Monday 29 February 2016

You’ll always see the big picture with Safeside IR viewing windows

Grace Engineered Products’ SafeSide® W–MC Series allows for safe thermography inspections of multiple components through one big window, reducing the number of windows required and enhancing productivity.

Safeside® infrared viewing window features:
  • The W-MC series features a larger rectangular viewing area that provides an unparalleled field-of-view (FOV) when compared to traditional round IR windows
  • The exclusive, industrial-grade, reinforced polymer allows any infrared camera to monitor completely undisturbed assets inside electrical equipment
  • Safeside® Polymers do not degrade when exposed to acids, alkalis, UV, moisture, humidity, vibration, and high frequency noise – a guarantee no crystal IR window can provide
Infrared (IR) cameras are essential tools for predictive maintenance, but they can only inspect what they can see. With their unparalleled field of view, the W-MC Series IR Viewing Windows from SafeSide® give you a quick, efficient way to safely inspect electrical equipment.

Whitepapers and datasheets on SafeSide® can be found here.

If you require any further information you can email info@routeco.com or call us on 0370 607 1000.


Friday 26 February 2016

Intrinsically safe isolators designed by MTL

The MTL5500 range modules from EATON are versatile yet simple to apply; use the latest technology and yet are well proven.

These contrasting attributes stem from the progression in the design and manufacture of isolators for intrinsic safety and the application of innovative technology to achieve the required separation and segregation of the circuits.

The MTL5500 (DIN-rail mounting) and MTL4500 (backplane mounting) isolators share a common design, differing only in the mechanical mounting and connection methods.

  • Compact modular design with DIN rail mounting
  • High packing density
  • Single and multi-channel I/O modules
  • 3-port isolation with low power dissipation
  • Compatible with MTL5000 
A wide range of MTL products are available to buy from Routeco by clicking hereIf you would like more information, you can email info@routeco.com or call us on 0370 607 1000. 

Wednesday 24 February 2016

New Compact GuardLogix 5370 Controller from Rockwell Automation

Rockwell Automation’s Midrange Architecture provides machine builders with a scalable control platform to meet both their custom and standard machine needs. The new Allen-Bradley Compact GuardLogix® 5370 controller provides machine builders with the performance needed for both integrated motion and integrated safety on EtherNet/IP™. With Studio 5000® software as a single design and configuration environment, scalability has never been simpler.

Whether you are in the design, operation or maintenance cycle, engineers now can share code between different machine types and sizes, reducing the design cycle and commissioning time while improving uptime through the machine’s lifecycle.

Built on standard Ethernet TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP provides a simplified architecture for machine builders. The ability to be future-proof provides the flexibility and security to meet the end user’s needs while converging to the plant-wide network.

Features and benefits include:
  • Built-in dual Ethernet port for Linear and DLR (Device Level Ring) topologies
  • Integrated safety up to SIL 3, PLe, CAT 4, 1oo2 hardware structure
  • Integrated motion on EtherNet/IP up to 16 axes
  • Built-in energy storage eliminates the need for batteries
  • Removable 1-GB Secure Digital (SD) card improves data integrity
  • Support for kinematics eliminates the need for additional robot controllers and software
  • Integrated Safe Torque Off SIL 3/PLe with Kinetix® 5500 and PowerFlex® 527
  • Supports reuse of existing 1769 I/O
  • On-Machine™ IP67-rated Armor™ Compact GuardLogix controller options 
If you require any further information you can email info@routeco.com or call us on 0370 607 1000

Monday 22 February 2016

Smart Sensors with IO-Link - enabling smart machines for the 'Connected Enterprise'

IO-Link Technology is a worldwide open-standard protocol that integrates Allen-Bradley sensors into the Rockwell Automation ‘Connected Enterprise’.

The new IO-Link Technology is a worldwide open-standard protocol that integrates Allen-Bradley sensors into the Connected Enterprise by connecting the IO-Link enabled device into an IO-Link master module. You can deliver data from the sensor directly into a control system in a very efficient manner. The flexibility of IO-Link capable sensors allows machines to operate more effectively by providing the controller with diagnostics. In addition to product detection, sensors provide detailed and accurate machine health status to improve uptime.






Key points
  • A worldwide open protocol (IEC 61131-9) that allows AB sensors to be connected to the Connected Enterprise
  • Allows point to point connection between the AB sensor and IO module
  • Enables connection of up to four devices (IO-link enabled or standard IO)
  • Uses same cables as standard sensors
  • Provides powerful data and diagnostics from the sensor
  • Allows sensors to be accessible from Ethernet/IP
  • Automatic Device Configurations

Further product information on the range of IO Link Sensors is available by clicking here

For more information please contact us on 0370 607 1000 or visit our website at www.routeco.com

Friday 19 February 2016

Hardy Process Weighing Technology and Trends Technical Workshops


Do you use weight to monitor, measure or control your manufacturing processes? Do you want to learn new ways to integrate weight readings into your PLC, PAC, or DCS? Do you have questions about fine tuning weighing systems?

