Digitalisation of analogue interfaces in hydraulics via IO-Link
12 February 2018
Reduced connection costs at increased availability: Rexroth harnesses the advantages of the IO-Link open standard also for hydraulic actuators and sensors.
As of now, 4WRPEH proportional control valves and HEDE10 pressure switches are available with IO-Link interfaces. Connection is realised via the decentralised and quick IP67 I/O system S67E IO-Link Master. This offers users direct access to the field bus and all data provided by the actuator/sensor.
Industry 4.0 is often much closer than we think: While individual suppliers present their own solutions for networking of machine peripherals and better utilisation of data, there are already now established and open standards that offer the same. IO-Link is supported by around 150 companies and enables digital communication of peripherals with control in parallel to common field buses. With proportional valves and pressure switches, Rexroth now includes the first hydraulic actuators and sensors into the network. This way, the specialist in the field of hydraulics promotes the integration of fluid technology in Industry 4.0 applications as IO-Link enables vertical connection of components all the way into IT systems.
IO-Link standardises and simplifies wiring thanks to standard M12 connectors with unshielded 3-conductor/5-conductor cables. This way, extensive time and fault-intensive individual wiring per hand is no longer required. Project planning of devices is realised with the engineering tool of the respective PLC manufacturer. All blocks for communication are freely available for the IoT-ready PLC systems ILC and Motion Control systems. In combination with IndraWorks Engineering, they enable direct access to project planning, parameterisation and testing. The parameters can always be adjusted to new conditions.
The standardised electronic name plate of plug & play devices reduces machine and system standstill. By means of authorised remove control, servicing operations are enabled to access and evaluate operating conditions like temperature, operating hours and error status during running production for predictive maintenance concepts. This way, wear and system errors can be recognised before failure and machine standstill. The respective devices with servicing requirements are localised and displayed. Thanks to IO-Link, devices can also be replaced by personnel without special training. Components are clearly identified via site ID and electronic name plate for easy replacement by interchangeable components. Parameterisation is carried out automatically by the IO-Link Master without any need for action by the technician. This way, replacement of components can be ensured without causing any problems.
Following the 4WRPEH proportional valve and the HEDE10 pressure switch, Rexroth intends successive fitting of additional hydraulic actuators and sensors with IO-Link interfaces to complete its product range.
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