacturing, and one in education. Baldor has recently completed the move of its Columbus, MS, plant to a new facility located a few miles from the old location. The new 350,000 sq ft facility doubles the size of the previous plant, adding manufacturing capacity and improving process flow.
Exclusive: Drive system for multi-axis machines
AcoposMulti drive system from B&R Industrial Automation offers high efficiency for multi-axis machines in the plastics, packaging, print, and textile industries.
Miniature brushless motors
Portescap N Series slotted brushless dc motors from Danaher Motion are available in sizes 5, 6, 9, and 11 for medical and electronic assembly applications that require high speed and sizes 12, 14, and 15 for industrial applications requiring high torque.
Control Engineering Online Update for August 11, 2006
August 11, 2006 Highlights Sponsored by CC- Link Most plants have ample opportunities for saving energy and increasing productivity. Having a positive environmental impact is also possible.All of this can be achieved with variable speed drives controlling pumps, fans, and other motors as these examples indicate. CC-Link is an open, multidrop, deterministic, device-level network running at 10 Mbps. Up to 8192 sensors and actuators can be connected on a single network.
Dual-axis servo amplifier
Copley Controls’ Model 800-1514 dual-axis servo amplifier for current (torque) control of brushless servo motors accepts encoder and Hall-effect feedback data from a wide range of servo motor types.
Driving towards a better future by ABB
Fact: ABB’s electronic variable-speed drives are major energysavers, environmentally friendly and a wise investment
指定可调频率为电驱动magnetic Compatibility (EMC) in Industrial Applications by ABB
(A review of EMC standards – and what drives specifiers for global OEMs should recommend)
Increasing U.S. energy production at the plant level
Debate over the current U.S. energy situation and government policy rages in all political forums and news media. These discussions generally examine the problem on a large scale but do not consider what's going on locally. Just as a forest is made of individual trees, the larger energy industry is composed of individual plants.
For sale: mechanical, motor businesses
Rockwell Automation Inc. put the "for sale" sign on its Dodge mechanical and Reliance Electric motors and motor repair services businesses. These producers of power transmission products and motors are part of the company's Power Systems segment. Rockwell says it will retain the Reliance Electric and Reliance-branded drives and related parts and services within its global drives and customer se...
Prosperous `05 for motor drive markets worldwide; how about 2006?
Years 2004 and 2005 represented the strongest consecutive years of worldwide market growth for motor drives (both ac and dc) in more than a decade, says recent data produced by IMS Research . All drive product categories, power ranges, and geographic regions contributed to the market’s strength. China, with its manufacturing boom, and North America continued to show excellent revenue growth, especially in 2005. “The biggest surprise was the strength in EMEA [Europe, Middle East, and Africa].
Energy savings incentives for the pulp and paper industry
As an intensive user of electric energy, the pulp and paper industry stands to benefit from cost savings due to energy efficiency. Not surprisingly, the recent IEEE Pulp and Paper Conference (Appleton, WI, June 19-22) included a panel presentation on 'Energy Incentives and Rebates Available to the Pulp and Paper Industry,' organized by Baldor Electric Co. Besides premium-efficient motors and adjustable-speed drives, the discussions ranged from regional incentives available in the marketplace, to equipment reliability upgrades, to benchmarking methods for energy usage and conservation. Panel moderator was John Malinowski, product manager for ac and dc motors at Baldor.
RoHS-compliant step motors, drivers
CRK-M family of high-resolution 5-phase step motors and drivers are RoHS compliant and offer a basic step angle of 0.36„a.
Ametek expands into analytical instruments
Ametek Inc. expands its analytical instrument platform with its acquisition of Land Instruments International Ltd., a global supplier of high-end analytical instrumentation. Headquartered in Dronfield, U.K., Land Instruments has annual sales of approximatelyts.
RTU for oil, gas applications
ControlWave表达RTU从爱默生过程等内容ement is said to combine automation technologies and concepts into a hybrid system for remote measurement and control applications in the energy, water, and wastewater industries. ControlWave Express remote terminal unit (RTU) from Emerson Process Management offers versatility and compactness with a low-profile and low power consumption. Express RTU hardware can be used as a component of networked systems for remote applications or as part of the Bristol Express PAC system for SCADA applications. Remote automation system architecture meets the requirements of the energy, water, and wastewater industries.
Cree claims new white LED benchmark; buys semiconductor firm
Durham, NC— Cree Inc. reports it has achieved 131 lumens per watt white LED efficacy, a level said to set a new benchmark for the LED industry. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) confirmed the results, which were performed using prototype white LEDs with Cree EZBright LED chips operating at 20 mA and a correlated color temperature of 6,027 K. “This is the highest level of efficacy that has been publicly reported for a white LED,” said Scott Schwab, Cree general manager, LED chips.
Rockwell to sell mechanical, motor businesses
As announced last week, Rockwell Automation Inc. plans to sell its Dodge mechanical and Reliance Electric motors and motor repair services businesses. These producers of mechanical power transmission products and industrial motors are part of the company's Power Systems segment.
Control system software
年代ervoshaft software lets companies run three main control system functions on their own computers: collection and monitoring of data on the PC (SCADA function), the PLC, and motion control.
Control Engineering Online Update for June 16, 2006
June 16, 2006 Highlights Sponsored byRockwell Automation A capsule-like machine delivers 10- to 15-minute, full-body water massages to fully clothed clients. This unusual service, available in malls and salons, presented a unique machine design challenge: the spray water jet assembly, which moves back and forth along a linear shaft to position 36 pulsating water jets, has to quickly adjust from 2 to 10 cycles per second without interruption, and move over a distance of 7 ft.—all while providing a smooth and relaxing experience for the customer. REDUCING ENERGY COSTS. THAT'S TIME WELL-SPENT.
Power: HV pulse modulator; modules; USB device controller, charger
Power-related product introductions include a high-voltage pulse modulator from Diversified Technologies Inc.; two new families of power modules for industrial motor applications and traction drives from Infineon Technologies; and a monolithic autonomous power manager, controller, and battery charger for portable USB devices from Linear Technology Corp.
Research group supports Ethernet protocol for plant-floor vehicle assembly
U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) agreed to support EtherNet/IP as the industrial Ethernet network standard for plant floor applications in vehicle assembly facilities, says ODVA, the organization that manages the EtherNet/IP specification and related industrial protocols.
Enclosures: Automation expansion, corrosive application
年代tahlin Non-Metallic Enclosures announced expansion of its SMC (sheet molding compound) production capabilities with automated mixers and, in separate news, noted customer success using enclosures in a highly corrosive environment.
年代oftware for servo mechanisms
Collection of 7 programs is designed to facilitate the design of servo mechanisms.
年代ervo control system
XtraDrive servo system features the company’s patented NCT servo control technology said to solve programs with system flexibility, tuning, and compatibility associated with high-precision motion systems while streamlining overall system costs.
Grow with automation
A major, well-planned automation expansion increases production a whole lot and adds just a few more highly trained personal. Productivity and throughput increase substantially. Manufacturers across the U.S. are doing it, and you can benefit from their experiences. VISIT. When you take your vacation this summer, or when you're traveling on business, consider calling ahead and asking for a tour ...
Two-wire electronic vibration switch
686A Series two-wire electronic vibration switch is microprocessor controlled with no moving parts or mechanical adjustments required.
New LCD inverter, flat panel monitor enter industrial HMI market
年代everal new HMI products made their way into the HMI market this month. They include small form factor inverters from Endicott Research Group and a flat panel monitor from Advantech.
Industrial controls indices show robust market conditions
弗吉尼亚州罗斯林工业汽车市场条件mation and controls equipment remain strong, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s (NEMA) Primary Industrial Controls Index. Between fourth-quarter 2005 and first-quarter 2006, the index rose 6.1%. It was the 10th consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth in the index and its highest reading since first-quarter 2001. “While a portion of this growth reflects typical seasonal demand,” conditions are clearly positive said Brian Lego, NEMA’s director, economic analysis:“Sales jumped more than 12% compared to the same period a year ago.” At the same time, the primary industrial controls and adjustable-speed drive index hit an all-time high for its five-year history.
Regasification terminal includes smart instruments, asset management software
Austin, TX — Emerson Process Management has been chosen as the main automation contractor (MAC) for the Altamira LNG-regasification terminal, currently under construction near Tampico, Mexico. Emerson will provide essential automation systems and services for the first import terminal which will receive liquid natural gas (LNG) shipments in Mexico, and convert them back to natural gas to be distributed by CFE, Comisión Federal de Electricidad, and Pemex, Mexico’s state-owned, nationalized petroleum company. An additional four terminals are planned for the near future in Mexico; a MAC provider will be selected for these projects. Overall engineering and construction is provided by ICA Fluor and IHI, who are building the Altamira terminal for a consortium of Terminal de LNG de Altamila (TLA), that is jointly owned by Shell Gas B.V.
Nuclear Supplier Upgrades Controls Increasing Efficiency, Production
What to keep and what to replace were among decisions made during a major control system upgrade at a large supplier to the nuclear-power industry. Empresa Neuquina de Servicios de Ingeniería S.E. (ENSI) operates the industrial heavy-water plant—owned by the Argentine National Atomic Energy Commission—selling 200 metric-tons/year of reactor-degree virgin heavy water, a strategi...
Recent motor drive introductions feature ac and dc models
Motor drive and controller products continue to come to market, with ac offerings dominating dc models. However, two recent introductions include each technology, as represented by AC Technology Corp. and British Sprint Electric Ltd., respectively. AC Tech's entry, SMVector drive, intends to set a low-cost threshold in the highly competitive variable-frequency drive (VFD) arena.
Rockwell’s new Asia Pacific business center to employ 400
共和国Singapore-Rockwell自动化计划establish an Asia Pacific Business Center in Singapore, the company announced recently. When fully operational in 2008, the Center is expected employ approximately 400 for R&D, engineering, marketing, and manufacturing activities.
Diaphragm metering pump features automatic air-release valve
Neptune Chemical Pump Co. has introduced its 500AR-Series, hydraulic diaphragm metering-pump. The 500AR is designed with an automatic air release valve to be used in sodium hypochlorite service or with other chemicals that off-gas at room temperature.
More drive power in half the size
High-power platform for VLT 5000 Series, VLT 4000 Series, VLT 6000 HVAC Series, and VLT 8000 Aqua Series variable-frequency drives (VFDs) replaces three of the largest units in the 380-500 V ac range in each series and adds an additional higher power unit to the program. Intended for full constant or variable torque demands of virtually any industrial process, water, or HVAC application, the dr...
Linear actuators for OEM applications
组装和PROmech系列线性致动器来tested, and includes linear bearings, drive screw, thrust bearings, motor mount, coupling, and motor. Designed for OEM instrument manufacturers, the devices are a pre-engineered positioning package intended to help OEMs reduce time to market with minimized design, procurement, assembly, and qualification of parts necessary to build a linear mot...
By the Numbers – 2006-04-01
32.1739 ft/sec² is g, the acceleration produced by Earth's gravity. By international agreement, the value for 1 gravitational unit is 9.80665 m/s² = 386.087 in/sec² = 32.1739 ft/sec². www.vibrationandshock.com/glossary.htm 3 students (from Singapore Polytechnic, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and Lee College, Baytown, TX) received $1,000 scholarships as 200...
Long-life control transformers
Class-2 control transformers with multi-tap primary windings for use in industrial applications are precision layer wound for long service life.
HMI: A review of design fundamentals
One key to greater cost and efficiency savings in industrial processes is the human machine interface (HMI). Whether it is operating in tough industrial conditions or a sterile room, a well-designed HMI contributes to an improved working environment, better compatibility, and greater reliability. Here are some points to consider when designing and installing an HMI.
Electric Servo Motors (March 2006 Product Research)
Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding electric servo motors.
Harmonic estimating software for drives
估计和E7 harmonic-estimating工具软件calculates voltage and current harmonic distortion produced by Yaskawa’s E7 variable-frequency drives on almost any electrical system at the point of common coupling or at drive input terminals.
Corrections – 2006-03-01
Product name correction Product name in Control Engineering, January 2006, p.EC23, "Twist-less, tape-less wire connections," should be Series 773-173 Wall-Nuts by Wago Corp. Software name, URL correction January 2006, Control Engineering, p. 45, "Ford Motor selects Activplant software," should have called the software "Activplant Performance Management Solution" and listed the URL as www.
Industrial, medical uses drive demand for chemical sensors
Cleveland, OH —U.S. demand for chemical sensors is expected to grow 7.4% a year to $4.2 billion by 2009, a study by Freedonia Group indicates. Demand for biosensors in the medical and diagnostics market will dominate and drive gains.
Wildcard Homepage Resource Center
Resource Center Visit the Control Engineering Resource Center, a specialized micro-site dedicated to engineering professionals. View complete study results. Product Focus studies are available detailing specific product trends in the automation, control and instrumentation areas. Electric Servo Motors Product Research (January 2008) Programmable Logic Controllers Product Research, December 2007.
Wildcard Homepage Question
Do high efficiency motors always save energy? Click here for the "Ask Charlie Blog".
Project: Baton Rouge Wastewater Pump Station SCADA System (Feb. 6, 2006)
2006年2月6日,上周,我们花了一些时间some trouble shooting at the test pump station. The pump station was having trouble sending 4-20 mA speed reference signal from the PLC to the VFDs (variable frequency drives). The PLC was bypassed and the current signal was sent from the main control panel directly to the 3 variable frequency drives.
年代tepper drives with point/click programming
年代TAC6-Si high-performance stepper drives are programmable for stand-alone operation with easy-to-use Si Programmer, Microsoft Windows-based software with integrated tuning.
DC motion- control drive
ION DC Brush Drive provides network connectivity, power amplification, and advanced motion control features in a rugged, easy-to-use package. Based on the company's Magellan motion processor, the drive is available for dc brush, brushless dc, or step motors. Features include CANbus and serial communications, profile generation, servo compensation, stall detection, and digital torque control.
Peristaltic pump transfers challenging liquids
Wanner Engineering ’s Vector-Series-3005 peristaltic-pump is rated for continuous duty pumping of harsh liquids up to 200 psi. Low maintenance features include: heavy-duty roller-bearings; absence of cups, packing, or seals; complete isolation of pumped fluids; and a lubricant-filled cavity for constant lubrication. It’s self-priming and can run dry without damage.
AMC’s millionth servo drive
Near yearend 2005, Advanced Motion Controls (AMC) announced shipment of its millionth servo drive. It was a significant milestone in the company's history, considering that AMC was founded in 1988 as a two-person start-up. To celebrate, AMC employees built special commemorative servo drive units for the actual customer—a manufacturer of high-speed, precision wire bo...
DC motion control drive
ION DC Brush Drive provides network connectivity, power amplification, and advanced motion control features in a rugged, easy-to-use package.
Animatics: New European operations, expansion program
As part of its worldwide expansion efforts, California-based Animatics Corp. recently announced formation of Animatics GmbH, with offices in Memmingen, Germany. Animatics is best known for its SmartTechnology products, including patented SmartMotor and ServoStep, which offer high-tech motion systems in small, high-density packages made up of a servo motor with complete closed-loop control, drive, and built-in encoder.
Compact dc-ac inverter
LDS Series inverters provide high-efficiency dc-ac inverter in a compact form factor for use with a range of LCD panel sizes from 6.4-12.1-in. diagonal.
Hitachi introduces Ecoheart permanent-magnet motors and drives
Tarrytown, NY — Businesswire reported that Hitachi America, Ltd ., Power and Industrial Division, has debuted its new Ecoheart family of high-efficiency, permanent-magnet motors and drives. Ecoheart is targeted at OEMs, allowing the creation of customized drive systems. Compared with standard induction motors, Ecoheart’s permanent-magnet technology is said to achieve 10% higher efficiency since internal power loss is 50% lower. Also, the motor is smaller: 50% by volume and 35% by weight, due to high performance magnets and a new stator winding.
Patented encoder for brush, brushless dc motors
Pittman 35-mm ROSE (reflective optical sensing) incremental-encoder for brush-commutated and brushless dc is newly patented.
Bearings protect against current damage
Inscoat electrically insulated rolling bearings protect against potential damage caused by the passage of electric current in ac and dc motors, generators, and associated equipment. Electrical insulation function is integrated into the bearing. Products have a thin aluminum oxide layer that forms a barrier against electric arcing that can cause fluting damage to rollers and raceways or grease o...
Plant-floor to enterprise-level data exchange
Online Development's xCoupler enterprise-transaction module for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs is the first in a series of modules that snap into PLC backplanes. It provides two-tier data exchange between plant-floor devices connected to the controller, such as sensors, actuators, drives, barcode scanners, robots, RFID controllers, and enterprise servers.
Advanced architecture enables servo-like control with ac drive
The "480 V, three-level inverter architecture" of the G7 drive solves high-performance speed, torque, and position-control applications. Increased speed and torque response is said to provide servo-like motor control; and a new open-loop control method produces true torque control without an encoder.
Cam-operated rotary switches
Complete range of cam-operated rotary switches include: on/off, changeover, multi-step, ammeter, voltmeter, and motor reversing types available with up to 6 positions and 10 poles. Switches are certified as manual motor controllers according to UL and CSA standards; all cam switch operators are rated Type 1, 3, 3R, 12, and IP65 for installation in severe environments.
Drives span 120 W to 1 MW+ range
Dubbed "the first family of ac drives that operates on one, standard platform," Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. introduced its Sinamics line with a power range of 120 W to over 1 MW. Modular, scalable Sinamics ac-drives feature an interchangeable architecture, which reportedly simplifies their application, startup, and integration into new and existing systems.
Module optimizes analog circuit design
Pushing beyond the capability of standard CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor)-based analog circuit design, Jazz Semiconductor has made available a 17 GHz Vertical PNP (VPNP) module on its 0.18-micron RFCMOS platform. The new module advances analog circuit design especially for high voltage, complementary drive, or amplification requirements.
Micronor: Motorized ‘pots’ with 4-20 mA input control
Micronor’s MR267 CLC option operates from commonly available 24 V dc and has an operating temperature range of -10 to 65 °C. New MR267 Current Loop Controller (CLC) option from Micronor remotely controls a motorized potentiometer and/or rotary cam switch via 4-20 mA current loop, 0-2.5 V input, or external potentiometer. MR267 reportedly offers a simple, inexpensive way to automate existing systems controlled by manually operated potentiometers, rheostats, or rotary cam switches.Motorized potentiometers (and rotary cam switches) are simple to set up, use, and maintain, and they work without the need for computers or software, says the company.
Flowing reference pH sensor
Rosemount Analytical Model 3200HP flowing reference pH sensor from Emerson Process Management measures pH in condensate, boiler feedwater, and boiler water applications typical in steam electric power plants. Las Vegas, NV —Rosemount Analytical Model 3200HP flowing reference pH sensor with pHaser reference technology from Emerson Process Management is intended for determining pH in condensate, boiler feedwater, and boiler water applications typical in steam electric power plants. The liquid measurement technology, a key component of Emerson’s PlantWeb digital plant architecture, reportedly eliminates junction potential by controlling the flow of reference electrolyte through laser-drilled capillary junctions. This new device was introduced at Power-Gen 2005 in Las Vegas earlier this month.
Variable-frequency ac drives for motor control
VariFlex Series of ac drives from Carlo Gavazzi is suitable for industrial motor control applications. Buffalo Grove, IL —A new range of compact ac drives from Carlo Gavazzi handles most general-purpose three-phase industrial motor control applications from 1/3 to 5 hp. VariFlex Series lists the 10 most commonly used drive parameters on the front cover, sufficient for 90% of the applications.
年代iemens acquiring UK-based Electrium
Nuremberg, Germany — Siemens Automation and Drives (SA&D) Group has an agree-ment to acquire Electrium —based in Cannock, West Midlands, U.K.—which will be-come a subsidiary of Siemens plc. Electrium, a leading U.K vendor of electrical installa-tion systems, also has had a long presence in Near- and Middle-East markets. Some 700 employees, at the company’s four locations, generated sales of€109 million (approxi-mately $129 million) in fiscal year 2004/2005.
年代iemens’ Chinese joint-venture in low-voltage motors
Nuremberg, Germany — Siemens Automation and Drives (SA&D) and Jiangsu Beide Electrical Machinery Corp. signed a contract to establish a new joint venture, Siemens Standard Motor Ltd. (SSML) in Yangzhou, China.
Motion Integrator Solves Push-Pull Problem
Polyair manufactures protective packaging products for many industries, including pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics, catalog and mail order, publishing, and cosmetics. For years it used converting equipment to produce air-cell lined envelopes, but outdated controls and component failure were causing frequent shutdowns.
西门子在俄亥俄州的工厂投资3000万美元改造
Atlanta, GA —Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. (SE&A), announced at a groundbreaking ceremony on December 6, that it is investing an estimated $30 million in the revitalization of its Norwood, OH, plant. The facility develops, assembles, and tests large electric motors used in industrial and factory automation.
Control Engineering Online Update for December 9, 2005
December 9, 2005 Highlights Sponsored by Control Engineering Cononco Phillips’ Montana oil pipeline origination/injection station reduces capital costs by 33% and saves energy with a new variable frequency drive and a synchronous transfer system. Conoco Phillips Petroleum Saves Money and Energywith New Motors and Drive When Conoco (which merged with Phillips Petroleum in 2002) planned the expansion of its operations with the construction of a new crude oil pipeline origination/injection station in Buffalo, Montana—along an existing third-party pipeline extending from Alberta, Canada, to Montana—the costly mechanics of pumping oil were front and center. Conoco Phillips' pipeline origination/injection station in Buffalo, MT. Flexibility was key in choosing the station’s operating mode. Because the crude oil either originates out of tankage into the existing pipeline or is blended into the crude oil flowing upstream, the station pumps a wide range of crude oil types at various flow rates, viscosity, and density. As a result there were five different pumping scenarios to be considered.
Forty Manufacturers’ EtherCAT Products Debut at 2005 SPS/IPC/Drives Show
Nuremberg, Germany — Over 75 different EtherCAT products in the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) booth were shown by 40 vendors at the SPS/IPC/Drives show in November. EtherCAT master devices were highlighted by 15 different manufacturers at the show. PC-based controls were displayed as well as embedded controllers and small controllers for DIN Rail mounting. Additionally, hardware, software and implementation services for EtherCAT master and slave devices were presented by 15 vendors. EtherCAT also showed depth in the motion sector: the variety ranged from small, low-power servo drives to an 18-KW frequency converter, which represents devices up to 4.5 MW.
年代ervo drives enhanced by real-time communication via Ethernet
B&R's Acopos servo drives have seen wide industrial application, such as in packaging and material handling for textile and plastic manufacturing. Acopos bus-capable servo drives from B&R Industrial Automation Corp. now offer the power range of 400 W to 64 kW for machine manufacturing.
年代ERCOS interface celebrates 20th anniversary
Celebrants at SERCOS interface's 20th anniversary were—from left to right: Prof. G. Pritschow (ISW, University of Stuttgart), H.
Motion-control card offers ultra-fast servo loop rate
On-the-fly changes and PLC-style external signal I/O breakpoints can be used to create application-specific profile changes with PMD's Magellan-PCI card. Newly announced Magellan-PCI Motion Controller from Performance Motion Devices Inc. (PMD) features a faster servo loop rate of 50upgraded servo-loop rate raises performance for high-speed, point-to-point moves, advanced contouring, and other applications.
NI releases its fastest data acquisition device
National Instruments PXI-5114 dual-channel device offers a broad range of high-speed validation and manufacturing test capabilities. Engineers now can use the National Instruments’ PXI-5114 dual-channel, 8-bit digitizer–also known as a PC-based oscilloscope–for a broad range of high-speed validation and manufacturing test applications, such as consumer electronics test and semiconductor component test. Starting at $2,995, the new digitizer offers an excellent value for the price, with a broad range of functionality, the company says, and it’s the fastest data-acquisition device NI offers to date.It provides 250 MS/s real-time and 5 GS/s equivalent-time or random-interleaved sampling, with 125 MHz bandwidth for general-purpose time-domain digitization, NI says.
Miniature servo drive
Whistle miniature digital servo-drive is small and light enough to be mounted to a motor housing or in close proximity to a motor. Matchbox-sized (2 cu in.) device delivers up to 0.5 kW continuous power at up to 99% efficiency and weighs only 1.76 oz (50 g). Seven models offer a range of voltage and current levels from 1 A, 60 V to 5 A, 100 V continuous operation.
Long-stroke voice-coil actuator
VM2436 voice-coil actuator provides precision bi-directional linearity over a maximum linear stroke of 0.59 in. Suited for individual equipment requiring a z-axis drive, the long-stroke, linear voice-coil motor develops a peak force of almost 11 oz in a small package of 0.94 in. O.D. by 1.49-in. long.
年代calable control system features Ethernet options
VersaMax Micro 64 control system from GE Fanuc Automation provides a wide range of I/O modules and a variety of communications options including Ethernet. Suitable for packaging, assembly, and SCADA applications, the unit can be equipped with multiple operator interfaces and motion solutions for simple integration add-ons.