This technical workshop will give you the opportunity to see first-hand the latest weighing technology, learn best practices, and ask the experts about all aspects of process weighing.

Load cells, instrumentation, PLC integrated solutions and modular weighing systems will all be covered during the workshop.

Key topics will include:
  • Automated calibration
  • Vibration elimination filters
  • Remote access to instruments over Ethernet TCP/IP from a web browser
The workshop will be led by Carlos Moya of Hardy Process Solutions and supported by Routeco's Automation Specialists who will also be available after the workshop to discuss your individual projects and applications, should you require any further assistance.

There are currently two opportunities to attend this workshop throughout March:

Tuesday 15th March 2016, 10:00 - 14:00 - Lakeside, Roadford Lake, Broodwoodwidger, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0RL

Thursday 17th March 2016, 10:00 - 15:00 – Rockwell Automation, Edwin Foden Business Centre, Suite 29 - 30, Moss Lane, Sandbach, CW11 3AE

Lunch is provided at both workshops.

To reserve your place or for any enquiries, please email us by clicking here.

For more information please contact us on 0370 607 1000 or visit our website at www.routeco.com

Wednesday 17 February 2016

eWON demonstrate the new Cosy 131 VPN router at the 2015 Automation Fair

In this video Angela Telerski from eWON Inc. demonstrates the Cosy 131 industrial VPN remote access router at the recent Automation Fair® 2015 event.

The router provides remote access to industrial machines and installations on-site or in the field, allowing OEMs and system integrators to troubleshoot machines from anywhere around the world. It’s compatible with Talk2M, eWON's cloud-based remote connectivity service that provides a secure VPN communication route between the user and remote machine.

Watch the video from eWON’s time at the Automation Fair:


eWON products are available to buy from Routeco’s website here. For more information, contact your local Routeco Branch on 0370 607 1000 or email info@routeco.com

Monday 15 February 2016

Video - Prevent critical downtime with Stratus Technology

Downtime can be expensive for any business especially if it’s unplanned and unexpected. The costs are high and can include production delays, unsafe operations and lost transactions.

Stratus Technology has focused on developing technologies that keep critical applications running 24/7 — without interruption. Stratus delivers a range of solutions that includes fault-tolerant servers, high-availability (HA) software and 24/7 support services. As a Global Encompass partner, Stratus delivers continuous uptime for Rockwell Automation customers running FactoryTalk® View SE, FactoryTalk Historian, FactoryTalk ProductionCentre, and other critical plant applications.

See what Stratus Technology’s customers and Rockwell Automation Solution Partners think and why they are benefiting from Stratus solutions by watching this short video here.

Stratus products and solutions are available from Routeco. For more information, contact your local Routeco Branch on 0370 607 1000 or email info@routeco.com

Friday 12 February 2016

MTL launch new HD monitoring camera for hazardous areas

Eaton MTL launches the new RugiCAM-IP high definition (HD) IS Ethernet camera, the first of its kind in the hazardous area market. This compact RugiCAM-IP camera monitors and provides enhanced visual safety in hazardous locations within plants, so that safe operation can be maintained.
The lightweight camera enables plant managers across process industries to ensure they are operating safely in hazardous zone 1 and zone 2 areas.

Features include:
  • Connects directly to compatible IS Ethernet systems up to 100 metres via a Cat5e cable or wifi
  • Allows for quick and easy maintenance which allows plants to save time and associated costs
  • Rugged case with 6mm toughened glass for harsh environments
  • IS approval allows for safe, live network maintenance
  • Supports live video streaming via a H.264 compressed video format and Motion JPEG with user-selectable frame rates
  • Micro-SD card slot that can be used as an optional back-up
  • Available with an optional Infra-Red (IR) or white LED lights unit that enhances the camera’s low light capabilities.
For more information, please contact your local Routeco Branch  on 0370 607 1000 or email info@routeco.com

Wednesday 10 February 2016

Routeco's 2015 customer survey results

One of Routeco's  strategic objectives is to be Our Customers' First Choice, and there are a number of ways in which we can assess if we are reaching this objective; e.g. our customer retention figures, , sales growth or by simply asking our customers what they think of us and the service levels that we provide.
Therefore every year in November we conduct a Customer Survey, and as a result of that survey we put together an internal report of the findings and an action plan to make improvements to our service year on year.

In summary:
·         The Routeco Group score for Customer Satisfaction is 7.8 and we have continued to see consistent and positive results from the 2015 survey
·         Across the 17 questions asked, in the UK there is little variance between the scores from 2014 and 2015, with the majority of scores showing an increase in satisfaction.
·         Across all Countries, Accuracy of goods received was most important to you!
·         In the UK we have seen another increase in our Net Promoter Score, (how likely it is that the customer will recommend Routeco to an associate). In 2011 our NPS was 38% in 2015 it is 68%!   






