Auxiliaries Innovations: Ease of Install, Tighter Control
Canadian Plastics
To simplify installation and repair, Nucon Systems Inc. uses Siemens AS interface for its loading systems. Each vacuum loader gets a "smart" module that is able to recognize its position relative to...
To simplify installation and repair, Nucon Systems Inc. uses Siemens AS interface for its loading systems. Each vacuum loader gets a “smart” module that is able to recognize its position relative to other modules in the system. The modules are connected by a cable, with the connection at each module being made in the same way as do-it-yourself outdoor garden lights. When the lid is attached to the module, metal spikes pierce the cable, making the connection. There is no cutting, no soldering, no splicing and no separate power source for each station.
“Using this system is slightly more expensive for us,” says Rob Miller, vice-president, operations for Nucon. “But the cost is offset by the fact that we’re able to offer the customer off-the-shelf components. The voltage at each module is small, meaning they are very safe, with no chance of shock or electrical injury.”
Mould-tek Industries Inc. has redesigned its GXB blender to include pinch valve control of minor as well as major ingredients. Pinch valves provide unmatched accuracy with reduced material waste. In testing, Mould-tek found the new GXB design increased throughput of minor ingredients compared with auger-driven feeders, and achieved accuracy as low as 0.1 percent for minor ingredients.
AEC/Whitlock has leveraged the latest off-the-shelf electronic and networking approaches to deliver a comprehensive and easy-to-operate conveying control, the VT 7-50. The new control uses a touch screen with intuitive menus that provides one-touch access to station and pump set-up. Remote notification and web-browser interface options are available.
The VT 7-50 incorporates Allen Bradley PLCs and ArmorBlock distributed I/O components with KwikLink flat wiring for an off-the-shelf, DeviceNet compatible equipment network.
Modular distributed I/O blocks are connected by a rugged pair of power and control wires that simplify installation and increase flexibility for changes and expansions. These “plug and play” wiring components connect to hoppers, pumps, valves, filter chambers and other components for monitoring and control. Built-in network features continuously monitor network and component integrity.
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