Upgraded ultra-miniature microstepping driver
Improved XIM481H driver has 16 built-in microstep resolutions ranging from full step to 51,200 steps/rev (with 1.8° step motor). Intelligent Motion Systems (IMS) has introduced an upgraded microstepping driver, IM481H Plus, with advanced technology of a patented new motion-control chip. Designated XIM481H, the new driver adds features such as active anti-resonance, ultra-smooth low speed motion, and precise current control to drive stepping motors up to NEMA size 23.
Update driver software free to expand hardware digital test capabilities
Digital test engineers now can use the new National Instruments NI-HSDIO 1.4 driver software with NI high-speed digital devices to perform time-critical digital test applications, such as bit error rate testing (BERT), stimulus response testing, and pass/fail manufacturing tests. The new driver is available as a free update and adds key features to existing NI 6552 and NI 6551 digital waveform generator/analyzers. New features include cycle-to-cycle tristate for bidirectional communication and hardware comparison for stimulus response applications. These features make the NI 655-series devices ideal for digital test applications in the semiconductor and communications industries, NI says. Engineers can use the cycle-to-cycle tristate feature of the new driver software to perform true bidirectional communication for testing the latest electronics and communication buses, such as an I2C bus.
ESC Boston 2005 product sampler
A watchdog timer and bypass control logic circuits are used to command the relay and communication states of GbE PCI-X card. Some 160 exhibitors participated in Embedded Systems Conference (ESC) Boston at the Hynes Convention Center, Sept. 12-15, 2005.
Linear actuator offers high force rating
年代ervoTube moving rod linear actuators develop continuous force from 35-66 lb and peak force from 167-418 lb.
Anatomy of a display
A display has many purposes and many variations. But in today's automation and control environment, it is, essentially, a core ingredient in a human-machine interface (HMI), the dynamic device through which information is entered and presented, as text or images. Not too many years ago, the CRT (cathode ray tube) monitor—large, heavy, and bulky—was the common display device.
Ramcon-Fiberlok Cuts Machine Costs
Like virtually every U.S. manufacturer these days, Ramcon-Fiberlok, a machinery manufacturer for the non-wovens fabric industry, faces tougher competition from rivals and increased demands from customers. So Werner Schmidt, president of the Memphis-based company, looks for every advantage he can get, including in machinery design.
Pack Expo 2005: Equipment innovations bring new level of automation
Las Vegas —It's amazing how much packaging is still done by hand, especially at the end of the line. For packagers with manual operations, robotic technology and new equipment designs are making it easier than ever to automate or transition to upgraded equipment. Packagers can research and review some of the latest trends in automated packaging equipment here; the show displays hundreds of machines capable of automating manual operations or upgrading automated lines. Flexible robots Ergonomic concerns, labor costs and the need for flexibility are heightening interest in both hard automation and robotic systems on the packaging line. Robots are receiving increased attention because prices have dropped, reliability is extremely high and advanced software and controls simplify setup and operation. Depending on the configuration of the system, the robot controller may be able to drive one or two additional servo motors, so it also can control another device like a collating conveyor.
Motion, logic controllers for integrated solutions
年代ervoWire motion and logic controllers from Ormec come in three models: SMLC-30 (controls up to 3 axes), SMLC-80 (controls up to 8 axes), and SMLC-160 (controls up to 16 axes). Rochester, NY —ServoWire motion and logic controllers (SMLC) from Ormec are intended for integrated motion, I/O, and networking solutions. They come in three new models: 30, 80, and 160, feature a small footprint, and use Pentium processors, FireWire drive networking, and Ethernet connectivity. Reported as a system to control an entire machine, SMLC replaces a motion controller and PLC combination with a single unit that can control up to 16 axes and thousands of I/O points.
旋转扭矩传感器
旋转扭矩传感器from PCB Piezotronics, with a flange and splined-shaft design, conform to AND 10262 & 20002 (Army/Navy) standards. Rotating torque transducers from the Force/Torque Division of PCB Piezotronics Inc. use non-contact, rotary transformers for sending excitation voltage to, and receiving measurement signals from, the strain gage instrumented rotating sensor element.
低-power ac drive market to grow substantially through 2009
弧的市场研究引用了可靠性、强调lifecycle cost, and use of new technologies among other growth factors for low-power ac drives. Spurred by “heightened demand from various emerging markets,” the need for low-power ac drive products grew robustly in 2004, concludes a new ARC Advisory Group study, "Low Power AC Drive Worldwide Outlook." ARC reports that the global low-power ac drive market passed the $5 billion mark in 2004, with expectation over the next five years for 8.6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). Reasons behind the positive forecast include increasingly wider applications—due to ready availability of lower cost, physically compact ac drives—demands from emerging geographic regions, such as Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East; and the potential for significant energy savings. Self-diagnostics and enhanced communication features also help low-power ac drives users realize greater return on assets, according to the report. ARC senior analyst Himanshu Shah, the study's principal author, says, "With oil prices escalating and drive prices falling, the payback period for ac drives investment is becoming shorter, pushing their use on a broad basis." The report also addresses various challenges faced by ac drive suppliers and how they respond.
High-performance ac drive introduction
A700 drive supports most popular communication protocols, including Profibus DP, CC-Link, DeviceNet, ControlNet, LonWorks, Modbus RTU and TCP/IP, Metasys N2, and EtherNet/IP, as well as Mitsubishi Electric's proprietary RS-485 network. Advancement and innovation mark a steady stream of new variable-frequency drives (VFDs) coming on the market. One notable introduction this month is A700 high-performance drive from Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc .
年代lotted brushless dc motors offer high performance, reliability
Pittman slotted bldc motors are intended for wide applications, such as data storage, medical/biotech, semiconductor processing, and automation, among others. Newly introduced Pittman brand slotted brushless dc (bldc) motors from PennEngineering Motion Technologies incorporate internal Hall sensor feedback for linear speed-torque characteristics, high starting torque, and variable-speed control (with appropriate control electronics). The 6-slot lamination design contributes to high power, fast acceleration, consistent operation, and long service life, the company says. These 2.3-in.
Large-sized LCD driver IC market predicted to double
El Segundo, CA —The market for driver integrated circuits (ICs) for large-sized LCD panels is expected to nearly double from 2004 to 2009, iSuppli predicts. The display market data research firm cites rising demand from the LCD-TV, desktop-PC monitor, and mobile computer businesses as the primary factors influencing rising demand. Revenues from worldwide shipments of driver ICs for large-sized LCDs is expected to expand to $4.2 billion in 2009, rising at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6% from $2.3 billion in 2004. Unit shipments of the drivers should grow to 4.2 billion units in 2009, expanding at a CAGR of 19.8% from 1.7 billion units in 2004. Display drivers are ICs that provide voltage and/or current to the rows and columns of flat-panel displays, including LCDs, plasma panels, and organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs).
Digital pattern generator tests latest screens
FPDDrive digital image generator from Eldim Co. allows programming and display of images on late-generation digital monitors. FPDDrive digital image generator from Eldim Co.
More stainless-steel motor choices available
Rockwell's MP-Series stainless-steel servo motors supply peak torque in the range of 11.1-67.8 Nm (98-600 lb-in.) and come in 100-, 130-, and 165-mm frame sizes. Judging from recent product news releases, availability of motors and motor types with all stainless-steel construction is on the rise. Recent examples include a high-performance servo motor from Rockwell Automation , intended to meet hygienic design standards found in government-regulated industries, and Leeson Electric's permanent magnet (PM) dc motors for duty in pharmaceutical, food and beverage processing, clean room, and severe chemical processing applications. This follows Baldor Electric's earlier announcement of its all stainless-steel brushless servo motor line ( see Sept.
Parker Hannifin acquires SSD Drives
The pace of acquisitions (and consolidation) continues in the motion control and drives sector. On Aug. 9, 2005, Parker Hannifin Corp.
年代trobes for washdown, vehicles
Compaxx 117 Series strobes are low-profile signals for industrial washdown applications or on tow motors and other vehicles.
Buyer’s Guide 2005
Buyer's Guide 2005
Linear motion from stepper motor
Linearstep stepper motor offers linear motion in a rotary size package.
Oval diaphragm pump puts high flow in small package
Model 4002 miniature diaphragm pump from Rietschle Thomas incorporates an elongated, oval-shaped diaphragm with a larger surface area than a conventional round diaphragm.
High-flow diaphragm pump
Model 4002 miniature diaphragm pump incorporates an elongated, oval-shaped diaphragm with a larger-than-conventional surface area to produce higher flows than a similarly sized pump with a standard diaphragm. Slim, lightweight oil-less pump is intended for applications where space is limited, such as for gas detectors, air sampling, particle counters, and eye-surgery equipment.
Thermography Improves Predictive Maintenance
Thermal imaging, also known as thermography, has always been a powerful predictive maintenance (PdM) tool because it can detect incipient failures in nearly all types of mechanical and electrical equipment. Now, high-performance, infrared (IR) imaging systems are scanning plant equipment and improving PdM programs.
VFD cables are strong, round
年代eries V enhanced design variable frequency drive (VFD) cables have a round, symmetrical geometry to improve cable performance and electrical characteristics and make installation easy, secure, and air/water tight.
AC Drives – 2005-08-01
Adjustable-speed drives deliver precise speed control to motors in a variety of applications to make optimal use of consumed energy. Among the many benefits motor users can achieve through use of drives are lower power demand on startups, elimination of some mechanical drive components, and the potential to reduce power line disturbances with the use of special filters.
Five-Axis Machining Center Design
When Moore Tool set out to build a five-axis, high-speed machining center for use in the production of critical components in the turbo machinery, mold and die, scroll compressor, and medical markets, the challenge was to ensure the machines could provide high-speed machining capability with milling materials ranging from aluminum to hardened steel and titanium.
How to transform valleys of downtime into peak efficiencies
年代everal manufacturers recently shared ways to help manufacturers move from downtime to peak efficiency, as they feel increased pressure to optimize, to stay competitive in global markets.
More about energy-efficient motors
Control Engineering’s July 2005 cover story, “Energy-Efficient Motors Deliver Savings,” drew a number of comments from readers.
GE Fanuc introduces vector software to improve surface finish, cycle times, accuracy
Charlottesville, VA—GE Fanuc Automation Americas Inc. reports that machine tool builders and end-users, who demand the highest precision from their machines, can see improvements in surface finish, cycle times and accuracy with GE Fanuc’s Servo and Spindle high-response vector Version 4.0 (HRV4) software.
Danfoss debuts high-power VFD platform for process applications
Loves Park, IL—Danfoss has introduced a new high-power platform for its VLT 5000 Series variable frequency drives.
Money in the right places
为什么一些组织继续捏镍吗s within capital budgets, while making decisions that burn enormous sums of money over time in other areas? I'd guess that separate budgets, departments, or line items for capital investments, maintenance, or operations have something to do with it. Perhaps people involved haven't done the math or don't think they need to, since such things ofte...
Energy-Efficient Motors Deliver Savings
In simplest terms, energy-efficient electric motors are high-quality versions of standard motor products. They pack more of "active" electric materials (steel laminations and copper) into essentially the same physical package—hence carry a price tag 15-30% higher than their less-efficient cousins.
Ametek从播放器购买微电机技术的东北偏东rgy
Paoli, PA—Ametek Inc. reports that it has acquired patented technology and other proprietary and intellectual assets from Xtreme Energy, a privately held developer of brushless dc micro-motors for healthcare, aerospace, and industrial applications.
Growth in photoelectrics drives proximity sensor market, study shows
Growth in demand for photoelectric and photointerrupter sensors will be the largest contributor to the overall growth in the North American proximity and photoelectric sensor market, a recent Venture Development Corp.
年代ervo driver for motion control
EZSV10 dc brush servo driver measures 0.95 x 1.4 x 0.6 in. (24 x 35 x 15.25 mm), smaller than a standard quadrature encoder.
Multi-axis servo drive has Ethernet interface
AX2500 Series servo drive now has Ethernet interface. Model AX25xx-B900 is fully software compatible with the AX2000 Series and provides maximum output in a small space—suitable for control cabinets as small as 300-mm deep.
Control Engineering Online Update for June 10, 2005
June 10, 2005 Highlights Sponsored by FCI Choosing the best machine controller for an application can be a confusing process. Knowing the pros and cons of key motion control products—such as intelligent drives, intelligent motors, and intelligent bus-based motion controllers, as well as serial, centralized, and decentralized options—can help you make the best decision. Motion Control Options Manufacturers and machine designers having a range of motion control options to select from. However, choosing the best controller for a specific application is often confusing.
Digital machine/motion controller
Digital MMC (machine/motion controller) mounts directly in an MMC Smart Drive servo amplifier to control the amplifier in which it resides and up to 15 additional servo amplifiers.
LeCroy demonstrates ultra-wideband protocol analyzer
To increase its presence in the growing serial data test-solutions market, LeCroy Corp. has started demonstrating its UWBTracer, which it reports is the industry's first protocol analyzer for the new ultra wideband (UWB) WiMedia and wireless USB (WUSB) standard.
Online Development’s transaction module for A-B PLCs provides two-tier data exchange
Online Development recently released its xCoupler enterprise transaction module for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs.
Record audience for ABB Automation World 2005
休斯顿,TX-Relationship建筑和重要ce of close partnerships with customers were two of the themes that combined with diverse technology presentations and product exhibits to make ABB Automation World Conference & Exhibition 2005 the company’s largest-ever customer event in the Americas.
年代ERCOS group to specify controller-to-controller communications
The SERCOS trade organizations have launched a new technical working group to specify a profile for distributed control functions in modular machines and systems. This project will provide controller-to-controller synchronization between distributed motion controls via the SERCOS interface.
Precision brushless motor control
MC73110 motor control IC with precision velocity loop for brushless dc motors is a compact and intelligent single-axis device that operates in internal velocity profile mode, velocity mode with an external velocity command signal, or torque mode with an external torque command. Prime targets are in semiconductor and medical automation, and applications with high-performance, low-cost brushless ...
年代ervo motor expansion module
Expansion module for the company’s MAC50-141 and MAC800 Series integrated servo motors allows them to be used on Devicenet.
‘European Motor Drive Vendor Award’ goes to Bosch Rexroth
Eleven leading motor drive suppliers in Europe recently competed for the third biennial Motor Drive Vendor Award sponsored by IMS Research, which was presented at Hannover Fair in Germany in April 2005.
年代PS Electrical Automation America: Baumüller exhibits motors
Rosemont, IL—The Baumüller Group reports that it's showing its DSL 56 motors this week at SPS Electric Automation America 2005, May 23-26, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center near Chicago.
Microchip Technology’s new 8-bit MCUs, ‘smallest’ Ethernet controller
Eight-bit microcontrollers are alive and well. Cost-effective new devices with plenty of peripherals are here to provide embedded designers with a way to preserve legacy 8-bit code and development-tool investments, as more designs migrate to lower voltages.
Freescale Semiconductor: New 16-bit DSCs for cost-sensitive apps
Freescale Semiconductor introduced new 56F8000 Series microcontrollers (MCUs) that feature a digital signal controller (DSC) core, providing MCU-like control and the signal processing capability of a DSP.
Why and when to install multidrives? by ABB
A new generation of technology delivers precise control of multiple motors via acompact multidrive design
Frameless motor for low-voltage use
Model 000-0358 brushless dc frameless motor is designed for low-voltage applications where a high acceleration, high-torque motor is required at low speeds.
年代iemens buys Flender Holding for €1.2 billion
年代iemens reports that it's expanding its industrial drive business by acquiring Flender Holding GmbH from London-based Citigroup Venture Capital (CVC) Equity Partners for 1.2 billion euros, pending approval by antitrust authorities. Flender and its activities will become the 11th division of Siemens' Automation and Drives Group (A&D).
年代olectron plans 3,500 mostly non-U.S. layoffs
Milpitas, CA—Solectron Corp. reports that it will lay off approximately 3,500 employees, mostly in non-U.S. locations, as part of its restructuring plan.
Hannover Fair 2005: ABB’s new generation large induction motors
Large-sized induction motors are not frequently introduced, so the launch of a new generation of motors by ABB at Hannover Fair was noteworthy.
New drive and motor concepts emerge at Hannover Fair 2005
Besides the latest technologies actually on the market, visitors to Hannover Fair can find products coming online in the near future.
Vertical PNP module advances CMOS integration
Pushing beyond the capability of standard CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor)-based analog circuit design, Jazz Semiconductor recently announced availability of a 17 GHz Vertical PNP module on its 0.18-micron RFCMOS platform.
Turck’s M23 powerfast cordsets, receptacles have 6- and 8-pin configurations
Turck报告新6 -和有M23 powerfast assembled cordsets and encapsulated receptacles can be used to provide power (up to 28 A at 600 V) to motors, material handling systems, and other heavy-duty applications.
Control Engineering poll asks about impact of energy prices
A recent unscientific poll of visitors to Control Engineering Online suggests that energy prices may increase market demand for technologies that allow companies to better conserve and manage energy, such as power management systems and high-efficiency motors.
Symmetrical cable for VFDs
Olflex VFD symmetrical cable is designed for use in large horsepower variable frequency drives.
Intelligent servo converters
Compact additions to the KE/KW Series of digital converter systems include an infeed and modules in the power range to 60 kVA.
Brush dc motors with skewed armatures
Pittman brand Series 8000 brush-commutated dc motors feature 7-slot skewed armatures to minimize magnetic cogging (reluctance torque) even at low speeds. Family of brush dc motors comes in three lengths (2.070, 2.445, and 2.915 in.) and can achieve peak torques up to 16.8 oz-in. and speeds up to 10,650 rpm for standard motors at rated voltages.
年代ynchronous motors for hazardous locations
年代uperior Electric XCE Series hazardous duty synchronous motors satisfy ATEX standards for use in potentially explosive atmospheres as defined by CE directive 94/9/EC. Motors have a flameproof enclosure with a maximum surface temperature of 100 °C for use in surface industries exposed to such gases as hydrogen and acetylene.
Pure, ultrapure water system
Direct-Q 3 system supplies pure (Type 3) and ultrapure water for basic applications, such as final glassware rinsing, and ultrapure (Type 1) water for critical applications, such as HPLC mobile-phase preparation. Reverse osmosis produces pure water stored in a 6 L reservoir that is integrated into the system.
年代tep-motor based hollow-shaft rotary actuators
DG Series rotary actuators come in three sizes: 60 mm (2.36 in.), 85 mm (3.35 in.) and 130 mm (5.12 in.). Output table of the hollow (through-hole) shaft devices allows direct coupling to the application load. A single-stage reduction gear mechanism increases the diameter of the step-motor driven gear in the output table to enable a large through-hole configuration.
Copley Controls: New linear motors include lower cost
Linear motors—of the direct-drive type—come in various styles, but share the common attribute of eliminating the need for belts, ballscrews, or other rotary-to-linear motion-converting devices between the motor and driven load.
年代iemens launches wide-power range Sinamics drives in North America
Calling it “the first family of ac drives that operates on one, standard platform,” Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. introduced its Sinamics line of ac drives to North America via media presentations on March 7 and 8, 2005, in Chicago.
Pick-up monitors motor speed
PU-E Series Hall-effect pick-up monitors motor speed in difficult-to-access applications.
NMW 2005: B&B Electronics shows Ethernet switches, serial, wireless servers
Chicago, IL—B&B Electronics (Booth #4705) reports that its ESR series DIN rail-mount, industrial Ethernet serial servers are available with one, two, or four serial ports, each configurable to suit RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 serial cabling/data applications.
年代ervo-amplifiers for smooth motion
Linear, three-phase, servo amplifiers for small- and medium-sized brushless motors are designed for applications requiring smooth motion, such as optical positioning, laboratory test equipment, and linear motion systems. TA305 and TA310 have been optimized for smooth sinusoidal output. Trapezoidal output has been smoothed to minimize cogging, and Hall transition-caused overshoots are minimized ...
年代olutions shine at National Manufacturing Week 2005
Hundreds of innovative products were highlighted at National Manufacturing Week 2005, March 7-10, at McCormick Place. Here are some of the show's most significant exhibits: Alden Products' Pulse Plus and Harting Electric's Han QCS quick-mating, multi-coupling connector system offers backwards compatibility with M12 threaded couplers for four-pin, Ethernet-based applications.
Delivering Satisfaction
The listings shown here ranking vendors across the categories included in this year's survey are based on overall satisfaction with product/manufacturer rated by respondents. Product/manufacturer overall satisfaction is derived from response to questions on the survey dealing with: ease of installation and setup, quality of documentation and factory calibration, product availability and perform...
Power Quality Improvement in Speed Control of Induction
A new harmonic elimination pulse width modulation method with genetic algorithm for single phase inverter is presented. The problem is to find the switching angles that produce desired output voltage while not generating specifically chosen harmonics for a speed control of an induction motor. The resolution method procedure of the nonlinear equation systems in order to achieve the best switching angles is explained with the dual objectives of harmonic elimination and output voltage regulation.
Precise newspaper sorting system wins Extreme Machine contest
Tilt-Tray Sortation System and the engineering team that developed it at Automated Control Technologies (ACT) recently won the 2004 Extreme Machine of the Year Award after receiving the most votes from subscribers of Control Engineering (CE) and Design News magazines. Rockwell Automation sponsored and organized this first annual Extreme Machine Award program in conjunction wit...
Aerotech’s direct-drive rotary stage handles wet-cutting processes
顾名思义,直接激励扶轮致动器(or stages) eliminate gear trains, belts, or other motion-converting devices between the actuator and driven load.
Modeling, simulating drivelines
年代imDriveline models and simulates the mechanics of automotive and aerospace driveline and drivetrain systems.
Automation software toolkit
Latest version of EPAS-4 PacDrive automation software toolkit features a fully documented software template to harness best practices in programming.
Board-level motion control
Magellan PC/104 motion controller is available in 1, 2, 3, and 4-axis versions. Card provides advanced motion control features, including trajectory generation, servo-loop closure, quadrature signal input, motor output signal generation, and commutation. It supports brush dc, brushless dc, and step motors and can communicate via a 16-bit parallel bus, CANbus, or serial port.
Leak test instrument designed to reduce costs
年代entinel M24 leak test instrument from Cincinnati Test Systems provides repeatable, high-resolution tests, fast cycle times, VFD (vacuum fluorescent display) graphics, and an enhanced operator interface. Device incorporates Quik Test environmental drift correction and calibration verification. Function automatically maintains calibration accuracy by continuously tracking changes in drift and ma...
年代tand-alone servo controller, driver
年代ilverDust is designed to drive high-pole-count, microstep-capable (1.8°) NEMA 17 and 23 frame step motors. Combined with a high-resolution encoder and a step motor, the device provides a high-performance rotary positioning system. It has connectors for interfacing with the primary encoder and step motor; once the product is connected, QuickControl software guides the user through the enco...
1st motion ICs incorporate CANbus interface
我们CANbus、工业通讯技术ll established in Europe, is making a mark for itself in various ways in North America.
In, out, and about HMI: Touchscreen HMI, panel computer, visualization system
Three new offerings in the HMI area make their way to market starting this month.
Matrox, Xi Graphics announce display drivers for several operating systems
Matrox Graphics Inc. and Xi Graphics Inc. have released Sun Solaris x86 (versions 8, 9, and 10) display drivers for Matrox Parhelia, Millennium P-Series, and QID graphics cards.
年代iemens providing aid to Asian tsunami victims
Munich, Germany—Siemens AG reports that it's providing extensive aid to the victims of the recent, catastrophic tsunamis in the Indian Ocean.
Regal-Beloit buys GE’s motor, capacitor operations for HVAC/refrigeration
Beloit, WI—Regal-Beloit Corp. recently bought General Electric Co.'s motors and capacitors operations for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)/refrigeration from GE’s Consumer & Industrial division.
Franklin Electric, ITT/Goulds settle litigation
Bluffton, IN—Franklin Electric Co. Inc. reports that it has settled a lawsuit filed recently against it by ITT Water Technology Inc.
Linear motion with built-in feedback
EZ Limo series of linear motion products combines advanced step motor functionality and sophisticated motion control features into an easy-to-use linear motion product.
年代ervo amplifiers to motion control drives
年代AC option card transforms Kollmorgen S300 and S600 digital servo amplifiers into intelligent, fully programmable motion control drives to give designers access to a broad range of motor designs and form factors. Card also provides simple machine control functionality, eliminating the need for low-end PLCs.
Custom motion control solutions via software
年代oftMotion Development Module for LabView lets machine builders and OEMs create customized motion controllers for any platform with National Instruments' (NI) SoftMotion technology. Product deploys a variety of motion control functions and custom algorithms to any hardware platform, based on machine builders' requirements and price and performance needs.
Ormec releases motion, logic, HMI, networking for 1-3 ½ axes
Ormec reports that its new SMLC-Lite is a cost-effective motion, logic, human-machine interface (HMI), and networking solution for 1- to 3 ½-axes systems. SMLC-Lite reportedly reduces system costs, and reduces complexity by using off-the-shelf components, IEC 61131-3 languages, and motion software.
Network control of multiple motors
Accelnet Micro servo amplifiers drive servo-positioning motors in automation systems. Small in size, they fit right on the electronic circuit boards of automation systems, obviating the need for additional PCBs and support hardware. Each motor in a multi-axis system can be driven by a servo amplifier, with all motors linked and controlled through a two-wire CANopen network.
