Category: Product News

RFID Sensor –the SICK RFU61x, Big Ability in a Small Package

Posted on by Rick Morgan

What is RFID Technology?

RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification, is a method of transferring information between two entities, these being an RFID tag that carries information and a RFID scanner or reader to decode that data. Using electromagnetic field technology, when an item adorned with an RFID tag passes a suitable scanner that information is captured, extracted, and acted upon, or not, by the control system that is interpreting the data.

RFID tags and readers do not need a line of sight to function, they merely need to pass within the detecting range of each other. RFID Sensor tags can be found in many applications, such as attached to clothing in a store, under the skin to identify pet ownership, in a car key fob or in production operations, monitoring the progress of a product through each stage of manufacture, all of them containing data that is accessible by a suitable reader.

RFID technology exists in many forms and for many purposes and SICK, world-renowned manufacturers of sensors and sensing solutions are no strangers to RFID technology, here we preview the RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor.

The RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor, Small and Powerful

The RFU61x RFID Sensor from SICK, is one of the smallest read/write device of its type on the market, ideally suited for IIoT applications involving the identification of production workpieces or components.

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

The diminutive stature of this RFID Sensor enables versatile application possibilities even in the most limited installation spaces, and the rugged design provides reliable operation even in demanding industrial environments.

Installation is quick and easy thanks to the integrated process logic which means data gathered by the sensor can be processed directly within the device itself, performing triggering, reading, and writing which is passed onto the control system for interpretation.

Easy to connect, the RFU61x has a wide range of interface options allowing for the direct connection of trigger sensors meaning this capable RFID Sensor can be used as a remote, self-supporting unit.

 

The RFU61x UHF RFID Sensor – Packed with Features:

  • Extremely compact design, ideal for demanding environments
  • Frequency band UHF 860 – 960 MHz (region specific)
  • Read range up to 0.5 metres (depending on transponder and ambient conditions)
  • Connection option for trigger sensors
  • Connectivity – Ethernet (TCP/IP, PoE, OPC UA), Profinet, EtherNet/IP, USB
  • Link option to PC control systems or directly to the cloud
  • Antenna and data processing integrated in the sensor
  • Configuration via SOPAS ET and/or AppSpace Software or integrated web server
  • Rugged design in accordance with IP67
  • Large range of differing region-specific radio approval versions available

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

Configuration and set-up can be simplified further by using the free-to-download SICK SOPAS ET software or the integrated web server which helps reduce commissioning time. The versatile SICK APPSpace software (available via a monthly licence), which can also be used with other SICK Radio Frequency Units (RFU), helps provide users with maximum flexibility when programming. The RFU61X is available in a range of radio approval variants to cater for the individual broadcasting demands of specific countries and regions.

 

Typical Fields of Application

  • Component identification on assembly lines
  • Identification of production material in machines
  • Load identification on mobile platforms
  • Material procurement in E-Kanban
  • Container identification in conveyor systems

 

RFID Sensor Technical Data

  • Supply voltage 18 to 30 VDC
  • RFID standard EPCglobal UHF Class 1 Generation 2, ISO/IEC 18000-6 C
  • Modulation – PR-ASK, Read range ≤ 0.5 m
  • Integrated antenna, adjustable transmitting power, circular polarisation
  • Housing construction – die cast aluminium
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) 92 mm x 80 mm x 38 mm
  • Optical indicators 4 LEDs, multi-colour (device status), 4 RGB LED (Process feedback)
  • Memory card type – microSD (for parameter cloning, data storage)
  • Protection class III
  • Weight 313 g

RFID Sensor SICK RFU61x

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DST20 Strain Sensors from Baumer, Measuring Heavy Strains in Miniature

Posted on by Rick Morgan

What is Mechanical Strain?

Mechanical strain is the relative change in the length of a component or a structure when a stress is applied. Strain can be from the results of external forces, mechanical strain and from the effects of thermal expansion or contraction experienced during temperature changes. The indirect force measurement taken by strain sensors determines the mechanical strain experienced by the component or structure being monitored.

Strain sensors come in a wide variety of variants including wire strain gauges, bolt strain gauges, shear strain gauges, columnar strain gauges and many more besides. Where the application has a restriction of available real estate, but the potential strain could be large you will need a dependable, miniature strain gauge with the capacity to do the job well, enter the Baumer DST20 Miniature Strain Sensors.