·        More of our customers in the Netherlands perceive us as Partner of Choice, however appear to have higher expectations as regards the service levels. 
·         In the UK the majority of customer see us as a Key Supplier and in Austria a Solutions Provider.  
·         The satisfaction gaps that we have worked hard to improve in the UK, are also issues for Austria and the Netherlands, therefore, by sharing and implementing these actions across the group, we should see this gap decreasing in future years.

The focus for improvement continues to be across these four areas:  
·         Improving our ability to deliver to customer requested delivery dates
·         Develop and communicate our issues handling process, improving our customer service
·         Improve Proactive Communication, keeping  our customers informed about changes to their order
·         Maintain our accuracy levels as this is most important to all of our customers across the group.

During 2016 we will focus on these and other initiatives across the group to continually strive for year on year improvements in our service levels.
As you well know, requests to complete customer surveys is common place now with many companies seeking feedback at every opportunity, so although we don’t get a huge response rate, it is testament to the great relationship we have with our customers that many of you have taken the time to complete the survey and give us your comments; so on behalf of Routeco, thank you to everyone who took the time to provide us with very valuable feedback!  

Clare Lundberg
HR and Customer Experience Director



Monday 8 February 2016

Rockwell Automation releases Version 28 of Studio 5000 Software

The Studio 5000® environment combines elements of design into one standard framework that optimizes productivity and reduces time to commission. This intuitive integrated design environment focuses on rapid design, re-use, collaboration and virtual design and is built on a foundation consisting of several core tenants.

The Studio 5000 suite has four main applications, listed below, and each one focuses primarily on increasing efficiency and saving time.

Key features: 
  • Build and maintain a system layout in a central place with Architect™
  • Configure, program and maintain your Logix 5000™ family of controllers with Logix Designer®
  • Create intuitive, modern screens for the PanelView™ 5000 graphic terminals with View Designer™
  • Create and leverage re-usable libraries of content for rapid project development with Application Code Manager

With the Studio 5000 environment, you can respond more quickly to changing market and business needs, while reducing total costs of ownership, including maintenance and training.

The Studio 5000 software is available to purchase via Routeco on our website here.
  
Further product information is available by clicking here

Friday 5 February 2016

Your invaluable guide to IT/OT convergence

Industrial-IP have created a free six page book which gives you a guide to Network Fabric. The network fabric is the physical foundation that enables the convergence of information technology and operations technology into a single network infrastructure – including everything from switching, wireless, computing and storage systems as well as the connectivity, enclosures, pathways and cabling to all the automation and non-automation nodes across today's industrial plants. 

Changing industry demands means that plants must be armed with a reliable and robust network infrastructure for optimized productivity.
The eBook walks you through six chapters breaking down the foundation, value and implementation of a unified network fabric, along with case studies and resources for leveraging best practices throughout your operation.
Gain greater control of your business outcomes by harnessing the limitless potential of the Internet of Things by downloading this free eBook here.
For more information, contact your local Routeco office on 0370 607 1000 or email info@routeco.com

Wednesday 3 February 2016

Expand your performance capabilities with 5069 Compact I/O platform

The Compact I/O system from Rockwell Automation future-proofs your system and enables The Connected Enterprise, allowing machine builders to bring added value to their customers through a single, unified architecture, using EtherNet/IP™ for increased overall productivity. It is the ideal distributed I/O solution for use with the Allen-Bradley ControlLogix® 5580 controller and for users with high processing requirements.

The 5069 Compact I/O system offers diversity and flexibility with dual 1 Gigabit (Gb) embedded Ethernet ports for Linear and Device Level Ring topologies allowing easy customization for applications demanding high performance and speed.

Features and benefits:
  • Built-in power input with field power to I/O modules
  • Support for 31 local I/O modules
  • High-speed backplane for faster transfer rates
  • Improved status indicators for information about module health
  • Supports 1-Gb embedded switch technology for Linear and Device Level Ring (DLR) topologies
  • Integrated USB port allows easy configuration

Further product information can be found by clicking here to purchase this product on our website please click here.

Monday 1 February 2016

Prepare your network for the future

Although there is no way to tell exactly what the network of the future will look like as the Industrial Internet of Things gains momentum, there are universal elements of network design and function that can help you be best prepared. Automation World and Panduit have produced a 20-page E-Book which maps out what every manufacturer should know.

Topics covered in the E-book include:
  • What the network of the future will most likely look like
  • Which skill sets will be most important to cultivate as manufacturers prepare for operational shifts associated with the transition to IIoT, including blending of IT and OT competencies
To download the E-book please click here.

If you want more information on how you can prepare your network for the future contact your local Routeco office on 0370 607 1000 or email info@routeco.com