年代marter Devices Point to Better Maintenance, Precise Operation, Market Growth
Like people, control valves come in all types, shapes, and sizes. They are found in homes, utility services, institutions, and nearly every manufacturing operation imaginable. These common control components are equally important in a domestic water system as in a large oil or gas distribution line. Valve types range from ball and butterfly to diaphragm and globe; they carry water, air, or gas ...
Parker Hannifin acquires linear motion company
Parker Hannifin Corp. reports that it has acquired Houston, TX-based Trilogy Systems Corp. for an undisclosed sum. Trilogy will join Parker Automation Group's Electromechanical Automation Division, located in Rohnert Park, CA. The deal is expected to be accretive to Parker's earnings in the first full fiscal year.
CNC system handles 64 axes, uses SERCOS
Bosch Rexroth reports that IndraMotion MTX from its Electric Drives and Controls division is a computer numerical control (CNC) system, available in PC control or PLC-based architectures, that handles up to 64 motion axes, with 12 electric servo axes controlled from one card. SERCOS communication interface links the system's electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic intelligence.
Oxygen analyzer allows high-temperature measurement
年代ervomex's 2200H high-temperature, paramagnetic oxygen transmitter eliminates the need to condense hot samples before analysis. Designed for use with sample temperatures up to 100 °C, the unit needs no purge gas or reference gas, regardless of whether the analyzer is used in a new installation or as a replacement.
IXYS launches IGBTs for improved energy efficiency in motor controls
圣克拉拉,在密苏里州ca来提高能源效率tor controls for industrial automation, appliance and electric vehicle applications, IXYS Corp. has introduced a new family of 600 V, short circuit-rated, B2-class, medium-speed insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) with up to 25% lower saturation voltage and lower turn-off energy.
Ormec releases motion, logic, HMI, networking for 1-3½ axes
Rochester, NY—Ormec reports that its new SMLC-Lite is a cost-effective, motion, logic, human-machine interface (HMI), and networking solution for 1 to 3½ axes systems.
Piezo inverter for backlit systems
Piezo inverter for multi-lamp backlight systems features balanced output for exceptional uniformity and dimming performance, says the manufacturer.
Control Engineering Online Update for December 10, 2004
December 10, 2004 Highlights Sponsored by QSI Corp. High-end machine and motion control are the targets for a wave of Ethernet technologies making news recently. This article examines some of the available technologies and their potential application. Qlarity is an object-based programming language designed by QSI Corporation for our intelligent graphic terminals. Designing control panel interfaces or stand-alone applications is easy.
Global Display Solutions expands display manufacturing into Romania
Global Display Solutions Ltd. (GDS), a designer and manufacturer of industrial display solutions for a variety of industries, is opening a new manufacturing site in Arad, Western Romania, the company announced recently.
年代ervo Amplifier Tutorial by Galil
The “Servo Amplifier” on-line tutorial reviews the operation of servo amplifiers used todrive DC and brushless motors. The complete tutorial with audio can be viewed athttp://www.galilmc.com/training/webconf.htmlThe tutorial begins with a discussion of the power regulating methods, leading to the twotypes, linear and pulse-width-modulated (PWM) amplifiers. The PWM amplifiers aremuch more common, whereas linear amplifiers are used with a power rating of less than100 watts.
Microstepping Performance: Resolution, Accuracy & Repeatability
Microstepping is a method for controlling stepper motors. It offers improved performance by providing finer position steps, reduced vibration, and smoother motion. However, microstepping has limitations on performance. We will discuss these limitations, and how to analyze them to predict realistic microstepping performance. Let us first start with the control modes of stepper motors.
Notch Fliters in Control Applications by Galil
There are some applications in which the standard tuning procedure using the PID filter of the controller cannot completely eliminate the resonance in a system. Resonance occurs when the natural frequency of a system is excited in a way that increases the amplitude of oscillation. This is usually due to system compliance, such as a mechanical coupling or inherent motor characteristics.
How To Combine Bandwidth With Feedforward For Best Results by Galil
年代ince motion control systems are designed to force the motor to follow the commanded position, any deviation between the commanded and actual positions is considered a position error. With that in mind, designers should focus their efforts on reducing the position error.
Force Feedback by Galil
Many applications require some sort of force feedback. This note addresses the solutions offered from Galil using the Optima Series controllers. The typical application for force feedback includes a sensor that can output a voltage (+/- 10 Volts) as a function of pressure or compression and a DC motor to move the mechanism. There are two basic approaches to closing the loop in a force feedback system: Close the loop around the force feedback sensor directly:
年代ervo motion-control solution
PACSystems DSM324i motion controller is said to improve machine uptime, increase application flexibility, decrease wiring costs and labor, and boost engineering productivity. Device combines motion features with a fiber-optic command interface to a broad range of high-performance bi Series Fanuc servos.
Integration simplification
Admit it. You're a technology fan, and you have at least a half-dozen gadgets at home that you'd like to optimize. It's not that you can't figure out how to use the advanced features. You're fully capable, but haven't taken the time. After all, the devices do work; you know the basics, but haven't gotten around to really making them hum.
Torque flange sensor
TF Series torque flange sensor is designed for harsh environments, including measurement of transmissions, powertrains, wind generators, gas turbines, general combustion engines, and electric motor and gearbox test benches. Torque measurement system is not susceptible to signal interference; antenna does not need to be looped around the sensor.
It’s a wrap: Sealed Air gains advantage with network, HMI
Chicago—Sealed Air Shanklin’s new Omni Form-Fill-Seal Wrappers outdo competitors’ efforts, company representatives said, because separate infeeds auto-configure when they’re connected, adding system capabilities and flexibility.
Franklin Electric, Pentair Pump Group, Sta-Rite Industries settle lawsuit
Bluffton, IN—Franklin Electric Inc. reports that a settlement has been reached in litigation filed by Pentair Pump Group and Sta-Rite Industries against Franklin.
50, 25, 10 years ago – 2004-11-01
This page offers a look back on a variety of interesting items from Control Engineering's past issues, highlighting content from 50, 25, and 10 years ago. June 1955 If the shoe fits; Remington Rand In the near future, the purchase of a pair of B.F. Goodrich shoes will end up on a magnetic storage drum—and another pair will be sped to the outlet to be worn by the next customer who likes ...
年代ERCOS interoperability demo for servos coming to Pack Expo 2004
Pack Profile interoperability demonstration of SERCOS interface products from multiple vendors will be highlighted at Pack Expo 2004 (Nov. 7-11, in Chicago, IL)—to take place in OMAC Packaging Workgroup’s booth (C-67, in the concourse entrance to upper level McCormick Place North).
Election deadline: Vote for ‘Extreme Machine’
Thank goodness the U.S. election is Nov. 2, so broadcast media can devote some airtime to other topics. I’d encourage everyone to get educated and vote—exercising that hard-fought right helps show the value of democracy to others, worldwide.
年代erial monitoring device
PAS 9510 monitoring module is a bus independent serial device that monitors system parameters in challenging environmental conditions.
年代ensorless vector control
年代J200 Series of inverters uses 6th generation sensorless vector control technology.
ISA Expo 2004: Servomex shows high-temperature oxygen analyzer
年代ugar Land, TX—Servomex is exhibiting its 2200H high-temperature oxygen analyzer for process applications at ISA Expo 2004, Oct. 5-7, at the Reliant Center. The 2200H analyzer now has Factory Mutual (FM) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approvals
Controller has built-in GUI
Qscreen Controller C-programmable embedded computer has a built-in touchscreen operated, graphical user interface. Fully functional compact instrument device is suited for OEM applications such as robotics, embedded systems, scientific instruments, and portable data acquisition. It is powered by an HC11 Motorola microprocessor and features a high-contrast 128 x 240 pixel display, real-time mult...
年代ingle-axis servo controller
独奏者单轴伺服控制器结合了power supply, amplifier, and position controller in one package. Device can control up to four tasks simultaneously and handle variables and manage I/O points for demanding production applications. High-speed position latch inputs and advanced data logging make it suitable for laboratory, test, and industrial applications.
Multidrive ACS800 from ABB extends power range to 7,000 hp in U.S.
ABB公司。自动化技术已经引入d the full power range of its multidrive ACS800 family—1-7,000 hp (at 380-690 V ac input)—to North American end-users.
IMTS 2004: Baldor all stainless-steel servo motor
Just announced by Baldor Electric Co., its SSBSM Series of all stainless-steel brushless servo motors had their first showing at IMTS 2004 in Chicago in September.
IMTS 2004: Mazak releases HyperGear laser
Chicago, IL—Mazak Laser Corp. is launching its new HyperGear 2-D laser cutting system at IMTS 2004, Sept. 8-15, at McCormick Place.
Brushless motor with integrated drive
NEMA size 23 brushless dc motor features an integrated drive for simplified motor control.
年代ERCOS vendors launch packaging profile
年代ERCOS N.A. reports that the SERCOS vendor organizations have developed a Pack Profile in response to a request by the OMAC Packaging Machinery Working Group. The Pack Profile defines a subset of the SERCOS interface functions for packaging machinery to further improve the multi-vendor interoperability of servo controls and drives.
Compact servo drives
Kollmorgen S300 Series servo drives feature a compact package with built-in power supply for space-restricted applications such as packaging, material handling, converting, and plastic molding.
Easy to install circuit breakers
Powerpact 150A H-frame and 250A J-frame molded-case circuit breakers are suited for a wide range of applications, providing a full complement of field-installable accessories/trip units and improved interrupting ratings.
NEMA Motors and Generators standard Revision 1 released
美国国家电气制造商协会(NEMA) has released Revision 1 of MG 1-2003, "Motors and Generators" standard, the 500-plus page ''bible'' on the proper selection and application of motors and generators.
IMTS organizers point to North American manufacturing growth
North American manufacturing industry is showing growth. John B. Byrd III, president of AMT-The Association For Manufacturing Technology, says, "June’s machine tool orders put purchases of manufacturing technology equipment up nearly 32% from 2003.
年代eminars, courses, education
Approach of fall typically signals many of us to pay attention to continued education. Here is a recent crop of courses, classes, and seminars announced for professionals working in this sector from the Motor & Motion Association (SMMA), Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA), and Bosch Rexroth Corp.
Two miniature gear motor introductions
A variety of electric motors continually makes its way to the market.
ABB plans progress for IndustrialIT System 800xA
Wickliffe, OH—ABB reports it has sold more than 300 of its IndustrialIT System 800xA worldwide since introducing it in January, and is planning to add new system functionality next year.
On-motor controllers
On-Motor controllers can be custom-designed by the manufacturer with Pittman brushless dc motor frames to eliminate external boxes, wires, and bulk and to improve motor performance.
RFID test lab opens
RFID test lab is designed to help manufacturers facing production and inventory mandates make RFID technology an integral part of their distribution operations.
Induction motor market weathers industrial storm
Wellingborough, U.K.; Austin, TX—The latest data from IMS Research valued the low-voltage segment of the induction motor market in Europe, the Middle-East and Africa (EMEA) at around $1.7 billion.
Newport develops low-noise, diode laser controller circuit
Irvine, CA—Newport Corp. has developed a diode laser current driver circuit with noise characteristics that it says are 10 times lower than any other available solution.
Brushless dc speed control
BX Series brushless dc speed control system now includes high output power models of 200 and 400 W.
年代aia-Burgess buys Sick/Stegmann’s synchronous motor, gearbox business
Vernon Hills, IL—Saia-Burgess Group has acquired the synchronous motors and motor gearbox divisions of Sick/Stegmann GmbH & Co. KG, as well as a manufacturing site in Poland.
Horner APG merges with Genius Automation to expand into India
Indianapolis, IN—Horner Advanced Products Group (APG), which designs and manufactures industrial automation controls, reports that it has now expanded into India by merging Bangalore-based Genius Automation Pvt. Ltd. into Horner’s international business group.
Miniature linear motors for small-stage applications
LEU Series ironless core, brushless linear motor produces up to 26 lb of peak force with an overall width of 18 mm (0.71 in.). Units come in two coil heights: LEU-15 (15 mm) and LEU-30 (30 mm). Six coil sizes are available, supported by four magnet channels. Core design provides smooth motion because no iron winding laminations produce cogging.
Animatics, Quicksilver settle patent lawsuit without damages trial
年代anta Clara CA; San Dimas, CA—Following more than five years of court battles, Animatics Corp. reports that its hotly contested lawsuit against QuickSilver Controls Inc. for infringing its patent covering integrated servos has been completely settled.
Recent software tools help size motors, drives
Two manufacturers have recently announced new application software tools for motor and drive sizing, each stressing a "system approach" to the selection process.
Bitbus is still out there
Forgotten in some quarters, Bitbus (IEEE 1118), one of the oldest of "fieldbuses" is still out there.
Vacuum motors for low pressures
Grade VC series vacuum motors are designed to survive pressures as low as 10-6 Torr.
Electric-control valve system
gvp - 100完全集成,电驱动有限公司ntrol valve system is designed for low-power, remote gas flow control applications such as gas production fields. System uses a solar panel and 12 V dc batteries, and features an advanced digital actuator with a gear-reduced, low-power brushless motor to minimize power requirements.
Plug-and-play servo system
PosiDrive preprogrammed servo system simplifies conversion to servo drive for a true plug-and-play application. Multi-axis option allows control of up to eight drives by one interface. Preprogrammed touchscreen interface permits machine setup, tuning, and troubleshooting through easy-to-follow menus without the need to learn complex servo programming, write code, or run proprietary software on ...
年代olectron sells Force Computers to Motorola and Kavlico to Schneider Electric
年代olectron Corp. has agreed to sell its Force Computers embedded computing business to Motorola Inc. The two companies expect the transaction to close in the third quarter of 2004 (3Q04). Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Motorola plans to integrate Force into its Motorola Computer Group (MCG).
Electromechanical actuators for robotic spot-welding
Electromechanical actuators for robotic spot-welding guns offer numerous advantages over conventional hydraulically or pneumatically driven systems, according to SKF Motion Technologies.
年代olectron sells Force Computers to Motorola; closes Kavlico sale to Schneider Electric
Milpitas, CA—Solectron Corp. has agreed to sell its Force Computers embedded computing business to Motorola Inc.
年代ensors Expo 2004: Delphi CTO says computing power drives sensor, actuator demand
Detroit, MI—Continued expansion of computing power is fueling the need for more sensors and actuators, said Donald Runkle, Delphi Corp.’s vice chairman and CTO, in his June 8 keynote address at Sensors Expo and Conference 2004.
Electric Servo Motors Product Focus Study, June 2003
Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding electric servo motors.
Baldor Electric forms joint venture with China’s Tech.Full Industry
Fort Smith, AR—Baldor Electric Co. recently launched a joint venture for technology and sales with Tech.Full Industry Co., Ltd., located in Harbin, China.
World Batch Forum 2004: Speak business language to sell projects to business, keynoter tells attendees
年代peak the language of business, not of technology, when communicating with business managers! That, in a nutshell, was the message of E.L. (Skip) Holmes, associate director, The Procter & Gamble Co., to World Batch Forum attendees in Chicago this week.
China’s ac, dc drives market growing rapidly
Austin, TX—Suppliers of ac and dc motor drives in China are reporting 20-40% annual growth rates, which pushed the nation’s drives market to reach $463 million in 2003, according to recent research by IMS Research.
Danaher Motion buys Motion Engineering; Neff Antriebstechnik Automation
Wood Dale, IL; Santa Barbara, CA—To strengthen its multi-axis control solutions, Danaher Motion reports that it has purchased Motion Engineering Inc. (MEI), and also bought Neff Antriebstechnik Automation GmbH, which manufactures linear motion components, assemblies and systems.
High-temperature oxygen analyzer
2200H high-temperature transmitter eliminates the need to condense a hot sample prior to analysis.
Thin-ring brushless torque motors
Megaflux Series thin-ring brushless torque motors are intended for direct-drive applications in large inertia or high-torque load systems.
Brushless dc motors
Model 000-0362 brushless dc motor is designed for applications in need of efficient, high power production in limited space.
High-performance belt drive
Model 113E 4.5-in. diameter belt drive is designed for belt conveyors in the food processing industry and airport check-in counters.
年代iemens’ Exider train rolls on three continents
年代iemens Energy & Automation reports that its 14-railcar Exider Technology Train exhibit is now visiting its third continent and continuing to demonstrate that integrated automation can help manufacturing. Siemens invested $16 million to buy and outfit the train, and send it on a tour of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Harmonic filters curb distortion
Advanced harmonic filters optimize drive performance by reducing harmonics despite background disturbances, such as phase unbalance and background voltage distortion.
A trio of motor drive introductions, enhancements
Three major manufacturers have recently updated or expanded their drive offerings.
Upswing projected for worldwide general motion controls
Dedham, MA—The worldwide general motion control (GMC) market has passed the $4 billion mark and is expected to grow at a 6.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next five years, according to a new study, “General Motion Control Worldwide Outlook,” by ARC Advisory Group.
Novel-sized computer
LPC-401X Intel Pentium-4 based, small-form computer system is housed in a rugged extruded aluminum enclosure and runs a 3.2 GHz processor.
Digital servo drive
Bassoon "off-line" digital servo drive delivers up to 1 kW of continuous power (or 2 kW peak power). It incorporates intelligence, programmability and high-power density in a small (4 x 3 x 2 in., 12.3 oz.) package. It includes an integrated power supply that controls 5 A at an input voltage range of 20 to 255 V ac at 50/60 Hz.
年代oftware Tools Advance Embedded Control This article contains online extra material.
Although the development of application software for any environment has similar traits, software for embedded control imposes more stringent requirements and limits. Execution speed, timing issues, memory size, extent of testing and safety partitions—depending on the criticality of the application—all have higher requirements than in general PC-based software.
Induction motors for harsh environments
Induction motor meets NEMA 4X (IP66) enclosure specifications. Design incorporates high-quality construction features to ensure dependable operation and long service life in harsh environment applications. Configured with 2 or 4 poles, motor achieves operating speeds up to 3,450 rpm. It provides power output from 1/20 to 1/2 hp.
GE Fanuc launches intelligence software, new CNC
GE Fanuc Automation Americas recently launched new shop-floor intelligence software to reduce machine downtime, optimize performance, and boost quality. It also introduced its next-generation CNC to the U.S. and celebrated manufacturing its 5 millionth ac servo motor. GE Fanuc's new iCellOEE shop-floor intelligence software collects real-time availability, performanc...
‘electronicaUSA with ESC:’ Enea launches OSE 5.0 RTOS
年代an Francisco, CA—Enea Embedded Technology, formerly OSE Systems, launched version 5.0 of its OSE real-time operating system (RTOS) at 'electronicaUSA with Embedded Systems Conference (ESC) 2004,' Mar. 29-April 1, at the Moscone Convention Center.
AC Adjustable-Speed Drives Product Focus Study August 2003
Among those specifying, recommending, and/or buying AC adjustable-speed drives, 77% do so for in-plant requirements and 40% do so for OEM requirements.
Rack & pinion drive includes electronic preload
Line of preloaded rack & pinion drive systems are designed for axis-drive applications requiring high-accuracy positioning.
Electric Servo Motors Product Focus Study April 2004
Among those specifying, recommending, and/or buying electric servo motors, 77% do so for in-plant requirements and 39% buy for OEM requirements.
Electric Servo Motors Product Focus Study June 2003
Among those specifying, recommending, and/or buying electric servo motors, 68% do so for in-plant requirements and 50% buy for OEM requirements.
Food safety legislation drives up overseas food processing equipment market
年代low, steady revenue growth is the outlook seen for the €13.14 billion European industrial food processing equipment market, a recent Frost & Sullivan analysis indicates.
Multipole connectors
Multipole connector with motor connecting housing substitutes for conventional motor junction plate with threaded bolts and feeder clamps.
Power quality: Transient voltage surge suppressor market study
Revenues for the "World Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor [TVSS] Market" totaled $1.07 billion in 2003 and are projected to reach $2.02 billion by 2010, according to Frost & Sullivan, a global Growth Consulting firm.
年代pectrum Control acquires Salisbury Engineering
Fairview, PA; Delmar, DE—Spectrum Control Inc. recently acquired all of the outstanding common stock of Salisbury Engineering Inc. (SEI). Spectrum designs and manufactures electronic control products and systems.
Brushless dc motor controller
MC73110电动机无刷直流电机控制集成电路s an intelligent, single-axis device designed to provide high-performance digital current loop, velocity loop, and commutation for brushless motors.
Did you see: patents, OMAC, specs, NMW developments?
Recent Control Engineering coverage useful for those interested in discrete control includes in-formation about machine vision and bar code patents, OMAC and WBF cooperation, a product comparison service, our Discrete Control Industry Channel, and news from National Manufacturing Week.
年代oftware, hardware, and information can lower maintenance costs
Perhaps everyone’s heard the story about the accountant who was lost and phoned his engineer friend for directions. "Look up at the street sign," advises the engineer on the phone: "What corner are you on?" The accountant looks and says, "I’m on the corner of Walk and Don’t Walk."
Danaher Motion: New direct-drive motor technology cuts design time, life-cycle costs
Eliminating all mechanical transmission parts between motor and load—such as gearbox, belts, or pulleys—is inherent in the design of direct-drive rotary (DDR) motors.
Inclinometers, accelerometers
46000 Series accelerometers and inclinometers use micro-machined silicon technology to offer sturdy products resistant to extreme environments.
CNC control kits
CNC control kits for knee mills, bed mills, lathes, and router tables turn a PC into an industrial CNC control.
Exclusive: Nano controller programmable with Bluetooth wireless, Ethernet
Telemecanique Twido nano controller is billed by its manufacturer, Schneider Electric, as the first nano PLC with embedded Ethernet capability that can be programmed with either Bluetooth wireless or Ethernet.
Fast A/D conversion, FPGA technologies combine in Pentek’s VME board
Combining leading technologies often leads to synergistic results. Intended for high-frequency data acquisition and digital signal processor (DSP) applications, a new VMEbus board from Pentek Inc. combines high-speed analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion and the latest field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technologies in a single-channel, 6U format.
Parker Hannifin starts new Life Sciences division
Cleveland, OH; Hollis, N.H.—To meet increasing demand for motion- and fluid-control expertise and single-source system solutions, Parker Hannifin Corp. has established a new Life Sciences business unit to help develop and deliver advances for this fast-growing market.
New Web site offers product reviews, comparisons
InfoLINK is a Web site that offers in-depth manufacturing product reviews and side-by-side product comparisons by leading industry experts, as well as a searchable specifications database.
Linear servo actuator
年代ervoMove System uses an electromechanical linear ball-screw actuator with brushless dc motor to perform repetitive-motion operations on assembly lines and in applications involving robotics and automated tasks.
OEM develops enhanced rolling ring winding system
Amacoil Inc. reports that one of its OEMs, Alternate Mechanical Drives (AMD), recently developed and introduced a level winder that improves winding accuracy by integrating inexpensive sensor technology with Uhing rolling ring traverse assembly. The resulting level-winding system produces smooth, even spooling with no material build-up or "valleys" at the spool fl...
Visual replaces manual
The Harley-Davidson V-Rod is one of the hottest and most sought after motorcycles introduced in recent memory. Sporting a liquid cooled, 115-hp, 1130 cc, 608 V-Twin Revolution engine (developed in a joint venture with Porsche), a hydroformed perimeter frame, a radiator shroud with twin vortex air scoops, and triple disc brakes, the V-Rod is not only a bike powerfully outfitted, but a beauty to ...
MEI: Synqnet update, new 64-bit controller
年代ynqNet—a full digital, high-speed (100 Mbps) synchronous motion control network for intelligent multi-axis servo systems—has come a long way since its introduction in July 2001, by Motion Engineering Inc.
Reed Business Information launches InfoLink
Morris Plaines, NJ—InfoLink is a Web site that offers in-depth manufacturing product reviews and side-by-side product comparisons by leading industry experts, as well as a searchable specifications database.
Franklin Electric announces plant consolidation plan
Bluffton, IN—Franklin Electric Inc. reports that it’s planning to consolidate the submersible turbine pump operations of Madison, WI-based FE Petro Inc. with the service station hardware and flexible piping operations of EBW Inc. and Advanced Polymer Technology Inc., presently located in Muskegon, MI, into a new leased facility in Madison.
Variable speed drive makers say China is key to expansion plans
年代an Antonio, TX—China’s variable speed drives market is expected to grow at a compound annual revenue growth rate of 6.3% to reach $1.87 billion in 2010, according to new research by Frost & Sullivan.
Advanced motor protection relay
年代EL-749M relay provides advanced motor protection and monitoring for three-phase motors.
年代ervo motor/drive streamlines liquid packaging
Elau Inc. reports that its PacDrive SCL-055 integral servo motor/drive delivers new design flexibility to the latest Gen3 liquid filling, capping, and labeling machinery. PacDrive's purpose-built unit combines a servo motor and drive in the same trapezoidal enclosure suitable for direct integration into the rotary tables used in capping and labeling operations.