Strain Sensing

The DST20 Miniature Strain Sensors are a compact and cost-efficient solution for measuring large forces above 10,000 N, even in areas with restricted space. A diminutive 28 x 12 x 10 mm in size, these capable miniature strain sensors provide space saving and reliability that is unmatched by any other screw-on strain sensor on the market.

With stainless-steel housings and an IP65 protection rating these strain sensors are ideally suited for use in a wide range of demanding production environments and applications, including static and dynamic applications, process automation and mechanical engineering sensing tasks.

Static and Dynamic Loads

Easy to install, the DST20 strain sensors can be integrated into an application with the minimum of engineering effort and provide a lasting solution that can replace cold bonded strain gauges in space restricted installations. The compact DST20 miniature strain sensors are suitable for static as well as dynamic applications with strain gauge technology that features a strain gauge and a strain body. The soft geometry on the inside of the sensor minimises hardening of the structure being measured and even thin structures can be monitored because of the limited reaction forces on the mounting screws.

Strain Sensors

The strain of these sensors is typically measured with an output signal of around 1.0 mV/V when they leave the factory, this eliminates the need for calibration with a separate force sensor. This allows Installation Engineers to benefit from a quick and easy commissioning coupled with a high measurement accuracy in the micrometre range.

Versatile Sensing

These versatile sensors are available in two measurement ranges – 500 and 1,000 µm/m, for different customer requirements in terms of the expected strains and permitted mechanical tension depending on the steel quality. A single sensor can be used to cover a wide range of applications, allowing customers to reduce costs and reduce the need for additional storage space.

With the DST20 strain sensor range Baumer has rounded off its strong portfolio of force and strain sensors so customers can optimise their process safety and quality where the smallest dimensions matter.

Get all your Baumer Strain Sensors from Kempston Controls today! Our friendly sales team are on hand to take your call, you can get through to them on +44 (0) 1933 411 411 or email sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk, or use the ‘contact us’ link above.

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RFID UHF Read/Write Head from Pepperl + Fuchs– the most compact reader in its class

Posted on by Rick Morgan

Pepperl+Fuchs has expanded its extensive portfolio of industrial identification devices with the IUT-F190-B40 UHF RFID Read/Write Head, featuring 1000mW ERP transmitting power, integrated Industrial Ethernet interface and REST API. Easily integrated into IT systems using the REST API, this versatile UHF read/write head can be fully parameterised and operated via this interface, eliminating the need for PLC programming.

The IUT-F190 also has two inputs and one output, meaning light barriers can be connected directly, making it possible to start and stop the read operation or to detect throughput direction with no additional IO components required. Using the output, a signal light can indicate that the read/write head is ready for operation or that an operation was successful.

Quick and Easy Integration

Designed for medium detection ranges (around 2 meters), the IUT-F190-B40 utilises Industrial Ethernet and REST API technologies allowing it to be quickly and easily integrated into OT and IT systems, an ideal solution for industry 4.0 production control and monitoring & track-and-trace applications. In addition, the integrated web interface of the IUT-F190-B40-UHF can be used for parameterisation and commissioning and when used with the Pepperl + Fuchs IDENTControl Control Interface (enquire for details)  it is possible to connect up to 4 read/write heads at the same time, prebuilt function blocks make installation easy and provides connectivity to several standard fieldbuses and has excellent EMC immunity.

Robust and durable, the IUT- F190-B40 features an IP67 rated PA housing and has a wide temperature range making it suitable for use in numerous demanding industrial environments. Based on UHF RFID technology, this read/write head achieves high read ranges and detection speeds and supports multi-tag reading. The large number of radio approvals and bus interfaces means that the F190 can be used globally.

Compact Design

The built-in, automatically switchable antenna polarisation provides reliable identification even when the tag orientation is inconsistent or unknown. The compact housing (114x112x63 mm) with integrated antenna makes this capable read/write head suitable for installation in confined spaces without compromising on range & transmission power. Emitting 1000 mW ERP makes the IUT-F190-B40 the top of its performance class and is an ideal stand alone solution for a wide range of industrial processing tasks.