U.S. Energy Dept. to use Honeywell’s sensing, Ember’s wireless technologies
To help U.S. manufacturers save energy and reduce emissions, Honeywell's Automation and Control Solutions (ACS) business and Ember Corp. report that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has picked them to participate in a $10-million project co-funded by the department to develop wireless and sensor technologies that can meet plant-floor control challenges, and ...
High-bandwidth servo drives
Kollmorgen售价系列无刷伺服驱动器all digital with a velocity loop bandwidth up to 800 Hz to provide increased system throughput and simplified tuning. High-resolution (24-bit) feedback and high-performance 3-5 kHz current loop bandwidth provide smooth motion and rapid start-and-stop action to optimize machine performance.
AC drive operates in multiple modes
Control Techniques' latest "universal" ac drive, Unidrive Solution Platform (SP), operates in V/Hz, open- and closed-loop vector, brushless servo, and regeneration control modes. Up to 14 types of feedback signals, including absolute encoder, are selectable by software. Other standard features include "secure disable" and a zero-space EMC filter.
Programmable, isolated, intelligent power module
International Rectifier's iNTERO family of drive modules has expanded to include a new member that incorporates bridge, brake, CAN interface, EEPROM to store extra motion variables, and inverter (BBI) functions into one compact unit. Programmable, isolated intelligent power module (PIIPM) 15P12D007 serves as a digital building block for closed-loop control of high-performance induction, brushle...
Digital servo drive is compact, economical
Elmo Motion Control's recently launched HARmonica Digital Servo Drive offers 750-W (1-hp) output for controlling brush dc or brushless motors. The servo drive also incorporates various commutation methods, including sinusoidal and trapezoidal vector control; trapezoidal six-step; high-efficiency dc power switching; and distributed networking via CANopen DS-301 protocol.
Compact linear motion stage
ALS1000 compact, high-performance stage provides a small cross-section, small payload capacity, cost-effective alternative for precision applications where a small footprint and environmental protection are required. A linear motion guide bearing system, two-axis internal cable management, and high-performance brushless servo motor make the stage particularly suitable for applications such as l...
Power output matches load requirements to save energy
OptiGen Adjustable-Speed Generator from Baldor Electric Co. automatically adjusts generated power output to match various load requirements for standby power applications. Designed to supply up to 250% rated power for electric motor starting, OptGen is about half the size a fixed-speed unit. The new generator's exclusive power electronics and engine control regulates engine speed, and monitors ...
Curtiss-Wright acquires Novatronics
To enhance its market and technology positions in aerospace sensors, Curtiss-Wright Corp. has acquired Novatronics Inc. for approximately $13.5 million. Novatronics will operate as a business unit of Curtiss-Wright's subsidiary, Curtiss-Wright Controls Inc. Novatronics designs and manufactures electric motors and linear and rotary position sensors for the commercial aeros...
PID position controllers
PID-based position controllers are designed for use with small or medium-sized brush motors.
年代eminars, education
EASA, the Electrical Apparatus and Service Association, has announced its spring 2004 seminar schedule, which begins next month and runs to May 2004. Attendance is open to members and non-members.
年代chneider Electric shows Initi@tive at event
Brussels, Belgium—More than 2,000 customers attended Schneider Electric’s Initi@tive event here during the week of Dec. 1.
Control components: heat sink, IDC, inverter, power supplies
Control components, the pieces that go into making larger products for automation, controls, and instrumentation, sometimes can be difficult to classify. What can be considered a stand-alone product in one application, could be applied as a component of a larger system in another setting.
Communications integral to self-diagnosing control systems
Troubleshooting geographically large electrical control systems with a multimeter in hand can be very time consuming and, unless viewed as an exercise perk, very tiring as well. This is where systems with self-diagnostic capabilities can be useful. As a designer of very large mobile structures, such as aircraft maintenance docking systems and retractable stadium roof transporters, Uni-Systems L...
Food-grade servo motors from Rockwell Automation offer high-torque, efficiency
Electric motor manufacturers are increasingly catering to the tough environment of food/beverage packaging and handling. Here’s a recent example, if you’re looking for parallels that could be appropriate to your application.
Triscend: Configurable SoC targets industrial motor drives
Triscend Corp. unveiled a configurable system-on-chip (CSoC) device family optimized for application in ''complex electronic motor drives'' at ESC Boston in mid-September. The A7V family combines a 32-bit ARM7TDMI processor core with programmable logic, a robust memory subsystem, and dedicated high-performance internal bus.
International Rectifier introduces digital motion control ICs
El Segundo, CA—International Rectifier (IR) has introduced two additions to its iMotion integrated design platform for motion control, IRMCK201 and IRMCK203 digital control ICs.
DVT 2003: Vision application advice presented
Phoenix, AZ—Good lighting, application knowledge, and dedication all go into successful vision system applications, according to an end-user, system integrator, and vision-system manufacturer, who spoke on Nov. 3 at the DVT 2003 Global Business Conference and User Group Meeting.
Direct-drive frameless motors
ULT direct drive frameless motors are suited for a variety of applications in medical devices, semiconductor equipment, and satellite tracking systems.
Common dc bus drive advantages
Common dc bus drive systems are gaining in popularity. They are compact and require less cabinet space. Efficiency is enhanced because they share power on the dc bus. Ultimately, they are cost-effective solutions to common drive problems and offer a wide range of features applicable to many industries and power ranges.
Copley Controls: Low inertia boosts linear motor versatility
The virtues of direct-drive linear (DDL) motor technology are becoming better known, albeit slowly. Adding a low-inertia feature to these motors opens new possibilities in applications that need fast, accurate, short-distance moves—notoriously difficult to do via a lead screw or similar alternative.
Wanted: Your input on vector control for servo motors
Field-oriented (flux vector) control is a must to obtain high performance from ac induction motors. Some digital servo drives now also use this control method to optimize the control of brushless servo motors.
年代tepping motors
P-type models of the PK Series 2-phase hybrid stepping motors achieve highest torque available for a 1.65-in. square-sized hybrid stepping motor, according to the manufacturer.
Motorola’s sensors use ZigBee protocol for wireless networking
The semiconductor division of Motorola Inc. announced that it’s offering acceleration and pressure sensor integrated circuits (ICs) that are compatible with IEEE’s 802.15.4 wireless standard. This protocol, also known as ZigBee, can increase sensor network convenience and reduce installation costs.
Inverter-duty gearmotors
Inverter-duty gearmotors are designed for use with adjustable speed controls. Line is rated at 3/8 hp, 230 V, 60 Hz, three-phase. An operating range of 10-90 Hz features a broad range of ratios in both right-angle and parallel shaft configurations. Right-angle units have an internal oil expansion bladder.
Motor performance curves available
Performance curves provide potential users with vital information for selecting the right electric motor for the job. Emerson Motor Technologies (St. Louis, MO) recently has made available performance curves for its standard motor lines through the company’s MotorBoss 3.0 online motor ordering and tracking system.
Ormec: New integrated motion and logic controller
''A tightly integrated, low-cost solution'' is what Ormec (Rochester, N.Y.) calls its new ServoWire Motion & Logic Controller (SMLC) that combines the performance of Ormec’s Soft Motion (PC-based) technology with standard IEC 61131-3 programming via PLCopen motion function blocks and I/O control.
年代ervo Magnetics: Corrosive-environment motor
Do you have a need for a corrosion-resistant brushless dc motor? If so, a new low-voltage brushless dc motor from Servo Magnetics Inc. (Canoga Park, CA) may fill that need.
NEMA’s MG-1 standard updated
美国国家电气制造商协会(NEMA, Rosslyn, VA) has released MG 1-2003 ''Motors and Generators'' standard, which is a major revision of the organization’s ''bible'' on the proper selection and application of motors and generators.
ZigBee Alliance selects National Technical Systems as wireless certification test center
National Technical Systems (NTS) Inc. announced that it has been selected by the ZigBee Alliance as one of only two compliance test centers with exclusive rights to test wireless products manufactured by ZigBee’s members. ZigBee members include Motorola, Honeywell, Samsung Electronics, Mitsubishi Electric Corp., Philips and many other corporations worldwide.
ChevronTexaco, USC establishing oil field technology center
Los Angeles; San Ramon, CA—The University of Southern California (USC) and ChevronTexaco Corp. announced Aug. 29 plans to establish a new center to develop advanced technologies to improve oil and gas exploration and production efficiency.
Economic turnaround to boost Europe’s electric drives market
Following a couple of years of lackluster results, prospects of improving economics in 2004 and growing end-user confidence are expected to boost demand in Europe's $1.5-billion electric drives market, according to a new study by Frost & Sullivan. Increasing demand for improved and more sophisticated drive technology is projected to boost performance of the overall market,...
Flexible, smart motor starter
Telemecanique TeSys U-Line motor starter combines motor starter power and control functions with built-in intelligence and a modular structure. Two power bases cover all power ranges to 32 A. They can be installed, connected and tested regardless of type and level of control voltage selected. Synchronous design of the mechanical and electrical systems is standard.
New integral servo motor/drive streamlines liquid packaging
The need to run motor cables from rotating machine components to amplifiers located in control cabinets has, in the past, limited the servo automation of packaging lines for beverage, pharmaceutical, food, and other liquid products. A new integral servo motor/drive from Elau Inc. (Chicago, IL; Marktheidenfeld, Germany)—with a form factor designed to overcome physical constraints of liquid packaging lines—promises to change all that.
Flexible smart motor starter
Telemecanique TeSys U-Line motor starter combines motor starter power and control functions with built-in intelligence and a modular structure.
DC brush motors
Y series line of low-cost, permanent magnet DC brush motors is available in frame sizes from 19 mm to 100 mm with torque ranging from 0.1 oz-in to 144 oz-in.
High-power AC drives market to grow 5.7% per year to $3.3 billion by 2007
Dedham, MA—The worldwide market for high-power AC drives is expected to grow at a 5.7% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from just over $2.5 billion in 2002 to approximately $3.3 billion in 2007, according to a new study, “High-Power AC Drives Worldwide Outlook,” by ARC Advisory Group.
Line of soft starters expanded
PSS Softstarter line has been expanded to cover up to 200 hp when connected inline and up to 350 hp when connected inside the delta.
年代ervo motor position controller
Icon PID position controller is designed to work seamlessly with the Icon H-bridge module. When used with a brush dc motor and a quadrature encoder, the two devices form a versatile, low-cost position control module for medium- and low-current servo motor control. Position controller has four primary modes of operation: direct control; trapezoidal profile control; analog position control; and v...
IR debuts motion control development system, control algorithm library
El Segundo, CA—To reduce motion control system design time and support its iMotion integrated design platform, International Rectifier (IR) recently launched its IRMCS203 motion control development system and IRMCO203 Intellectual Property (IP) library of motion control algorithms.
Control Engineering Process Control eNewsletter for June 2003
国家仪器——新一代工业Controller National Instruments Compact FieldPoint is a new breed of embedded industrial controller. It combines the best features of a PC and mixes it with the reliability and ruggedness of a PLC. Compact FieldPoint provides the high level PC type features such as a floating point processor for custom calculations, an embedded interactive web server for easy control and monitoring, removable Compact Flash for data logging, and multiple serial ports for third party device communication in a small, industrially rugged form factor that easily withstands high shock and vibration environments. Click here to download your free white paper . Best practices for securing e-mail A different way to think about plant optimization Is control system migration all it's advertised to be? SkillsUSA champions make historic debut Do you know the answers? Best practices for securing e-mail While talking with the folks at Stelex-TVG recently, I learned they co-authored and have available on their website a white paper titled "Best Practices for Secure e-Mail using RSA Security Products for 21 CFR Part 11 Compliance." Wait! Before you dismiss this white paper as not being relevant to your organization because it's targeted at U.S.
年代ensors Expo 2003: Yamaha, Siemens private label DVT vision systems
Rosemont, IL-DVT集团(一家)宣布两个labeling agreements at Sensors Expo and International Robots & Vision Show on June 3.
Rotary actuators for angular positioning
Limited Angle Torque Motors are designed for applications that require quick, precise angular positioning (typically less than 170 deg). High acceleration, accuracy, and repeatability make them well suited for focusing lenses, positioning laser reflecting mirrors, and operating valves, as well as for machine tools, clean room, and aerospace installations.
AC drive reduces harmonic distortion
HR1018 Harmonic Reduction Technology package consists of an 18-pulse ac drive that reduces the total harmonic distortion common to standard 6-pulse drives. Unit minimizes interference that can impair sensitive electronic equipment such as computers, sensors, and communication devices. It also improves power factor to help avoid utility penalties.
年代witched-Reluctance Motors and Controls Offer an Alternative Solution
Online Extra to Feb. 2003 Control Engineering article,‘Springtime for Switched-Reluctance Motors?’ Click here to return to main article Switched-reluctance (SR) technology offers users a simple, rugged type of electric motor, able to deliver high torque and speed. However, control electronics and a sophisticated drive are required to obtain such high-performance from these machines.
Digital drive for soft motion implementation
DC201 Series digital drive family lets users implement a multi-axis coordinated motion control system without the need for a dedicated motion controller. The series features built-in, third-order interpolation and a 5 kHz position loop. Position set points are sent from the host to each drive over a high-speed network.
年代ervo valve for position, velocity control
New Duplomatic DXJ3 Series servo-proportional valve is intended for position, velocity, and pressure control applications.
Drive Maintenance
DriveWizard version 5.3 is designed to improve the startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of Yaskawa drives.
TI launches extended, common-mode RS-485 transceivers
Dallas, TX—To provide what it reports is the best protection against noise and fault conditions, Texas Instruments Inc. recently introduced what it adds is the world's first extended, common-mode RS-485 transceivers.
Adjustable-speed generator matches the load
Called an industry first, OptiGen adjustable-speed generator automatically adjusts generated power output to match various load requirements for standby power applications.
Integrated motors market poised for substantial growth
虽然当前市场伺服和步进莫tors with incorporated positioning electronics is less than 2% of the overall servo and stepper motor market, this sector is likely to grow rapidly soon. In fact, European and North American markets for this relatively new technology are expected to more than double during the next four years, which is fa...
Adjustable-speed generator matches load
Fort Smith, AR —OptiGen adjustable-speed generator automatically adjusts generated power output to match various load requirements for standby power applications. Designed to supply up to 250% rated power for electric motor starting, OptGen is about half the size of a fixed-speed unit. The new generator's exclusive power electronics and engine control regulates engine speed and monitors ...
NMW 2003: NI’s software aids tuning, control of piezo-based motors
Chicago, IL—National Instruments (NI, Austin, TX) demonstrated at National Manufacturing Week 2003 that it has extended the power of its LabView and motion control software with its new Piezo Tuning Wizard software.
年代hin-Etsu Chemicals to use Experion PKS to upgrade VC plant
Phoenix, AZ - Japanese based Shin-Etsu Chemicals announced March 6th it will use Honeywell's Experion PKS to begin a plant wide re-instrumentation of its VC (vinyl chloride) plant in the Netherlands.
2- or 5-phase stepping motor controller
Torrance, CA —New EMP402 programmable motion controller can coordinate two axes of motion simultaneously for 2- or 5-phase hybrid stepping motor systems. EMP402 handles as many as 32 motion profile programs (with 1,000 command total capacity) via an RS-232 port from a PC or terminal controller.
Primary industrial control and adjustable speed drive indexes
The NEMA Primary Industrial Control Index dropped 11% and the Primary Industrial Control and Adjustable Speed Drives Index fell 11% in 4Q02, according to data collected by the Industrial Automation Control Products and Systems Section of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA, Rosslyn, VA).
Motion chips with multiple breakpoint capability
Lincoln, MA - MC2300 Series motion processors (part of PMD's Navigator family) now provide breakpoint programming for 1, 2, and 4 axes of control for brushless motors.
低-cost, capable micro ac drives up to 5 hp
Loves Park, IL - Intended for small ac motor control needs of OEMs and panel builders, VLT Micro Adjustable Frequency Drives now range up to 5 hp for 230 V and 460 V ac applications.
ProMat 2003: Catering to all material handling appetites
Chicago, IL—ProMat, short for "Productivity Solutions through Material Handling and Logistics" exhibition, combined a healthy mix of technologies and services to present to visitors during its Feb. 10-13 run at Chicago's McCormick Place.
运动芯片有多个断点功能
Lincoln, MA —MC2300 Series motion processors (part of PMD's Navigator family) now provide breakpoint programming for 1, 2, and 4 axes of control for brushless motors. These two-IC chipsets allow users to create complex motion profiles with instantaneous changes through internal or external signals.
P+F invests by replacing old sensors
One of the most useful edges that companies can use to fight competitors is customer service. For instance, General Motors' Saturn Division (Spring Hill, TN) recently found that sensors on the machining and assembly line at its L-850 engine manufacturing facility were deteriorating too quickly. Another company, Pepperl+Fuchs (P+F, Twinsburg, OH), had purchased the original sensor supplier, Hone...
Ford installs Braintech technology in its new engine plants
North Vancouver, B.C., Canada - Braintech Inc. announced January 23 that it has installed multiple units of its 3D Vision Guided Robotics, (''3D-VGR'') software into Ford Motor Company's new engine plants in Canada. The initial order for 19 systems was placed with ABB Canada and includes ABB robots and Braintech software.
Animatics wins motion system patent lawsuit
年代anta Clara, CA - Animatics Corp. recently announced that the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, on Dec. 18, 2002, has ruled in favor of the company's patent lawsuit against QuickSilver Controls Inc. (QCI, Covina, CA), that QuickSilver infringes Animatics' U.S. Patent No. 5, 912, 541.
Pumps measure, control pH and ORP, dose chemicals
PHP-700 series pumps combine the PHP-600 series dosing pumps with controllers, simplifying installation and wiring, and reducing compatibility problems.
Unidrive now more ‘universal’
Eden Prairie, MN—Unidrive SP (Solution Platform), the company's latest generation "universal" ac drive operates in V/Hz, open- and closed-loop vector, brushless servo, and regeneration control modes. Also selectable by software are up to 14 feedback signal types—including absolute encoder.
Ring torque motors raise machine performance
年代chaumburg, IL —Three new torque motor models increase accuracy and velocity stability, provide very high bandwidth, and reduce wear and maintenance in machine tools. TMA-0175, TMA-0291, and TMA-0450 Series (corresponding to the motor diameter) fill the moderate to high-torque range of 20 to over 1,000 Nm (14.
Motion control chip integrates 160 MIPS, 14-bit ADC, and more
芯片电动机/运动控制用户获得真正意义上的nefits from ease of use, small size, and reduced system cost, according to Analog Devices Inc. (ADI, Norwood, MA). Ease of use comes from single-chip integration of CPU performance with ADC (analog-to-digital converter), application-specific peripherals, and other functions.
DC-powered servo alternative to ac drives
ViX intelligent servo drive from the Compumotor division of Parker Hannifin (Rohnert Park, CA) incorporates a flexible controller and 250/500 W output stage in an ultra-compact, 4.9 x 1.65 x 3.35-in. case. The all-digital, dc-powered design makes it less expensive than comparable ac drives, according to Compumotor.
Distributed motion platform uses Firewire, 3rd order interpolation, 1-4 axes
Waterloo, ON Canada —With a compact form factor intended for true distributed motion-control applications, MAX3000 platform combines 1-4 axes of digital servo amplifiers with DSP motion control and serial networking. A 4-axis unit, able to drive four 400-W brushless motors, measures 3.4 x 5.3 in.
自动化2002年公平:组件级产品
Anaheim, CA - Component-level products remain an essential element for a complete automation solution. Continuing the series of announcements from Automation Fair, this article details new Allen-Bradley component-level products and enhancements from Rockwell Automation.
Online – 2002-12-01 – 2002-12-01
Additional articles are available exclusively online through the Control Engineering Online page. At Control Engineering Online, you can access and register for 10 topical monthly e-newsletters; read "Today's News" each business day and fresh products weekly; explore 10 channels, show coverage, site search, and more.
Danaher Controls, OMAC, SEW-Eurodrive at Pack Expo
Danaher Controls (Gurnee, IL) exhibited its Dynapar Acuro single- and multi-turn encoders at Pack Expo on Nov. 3-7. The encoders include Acuro Industry, which provides up to 17-bit resolution in a single-turn configuration, and Acuro Drive, which delivers up to 22-bit resolution as a motor feedback device.
FieldPoint becomes smaller and more rugged
Building on the success and features of the FieldPoint intelligent I/O system, National Instruments introduced Compact FieldPoint.
Axsys sells fiber division; discontinues Automation Group
Rocky Hill, CT—Axsys Technologies Inc. announced Nov. 5 that it has sold substantially all assets of its fiber automation division to Palomar Technologies Inc. (Vista, CA). This division was part of Axsys' Automation Group, which the company reported on Oct. 23 that it plans to discontinue.
NEMA publishes “Motors and Generators” standard
Rosslyn, VA— The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) recently released Revision 3 of its "Motors and Generators" standard (MG 1-1998). The 500-plus-page publication offers manufacturing and performance data related to ac and dc electric motors and generators. This is the final revision before the standard's new version is issued in 2003. MG 1-Rev.3 adds the newest available data on motors and generators.
AC Adjustable-Speed Drives
This `online extra' article provides added information to that contained in `AC Drives Meet and Exceed User Demands,' appearing in the September 2002 issue of CE.
Metrowerks To Acquire Key Assets of Applied Microsystems Corporation
Austin, TX and Redmond, WA - Metrowerks announced September 3 a definitive agreement to acquire select technology assets of Applied Microsystems Corporation (AMC/Applied), a provider of integrated hardware and software tools for programming, testing, and debugging embedded systems.
Modular conveyor uses new I/O communication design
Comau-Pico Powertrain Systems (Southfield, MI) is a supplier of automated assembly and test equipment systems serving major vehicle manufacturers in the automotive powertrain market. Its customers requested significant improvements in overall value of purchased conveyor systems. A year ago, Comau-Pico made the decision to design a completely new conveyor system for transporting automotive power...
U.S. insulated wire and cable market to exceed $26 billion by 2006
Demand for insulated wire and cable in the U.S. is expected to increase 5.1% per year through 2006 to more than $26 billion, according to a recent study, Insulated Wire & Cable, by the Freedonia Group Inc. Though well below the robust gains made during most of the 1990s, projected growth for the insulated wire and cable market could represent a significant improvement ...
Companies release many new vision products
This special product section is an online extra companion to ''Vision Systems: Eyes in the Factory,'' cover story in the August 2002 issue of Control Engineering. Several companies have recently released new vision products. Here are brief descriptions of some of the major offerings.
Halliburton invests in fiber-optic sensing for harsh environments
休斯顿,德克萨斯州——哈里伯顿能源服务(他)business unit of Halliburton, announced Aug. 19 that it is moving to develop and use fiber-optic sensor technology to improve oil and gas reservoir performance monitoring solutions. In two separate transactions, HES recently acquired Pruett Industries, a company involved in wellbore permanent monitoring and fiber-optic sensor installations, and took an equity position in Prime Photonics, a company engaged in research and development and commercialization of fi-ber optic sensors for harsh environments. Pruett Industries' assets include 65 staffers; operational bases in Bakersfield, CA, and Duri, Indo-nesia; and what HES reports is a leading presence in the fiber-optic wellbore installation market. Pruett's fiber-optic experience has been focused on distributed temperature sensing (DTS).
Pocket-size vibration meter
Model 242 is a pocket-size meter that can be used for checking and monitoring vibration on all types of rotating machinery, including blowers, fans, motors, turbines, pumps, and similar devices prone to vibration-induced damage.
No maintenance gear pumps
The UGP gear pump line is designed for the industrial and chemical industries where economical and durable positive displacement pumps are required.
In Business – 2002-08-01
Control Technology Corp. (CTC, Hopkinton, Mass.), a manufacturer of automation controllers, released high-performance servo and stepper control modules on July 18 for its newly patented Blue Fusion web-enabled product line. Veeco Instruments Inc. (Woodbury, N.Y.) and FEI Co.
Online – 2002-08-01
For more on each of these recently posted articles, go to www.globalelove.com. At Control Engineering Online, readers can also access and register for 10 topical monthly e-newsletters; read "Today's News" each business day and fresh products weekly; explore 10 channels, show coverage; search the site; and more at www.globalelove.com. Specific areas/services also include: Tutorials at www.globalelove.com/tutorials ; Subscriptions/renewals at www.globalelove.com/subscribe ; Free Info Service at www.globalelove.com/freeinfo ; Automation Integrator Guide at www.globalelove.com/integrators ; Buyer's Guide by product group, category, location, keywords at www.globalelove.com/buyersguide ; Control Engineering Europe at www.globalelove.com/europe ; and Editorial calendar, contacts and marketing opportunities at www.globalelove.com/mediainfo Readers value what Control Engineering' s editors deliver online. Average unique monthly visits increased from 21,900 in 1999 to 51,100 in 2000 to 83,100 in 2001. Spin lathe CNC upgrade helps rim maker To reduce downtime on its spin lathes, the Specialty Rim Supply (SRS) division of Specialty Blanks Inc.
New, lower power controller for Ecodrive
Hoffman Estates, IL —At 16 amps peak output (4 A continuous), new Rexroth DKC 16 controller extends Ecodrive Series servo products to lower power ranges. Benefits of a larger, high-power controller are delivered in a compact unit measuring 210 x 260 x 65 mm (8.27 x 10.24 x 2.56 in.). DKC 16's simplified power stage and reduced parts count translate into a lower cost design.
年代mall bldc motor controller delivers 1 kw of power
Canoga Park, CA—New 371-0028 brushless dc (bldc) motor controller provides 1,000 W of power in a miniature 3 x 4.65 x 1.75-in. unit weighing just 0.44 lb. This servo amplifier delivers either closed- or open-loop velocity and torque control of bldc motors, producing over 160 oz-in. torque at 7,000 rpm.
Pocket-sized vibration meter
Hillard, OH— Model 242 is a pocket-sized meter that can be used for checking and monitoring vibration on all types of rotating machinery, including blowers, fans, motors, turbines, pumps, and similar devices prone to vibration-induced damage. Battery-powered Model 242 can provide reliable vibration trending data to support machine maintenance and early detection of problems.
Control Technology Corp. introduces web-enabled controllers with servo and stepper options
Hopkinton, Mass.- Control Technology Corp. (CTC), a leading manufacturer of automation controllers, has released high-performance servo and stepper control modules for its new patented Blue Fusion web-enabled product line.
Epson introduces intelligent network controller with TCP/IP
年代an Jose, Calif.— Epson Electronics America (EEA) announced July 10 an intelligent, single-chip network controller, S1S60000, that allows designers of home networking and security, factory automation, consumer electronics, network games and small-office equipment to easily and inexpensively add network functionality to their products. By integrating the TCP/IP protocol stack, S1S60000 reduces system development time and overall system cost for designers. Epson is a subsidiary of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corp. The built-in, royalty-free protocol stack, which supports ARP, ICMP, IP, TCP, UDP, HTTP, DHCP, TFTP and SNMP, eliminates the requirement of developing an operating system or protocol stack, which helps manufacturers meet stricter time-to-market requirements.
Omron’s new ac drive offers communication choices
年代chaumburg, Ill.- Among product introductions at Omron Electronics LLC 's 4th annual "Technology Connection: A Symposium for Editors" on June 26-27 was a commercial ac inverter (adjustable-speed drive) featuring built-in communication buses that "reduce up-front costs and save user time" in HVAC and variable-torque applications. Designated 3G3PV, the drive incorporates two software-selectable communication protocols important to this application sector-Metasys, from Johnson Controls, and Apogee, from Siemens. Other networking choices available to the user are DeviceNet (via an option card) and RS-422/RS-485 serial communication. The inverter carries ratings of 0.75-125 hp (0.56-94 kW) at 230 V ac input; and 0.75-500 hp (0.56-375 kW) at 460 V ac supply.
Power module integrates 130 components
El Segundo, Calif.— First member of the new iNTERO family is a programmable, isolated intelligent power module (PI-IPM), rated at 50 A and 1,200 V, for the control of servo, brushless dc, and ac induction motors up to 15 kW rating. The module's core is a complete 3-phase inverter in a size compatible with the popular "EconoPack.
年代ervo motor integrates gearbox
Mequon,威斯康星州。— Allen-Bradley MP Series Integrated Gear Motors combine a servo motor and gear box to deliver a 40% smaller and 25% lighter package than traditional designs with an add-on gearbox. A single- or multi-turn feedback device is included. Reducing the size of rotational masses in the integrated design led to the motor's 80% operating efficiency, much higher than standard units.
Adept launches motion and vision controller
年代an Jose, Calif.- Adept Technology Inc. introduced June 25 its new SmartController CX, which is the second in its family of distributed motion and vision controllers. SmartController CX includes full support for the company's AdeptVision sAVI and a faster processor that supports demanding motion and vision applications. SmartController CX also includes additional serial communication ports for added flexibility, as well as standard fast Ethernet, DeviceNet and Adept's FireWire-based SmartServo network interfaces.
The golden robot
Västerås, Sweden - Since 1974, robots produced in ABB's plant here have been coloured bright orange. This spring, however, factory workers sprayed gold paint on one special robot that represents a milestone for the company: product number 100,000. " 100,000 robots is an impressive number and we are very proud to be the first company to reach this milestone," says Lars-Gunnar Berggren, who is globally responsible for ABB's robotic business. ABB sold the gold robot In March to motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson in the USA for an arc welding application. In ABB's first year of operation it sold 20 robots, mainly for machine tending and material handling, an area that still accounts for one-third of its business.
年代ealevel Systems releases Windows XP serial driver
Liberty, S.C . - Sealevel Systems announced June 11 the release of its enhanced Microsoft Windows XP advanced SeaCOM serial driver. SeaCOM provides support for advanced UARTs, and Auto RS-485 RTS control. The advanced UART tab allows detailed control of UART features not available in the standard Windows COM driver.
KEB expands production facilities
KEB's Schneeberg'splant has doubled in size. Barntrup, Germany - Electrical motor and drive manufacturer KEB announced it had recently expanded two of its facilities in Germany to create 15,200m2 of new production space and 3,000m2 of office space. At its Barntrup headquarters, the expansion involves 6,200m2 of new production space, 1,500m2 of new office space and investment of 10.2 million euros in plant and machinery. The new facilities are now the new home for the design, sales and production of the company's electro-mechanical products.
Control Engineering’s Process Control Newsletter for November 2001
在这个问题上:控制策略的发展历程OPC meeting more and more needs Rapid alarm response system Easy transfers of ODBC data to off-line SPCSQC software Visual process signatures for data analysis Intelligent hydrogen sulfide detector Conferences, seminars, and exhibitions November in Control Engineering Control strategy development course I've written before how I regularly receive inquiry's asking to explain PID (proportional, integral, derivative) control, recommend tuning parameters for a particular application, or recommend a control strategy. My answer is always about the same; visit / and read the many articles we have published; buy books from sources such as https://www.isa.org ; and attend training courses. ControlSoft (Cleveland, O.) has arranged to host a series of one-day process control strategy classes over the next few weeks. 11/29/01 - Toronto, Ontario 12/04/01 - Indianapolis, Indiana 12/07/01 - Cleveland, Ohio, and 12/11/01 - Boston, Massachusetts. Each class is designed to teach engineers and technicians the most common process control strategies. Each strategy will be simulated to demonstrate why, when, and how to use the strategy.
Control Engineering Control Components Newsletter for April 2002
In this issue: Control components merit respect Olflex changes name to Lapp USA; debuts cables at NMW 2002 Lumberg launches Fixcon connector standard at NMW 2002 Remke introduces shielded connector at NMW 2002 Online components course available from Siemens GlobalSpec offers component sourcing at NMW 2002 'Back to Basics': insulation displacement yields cost benefits Four main sources of signal interference Major pushbutton, switch product manufacturer listing Control components merit respect 'For the want of a nail, the shoe was lost. For the want of a shoe, the horse was lost. And for the want of a horse, the rider was lost, being overtaken and slain by the enemy, all for the want of care about a horseshoe nail.
控制工程的每月通讯系统m Integration — December 2001
在这个问题上:八种方法找到自动化系统m integrators CSIs survey finds sophisticated jobs increase profitability Control System Integrator Association (CSIA) certifies integrators Caterpillar's SCADAware team optimizes cell control Servo retrofit improves Avon's mascara packaging line John Deere's test stand equipment validates tractor cab systems Providing a reliable, expandable process water control system Replacing Kodak's outdated sorter-conveyor control system More on this issue's integrator articles Please send system integrator news Webcast learning, general information resources Eight ways to find automation system integrators Advanced searching capabilities in the online version of Control Engineering's 2002 Automation Integrator Guide can help users find system integrators more easily. The guide lists approximately 1,000 system integrators, control consultants and automation engineering firms. By visiting www.globalelove.com/integrators , users can register and search by: Geographic area Product experience Industries served Engineering specialties Corporate affiliations-if the integrator is a value added reseller, authorized system integrator or a distributor Annual revenue Professional affiliations By name Back to top CSIs survey finds sophisticated jobs increase profitability The evolution of control engineering, from assembling controllers to designing and configuring complete automation systems, has led to the proliferation of control system integrators (CSIs).
ASIRobicon’s drives picked for BP’s deepwater program
低- and medium-voltage drives manufacturer ASIRobicon was recently awarded a strategic contract with British Petroleum for up to $12 million for its Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Development Program. ASIRobicon will provide variable-frequency ac drives for several BP production platforms presently in development.
Direct-drive actuator offers integrated components
Pittsburgh, Pa.—New Linear Motor Actuator (LMA) Series eliminates ballscrews and drive belts to deliver high-speed, acceleration, and accuracy benefits of direct-drive technology. These modular integrated stages help users ease the task of selecting multiple matched components, such as brushless servo motors, encoders, bearings, and other parts.
廉价汽车花费英国制造商数百万
London, U.K. - British industry is wasting millions of pounds annually through the use of poor reliability motors from the Far East, says Steve Ruddell, senior VP of electrical machines at ABB.
Control Engineering’s Process Instrumentation Enewsletter –June 2000
In this issue: Introduction Fiber-optic level sensing Sensing more of what goes up the stack Keeping tabs on engine oil levels Monitoring H 2 S Archive Sensors go hypersonic? Looking through a different window Just in case you do not recognize this newsletter from Control Engineering magazine, it is new this month. The editor in charge of this offering is yours truly, Dick Johnson . I am the Senior Editor that handles Instrumentation and Process Sensors for the magazine and I will do my best to treat the same subject-often from a slightly different or expanded perspective- in this new medium.
Control Engineering’s Process Instrumentation Enews — December 2001
In this issue: Major shift in flow technology usage predicted Safety first, last, and always Back to the drawing board for enclosure manufacturers? GE Industrial Systems acquires TGB On-line quality control for 'hot stuff' What a mess! -preventing the need for soil remediation through leak detection SCLE presentations archived for viewing Archive Major shift in flow technology usage predicted Wakefield, Mass. - According to a new market study from Flow Research and Drucker Worldwide (Bloomfield Hills, Mich.), users are moving away from traditional flow technologies towards what the survey calls New Technology flowmeters. New Technology flowmeters include Coriolis, magnetic, ultrasonic, vortex, and multivariable dp meters.
International Rectifier’s new power modules cut drive design risk
El Segundo, Calif. - Good news for designers and developers of customized motor controls, International Rectifier has raised the bar for intelligent power modules with its new iNTERO family that incorporates 130 components, extra functions, and an optional controller in one compact package.
Entivity and Comtrol partner on industrial monitoring and control
密歇根州安娜堡。- Entivity Inc. and Comtrol Corp. announced May 8 a strategic partnership that integrates Comtrol's Ethernet-connected device servers and multiport controllers as the preferred connectivity hardware for all Entivity's control software.
ABB joins ‘Motor Decisions Matter’ campaign
Boston, Mass. - As announced in late April, ABB (Norwalk, Conn.) has become the 30th sponsoring member of "Motor Decisions Matter," the national campaign to develop an overall management plan for electric motors.
Increasing growth expected in ac drive markets
A February 2002 market research and technology forecast report, "AC Drives Outlook for North America 2002-2006," from Drives Research Corp. (DRC), is injecting some much-needed realism into market growth figures. In contrast to other recent studies, DRC sees just the start of modest growth for ac drives in 2002, following "a double-digit decline in 2001.
Rockwell buys Samsung’ controller business
Rockwell Automation and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. announced April 18 that Rockwell Automation Korea will acquire the controller division of Samsung's Mechatronics business, located near Seoul. This acquisition will result in the formation of a new business, Rockwell Samsung Automation, which will design and develop automation products including PLCs, mo...
New integrated brushless dc motor/drive
Blacksburg, Va. —Models BND12 and BND23 high-performance brushless dc motors with integrated drive electronics offer low audible noise and long-life operation along with space savings. The new motor/drive combination has torque ratings from 1.7-22.0 oz-in., with speeds up to 12,000 rpm. Each frame size is available in different lengths.
Reality in ac drive markets
年代an Juan Capistrano, Calif. - A February 2002 market research and technology forecast report, "AC Drives Outlook for North America 2002-2006," from Drives Research Corp. (DRC) puts some much needed realism into market growth figures. In contrast to other recent studies, DRC sees just the start of modest growth for ac drives in 2002, following "a double-digit decline in 2001."
Rockwell Automation agrees to purchase Samsung Electronics controller business
Milwaukee, Wis. and Seoul, Korea - Rockwell Automation and Samsung Electronics Company Limited announced April 18 that Rockwell Automation Korea has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the controller division of Samsung's Mechatronics business located near Seoul, Korea.
MDSI upgrades five-axis machining software
密歇根州安娜堡。——制造业数据系统公司。(MDSI) has released OpenCNC Version 6.2, said to increase machine performance by up to 25%. The latest release also extends five-axis machining and probing capabilities.
Berkeley launches motion, machine control solutions for converting/packaging
Richmond, Calif. - To accelerate machine commissioning and throughput in the converting/packaging industries, Berkeley Process Control Inc. on Mar. 28 introduced what it reports is a new, integrated motion and machine control technology. The company reports that its user-friendly technology is designed to accelerate commissioning and throughput of formfill/seal, cartoning, can and bottle filling, case packing and palletization machines.
Motorola adds 8-bit Flash microcontrollers
Austin, Tex. - Designers of appliance, consumer products, and industrial equipment will find it easier to develop lower-cost systems with new 8-bit Flash microcontrollers (MCU) announced today by Motorola's Semiconductor Products Sector.
Metrowerks releases DSP development tools
Austin, Tex. - Metrowerks on April 1 announced the availability of CodeWarrior Development Tools for DSP56800, Version 5.0. The tools support the entire family of Motorola DSP56800 hybrid digital signal processors (DSPs), including the DSP56F80x and DSP56F82x processors.
5-phase microstepping motor and driver
Torrance, Calif.—Nanostep CFKII Series consists of a 5-phase hybrid stepping motor and a high-resolution microstepping driver. Motors—standard or high-speed models—come in four sizes (1.1-3.35 in.2 cross section) with a holding torque range of 4.6-890 oz-in. The open-frame, modular drivers offer 16 user-selectable resolutions up to 125,000 microsteps/rev.
美国Olflex改名为拉普兰人;介绍了电缆
Olflex Wire & Cable announced at NMW 2002 that it was recently merged with sister company Contact Electronics, and then the two were renamed Lapp USA by their corporate parent, Lapp Group. The newly joined firm has also relocated to new headquarters in Florham Park, N.J. Following this reorganization and relocation, Lapp USA announced Mar.
NMW 2002: Olflex changes name to Lapp USA; debuts cables
Chicago, Ill. - Olflex Wire & Cable announced at National Manufacturing Week that it was recently merged with sister company Contact Electronics, and then the two were renamed Lapp USA by their corporate parent, Lapp Group. The newly joined firm has also relocated to new headquarters in Florham Park, N.J.
Baldor Electric continues energy-efficiency education
Oak Brook, Ill. - Concerns about energy-efficiency and usage of energy are gradually receiving deserved attention-whether applied to electric motors, drive systems, process controls, or industrial lighting. Recent one-day seminars presented here by Baldor Electric Co. (Fort Smith, Ark. www.baldor.com) continue to spread the word on ways industrial customers can reduce their total electric bill and get return on investment typically under 24 months.
Rockwell Automation’s compact ac drive stands alone or mounts on motor
Mequon,威斯康星州。——罗克韦尔自动化刚刚‘茵特罗德女士’uced Bulletin 160Z AC Drive for three-phase motors in the 0.37-3.7 kW (0.5-5 hp) range at 200-240 V and 380-460 V input. It's intended for distributed, stand-alone applications as well as for mounting on most standard ac induction motors.
Linear, rotary valve actuators incorporate DeviceNet
Addison, Tex .—Mini-Top Series valve actuators improve valve control via high-resolution positioning that employs a built-in feedback positioner and electronic limiter. Mini-Top needs less wiring than comparable actuators, thereby reducing I/O requirements on the PLC or other higher level control system, says the manufacturer.
Corrections & Clarifications
The in-print synopsis ["Modular VFD with cell bypass eliminates interruptions,' Online, CE, Jan.'02, p. 12] of the full-text online version incorrectly listed the location of Marathon Ashland Petroleum's refinery. The correct location is Robinson, Ill. A page reference on the cover of CE, Feb.'02, gave an incorrect reference for "Exclusive: Intellution releases InfoAgent." The item is located on p.
VFDs for 1- and 3-phase motors
Mountain View, Calif .—Two newly introduced EagleDrive Series variable-frequency drives (VFDs) are designed for the control of 1- and 3-phase ac induction motors under various input voltages. Said to be an "industry-first" one-phase standard VFD, EagleDrive1 Series suits 1-phase motors up to 1.
‘Smart’ positioning controller
Hauppauge, N.Y.— SPC 200, a servopneumatic positioning system, is a 2-axis unit designed to simplify system configuration and programming. According to its developer, it was developed to provide extended flexibility with a minimum amount of effort and knowledge, and reduce the cost associated with implementing and commissioning the system.
Micro proportional driver
Youngstown, O.— The Block Micro Proportional Driver (MPD) is designed as a full-featured, all-in-one driver. The device is used to control the flow of air or liquids through proportional solenoid valves. While this driver offers an array of adjustments, its palm-sized configuration is said to make it ideal for any size application.
Parker Hannifin allies with Animatics for integrated motor control
Parker Hannifin Corp. announced Feb. 21 that is has formed a long-term business alliance with Animatics Corp. (Santa Clara, Calif.), which manufactures integrated motor control systems, known as SmartMotors. Their alliance will give Parker access to Animatics' patented integrated motor control technology, including new products; allow the two firms to participate in...
OSE Systems launches Internet portal
Nuremberg, Germany - OSE Systems launched OSE Connect, an Internet portal for its partner program. The portal will provide embedded developers with a simple and flexible path to engineering solutions from industry leaders such as MIPS, Motorola, and IBM.
年代ervo actuators for precise positioning
皮博迪,质量。—PS Series Flange Output (PSF) and Shaft Output (PSS) actuators feature harmonic drive gearing for zero-backlash and high torque, 50-160:1 gearhead reduction ratios, and a design that integrates well with a variety of servo and stepper motors. PS Series servo actuators offer better than 1 arc min of positional accuracy, up to 2,900 lb-in.
Users expect DAQ to also include analysis and control
First-generation data acquisition (DAQ) simply meant acquiring data, often using chart recorders and data loggers.One of the earliest industrial uses of personal computers (PCs) was to replace panel-boards of circular and strip chart recorders with PC-based DAQ hardware and software. However, most early DAQ software only provided the "back office" functionality of acquiring and archiving ...
‘System’ drive has SERCOS interface
Hoffman Estates, Ill.—System200 REFUdrive with output ratings of 1.5-600 kW, suits Bosch Rexroth's system solutions, while its SERCOS interface allows distributed control structures including servo drives. The SERCOS interface expands existing options for connection to Profibus-DP, Interbus S, and CANopen.
ABB medium-voltage drives and motors power wind tunnel
New Berlin, Wis. - ABB has recently been awarded a $29-million order from the U.S. Air Force for large drives and motors at the Arnold Engineering & Development Center's (AEDC) Propulsion Wind Tunnel facility (Tullahoma, Tenn.).
New contactors, overload relays from Siemens
Alpharetta, Ga. - Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc. recently introduced three sizes of large-frame contactors and overload relays with ratings in the 115-500 A range for both ac or dc motor control.
Easy configuration
伊甸草原,明尼苏达州。——为应用程序设计的智慧h multiple motion axes, Modular Drive System (MDS) is said to be the most easily configured drive system on the market. It features an innovative backplane architecture that employs a common power supply to reduce part count and cost, simplify installation, and eliminate power handling issues found in other common bus systems.
Observers improve resolver conversion in motion systems
Resolvers are commonly used in motion-control systems as position sensors. Resolvers work like variable transforms, where the transformation ratio changes with the position of the motor shaft. A resolver works by taking a reference waveform, which is a fixed-amplitude sinusoid, and producing two amplitude-modulated output signals: one encoding the sine of the position and the other, the c...
Trends in Industrial Networking
Networks expand across control areas; intelligence moves into field Who's using industrial networks? Everybody, networking touches all areas of control and automation as it evolves beyond simple communication, as fieldbus applications gain ground against hardwiring, as all types of hardware are equipped with networking and intelligence capabilities, and as all these solutions are linked t...
High-response motor family unveiled
California Linear Devices has introduced a new family of tubular linear motors with velocity ripple of ±1.0%, which is said to provide more responsive and accurate performance, better control, and minimizes the effects of outside disturbances.
年代ervo Retrofit Improves Packaging Quality
With the introduction of new Avon Color IV mascara products, Avon Products Inc. (Morton Grove, Ill.) decided to upgrade its automated mascara package capping equipment to achieve higher and more consistent torque applied to the mascara bottle cap. The filling line needed on-line torque measurement/application equipment capable of ensuring all caps were applied with 7.
Relay output expansion module
Burgaw, N.C. - The 'ricos' four output relay module is compatible with all current ricos base modules supporting major networking protocols. The relay provides a normally open contact for control voltages of up to 250 Vac/30 Vdc with a current rating of 5 A per relay.
Direct-drive, brushless ‘pancake’ motor
Roseville, Calif. - With motor axial lengths as short as 10 mm (0.4 in.), diameters up to 165 mm, and through holes up to 120 mm, new ULT Series brushless motors offer flexibility for direct drive designs. Just two assemblies comprise the frameless construction: a simple machine-wound stator and a rotor with one-piece rare-earth (NdFeB) magnet.
Ormec boosts ‘soft motion’ control
"Soft motion" technology (software-based, open PC-based motion control) received a boost from the Nov. 5 introduction of ServoWire SM from Ormec. ServoWire SM offers control of up to eight servo motion axes from a standard PC via an IEEE-1394 (Firewire) network. The method seeks to cut motion system cost and complexity by eliminating the need for proprietary board-...
Direct-drive, brushless ‘pancake’ motor offers flexibility
Roseville, Calif .—With motor axial lengths as short as 10 mm (0.4 in.), diameters up to 165 mm, and through holes up to 120 mm, new ULT Series brushless motors offer flexibility for direct drive designs. Just two assemblies comprise the frameless construction: a simple machine-wound stator and a rotor with one-piece rare-earth (NdFeB) magnet.
11 new sponsors boost ‘Motor Decisions Matter’ campaign
Boston, Mass. - The national campaign to develop an overall management plan for electric motors, known as "Motor Decisions Matter" (MDM) was bolstered at the end of October 2001 by 10 motor manufacturers and an organization that focuses on improving energy investment returns-Advanced Energy (Raleigh, N.C.).
年代oft starter for medium voltages
Clearwater, Fla .—Medium-voltage motor applications in the 2.3-13.8 kV range can benefit from the introduction of MVC Plus Series Medium Voltage Soft Starter. The fully adjustable unit supplies the exact voltage required to start a load, holding down damaging inrush currents. It also provides a "soft stopping" feature, plus selectable pump control starting curves that make it an al...
Direct-drive motor with high-voltage option
Radford, Va. - Goldline DDR (Direct Drive Rotary) motors have a new high-voltage option allowing them to work with the company's ServoStar 600 drive amplifier at 400 V or 480 V ac input. At these voltage levels, there is no need for a transformer in many applications.
Automated line aids coffee creamer bulk bag filling, reduces waste
To lessen aeration and improve accuracy, Anchor Products (Reporoa, New Zealand) recently installed an automated packing line for filling bulk bags with sodium caseinate.
The 3 (or more) faces of ac variable-speed drives
P robably the most versatile among motor control methods, ac variable-speed drives (VSDs) are available in three principal flavors. Open-loop control, sensorless vector control, and flux vector control provide increasingly sophisticated command of induction motors [and permanent magnet synchronous motors]. Comparative VSD Characteristics V/Hz Control Sensorless Vector Control Flux Vector Control* Speed regulation 1% 0.5% 0.001% Speed range 40:1 100-120:1 >1,000:1 Torque regulation - +/-5%* +/-2% Starting torque 150% 150-250%** 150-400%** *Field-oriented FVC base Source: Control Engineering with data from Danfoss, GE Toshiba, Rockwell Automation, and Schneider Electric Open-loop ac drives employ the simplest motor control, the so-called Volts per Hertz (V/Hz) method. Also known as "scalar" control to differentiate it from vector control methods, V/Hz runs in open loop without a formal feedback device.
AC drive designed for test stands
Franksville, Wis .—Unico's 2400 Performance Vector Drive contains software specifically designed for test stand (transmission, component, etc.) and dynamometer (engine, chassis, emissions, etc.) applications. The modular, all-digital drive features a Velocity Observer that determines motor speed and acceleration using a transducer, or estimates those parameters without a transduc...
Roy-G-Biv and Galil partner for motion solution
Bingen, Wash. - Roy-G-Biv Corp. announced October 26, 2001 its partnership with Galil Motion.
Online Configuration Services from NI
Austin, Tex. - National Instruments' Online Service speeds system configuration and checks product compatibility.
Fanuc Robotics debuts packing robot
Rochester Hills, Mich. - Fanuc Robotics North America Inc. is debuting the FANUC M-420iA intelligent packing robot at Worldwide Food from October 18 to 21 in booth #713 at the McCormick Center in Chicago.