Read/Write Head in action

IUT-F190-B40 UHF Read/Write Head Features

  • Direct integration into OT and IT systems via Industrial Ethernet interface and REST API
  • Additional IOs for Trigger Sensors or Signal Lights – (2 x input, 1 x output)
  • Compact and rugged housing for industrial use in harsh ambient conditions
  • Switchable antenna polarisation guarantees reliable tag detection and enhances process flow
  • Powerful UHF read/write head for medium detection ranges
  • Multi-tag reading of up to 40 tags for increased productivity
  • Read/write heads, tags, sensors, and connection technology from a single source
  • Ready-made PLC function blocks for quick and easy system integration (used with IDENTControl)
  • LED status indicator for bus communication and read/write station
  • Network loop through by means of integrated 2 port switch

Read/Write Head Technical Specifications

  • Operating frequency 865 – 868 MHz: EU, Turkey
  • Emitted power 3 – 1000 mW ERP adjustable
  • Operating distance typically 2 metres
  • Rated operating voltage 20 – 30 V DC
  • Current consumption ≤ 500 mA, Power consumption ≤ 10 W
  • Interfaces 1&2 -Ethernet, HTTP, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET IO, Transfer rate 10 MBit/s or 100 MBit/s
  • Ambient temperature range -20 – 70 °C (-4 – 158 °F)
  • Dimensions HxWxD – 63 x 112 x 114 mm
  • Power supply: M12 connector, protective earth: M4 earthing screw
  • Ethernet: M12 plug connection
  • Housing material PA 6.6
  • IP67 rated
  • Radio equipment directive 2014/53/EU EN 301489-1, EN 301489-3, EN 302208, EN 62368-1, EN 62311, EN 50364
  • RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS) IEC/EN 63000
  • Degree of protection EN 60529, RFID ISO/IEC 18000-63
Enquire Now

 

If you are looking for the perfect Pepperl + Fuchs Read/Write Head solution then give Kempston Controls a call, our professional sales and technical teams will be happy to help find the perfect product solution. You can call us on +44 (0) 1933, 411 411, email us at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk or use the enquiry form below.

 

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DIL Contactors from Eaton Moeller, the Energy Efficient Choice

Posted on by Rick Morgan

A contactor is a device designed for switching an electrical circuit on and off, similar to relays in operation, however, contactors find their application in higher current capacity installations than those typically attributed to relays.

In an industrial or commercial setting, any high-power device that is frequently turned on and off, will employ a contactor within its electrical supply system, differing greatly in their configuration depending upon the current requirements of the electrical devices downstream of the contactor. Contactors are commonly used in applications incorporating powerful motors, lighting circuits, heating, and other electrical loads.

If you are looking for a powerful, versatile and efficient contactor range, then you need look no further than the impressive range of Moeller DIL contactors from Eaton.

DIL Contactor Range

The capable DC devices stand head and shoulders above the competition with their reduced power consumption, making them more energy-efficient and reducing the size of power supply units utilised.  Suitable for use all around the world the DIL contactors cover a huge output range, from mini contactor relays (up to 7A) to power vacuum contactors (up to 3180A).

Communications-enabled thanks to the SmartWire-DT, the contactors can be controlled remotely and they can be combined with Eaton’s full range of electronic overload relays and bimetal relays.

DIL Contactor Series Core Features

  • DILM up to 170 A & 4-Pole DILMP contactor up to 200 A
  • DILM frame sizes: 45 mm for up to 32 A; 55 mm for up to 72 A; and 90 mm for up to 170 A
  • UL, CSA, Marine approvals, GOST-R and Ukrain-GOST approvals
  • Temperature range -25 °C to +60 °C
  • Uniform accessories for 3-pole and 4-pole contactors
  • Double box terminals for reliable wiring of different cross-sections
  • The contactors up to 38 A can be controlled directly from a PLC
  • DC-operated devices with integrated suppressor circuits
Enquire Now

 

Rapid Wiring with One-click Push-in Terminals

Innovative push-in terminals provide quick, safe, and easy control-panel wiring with just one click. You can expect to decrease your wiring time by 50 % without the need for any additional tools. DIL contactors with this push-in technology typically have the same footprint as conventional Eaton contactors for easy integration into existing systems.