Numerous innovations launched at ISA 2001
Though shortened by Sept. 11's terrorist attacks, many exhibitors still managed to unveil a host of new products, solutions, and services at ISA 2001.To help developers achieve real-time performance and determinism for Microsoft Windows-based applications, Data Translation (Marlboro, Mass.
Electronic motor drive market expected to grow
The worldwide electronic motor drives (EMDs) market is projected to increase at compound annual growth rate of 8.8% per year from $12.5 billion 2000 to $19.1 billion in 2005, according to a study by Drives Research Corp. The reports adds that emerging applications and infrastructure investments by users in industrial, transportation, and utilities in de...
NEMA, CEE, EASA promote energy-efficient motor initiatives
Two initiatives for energy-efficient electric motors were launched June 25 at the Electrical Apparatus Service Association's (EASA, St. Louis, Mo.) annual convention and exhibition at McCormick Place in Chicago. NEMA PremiumThe first program, "NEMA Premium," by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA, Rosslyn, Va.
The Essentials of Structured PLC
This tutorial is an expansion of the CE September Back to Basics article.
Amplifier for linear motors
Westwood, Mass. - To obtain high performance, direct-drive linear motors require acceleration to several 'Gs' for short-duration, typically in the 50-100 msec range. Model 7225X1-50 servo amplifier supplies the higher level of peak current needed-rrent, according to Copley Controls.
Efficient ac motor control
El Segundo, Calif. - New process technology for IGBTs (insulated-gate bipolar transistors) and FREDs (fast recovery epitaxial diodes) promises increased useful speed range for ac motors. These power-switching devices-used in welders and uninterruptible power supplies, as well-can now deliver 70% faster turn-off time (0.3sampling.
Ease design set up for brushless PM motors
Lebanon, O. -The new Microsoft Windows version of Speed brushless permanent magnet motor design software provides motor manufacturers and larger OEMs with quick-start design simulation platform. It uses nine common, brushless, PM motor cross sections to facilitate design set up.
Control line pressure
Marshalltown, Ia. —Emerson Process Management's regulatory division recently introduced GridBoss Gas Pressure Control and Management System to provide gas utility companies better control of line pressures. Using a low pressure point controller, GridBoss gathers pressure data and transmits the data to the district regulator controller.
Magnetic control of process load speeds saves energy at mills
Motors drive the pumps at Daishowa America (Port Angeles, Wa.) at 7,000 gallons per minute (gpm), while the paper mill's treatment process averages 4,800 gpm. To achieve the lesser flow rate, the system previously used bypass and discharge valves to restrict and regulate flow. Consequently, the bypass valve returned 2,200 gpm to the pump station, wasting significant energy.
AC drive with enhanced vector control
罗克福德,病了。——VLT 5000系列无传感器矢量drives now include enhanced vector control that provides required torque at all speeds for ac induction motors in the 1-600 hp range. Called VVC plus, the control system is said to provide 160% torque over the drive's full speed range-down to and through 0 rpm in open-loop mode.
Gas pressure control system controls line pressures better
Marshalltown, Ia . -- Emerson Process Management's regulatory division recently introduced GridBoss Gas Pressure Control and Management System, to provide gas utility companies better control of line pressures. Using a low pressure point controller, GridBoss gathers pressure data and transmits the data to the district regulator controller where an adaptive/predictive algorithm develops setpoint profiles based on time of day and ambient temperature to adjust the district regulator actuator or servo valve in anticipation of gas demands.
Encoder includes brushless commutation
Goleta, Calif. - Brushless motor commutation pulses and incremental position feedback signals are combined in Renco's new RCML15 optical encoder. The low-profile device (0.350-in.
Prepare for the bounce
Did you lose the spring in your step as we rounded the turn into summer? Seems like some peoples' high-velocity hopes for second-quarter 2001 business wound up being a slow pitch. Before eyeing the next curveball, it might be good to assess your readiness. What are you doing? If things are slow, you can stop all spending; freeze new spending and continue with existing projects; initiate sel...
Linear drives with miniature profile
Roanoke, Va. - Two versions of Wiesel linear drives are now available for tight space applications. Each has a compact aluminum profile (40 x 40 mm) and maximum stroke length of 6.5 ft.
Corrections – 2001-07-01
Contrary to a sidebar in "Ethernet standards may aid users, fuel market growth," Market Update,CE, May '01., p.12, Schneider Electric Automation (North Andover, Mass.) reports that Modbus/TCP does have real-time control and object-oriented capabilities, and targets more than legacy PLCs. The company adds that Modbus/TCP will also possess publisher/subscriber by 3Q01.
Open architecture CNC
Chatsworth, Calif.—Advantage 800 Series CNC systems provide features including automated "CNC Auto Pilot" setup, Segmented Dynamic Block Lookahead for high-speed machining using Turbo PMAC, simultaneous control of eight axes, and 3D tool display. Operator interface includes Microsoft Windows 95, 98, 2000 compatibility and 15-in.
Network-ready, vector control drives
New Providence, N.J. - VF-CE is a new line of vector control, variable-frequency drives (VFDs) for the 1/3-5 hp size range of motors. Input is either 100-220 V ac (single-phase) or 220 V (three-phase).
Bosch Automation Technology merges with Mannesmann Rexroth
Racine, Wis.— Following recent U.S. Federal Trade Commission approval of their merger, Bosch Automation Technology and Mannesmann Rexroth Corp. (Chicago, Ill.) announced that the two companies began operating as one on May 1, 2001. The new company's legal name in North America is Bosch Rexroth Corp.
年代ervo drives expand power range
Rochester, N.Y. -Three new models now expand power ratings of ServoWire digital drives to 15 kW, and output current (torque) to 60 A/phase rms. Both ratings are continuous.
Open CNC powers machining center rebuild
Many old computer numerical control (CNC) machines have a solid mechanical structure, but out-of-date controls. Retrofitting an old machine with new controls and rebuilding its mechanical hardware, such as ball screws and ways, can make it run like a new machine. HM Dunn (Euless, Tex.) specializes in manufacturing aerospace components.
National Instruments, Siemens cooperate to develop solutions
德国汉诺威-国家仪器(镍、Austin, Tex.) and Siemens AG's (Munich, Germany) Automation and Drives Group announced April 23 at Hannover Fair 2001 a cooperative effort to develop measurement and automation solutions for applications requiring precise measurement and control of manufacturing processes.
Variable-speed control alternative is ‘magnetic’
年代eattle, Wa .—A sophisticated, magnetic "coupling" placed between a motor and its driven load enables variable-speed control of ac motors up to 600 hp at 460 V—as well as medium-voltage (4,300 V) motors. The device is not another version of eddy-current control. MagnaDrive Coupling consists of a copper conductor assembly connected to the motor shaft and a precision rotor assembly (...
Energy-efficient motors may now get respect
M aking electric motors more efficient has never had greater incentive than today. Recent realities of energy costs and supply problems underline the need to act. Electric motors consume over 60% of all electricity used by U.S. industry.
Baldor highlights servo motors, soft starters at NMW
Baldor Electric Co.
年代ervo drives to hydraulic hose, all part of system solutions at Parker
Parker Hannifin Corp.
低-cost motor controller, programming unit from Anacon
Anacon Systems
Automated fault detection predicts electric motor failures
土耳其伊斯坦布尔-电动机predi失败ction technology, Artesis' Motor Condition Monitor (MCM) software/hardware product, can automate fault detection without expert databases. Experimental modeling technology assesses the motor, without long training cycles or trend analysis. MCM is highly immune to external influences, especially vibration, and sensitive to mechanical faults, such as bearing faults.
Transmit torque through barrier
艾迪生,我ll. -MDC/MSV magnetic synchronous torque-limiting clutches transmit torque through a housing, cabinet, or other sealed application. Two disks (or cylinders) lined with permanent magnets opposite each other across the barrier and an air gap.
Today’s Sensorless AC Drives Have More to Offer
A djustable-speed ac drives operating without an encoder or other external feedback device-so-called sensorless drives-represent a growing middleground between high-performance closed-loop control and simpler Volts/Hertz control for induction motors. As explained in the main article , a good deal of sensorless drives' popularity stems from improvements in speed regulation under changing loads, starting torque, and low-speed control. Most sensorless ac drives are based on one of various flux vector methods-loosely named sensorless vector (SV) control. Control Techniques (Eden, Prairie, Minn.; Newtown, Powys, U.K.) sees a definite emergence of sensorless vector control because of the improved dynamic performance it offers over open-loop (V/Hz) control.
Brushless dc motor with onboard control
Harleysville, Pa. -Elcom ST size 23 slotted brushless dc (bldc) motors feature commutation control electronics inside the motor housing. This custom option reduces size, weight, and operating cost versus standard bldc motors, says the manufacturer.
Yaskawa Electric America acquires MagneTek’s drives business unit
Announced Jan. 29, 2001, Yaskawa Electric America Inc. (YEA) has acquired ownership and operation of MagneTek Inc.'s (New Berlin, Wis.) drive products business. This business unit sells, modifies, and services general-purpose and high-performance ac drives, and was a part of MagneTek Drives & Systems group.
Motion control with embedded PLC
Tarpon Springs, Fla.— IPM240 intelligent servo drive offers operating modes including master/slave or standalone operation with predefined motion sequences combined with programmable I/O points or analog inputs. The 136 x 84 x 26-mm package has current ratings of 5 A continuous and 15 A peak from a 12-48 V dc power supply.
PLC Troubleshooting Dialog Boxes
年代C Johnson Wax Professional needed a new processing facility at the Waxdale campus in Racine, Wis., to produce and package a full range of cleaner and floor stripper products with a Just-In-Time (JIT) production model. Small and medium batches were needed on five production lines with a quick cycle time to meet incoming orders.
Engineering a Windows-based SCADA Control System
When Western Mining Corp. (Southbank, Victoria, Australia) decided to expand its mining operations at the Olympic Dam site in southern Australia, the project required a large control system in a short time frame. As system integrator and lead contractor for this project, Ci Technologies Inc. (Charlotte, N.
Miconex 2000 continues growing
Beijing, China—Miconex 2000—International Fair for Measurement, Instrumentation, and Automation—grew to nearly 500 exhibitors and drew 45,300 visitors during its Sept.11-14 run here. Messe Düsseldorf China Ltd. (MDC, Shanghai) reported nearly all exhibitors indicated satisfaction with number of visitors (98%), quality of visitors (94%), and their overall participa...
Integrated servo motor/drive unit lowers cost
年代anta Clara, Calif .—The latest version of Animatics' SmartMotor SM2315 (controller, amplifier, and encoder built into a size 23 brushless dc motor) uses an ASIC-based microcontroller to perform nearly at the level of previous DSP-based models—yet it lowers the cost to $499, for quantity of one.
Compact bldc speed-control system
Torrance, Calif .—AXH Series brushless dc speed control system offers ±1% regulation over a 25:1 speed range (from 2,500 rpm), while reducing motor volume 55%, compared to an ac induction motor of equivalent power. The board-level driver adds another 60% volume reduction versus a standard driver.
YAG meets robot
Rochester Hills, Mich.— Fanuc Robotics' Y-16I YAGRobot includes robot, Y-1000A YAG laser, laser-specific software, and autofocus head. The product provides a single point of interface for laser processing. It is one of a series of six-axis, electric servo driven robots combined with R-J3 controller and fully integrated Y-series Nd:YAG slab-type laser generator.
Direct-drive tubular linear servo actuator
Carlsbad, Calif. -A new, direct-drive linear tubular motor provides peak force of 750 lb (at 30-A peak current) over a 2-12 in. stroke range.
年代ensors Expo visits Detroit
Detroit, Mich.—Wireless communications and smart sensors highlighted products unveiled at the semiannual Sensors Expo held here on Sept. 19-21:Advantech Automation (Cincinnati, O.) introduced its ADAM-4550, a DIN-rail mountable direct-sequence spread spectrum radio modem, for sensor data transfer through wireless serial communication.
TI unveils open DSP software platform for motor control
Using its eXpressDSP real-time software platform to make digital signal processor (DSP) motor control development faster and easier, Texas Instruments (TI) on Sept. 25 launched what it reports is the first open platform for DSP software used for digital motor control. The new platform includes standards, algorithms and plug-in tools expected to aid DSP motor control ...
ABB introduces seven software products
ABB Automation (Rochester, N.Y.) announced Sept. 25 a comprehensive software portfolio, IndustrialIT, for process manufacturing, including seven kinds of software and a new controller during a global webcast here at Microsoft Studios. IndustrialIT products include ControlIT; EngineerIT, to integrate operations and asset lifecycle efficiencies; OperateIT, for a simplif...
Innovative, scalable battery management system
Costa Mesa, Calif.— Galaxy 3000 three-phase, online 10-30 kVA UPS operates at 97% efficiency, which reportedly result in an energy savings equivalent to the total UPS cost in a few years. Galaxy meets the needs of small-to-medium size e-businesses and allows for rapid growth with designs that support from 10 to 40 servers.
Integrated drive adds velocity-servo mode
Hillsboro, Ore.—DriveBlok, a family of integrated drives for ac induction and PM brushless motors (1-20 hp), has added a velocity-servo operating mode. The new feature, called "SensorlesServo" velocity control, virtually eliminates speed-loop latencies, says the company. A software algorithm calculates rotor position information from voltage and current measurements, without a feedback se...
Jungo releases driver development tools
Jungo recently released WinDriver and KernelDriver version 5.0 driver development tools. Version 5.0 includes a multi-platform Wizard for Linux, Solaris, and Microsoft Windows driver developers; a new KernelDriver Wizard that generates code for a kernel mode driver; and a remote hardware access tool.
Adept Technology acquires Hexavision Technologies
Adept Technology Inc. (San Jose, Calif.) announced July 24 that it has acquired HexaVision Technologies, a Quebec-based machine vision R&D company. HexaVision develops high-performance vision software for machine and robot guidance in the photonics, telecommunications, semiconductor and automotive industries.
ABB combines U.K. automation, instrumentation companies
ABB announced July 18 that it is combining its automation and instrumentation companies in the U.K. into one industrial information technology (IT) organization, ABB Automation Ltd., employing more than 1,600 people. David Denton, now in charge of automation activities, was appointed managing director of the new unit.
年代eparate processor for each motion axis
Minneapolis, Minn.—SB214PC multiaxis PC/ISA-based motion controller provides up to four axes of control for ac induction, dc brush, and ac servo/synchronous motors. A 20 MHz Intel 80C196KD processor handles high-level task management, while one 80 MHz Servo Processor per axis serves real-time control tasks.
年代ervo programming software for 1-axis positioning
Victor, N.Y. -MotionPro software package uses Block.Step format for programming the Industrial Indexing Systems line of single-axis positioning systems. Blocks number 127, with five special blocks for automatic execution of code during transitions between modes.
MV drives flex muscles, widen applications
Wider applications for medium-voltage (MV) drives are opening due to the substantial increase in power output of ACS 6000 drives, introduced by ABB Industrie AG in late May 2000. ACS 6000 expands power output with a 3-27 MW range at 3.3 kV (up to 6.6 kV for high-speed units).
ABB motors, drives enable new cement plant process
Inspiration and perspiration get the credit, but most innovations become reality thanks to the right tools and available resources. For instance, a new semi-dry process is nearly doubling capacity at Lone Star Industries' cement plant (Greencastle, Ind.) from 750,000 tons per year to 1.3 million tons to keep up with demand.
On the edge
而companies merge and purge, readers aim to cover their own assets, strengthening career handholds with knowledge and information.Control Engineering readers—as this edition's cover story reveals—earn more, have more people reporting to them, expect to spend as much or more, and continue to use Control Engineering, online and in print, as must-have resources during techn...
More power from ac microdrives
罗克福德,病了。-VLT Micro Adjustable-Frequency Drives now come with expanded power for 230 V applications (DIN-rail mounting. Danfoss Drives.
年代uperconducting motor runs successfully
罗克韦尔自动化(密尔沃基,威斯康星州)和美国年代uperconductor Corp. (Westborough, Mass.) announced July 19 the successful operation of a 1,000 hp high temperature superconducting (HTS) motor from Reliance Electric. This motor is reportedly the largest of its type demonstrated to date.
年代ervo drives matched to load inertia
New Providence, N.J.—New A Series ac servo drives manufactured by Panasonic feature accurate positioning, closed-loop control with a built-in encoder, and Microsoft Windows 95/98-compatible configuration software. They're available in three lines: Low inertia drives are intended for positioning and semiconductor handling; middle inertia servos for CNC, robotics, and conveyor applicati...
DashDSP for embedded motor control
Norwood, Mass.—"Digital control with Analog precision and incorporating flaSH memory" is how Analog Devices defines its new ADMCFxx DashDSP Digital Motor Control family. Speed of the embedded devices is user selectable up to 150 MIPS through its static 219x DSP core. Integrated A/D converters (10, 12, and 14 bits) and 128 KB of flash memory are among numerous features.
年代hare drive data with distributed controls
Milwaukee, Wis.— DriveTools32 software may be downloaded onto the same server as the Allen-Bradley ProcessLogix distributed control system, allowing operators and engineers to view data from each on one human-machine interface, reducing equipment and training costs. The 32-bit software operates on Microsoft Windows 95, 98, and NT to provide a more intuitive way to program, troubleshoot, ...
The Three Faces of Control Valves
Flow control by nature is quite forgiving, principally by being very fast and self-regulating. Self-regulation means the controlled variable reaches a steady state following any change in the position of the valve or the plant load with the controller in manual. And because its response is complete within a few seconds, flow is very easy to control manually, making it easy to control auto...
In-Line ph Sensor
Newton, Mass.— The Norcross In-Line pH Sensor is designed to be placed directly in a fluid line. Its patented sensor technology is intended for use in water-based printing, coating or corrugated paper industries. The sensor features a flat tip pH probe. As fluid flows through the sensor, the end of the pH probe is scrubbed and the pH is measured.
Heat exchangers provide cool relief
Editor's note: "Integrator Update" is an occasional department examining an application from a system integrator's viewpoint.Total Systems Design (TSD) (Exton, Pa.) recently integrated the controls for a Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) Hood Cooling System at Bethlehem Steel Corp.'s Sparrows Point facility.
年代ervo sizing software – free to qualified users
Victor, N.Y. -Servo Mechanical Analysis (SMA) program lets users analyze all aspects of motor/drive sizing, including modeling of mechanical system elements and choosing various motion profiles. Convenient Windows tabs help optimize the mechanical system and size servo motors/drives rapidly and accurately, according to the company.
‘Universal’ VF motor drive
Lyman, S.C. —Movidrive is said to bring variable-frequency (VF) drive functionality to new levels with built-in intelligence that handles most of the motion control and I/O tasks that previously needed a host PLC or PC. SEW's IPOSPlus "integrated position and logic-handling programming environment" makes it possible to customize Movidrive's control program to handle sensorless vector ...
年代mall, inverter-duty ac motors
Chicago, Ill. -Pacesetter fractional horsepower ac motors incorporate a five-stage insulation system, finned aluminum center rings, and fan cooling for long-life design in inverter-driven applications. These inverter-duty motors come in synchronous and nonsynchronous versions in 3-phase, 230 V and 230/460 V ratings designed to operate up to 140 Hz.
年代ervo sizing software free to qualified users
Victor, N.Y.—Servo Mechanical Analysis (SMA) program lets users analyze all as-pects of motor/drive sizing, including mod-eling of mechanical system elements and choosing various motion profiles. Conven-ient Windows tabs help optimize the me-chanical system and size servo motors/drives rapidly and accurately, according to the company.
High-performance industrial computers
Duluth, Ga. —RAC6155 industrial computer line has expanded with two offerings. RAC6155SM contains dual symmetric Pentium III processors with optional redundant, hot-swappable hard drives and multiple power supplies. 19 full-length expansion slots (nine ISA and ten PCI) allow use for large applications.
Dual brushless servo amplifiers in one package
Westwood, Mass .—To simplify the design and reduce costs of multiaxis servo motor drives, Model 7225X2 places two servo amplifiers in one unit. It provides sinusoidal commutation for low-torque ripple operation of two independent, 3-phase ac brushless motors (including linear types). Each amplifier develops ±10 A continuous (±25 A peak) output from 23 to 180 V dc supply.
32-axis, high-speed motion controller
Chatsworth, Calif .—Turbo PMAC is a CPU board that controls as many as 32 motion axes (in up to 16 independent coordinate systems) with an analog, digital, or Macro Ring interface. Turbo PMAC employs new DSPs (Motorola 56300 family) to add performance to Delta Tau's PMAC and PMAC2 motion controllers, as a piggyback CPU board.
Unidrive now available in 230 V
伊甸草原,明尼苏达州。—Unidrive, said to be first to offer five drive operating modes in one package, now comes in 230-V input models with 1-30 hp output (3-70 A). These drives complement prior 460-V units of 1-1,600 hp output range (2.1-2,400 A). One drive product—configurable for V/Hz, open-loop vector, closed-loop vector, servo, and regenerative control—brings cost and ease of...
Intelligent sensorless servo
密歇根州安娜堡。—ISS Series Intelligent brushless servo controllers use a DSP for sensorless closed-loop velocity control of three-phase PM brushless dc motors. A proprietary sensorless flux vector algorithm regulates motor speed within ±0.1% with varying loads. ISS Series comes in three initial power ratings: 7/10 A, 14/20 A, and 21/30 A (continuous peak).
In Business – 2000-06-01
Xycom Automation Inc.(Saline, Mich.) announced May 8 that it is integrating elements of Microsoft's DNA for Manufacturing Model into its Open HMI and OpenCNTRL software products to provide an open interface among device, controller, and plant applications. CTC Parker Automation (Cincinnati, O.) unveiled in May an Allen-Bradley Ethernet Driver that enables its Interact HMI software to communicate with RSLC-5 and PLC-5 controllers from Rockwell Automation on the factory floor over Ethernet. The driver is part of CTC's MachineShop Software Suite and is bundled with all CTC PowerStation workstations. Think & Do Software (Ann Arbor, Mich.) reported May 4 that it has added it's eighth motion supplier, Logosol Inc. (Sunnyvale, Calif.), and now has more than 20 supported interfaces, including support for Logosol's servo controllers.
年代tepping up
Baseball season's in full swing, and we watch in anticipation as many step up to the plate. Business is throwing us more curves, and many are stepping up to the challenge. Motor technologies offer more diverse choices, and—instead of one technology going away—users have additional adaptations from which to choose.
More tasks need more versatile, varied wire, cable types
年代electing cable used to be easy. Users picked wire for communications and control or to supply power. They added accessories, trays and tracks, and connectors to fit their layout and facilities, and specified environmental protections, such as chemical/oil resistance and shielding/interlocking armor.
年代mart bypass controller for VFDs
Ft. Myers, Fla.— Smart Bypass Controller minimizes harmonic distortion produced by variable frequency drives (VFDs) during peak loads, while improving VFD efficiency. The product uses a patent-pending solid-state controller to monitor system requirements of demand, speed, and load. It allows most users to meet IEEE-519, a recommended practice limiting levels of harmonic distortion impose...
Liquid ring vacuum pumps
Trumbull, Conn.— Delta Series Model EC single-stage vacuum pumps have horizontal, top inlet, top discharge, and vari-port design liquid ring intended for general industrial and process applications. The pumps are available in eight sizes with capacities to 275 cfm and motor sizes to 20 hp. Delta EC is an efficient source of vacuum up to 29 in.
New strategic directions for Siemens Industrial Business Unit
年代iemens Energy & Automation (SE&A) Inc.'s facility here remains U.S. headquarters for the company's Industrial Control Products Business (ICPB) Unit. However, a business shift is underway at this facility, acquired from Furnas Electric in 1996.SE&A Batavia is changing from a manufacturing site to a center for marketing, customer service (including trainin...
New microdrives offer ac or dc choice
Cleveland, O. -SP120 and DC3 microdrives enhance variable-speed control of low-power ac and dc motors, respectively. Small but full featured, SP120 (photo) covers ac motors rated 1/4-1 hp (at 115 V input) and 1/4-5 hp (at 230 V input).
年代oftware expedites motor sizing
Amherst, Mass. -VisualSizer helps users of motion control products select the smallest and most cost-effective motor for an application, says the supplier. It guides users through a three-step selection process and the variety of motor calculations needed, showing configuration of the motion axes.
Portable vibration meter
Houston, Tex.— Model 5500 meter allows plant operators to take spot measurements of machine vibration and involve the analysts when high readings are detected. Model 5500 is CENELEC intrinsically safe certified and is said to give accurate readings in velocity or displacement mode. The meters are for use on motors, pumps, compressors, fans, natural gas engines, and other rotating equip...
Efficient brusless dc motor and drive
Cheshire, Conn.— These 98 mm Series brushless dc motors are said to be 30% more efficient and 33% smaller than industry-standard packages. Three-phase MOSFET Pulse Width Modulation drive with surface-mount components eliminates need for external controllers. Available in 26- and 35-W outputs with lengths of 43.
低cost, small size converter
Hauppauge, N.Y. -INV series dc-ac inverters are said to deliver 1200 VA of regulated ac power from the battery bank or dc source. The INV1200 provides voltage foldback to maintain full rated current into an overload without cutting the ac output.