 

DILM Contactors – Small but Powerful

DIL Contactor Range

 

They may be small, but they can certainly punch above their weight, both the DC and AC DILM contactor series can switch motors up to 170 A and come with an already integrated auxiliary contact (up to 38A). The auxiliary NC with mirror contacts is suitable for use in safety-related applications, simplifying project planning, installation, and commissioning.

 

 

DILL Lighting Contactors – Managing Lamp Loads Safely

DIL Contactor Range

 

The DILL series is based on the DILM contactor, and it has been specifically designed for switching lamps across three current ranges (12A, 18A, 20A). These contactors have a high switching capacity, enabling them to handle the inrush currents for all types of lamps, even over long distances.

 

 

 

 

DILMP 4-Pole Contactors

 

DIL Contactor Range

These versatile 4-pole contactors come in four sizes, from 20A to 200A, and they have been designed for use specifically in AC 1 circuits. DILMP contactors are ideal for applications that are characterised by frequent mains switch-off or switch-over, as well as for heating systems and for switching 4-pole loads. The uniform accessory range means that all the proven components of the 3-pole series can also be used.

 

 

 

 

DILK Contactors – Reactive Power

 

DIL Contactor Range

 

The DILK contactors are typically used in reactive-power compensation equipment where capacitor banks need to be switched. Capable and dependable,  integrated series resistors can reliably switch capacitors with very high peak inrush currents, up to 180 times the normal current.

 

 

 

 

Combination Contactors – DIUL and SDAINL

 

 

The contactor combinations range consist of the completely pre-wired DIUL reversing combinations up to 30 kW and the SDAINL star-delta combinations up to 132 kW, pre-wired, their installation is rapid and simple.

 

 

 

 

Kempston Controls are the people to speak to when it comes to sourcing your ideal contactor solution. Call us on +44 (0) 1933 411 411, email us at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk or you use the enquiry form below. Our professional technical and sales teams are ready to help you today.

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Ultrasonic Sensor Detection in Miniature – The U300 from Baumer

Posted on by Rick Morgan

It’s an issue that any production and process engineer will face, the reliable and dependable detection of troublesome products. Products such as clear films, foils, paper, cardboard and printed circuit boards, all can prove to be a demanding task for your average sensor.

Baumer took steps take to make life a little easier for the engineers who struggle with application space, reliable detection, medium type and multi-layer detection problems that they face during design, commissioning and set-up. Renowned for dependable sensory products Baumer engineered a solution in the compact form of the U300 Miniature Ultrasonic Sensor Range.

The Baumer U300 Range of Miniature Ultrasonic Sensors offer the highest level of performance in the smallest of forms with a best-in-class blind zone of 15 mm at sensing distances of up to 500 mm. Packed with features and enhanced functions such as IO-Link, sonic cone adjustment, moving average and disruption filter.

ultrasonic sensor - U300 and clear film

High plant effectiveness and improved reliability thanks to the simple optimisation of the sensor to individual application requirements. The narrow sonic cone of these compact sensors is ideal for object detection even in the smallest of openings. The IO-Link interface helps facilitate quick and efficient system integration and commissioning, on-the-fly parameterisation and diagnostic data for improved predictive maintenance initiatives.

 

U300 Miniature Ultrasonic Sensor Features

  • Compact, space saving design – 12.9 x 23 x 32.2 mm
  • Best-in-class blind zone of 15 mm
  • Sensing distances up to 500 mm
  • Efficient integration into automation systems via IO-Link
  • On-the-fly-parameterisation via IO-Link, flexible production lines
  • Standard hole spacing, flexible integration
  • Additional diagnosis data ideal for predictive maintenance

ultrasonic sensor - U300 detecting PCBs

Easy PCB Detection

High performance, compact design and fast design-in, the U300 Ultrasonic Sensors are ideal for PCB detection. These sensors offer reliable detection of a varied range of surface structures, colours, and even transparent PCBs. Providing rapid response times, improved throughput the U300 Sensors have one of the shortest blind regions in the business.

Multiple Layer, No Problem!

Both in IO-Link mode and in switching mode, the sensor detects one, two or more layers of material. The U300 range can easily detect multiple layers of products such as foil, paper, cardboard, labels or even thin metal sheets. In addition to double sheet testing, typical applications are film tear detection, bonding surface detection, and label inspection.