Torque controller
年代tratford, Conn.— Frank Roth Co. has announced availability of a patent-pending, full-function torque controller. (FFTC). This mechanical device offers reduction in weight and size, operates at ac motor speeds as well as reduced speed, changes torque overload setting in an infinitely variable mode while operating under load, and is programmable using electronic controls.
Up Front
The National Industrial Automation Show, part of National Manufacturing Week, March 13-16, at McCormick Place, Chicago, featured the following innovations and announcements. For expanded coverage, visit www.globalelove.com.No time like real-time for usersGE Fanuc Automation (Charlottesville, Va.
Monitor electric motors
阿肯色州史密斯堡。——在这个更新版本,”Save-Plus' calculates energy savings relating to electric motor usage. Only a few data items need to be entered into the program to help the user make decisions regarding the use of both standard- and high-efficiency motors by comparing annual energy costs and calculating energy saving potential. The program allows for the comparison of various electric motors, including Baldor and non-Baldor motors, and can calculate the period of time needed to recover a motor's purchase price. Baldor Motors and Drives www.baldor.com.
年代ingle platform chosen for Trane
Editor's note: Welcome to "Integrator Update," an occasional department examining an application from a system integrator's viewpoint.Faced with mounting pressure to quickly move flexible, made-to-order systems, The Trane Company (Tyler, Tex.) sought help to revamp its existing coil-winding application.
How to Build a PC-based Control System
PC-based control can be one of those subjects not to be discussed at dinner parties, ranking right up there with politics and religion. Many companies have emerged staking their existence solely upon it, many seeing the control market as "us versus them." The concept is powerful enough, however, to also draw the attention of the large PLC manufacturers—so the "them" are often also "...
60 kW, 60,000 rpm OEM rotor/stator set
Acton, Mass .-ExSell Motors, a division of ExSell Inc., announces a new induction motor with continuous duty power output of 60 kW, at 60,000 rpm top speed. Called the 60/60, the motor is now available as a rotor/stator set for OEMs. Maximum motor torque developed is 9.55 Nm. Originally made to run high-speed machine tool spindles for machining aircraft wing spars, the 60/60 is ideal for any application requiring high speed as well as high power, says ExSell Motors.
Two new servo actuators apply harmonic drive; on display at Hannover Fair
皮博迪,质量。两个伺服驱动器产品,recently announced by Harmonic Drive Technologies, apply the features of a harmonic drive element to advantage. ChamberLink combines a servo actuator and rotary feedthrough device in one package for precise control of motion in a vacuum chamber. The harmonic drive element mounts to the chamber structure.
Anacon forms supply agreement with ITT
Anacon Systems announced Feb. 21 that it has entered into a three-year supply agreement with ITT Industries to provide Anacon's proprietary DigiDrive ac motor controller system to ITT for use in its pump product line. The agreement is expected to generate more than $20 million in new motor controller revenue for Anacon.
Direct-drive rotary motors streamline machine design
When electric motors are used in low-speed rotary applications, a transmission is often installed to gear down motor speed for higher output torque. This reduces cost because gearing allows small high-speed motors to produce high torque at low-speeds. However, in high-accuracy applications, such as film-coating lines and integrated circuit test machines, designers avoid gearing because it...
年代ensorless control for multiple motor types
Hillsboro, Ore.— SpindleBlok Drive Module (SDM) versions are now available for use with ac induction, brushless servo and brushless dc motors. It runs virtually any three-phase motor from 1 to 20 hp without a sensor. SDM can be interfaced with machine mounted operator stations (0-10 V dc) or PC machine controllers (±10 V dc).
Linear actuator with resolution in the 10-9 m range
Chatsworth Calif. -Accurate and repeatable position control with 2.5 nanometer (10-9m) resolution is claimed for a novel linear actuator from Schaeffer Magnetics Division of Moog Inc. A patented transducer of slotted tubular configuration is key to obtaining linear micro-positioning.
Medium-Voltage AC Drives: Addendum and Applications
M edium-voltage (MV) ac drives take over the scene at voltage and power levels beyond the capability of more familiar low-voltage (LV) drives. These larger MV drives-with power ratings to 100 MW and over-bring the benefits of adjustable-speed operation to large ac motors. A further benefit they offer is soft-starting of such large, expensive motors (see application section, below).
Brushless miniature ‘pancake’ motors
Burlingame, Calif. -A series of small electronically commutated (EC), brushless motors with 'pancake' configuration is available from Maxon Precision Motors Inc. Extremely long motor life results from electronic commutation that eliminates brushes and attendant component wear.
Automation Intelligence sees PC-based future for motion control
Because they don't require hardware platforms, PCs will become the main platform for motion control and allow manufacturers to focus on adding value to software, says George Kaufman, president and ceo of Automation Intelligence (Roswell, Ga.), which is part of Japan-based Sanyo Denki.
年代mall ac inverter
年代chaumburg, Ill.— Sysdrive 3G3MV Series ac inverter saves panel space and size due to its 5-in. height. With a maximum output frequency of 400 Hz, 3G3MV is intended for applications such as pumps, fans, conveyors, mixers, machine tools, blowers, and compressors. Its selectable control method allows users to choose sensorless vector control for applications requiring high torque at low spe...
年代eeing is believing
Control engineers need more than to be told what's going on. They can't take anyone's "word for it." They need to see things for themselves. They need visual reassurance their processes are moving along according to plan, whether that means they're looking at the actual process, or monitoring it with a visual aid.
Torque transducer “deaf” to IGBT noise
Hoffman Estates, Ill. -New technology makes MCRT 4900V dc-operated noncontact torque meters insensitive to severe electromagnetic interference from IGBT-based adjustable speed drives. Its ferrite-free signal transformer is also immune to vibration, hydraulic fluids, and harsh environments.
Anatomy of an ac induction motor
Often referred to as the "workhorse" of industrial electric motors, ac induction motors offer users simple, rugged construction and easy maintenance. These factors have promoted standardized motor designs and development of a manufacturing infrastructure leading to a vast installed base worldwide.
Compact VFD
纽约州罗彻斯特模型CFW-08(线是一个紧凑的variable frequency drive that can handle motors up to two hp, making it well-suited for centrifugal pumps, fans, and blowers. The unit features four programmable, isolated, 12 V digital inputs; a programmable differential analog input of 0-10 V, 0-20 mA, or 4-20 mA; and a 250 V/0.5 A programmable relay output.
The best of servo and step
Torrance, Calif.-— Alpha Step is a two-phase, hybrid, geared step motor and driver package said to eliminate missed steps. It uses a built-in feedback device that constantly monitors the motor shaft to detect and correct for loss of synchronism. Having a built-in feedback device minimizes the size requirements for the motor and helps protect the device from shock loads and temperature ...
10 disk drives in 19-in. rack-mount chassis
Fremount, Calif.— Designed for redundancy, high reliability, and protection, the MCH-702 includes standard 400W AC, AT, or ATX power supplies with optional redundant hot-swappable or DC power supplies. Twenty full-size card slots can also be used to mount six 5.25-in. and two half-height 3.5-in.
Position servo motor without sensor
年代an Jose, Calif. -IndexBlok Drive Module (XDM) is a cost-effective way to drive virtually any three-phase motor from 1-20kW without a sensor. A software algorithm replaces physical sensors providing flux tracking at a 200 microsecond update estimating actual rotor position every 400 microseconds.
Explosion-protected medium-voltage motors
CD355H-CD450(500)H series of three-phase motors from Felten & Guilleaume, a part of the Moeller Company Group, are designed to EN 50014, specification "flameproof enclosure." Motor terminal boxes comply with the "increased safety" classification. The identification EEx deIICT4 on the motor plate denotes that it is a "hazardous area motor," explosion-proof to group IIC. The T4 marking identifies the motor as belonging to temperature class T4 as standard.
Rockwell Automation expands drives HQ
Prospects for business growth on the inside appeared as bright as the late summer day outside on Sept. 8, when Rockwell Automation officially dedicated a 30% expansion of its 10-year-old Drives Business headquarters and R&D facility. The $40 million, 130,000-ft² building addition expands Rockwell's capabilities for design, development, and support of electronic...
Major exhibitors highlighted
Despite its academic format, ISA Tech/99 still featured thousands of new products and services from the biggest and most innovative players in control, automation, and software. Some of the most useful follow:·One of the first results of integrating ABB (Wickliffe, O.
Additions to popular adjustable-speed drives
密歇根州安娜堡。— Warner Electric Motors & Controls has made improvements to the SV Flux Vector Drive Series of Adjustable Speed Drives. They include new application software, additional models, and high-speed communication options. The new enhancements have been implemented to provide solutions for difficult applications, such as ac line regeneration, electronic line shaft, PID loop...
年代ervo works with resolvers
Westwood, Mass. —Model 7227DC servoamplifier drives brushless ac motors to 1.5 hp. It is used in applications where the motor and its position sensor are exposed to adverse environments such as condensation, vibration, or temperature extremes where a resolver may be superior to an encoder. A built-in resolver-to-digital (R/D) converter is the key element.
Universal PC-based controller updates robots
With the growing acceptance of PCs based on Intel Pentium processors and Microsoft Windows NT operating systems, open solutions are spreading into most areas of factory automation. An open solution for robotics is Universal Robot Controller (URC) from Robotic Workspace Technologies (Ft. Myers Beach, Fla.
Extending travel
Port Washington, N.Y.— Bayside Linear Motor Positioning Stages for ironless and iron core motors are available in lengths up to 2 m, for extended travels. These stages feature large recirculating bearings and Bayside's patented AutoFlex technology for high force and high acceleration in a rugged, long travel package.
年代tepper control limits ringing
Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.— Low cost, closed-loop Series 2900 stepper motor controllers perform automatic parameter adjustments. It sets acceleration and deceleration slopes minimizing ringing on motor stop. Modes of operation include point-to-point from absolute or relative commands and pulse following from step and direction outputs each in either closed loop with high speed and torque o...
Motor contactors that make Cents
Cumming, Ga.— Centsable motor contactors come in IEC sizes B through F (9 through 32 amps) that are available with either a 120 or 240 V ac dual frequency voltage coil. These 45 mm wide, nonreversing contactors have a small footprint and mount on a 35 mm Din rail. Prices start at $17, and sizes B through D include auxiliary contact at no extra cost.
年代ervo systems replace steppers
Duluth, Ga.— Open-loop stepper systems can be replaced with cost-effective, high performance ac servo systems from MotionOnline.com. All of the Sanyo Denki servo systems offered at the web site have a pulse (step and direction) interface, allowing these systems to be configured as "drop-in" replacements for stepping motors.
Endurance Challenge marks Reliance anniversary
To celebrate the 95th anniversary of Reliance Electric products, Rockwell Automation issued Aug. 9 the "Reliance Electric Endurance Challenge." All customers, distributors, and staff are being asked to find the oldest, continuously operating Reliance Electric motor, drive, and programmable control before the end of the 20th century.
Dual-axis microstep controller
新罕布什尔州纳舒厄- max - 240是一个双轴,微步bsystem that incorporates Advanced Micro Systems' Variable Resolution Microstep Control Technology. MAX-240 includes integral drivers and power supply. The unit is housed in a heat- sinked, fan-cooled, compact enclosure. At 4 A, 40 V, the unit is designed to operate 23 and 34 frame size step motors.
Users, manufacturers face off on fieldbus at ISA Tech/99
To help answer questions about fieldbus technology, a panel of three users and three manufacturers will participate in a debate, "Fieldbus Forum—Which Fieldbus is the Real Fieldbus?" at 9-11:30 a.m. on Oct. 6 during ISA Tech/99 at the Philadelphia Convention Center.
Interkama ’99 Resumes Its Lead Role for Process Automation
A technological "Watch on the Rhine" of giant proportions will be staged in Düsseldorf in mid-October, when 80,000 worldwide visitors are expected to partake of the latest offerings of 1,500 exhibitors and two extensive conferences at "the world's number one international trade fair for measurement and automation technology.
年代iemens, Krauss-Maffei combine linear motor efforts
Erlangen, Germany— The two motion control systems divisions of Siemens Automation & Drives and Krauss Maffei AG have founded a joint company for development of linear motor technology. Siemens owns 60% of the new company and Krauss-Maffei (K-M) owns 40%. The new firm, Siemens Linear Motor Systems GmbH & Co.
NEMA revises motor, generator standard
美国国家电气制造商协会(NEMA) released Aug. 26 its revised Motors & Generators, MG 1-1998, standard. Designed to help users properly select and apply motors and generators, MG 1-1998 provides practical information on performance, safety, test, construction, and manufacture of ac and dc motors and generators.
How to Select Power Supplies
Power supplies often are among the last elements of a system to be considered because including them in the design seems a simple matter of matching a unit's rated output to the application's need. However, use of power supplies involves many design and cost trade-offs, some obvious and others subtle.
年代hould you buy online?
Whether or not online automation stores are a better way of doing business in the automation industry still remains to be seen. Since most companies introduced online stores within the last several months, it is too early to tell whether or not they can be considered successful endeavors. (See also, Control Engineering, April and May 1999, Cyberpage, on this topic.
Inside out stepper motor
Marlborough, Conn.— 17 Frame IOS Motor is designed to provide versatility to small robotic-style motors using a multifunctional, inside-out hollow-core design. The hollow shaft allows electrical or pneumatic lines to be directed through the center of the motor so they can be stacked end-to-end or used in robotic end-effector applications.
年代ynchronous controller simplifies system setup
Minneapolis, Minn.— Drive Control Systems has introduced the MS332 synchronous controller for use in ac and dc variable-speed drives in advanced motor control systems. The controller eases system set-up, monitors performance trends, and makes on-the-fly speed adjustments for maximum performance.
PM Servo Motor Size Perspective
年代upply usually meets demand. It's not too different in the world of high-performance electric motors. Demand for permanent magnet (PM) synchronous servo motors has traditionally been in the lower power ranges. This went hand in hand with the majority of applications that had limited power needs.
年代iemens, Yaskawa form joint venture
年代iemens AG announced Aug. 31 that its Automation and Drives Group is establishing a joint venture with Japan-based Yaskawa Electric Co. worth a projected DM 360 million. The joint venture will include Siemens' Oct. 1 purchase of 50% of Yaskawa's System Engineering Corp.
年代ervo in a 17 frame
Covina, Calif.— SilverMax Integrated Servomotor comes in a NEMA 17 frame size. SilverMax is available in three stack sizes in both the standard and the higher torque "H" models. The controller, driver, and encoder are all integrated on the back of these motors. Each component has been specified to work together so engineers can concentrate on developing their product, not the motion cont...
All UPSs are not created equal
For first-time uninterruptible power supply (UPS) buyers, the choices can be intimidating, but there are essentially three UPS topologies, each appropriate for different applications: on-line, off-line, and line-active UPSs. On-line UPSs use batteries to deliver power to an attached device. Batteries continually charge during normal source power. Since a battery stores dc power, an inverter in the UPS converts dc to ac.
Mini PMAC2 motion controller
Chatsworth, Calif. — Delta Tau Data Systems, introduces the compact lower cost Mini-PMAC2 two axis PC-based motion controller card. It provides the power of the PMAC2, including fully digital direct PWM control of power-block amplifiers for one- and two-axis applications. Mini-PMAC2 can be used in a PC ISA slot as a 2/3-sized board, or it can be used standalone with RS-232 communication...
Motion control software
Amherst, N.Y.. — API Motion's APImate v. 3.1 control software is used for program development, setup, and optimization of the company's intelligent, programmable servo drives. The program contains over 100 new features, including precomputed macros for commonly used motion control functions and user-definable expressions called links.
Paper mill productivity jumps following upgrade
Brunswick, Canada-Irving Paper's mill here is setting productivity records after upgrading a newsprint machine and winder with an Innovation Series ac-coordinated drive system from GE Industrial Systems (Salem, Va.). This was the first installation of GE's new ac drives in the pulp and paper industry and the first coordinated drive application of its Innovation technology.
Corrections – 1999-07-01
In the "Motion Control Tunes into AI Methods" article in CE, May'99, p. 77 (CEI, May'99, p. 46), Simovert ML drives were described incorrectly.
High performance DSP-based motor controller
Norwood, Mass.- ADMC401 is a mixed-signal, embedded, digital signal processor (DSP)-based motor controller. The product is said to be particularly well-suited for high-end industrial servo control, high-precision factory automation systems, machine tools, robotics, and uninterruptable power supplies.
Intellution launches e-store, software solutions
Norwood, Mass.– In the first phase of its new eBusiness strategy, Intellution Inc. opened its IntelliStore for e-commerce June 7 at store.intellution.com. IntelliStore provides services, products, third-party components, and data to make purchasing easier for Intellution's customers.Customers will have immediate access, for example, to plug-ins that extend the functionality of Inte...
Cutler-Hammer offers products at Automationdirect.com
Cumming, Ga.-In the wake of its recent renaming, Automationdirect.com agreed May 10 with to carry models from Cutler-Hammer's Freedom series of motor controls and 22.5-mm industrial components. The offering includes contactors and starters in IEC sizes A through F, which are available with either a 120 V ac (60Hz) or 240 V ac (50Hz) dual frequency voltage coil.
年代ervo and stepper drive family
Rohnert Park, Calif.—The Gemini family of digital servo and stepper drives combines brushless servo and microstepping technologies into one platform. Initial release includes nine power levels and two control levels. Included features are simplified tuning and digital notch filters in digital servo drives along with ABS damping and en-coderless stall detect in stepper drives.
Danfoss acquires Bauer Antriebstechnik
Danfoss A/S, Denmark's largest industrial group with an annual turnover of 14 billion Danish Kroner (U.S. $2 billion), acquired Bauer Antriebstechnik GmbH (Esslingen and Munich, Germany) on June 1. A longtime Danfoss supplier, Bauer develops electric gearmotors. In 1997, Bauer launched its gearmotor program, Bauer 2000, which integrates Danfoss' VLT frequency conve...
Texas Instruments launches new DSPs
Texas Instruments (TI) recently introduced a new line of digital signal processing (DSPs) chips for motor and industrial control applications. The company's 'C24x DSPs feature low cost with a performance increase from 20 to 30 MIPS (million instructions per second).The new DSPs reportedly deliver twice as many MIPS per dollar as the competition.
Hybrid microstepping drivers
Marlborough, Conn.—IM483H and IM805H microstepping drivers use hybrid technology to reduce size without sacrificing power or features. Both are designed for soldering directly onto a PC board, saving design and assembly time, reducing system cost, and increasing reliability. Both have 14 built-in microstep resolutions from 1/2 step to 1/256 step (binary and decimal) changeable any time wi...
Motion control, motors, servos widen capabilities
GE Fanuc (Charlottesville, Va.) showed its SL Series Open Servo drives and NEMA motors. These are part of GE Fanuc's expanding PowerMotion product line.For more information, Circle 360 or visit www.globalelove.com/freeinfo.
Compact drive package
罗克福德,病了。— Compact VLT 2800 series drives are available from ½ to 3 hp at 230 V input and ¾ to 5 hp at 460 V. Enhanced software capabilities include speed compensation precise stop, counter precise stop, and precise stop for reliability associated with packaging applications. Cold Plate Technology efficiently moves heat through the backplate allowing more drives to be inst...
New editions to line of harsh-environment PCs
Fallbrook, Calif.— Touch Controls Inc. has introduced the two newest editions in its line of harsh-environment PCs. The PowerBox AT is compact and offers expanded system performance in the same small-scale footprint as its Baby AT predecessor; while the maximum capacity PowerBox ATX offers unparalleled processing speed, memory, capacity, and connectivity according to the company.
低-cost OEM drive
Mountain View, Calif.— Digi-Drive is a series of low-cost, customizable, single-phase ac drives designed to integrate into existing and new OEM applications. When packaged in NEMA 1 enclosures for retail and light commercial applications, the drives are called SmartCom. The drives control speed in ½ hp single-phase ac induction motors.
Kollmorgen buying New England Affiliated Technologies
To give it complete positioning systems capability, Kollmorgen Corp. agreed April 26 to purchase 25-year-old New England Affiliated Technologies (NEAT, Lawrence, Mass.). With 1998's sales of $13 million, NEAT's 100 employees design and produce single-axis stages, x-y tables, integrated workstations, and air-bearing slides.
New hardware technology combined with software
Vernon Hills, Ill.— The M600 CNC family from Mitsubishi Electric with dual CNC/PLC processors eliminates time delays experienced in single-processor systems, when switching between controlling CNC functions and PLC functions. It also features an extensive library of software functionality that improves system performance and speeds machining operations.
Assessing Control Loop Performance
The basic measure of a control loop's performance is the error between the process variable and its setpoint. Zero error indicates the controller's corrective efforts have been successful in forcing the process variable to match the setpoint.However, size of the error at any given instant is not necessarily a good indication of how well the controller is performing.
PLCDirect renamed Automationdirect.com
To reflect its expanding product line, PLCDirect was recently rechristened Automationdirect.com. The renaming coincides with the launch of Automationdirect.com's online store and widening product offerings. (See this issue's Cyberpage for more details.) Automationdirect.com was one of the first controls firms to use a direct sales catalog for programmable logic con...
年代ervo systems available online
Automation Intelligence (AI) Inc., a subsidiary of Sanyo Denki, recently began selling servo motors and drives to users and OEMs exclusively from its new website at www.MotionOnline.com. AI's initial offering includes 10 systems from 100 to 5,000 W. The two CE-marked amplifier families are fully digital offering both velocity/torque (±10 V) and position (pulse)...
Modular servo drives
罗克福德,病了。—The modular design of SCE900 series digital servo drives includes a base drive with several option cards—a design feature providing a path for future upgrades. The drives have CE compliance rating and feature closed current, velocity, and position loops. Output power ranges from 7.
Complete line of servovalves
Buffalo, N.Y.— Woodward HSC's servovalves combine a torque motor with a frictionless nozzle flapper, shear orifice, or jet pipe valve. A complete line of servovalves provides precise proportional control of fluid pressure and flow. These electromechanical control valves responsed in direct proportion to an input signal.
Motion processor augments wafer throughput
帮助它的中期和大电流离子离子注入机s handle delicate semiconductor wafers quickly and precisely, Eaton Corp.'s (Cleveland, O.) Implant Systems Division recently opted for Performance Motion Devices' (PMD) MC1401A Motion Processor for Brushed Servo Motion Control.
New adjustable speed ac drive
New Berlin, Wis.— The new ABB ACS 400 adjustable speed ac drive is available in two models—one, to operate motors from 3 to 30 hp at 200 to 240 V ac; and, two, motors from 3 to 50 hp at 380 to 480 V ac. The drives will be produced in a NEMA 1 enclosure with a NEMA 12 option. According to the company, the ACS 400 is ideal for a host of OEM, industrial and commercial applications, in...
Micro brushless motor
Ringwood, N.J. —A 5 mm OD bi-directional precision brushless dc motor is now in the "smoovy" line. It provides peak torque of .022 oz-in. (150 micro N-m) and continuous torque of .015 oz-in. (115 micro N-m) at 16,500 rpm. Ball bearings allow 5,000 hour life under normal operating conditions. Shaft speeds are up to 65,000 rpm continuous and 110,000 rpm intermittent.
Online programming tool for drive configuration
Mequon,威斯康星州。— The Allen-Bradley DriveExplorer is an easy-to-use industrial drive software product, now available from Rockwell Automation. The new software is an online programming tool for Allen-Bradley drive users who need a fast, simple method of configuring and monitoring drive and communication adapter parameters.
Mixing rubber requires tireless control
Instead of its typical dc solution, Finnish tire manufacturer, Nokian Renkaat, plans to use ABB's ACS 600 MultiDrive system to control speed and torque of motors driving a new batch mixer here. Nokian's new 1500 kW mixer operates continuously integrating raw rubber and additives into rubber compounds and incorporates vulcanizing agents.
Network Hardware Making the Connection
Industrial networks demand rugged solutions for multiple environments; commercial networks are generally lower-cost but hardware may not suit rugged appliclations. Adapting commercial networks, such as Ethernet, is increasingly popular among users and manufacturers.Considerations in making network connections include topology, type of hardware needed (see related text on gateways, bridges...
年代canner card smooths Smart Pump pumping arm
Fill 'er up, Robby. Robot arms, similar to those that build autos, will soon be gassing them up too. Realizing this refueling vision wasn't easy, but it was recently achieved with the help of a device-level network and scanner card.In 1993, Shell Oil Co. (Houston, Tex.) asked the robotics division of International Submarine Engineering Ltd.
Higher power motor costs less
Templeton, Calif. —SilverMax HS broadens the line of SilverMax intelligent servo motors. It runs at 48 V in a NEMA size 23 today with NEMA size 34 coming. Simplifying the design process, SilverMax motors include encoder, digital servo amp, digital driver, on-board in-dexer, on-board local power supply, and serial communications interface.
年代ervo simulator optimizes control offline
Vancouver, Wash. —RMC-SS2-BG2 servo simulator offers two channels of control for these hydraulic servo system parameters: drive null, system response, and system gain. Two 30-element bar graphs display two simulated positions to test and optimize multi-axis motion and position control often before the hydraulic or mechanical system is available.