Ultrasonic sensor the U300 and bulk materials

Limit Value Detection in Containers

The U300 makes detection of a wide variety of materials with different geometries easy, with a flexible sound beam adjustment for optimal application sensor settings.

View the Range

 

If you are looking for a reliable compact Ultrasonic Sensor that provides optimal performance in a miniature form then look no further than the Baumer U300 Range that is readily available from Kempston Controls. Call us today on +44 (0) 1933 411 411 or email sales at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk , or alternatively use the enquiry form below to discuss your sensing requirements.

Enquire Now

 

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The Wireless Alert Sensor Range from Lascar Expands!

Posted on by Rick Morgan

Lascar have expanded their Wireless Alert Range with the addition of three exciting Wi-Fi enable sensor products. These capable wireless devices offer even more flexibility when it comes to remote sensing across a wide variety of industrial, commercial and domestic applications.

The Wireless Alert LD – Leak Detection

The Wireless Alert LD

The Wi-Fi-connected Wireless Alert LD detects localised leaks or flooding and sends email alerts, using the free ‘FilesThruTheAir’ mobile app (available in the Google Play and the App Store) to a user-selected email address. Once installed the Wireless Alert LD will send and alert when the probe detects the presence of fluid between the sensor contacts, allowing users to take corrective action.

This affordable product is ideal for a wide array of applications where a water leak, or localised flooding could, for example, seriously compromise and damage a valuable piece of equipment or property. Ideal for installation in kitchens, cellars/sumps, public bathroom, chilled storage, water tank overflow, etc.

Wireless Alert LD Features:

  • Leak detection sensor with 1.5 m cable
  • Wi-Fi connected, customisable email alert messages
  • Alert delay settings to prevent unwanted alerts
  • Simple to set up using the free mobile app
  • Two years’ battery life (typical) – 2×1.5V AAA included
  • No ongoing subscription fees
  • Includes sticky pad for wall mounting

Learn More

The Wireless Alert CM – Contact Monitor

The Wireless Alert CM

The Wi-Fi-connected Wireless Alert CM will remotely notify users via email when it detects a volt-free contact has changed state, using the same FilesThruTheAir mobile app as mentioned earlier. Configurable settings include, device name, alert notification message content, alert delay and Wi-Fi network connection. The Alert CM is ideal for monitoring relay contacts, float switches, door contacts, push buttons or any electronic system with a volt-free contact output.

Wireless Alert CM Features:

  • User-configurable alerts for contact open, closed or both, 1.5 m cable
  • Alert delay settings to prevent unwanted alerts
  • Customisable alert messages
  • Sends email alerts and scheduled status reports
  • Wi-Fi connected, WPA/WPA-2 Personal – 802.11bgn
  • Simple to set up using the free mobile app
  • Two years’ battery life (typical) – 2×1.5V AAA included
  • No ongoing subscription fees
  • Includes sticky pad for mounting

Learn More

The Wireless Alert TP-P – Pipe Temperature Sensor

The Wireless Alert TP-P

With a temperature range of -40 to +120°C and a probe complete with a 1.5m cable, the Wireless Alert TP-P will remotely notify users via email (using the FilesThruTheAir mobile app) when the pipe probe detects that the temperature of a pipe is outside of those defined in the user-selected limits.

Configurable settings of the Alert TP-P include, device name, temperature alert limits, alert notification message content and WiFi network connection. The perfect and affordable pipe temperature monitoring solution for countless industrial, commercial and domestic applications.

Wireless Alert TP-P Features:

  • -40 to +120°C temperature probe with 1.5 m cable,  IP65
  • User-configurable high and low temperature limits
  • Sends email alerts and scheduled status reports
  • Flashing alert indicator
  • Wi-Fi connected, WPA/WPA-2 Personal – 802.11bgn
  • Simple to set up using the free mobile app
  • Two years’ battery life (typical) – 2×1.5V AAA included
  • No ongoing subscription fees
  • Includes sticky pad for wall mounting

Learn More

 

Kempston Controls are the people to speak to when it comes to finding your ideal Lascar Wireless Sensor solution. Call us today on +44 (0) 1933 411 411, or email sales at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk, or alternatively use the enquiry form below and let us help find the perfect sensor for you.

 

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