Detroit Diesel uses PC control
D iesel engines power the equipment that transports people and goods around the world. For more than 50 years, Detroit Diesel Corp. has built heavy-duty engines for transportation, construction, industrial, and military applications. The company retooled its Series 60 assembly line in Redford, Mich.
年代chneider launches new motor starter, ‘predictive’ PLC
年代chneider Automation exhibited a new motor starter at ELEC '98. Tego Power, billed as a "structured and automatically optimized motor starter" built from standard modules to minimize wiring. It uses associated Schneider software to memorize client configurations, to avoid continual, time-consuming reprogramming.
Eyes for automation
Nuremberg, Germany— RG7 Opto-Bero family of optical proximity switches includes three products detecting objects by contrast, brightness, distance, and color. Color-Bero detects objects in learned color ranges, the tag reader detects differences in contrast, and very small objects of & 0.1 mm are detected by Laser-Bero.
New industrial automation controller
Temecula, Calif.— Opto 22 has introduced the Snap-LCM4, a versatile, real-time controller, and the newest member of Opto 22's Snap family of control and I/O products. This product provides a platform for solving control application problems by combining analog and digital control, serial communications, math processing, networking, and distributed I/O processing into a single, easy-to-im...
Board-level motor speed control
年代an Jose, Calif.— OEMs will find VSAC 1000-115S250 and VSAC 1000DC-48S75 control boards an attractively priced option for adding variable speed control to fractional horsepower ac motors. Control logic, proprietary RISC microcontroller, high voltage semiconductors, gate drive circuitry, power supply, overcurrent detection, DC bus capacitor, and mechanical interface all fit on a 3 x 4.
Measuring, control instrument shipments, orders decline in 3Q98
Though many markets and financial indicators have roared back and ebbed recently, U.S. Commerce Department data tracking 1998 shipments and new orders for the aggregated "Measuring and Controlling Instruments" (SIC 382) industry group demonstrates the serious impact global economic problems had on measuring and control device manufacturers.
Integrated motors, drives grow in ac drive market
Over 70% of respondents to an unscientific online survey by the MotorControl.com web site say they believe integrated motors and drives may represent 20% of the ac drive market by 2005.Many respondents added the best opportunities for integrated motors and drives are with OEMs that could design these devices into their equipment.
年代oft starters
Rochester, N.Y. —WEG Electric Motors Corp. introduces its full line of soft starters for electric motors ranging from 1 to 700 hp. The compact soft starters offer keypads with LED displays, four programmable isolated inputs, programmable relay outputs; they accept 500% of full load current for intermittent periods.
Controls Software Requirements for Global Commonization
Business drivers for GM Powertrain (GMPT) Competitive pressures to introduce better-quality new products to global markets faster and at lower cost are driving the need to improve the controls engineering processes, standards, and tools in a globally common manner. Subgoals affecting operation include reduction of downtime and quality-loss. Subgoals affecting engineering costs include reuse of assets such as software components.
Welsh firm brings German drives to U.K.
Through its acquisition last June of German drives manufacturer Dietz-electronic, Focus Dynamics has begun an expansion strategy by launching the Dietz variable frequency range as the cornerstone of its drives program in the U.K. and, eventually, other countries. The launch signals the start of Focus Dynamics' sales drive for its industrial control products across m...
Automation Products Simplify Integration
Industrial automation vendors are developing products system integrators have been seeking for clients. Integrated architectures, common look and feel, and greater connectivity are features industrial automation system integrators want for clients, according to a survey of attendees at the Control System Integrator Conference this past spring.
U.K.-based Siebe, BTR agree to merge
In yet another megamerger, Siebe plc and BTR announced plans Nov. 23 to merge and create a new company—called BTR Siebe for now—worth a combined $12.63 billion. The agreement calls for BTR shareholders to receive 0.533 new BTR Siebe shares for every former BTR share, while Siebe shareholders will retain their shares in the new company.
Nosbusch tapped to head Rockwell Automation Control Systems
Opting for an insider, Rockwell International Corp. on Nov. 9 appointed longtime vp Keith Nosbusch as the new president of Rockwell Automation Control Systems (Milwaukee, Wis.). Mr. Nosbusch replaces former president and coo Jodie Glore, who resigned Oct. 22 to become president and ceo of Iomega (Roy, Utah.
Compact motor drive
年代an Marcos, Calif. —Compact brushless dc motor variable speed electronic commutation drive is just 2 x 4 x 0.95-in. Model ECH05-30-001CL is a closed loop, velocity control drive with 30 V dc input and continuous current output of 5 A. The unit has dedicated motor and signal connectors to facilitate integration and features remote forward and reverse, enable, and velocity adjust user comm...
年代ervos on Firewire
Rochester, N.Y. —ServoWire Drive Network now uses IEEE-1394 (developed by Apple Computer and called Firewire) to create a 200 Mbps digital network for servodrives. New axis modules with a ServoWire interface connect to an Orion PC-based controller. Eight drives and motors can be controlled by a single ServoWire module at loop update rates of up to 2 kHz.
Inverter breaks $150 barrier
Harwinton, Conn. —Nova AC, BBVF adjustable frequency drive is available in 1/2 or 1 hp. This PWM drive provides full torque over a 30:1 speed range and has adjustable linear acceleration and deceleration. Power input is either 115 or 230 V ac single phase. It drives standard 208-230 V ac 3-phase motors.
Plug ‘n’ play brakes
年代pringfield, N.J. —SSB series front end brakes now feature "plug in" design for stepper and servo motor applications. Stepper or servo motors simply plug into the brake SSB incorporates zero backlash permanent brake and torsionally rigid coupling. Dual bearings allow overhung loads created by drive belt pulleys, chain sprockets, and gearheads.
Record attendance, new technologies mark IMTS ’98
With attendance breaking 121,000 for the biennial eight-day event, IMTS '98 was a showcase for new technologies. Heidenhain Corp. (Schaumburg, Ill.) unveiled a line of programmable, multiturn, absolute encoders with single turn resolution that can be reduced from 8,192 to any whole number.
Focus Dynamics buys Dietz-electronic
Focus Dynamics' recent purchase of Dietz-electronic is expected to help it establish an international manufacturing and supply network for electronic drives, motors, fans and pumps. A German variable speed electric motor drive maker, Dietz's principal products are alternating current drive modules, covering power outputs from 0.
Digital motor starters offer flexibility
Glenshaw, Pa. —RediStart Digital Motor Starters (DMS) provide smooth, stepless acceleration during start-up and controlled acceleration during shut-down to protect machinery from destructive mechanical shock. Programmable motor control features include acceleration time, amp setting, maximum current, and initial current.
Ormec unveils ServoWire drive network
To create a 200 MB per second, digital network for servodrives, Ormec (Rochester, N.Y.) introduced its new ServoWire drive network at the recent IMTS show in Chicago. ServoWire uses open standard IEEE-1394, originally developed as Firewire by Apple Computer Corp.The drive network protocol is implemented in a series of ServoWire servodrives.
‘Inside-out’ motors
Milford, O. —Design engineers are being challenged to pack more machine into a smaller physical package without sacrificing performance. The new variable speed "inside-out" motor accomplishes reduction in space by literally turning things "inside-out." The spinning rotor is on the outside and the stationary stator is on the inside.
Micro inverter
阿肯色州史密斯堡。—Series 5 open chassis micro inverter is a compact, low cost ac inverter for variable torque, constant torque, or constant horsepower applications. Series 5 is available in 1/2 and one horsepower ratings for 115 or 230 V ac output. Features include microprocessor-controlled PWM output, accel/decel rate adjustment, reversing, adjustable current limit, and adjustable slip ...
Distributed servo controller
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada —MAX2000 multi-axis brushless servo and drive brings networks, motion controller, and drives together. It provides a 10:1 reduction in wiring through distributed control, smaller footprint, compensation for high inertia mismatch, and processing power for three embedded axes.
Motion control for Windows
Chatsworth, Calif. —MotionObjects is a graphical, integrated development environment for SP2k Series Multi-Axis Brushless Servodrive from Westamp. This object-oriented application turns a PC into a digital oscilloscope and motion control development system that also tunes servo drives and motors.
BLDC motor saves space
Dover, N.H. —New size 34 brushless dc motor delivers up to two horsepower. Its small frame (3.75-in. diameter) and higher speed capability represent an advantage over typical ac motors of the same size. Available with one or two hp capability, this three-phase motor is rated for 160- or 320 V operation with continuous torque ratings of 140-oz.
Head loss monitor/transmitter
Fountain Hills, Ariz. —The FM1255 Head Loss monitor is now utilized in industrial filter monitoring applications. There is now high maintenance, error inducing, or flexible hoses from filter to transmitter required. This controller is available in common mode pressure ranges to 500 PSI and will display head loss in any engineering unit.
年代mart servo amplifier
密歇根州安娜堡。—The latest advancements in drive-resident microprocessor technology are found in IDS (Intelligent Digital Servo) Series servo amplifiers. IDS includes digital current loop tuning, serial fault diagnostics, user configured fault responses, a fault istogram, and serial drive ID's.
Don’t mandate motors, toilets
In the July 1998 issue [Control Engineering , "More Efficiency to the Masses—of Electric Motors, That Is," p. 91] you praised legislation to raise the efficiency of motors and the EPA and DOE for pushing it. I have two thoughts relative to it. The first being that the only type of incentive that works is economic.
Inverters withstand washdown
York, Penn. —BCX Series washdown-duty ac inverters are available in 1/6 to 5 hp, 230/460 V ac models. The units feature an integral speed potentiometer and run/stop switch. Three internal potentiometers for adjustments and a 0-5 V dc follower are offered. ACE-KL washdown-duty inverters are available in 1/2 to 5 hp, 230/460 V ac models.
Nine new DSP controllers introduced
Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) recently unveiled nine additions to its family of embedded digital signal processor (DSP) motor controllers. They include six members of the ADMC328 Series, with flash and metal ROM versions; two members of the ADMC40x series, featuring pipelined flash and 12-bit A/D architecture; and the ADMC331, that offers power factor correction.
VFDs offer connection to networks
Vernon Hills, Ill.— Mitsubishi Electric Automation is now offering optional interfaces to DeviceNet, Profibus DP, ModBus Plus, and other open communication protocols. The company's VFD (variable-frequency drive) communication interface modules offer access to all VFD parameters and performance data, including control commands, while requiring no additional panel mounting space.
Manufacturers agree to ‘hot swap’ CompactPCI industrial computers
PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers Group (PICMG) approved and released the CompactPCI Hot Swap Specification (Rev. 1.0) on Aug. 17. The PICMG 2.1 document details how to implement "hot swapping" components—hardware and software—in nonproprietary, CompactPCI systems.
Permanent magnet servo motor
Lebanon, O.— FC Series permanent magnet servomotors seek to simplify servo systems by eliminating the need for gearboxes, drives, pulleys, sensors, and power transmission shafts. The motors are said to achieve high torque at relatively low speeds, and single-handedly manage motor harmonics and mechanical resonances, ensuring precise, gentle load handling.
ABB sets up R&D center for drives
New Berlin, Wis.— To establish drive system development capability closer to its customers throughout the Americas, ABB's Drives Business Unit recently opened its new Product Development & Applications Research Center at its ABB Industrial Systems facilities here. ABB currently has four drive development centers worldwide to serve local customer needs.
Brush-type servo amplifiers
Cleveland, O.— The MDCX series of compact, low cost brushtype servo amplifiers has been added to the Motion Science product line of Cleveland Motion Controls (CMC). These amplifiers provide four quadrant control in torque and velocity modes. They are designed for brush-type motors from 500 W to 4 kW peak.
Precise control boosts homegrown coater’s productivity, quality
Why go out for hamburger when you can stay home and have steak? Engineers at Wausau Coated Products (Wausau, Wis.) considered this question before deciding to install their own high-performance laminating coater with expanded capabilities.To produce its laminated, pressure-sensitive labels, Wausau Coated applies silicone film to 3.
Integral motor succeeds in harsh environment
Integral motors, a new breed of ac variable speed motors that embed drive electronics in the motor housing, are enduring harsh environments. Tony Carr, electrical engineer at Blue Circle Cement, says ABB Motors' design for its integral motor is best suited for his cement plant because the drive electronics are fitted at the motor's nondrive end—wher...
Precision gearmotors
Northbrook, Ill.— Yaskawa Electric America has introduced factory assembly precision gearmotors to its Sigma AC Servo System product line. According to the company, Sigma Servo Gearmotors provide the highest torque with the shortest overall length, and low backlash for high-performance servo application.
Kollmorgen acquires Magnedyne
Kollmorgen Corp. announced July 7 that it has purchased Sierracin Corp.'s Magnedyne division. Kollmorgen expects the purchase to show in earnings this year. Terms were not disclosed.Magnedyne has a 30-year history of designing and producing high-performance dc motors and drives.
年代ervo drive suppliers gear up for competition
Many leading U.S. servo drive suppliers are gaining technologies and marketshare through acquisitions, dealing with consolidations and reorganizations, and competing for a growing motion control users population, according to the North America Servo Drive Outlook from Automation Research Corp.
More new technologies light up Hannover Fair ’98
If it didn't feature countless products, it wouldn't be the "world's largest industrial fair." More than 300,000 visitors examined products from close to 8,000 exhibitors during Hannover Fair '98. For instance, new motor and drive products included Lenze's 8200 Motec integral motor-drive unit, available in June.
5 mm brushless dc gearmotor
Ringwood, N.J —RMB Miniature Bearings has integrated its 5 mm "smoovy" brushless dc motor with two smoovy planetary geartrains. The SPH50003 gearmotor comes with an 125:1 ratio. Continuous torque of 1.5 oz-in. at gearmotor shaft speed of up to 160 rpm provides smooth and high efficiency operation (60%) for a wide range of application.
Efficiency to the Masses —of Electric Motors, that Is
Energy efficiency is hardly a new theme. In a technologically expanding world, it has become crucial to come to grips with energy consumption yet still use energy wisely. A basic question to answer is, "Where can energy be saved efficiently"?Electric motors, particularly in industrial usage, represent a large portion of electric energy consumption.
Asian ac drive suppliers must look beyond current crisis
Ongoing financial turmoil has shaken Asia's economies for the past seven to 10 months, and the region's ac drive business has slowed following major product reschedulings in Southeast Asia and South Korea, according to the recent AC Drive Outlook for Asia from Automation Research Corp.
年代ubmicro motor drives
Uxbridge, Mass. —SCF Series submicro adjustable frequency motor drives come in a wide range of sizes, all meant to fit into compact OEM designs. With power ratings from 1/4 to 3 hp, and input voltages of 120 and 240 single phase, and 208/240, 400/480, and 590 V ac (3-phase), these drives can fit into many applications, particularly in European markets.
Rugged data protection in silicon disk drive
年代an Jose, Calif. —Designed specifically for high operational shock and low power consumption, these 2.5-in. IDE silicon drives contain no moving parts and do not require constant power to retain information. Capable of surviving 1,000 Gs of shock (equivalent to dropping 8-ft. onto a hard surface), and providing 500,000 hr MTBF makes the silicon drive especially suited for industrial appl...
Linear actuator calls for hazardous duty
年代outh Beloit, Ill. —Electrak 2000 hazardous duty linear actuator is designed for positioning applications in Class 1, Group D atmospheres such as paint booths or chemical processing. The step motor can handle a dynamic load of up to 625 lb at 1.5 in./sec and has a speed of up to 20 in./sec at 50 lb.
Control system connects to AFDs
New Berlin, Wis. —MicroTrac3 contains an embedded PC designed to utilize Microsoft Windows NT and connect to MagneTek GPD 515 adjustable frequency drives. Featuring 4 MB of RAM, 2 MB of flash ROM, application library, and Ethernet and ARCNet communication support, MicroTrac3 is compatible with existing MagneTek networks.
Network hardware interconnects expand
Industrial network hardware has proliferated as equipment manufacturers, system integrators, and end-users find ways to connect islands of automation, and interconnect multiple networks, according to sources at NMW.Making industrial networks exchange information can be a challenge, says Michael Justice, president of Synergetic Micro Systems (Downers Grove, Ill.
ABB delivers world’s largest adjustable-speed drive
Breaking the sound barrier isn't easy, especially if you're at ground level standing still. However, that's exactly what engineers at NASA's National Transonic Facility (NTF) can do with their wind tunnel's new 135,000 hp (101 MW) adjustable speed drive and motor system from ABB Industrial Systems Inc.
New motor line for positioning systems
Victor, N.Y.— A selection of encoder-based motors are being added to Industrial Indexing Systems' Delta-Pro series of single axis positioning systems. Rated at 1,500 rpm, these motors are available in nine ranges from 400 W to 11 kW. Dubbed the A Series, the new motors use 2048 line precision encoders, and have a higher rotor inertia than the company's standard Delta motors, making them ...
Compact servo indexer
Pittsburgh, Pa.— BAI Intelidrive series of compact indexers are intended for simple positioning applications. BAIs operate in velocity, torque, indexing, and teach modes to drive brush and brushless servo motors. BAIs also have analog and RS-232 interfaces, and will accept standard clock and direction inputs for stepping system replacements.
High-power microstepping drive
诺瓦托,加州——NextStep微步驱动incorporate internal heatsinks and fans, resulting in significantly less required panel space than other systems. Proprietary anti-resonance circuitry minimizes motor vibration and delivers optimum torque utilization throughout the motor's speed range.
Controls field benefits from Compact PCI in telecommunications
The industrial controls market will likely benefit from decreasing prices, economies of scale, and technological improvements among CompactPCI-related products in the near future. These events are expected to occur as major vendors—including Ziatech, Digital, Force Computers, PLX Technology, Natural MicroSystems, and Spectrum Signal Processing—...
Champagne maker uses AS-i bus for decentralized control
To handle increasing production volumes, 150-year-old champagne maker G.H. Mumm recently adopted a decentralized AS-i bus architecture. The new system saves on wiring and installation costs, provides simple hardware integration, and will allow easy expansion, says Michel Hubert, technical director of G.
Baldor Electric buys Northern Magnetics
Baldor Electric Co. announced March 10 that it has acquired Northern Magnetics Inc. (Normag, Santa Clarita, Calif.) for an undisclosed sum payable in shares of Baldor common stock. Normag's range of linear motors will be added to Baldor's motor and drive lines, which range from 1/50 to 800 hp.
Extreme force linear servo motor
Hauppauge, N.Y.— Using an encapsulated oil cooling system for maximum heat removal, the LX Series provides an extreme force, iron-core-based linear servo motor, capable of 3,500 lb continuous force and 5,500 lb peak force. With simple two-part design, low inertia coil with magnetic attraction, compact size, and robust design, the LX Series linear servo motors is suitable for applications...
Electromechanical system design tool
Pittsburgh, Pa.— Electromechanical System Simulator (EMSS) software provides the designer with tools to analytically understand the interaction of currents, voltages, and mechanical loads and motion within an electromechanical device prior to its production. When used in design of electric motor systems, transformers, sensors, or actuators, EMSS uses time integration and nonlinear iterat...
Measuring and controlling instrument orders slip slightly in 4Q97
Despite ongoing and better-than-expected U.S. economic growth and manufacturing shipments, U.S. Commerce Department data showed that new orders in the aggregated Measuring and Controlling Instruments (SIC 382) industry group dropped slightly at the end of 1997.New orders in 4Q97 for SIC 382 firms rose by 7.
Direct Drive Linear Motors
Môtiers, Switzerland ETEL has developed linear motors to replace classical mo-tion control solutions such as motor-driven connecting rods, racks, or ball screws. For strokes up to 50 mm, the company provides a moving coil system which is fully integrated with slide and built-in position sensors.
年代tep Motor and Drive
Torrance, Calif. —UFK Nanostep motor and drive package incorporates the latest 5-phase microstepping technology. Six 5-phase hybrid step motor models have been developed and matched to the UFK drive. Motors range from the UFK543AA which develops 18 oz-in constant torque over a speed range of 6 to 480 rpm to the UFK569AA, which generates 220 oz-in.
New Range of Brushless AC Servos
安多弗市、英国——Unimotor range includes three phase, six or eight pole, permanently excited synchronous motors, exhibiting a sinusoidal back-EMF characteristic. Designed to supply high torque with either low- or high-rotor inertia and minimal cogging torque. Thermal performance is improved by the unique finned motor housing, manufactured in high-strength alloy casting to radiat...
DC Angular Position Transducer
艾灵顿,口- 605型直流角Displacement Transducer offers accuracy up to 0.038 and eight measurement ranges for sensing angular position up to 3008 of rotation. With a 3 kHz frequency response and infinite resolution, these transducers from Trans-Tek are suited for use as servo feedback sensors or in applications requiring dependable absolute position sensing.
年代ervo Amplifier
Westwood, Mass. Model 5424AC servo amplifiers internal power supply eliminates the need for a separate isolated dc power supply. Optoisolation between power and signal circuits ensures electrical safety. Users can switch the amplifier between velocity-mode and torque-mode with an external toggle switch or command from a programmable controller.
Intelligent Positioning Control
Lyman, S.C. —IPOS is an expansion card for the company's Movitrac 31C frequency inverter. The card gives the inverter the ability to control point-to-point motor positioning without use of a high-level controller, such as a PLC or motion controller. Using a built-in PLC-type logic, the Movitrac 31C offers capabilities such as timers, math functions, and timer and activation of outputs, a...
20-in. Workstation
Duluth, Ga. The 20-in. Venus ATX Workstation features CPU options designed to handle big databases and graphics. A newly designed panel/rackmount chassis is said to simplify maintenance and modifications. The Venus ATX provides seven accessory card slots and a total of six drive bays. Three internal hard-drive bays house storage for large applications and process data.
年代trong 3Q97 for Instruments Despite Turmoil in Other Markets
而investors and economists were shaken by last October's market plunge and bounceback, and by Asia's ongoing economic struggles, U.S. Commerce Department data show that new orders for the aggregated "Measuring and Controlling Instruments" (SIC 382) group grew consistently stronger last year following a weak late 1996 and early 1997.
U.S. Production Gains Despite Automotive Decline
With increases in most major market and industry groups, U.S. industrial production grew 0.5% in December, according to the Federal Reserve Board's recent "Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization" report. However, the report added that the overall gain was held back by a 2.
12-in. Motor/Drive Combinations
New Ulm, Minn.—MaxPlus 12-in. brushless servo motor delivers up to 90 hp or up to 300 lb-ft of continuous torque for high-production, high-torque applications. It is intended for very large machinery applications where the size and weight of conventional motors have made automation prohibitive.
Brushless AC Servo Motors
Andover, Hants, U.K. —Unimotor line of brushless ac servo motors consists of three-phase, six- or eight-pole, permanently excited synchronous motors exhibiting a sinusoidal back-EMF characteristic. They've been designed to provide high torque with either low- or high-rotor inertia and minimal cogging torque.
年代CADA Systems ‘Dampen’ Infrastructure Problems
加州马林县的南端是separated from the city of San Francisco by the most famous mile-long strip of steel and concrete in the world. Yet, within a 10-minute walk of the Golden Gate's Marin terminus begins a county-wide network of California Wildlife Service signs warning against mountain lion attacks.
Microstepping Motor
Hauppauge, N.Y.—Escap P850 high accuracy microstepper incorporates the company's patented disc magnet design, providing repeatable resolution for 100,000 steps per rev with inertial loads. Absolute accuracy is within 3 arc-minutes of true position. Holding torque is 100 oz in with 4.6 A and a 100 W rating.
Mixing System for Water, Paper Applications
Lansdale, Pa.— Polymaster ET is a mixing and diluting system that can handle high molecular weight liquid polymers and retention aids and produce dilute solution at rates of up to 50 gpm. Polymaster is used extensively in paper making and water and wastewater treatment. Its patented Gatlin distribution head is a motor-driven mechanism that hydraulically segments the polymer into ultrathi...
Interoperability Association Forms Semiconductor Group
To develop standard device profiles for semiconductor tool applications, the LonMark Interoperability Association recently created its new semiconductor task group. The group includes semiconductor tool and device manufacturers from the U.S., Europe, and Japan, including Lam Research, Edwards High Vacuum, Hermos Informatik, Kokusai Electric, Ebara, and Nippon Mot...
Proper Motor Protection Safeguards Your Investments
With electric motors driving the majority of today's manufacturing processes, proper motor protection is critical. Not surprisingly, a significant amount of effort and resources have recently been invested in motor protection technology, resulting in cost-effective solutions to many of today's common motor problems. Motors fail for a number of reasons--moisture and contamination, short circuits, mechanical problems and old age--but the primary reason is excessive heat, caused by excess current (greater than normal motor full load current), high ambient temperatures, and poor ventilation of the motor. The diagram shows the reduced life of a motor at various levels of overheating.
Token Passing Protocol Helps Refinery Increase Production
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LonWorks Helps Get Semiconductor System ‘Pumped’
BUS OF THE MONTH: LonWorks
Matching servo amplifiers to brushless DC motors
A servo system consists of a number of elements (see diagram). One aspect of the system integration process involves matching the servo amplifier to the brushless dc motor. This may seem as simple as selecting the amplifier and motor from the same manufacturer.
