EPLAN Pro Panel: virtual enclosure layout in 3D

EPLAN Pro Panel is a switchgear solution for the 3D engineering of control cabinets and switchgear systems. 

The software supports the 3D assembly for the fluid and electrical configuration of control cabinets and provides virtual wiring and 3D data for wire assembly and production machinery, in addition to 3D power distribution and copper rail configuration. 

The EPLAN platform simultaneously connects control configuration with the 3D control cabinet assembly information, providing a consistent data exchange to enhance project quality and accelerate the speed and ease of engineering design.  

The benefits of using EPLAN Pro Panel include:

                  

Safe planning

• Ability to align components and position them exactly
• Fitting regulations and minimum distances based on manufacturer requirements are taken into consideration as are the correct positioning of equipment, wiring ducts and support rails

Flexible layout

• Using the electro-technical circuit diagram, the EPLAN Pro Panel calculates the optimum wiring routes wires and cables, including checking how full the wire ducts are
• Automatic length calculation allows you to increase your productivity

Quick start

• A range of options available for accessing device data including 3D geometry whether it’s from the EPLAN Data Portal or via the built in STEP interface, directly from the component manufacturer or data CDs from any 3D CAD programme 

Consistency for lively exchange

• The EPLAN Platform connects electrical engineering and 3D mounting layout directly with one another 
• No more time lost thanks to redundant data, manual data transfer, synchronisation, consistency checks and maintaining parts list information

Top class workflow optimisation

• A consistent product development process makes your work easier: redundant data storage, multiple data entry and time-consuming reverse engineering all become things of the past

Directly into (NC) production

• EPLAN Pro Panel provides information on the mechanical processing of mounting plates, doors or entire cabinet casing
• At the touch of a button, you can produce production-related information on drill holes, threads or openings and make this available directly to your NC processing machine 

Wiring made easy

• Whether assembly is manual or automated, all the information required for cable assembly is provided
• Data is output in neutral or machine-specific format, so you can connect standard cable assembly machines and provide information for specialist suppliers

Added value at a glance

• EPLAN Pro Panel offers perfect consistency and optimum configuration support as well as top-notch production integration

For more information or to discuss your design software requirements with one of our account managers please contact us at info@routeco.com or visit our website at www.routeco.com

Introducing the new SafeSide Voltage Test Station (VTS) from Grace

Grace Engineered Products, the innovative leader in design and manufacturing of Permanent Electrical Safety Devices (PESD) has announced the new SafeSide® Voltage Test Station (VTS).

The VTS is a revolutionary product that minimizes electrical worker’s exposure to live voltage and the risk of an arc flash hazard. The VTS further simplifies the three step voltage test method and exceeds NFPA 70 E/CSA Z642 and OSHA standards if used in your Lock-out Tag-out (LOTO) procedure. 

This through-door technology concept provides a combination of a voltage indicator and test points for actual voltage measurement in a single housing, eliminating guess work and verifying zero electrical energy from outside the enclosure.

The entire VTS product offering follows Grace’s core concept of customisation, available in various NEMA and stainless steel housings to serve many industry needs.

For further information please contact us by email at info@routeco.com and to check pricing and to buy online please visit our website.

Is your equipment too hot?

Climate control is an important factor in all environments, and it has been reported 57% of electrical equipment fail as a result of being either too hot or too cold. The risk of breakdown increases significantly without climate control and the cost of equipment failure can be huge. 

Electrical equipment produces heat, which increases the temperature inside the enclosure, which, in turn, reduces the service life of components. The correctly selected enclosure climate control can prevent almost 80% of electrical equipment failures, addressing dust ingress and condensation as well as high temperature. 

To see our vast range of cooling products and check price and availability, please visit our website.

*Please note not all products may be available to purchase online, please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000 for product enquiries. 

For more information on the climate control range, click on a product information leaflet below:

Air/Air Heat Exchangers

Air/Water Heat Exchangers

Chillers

TopTherm Blue e Cooling Units

TopTherm Fan and Filter Units

Service Agreements

Rockwell Automation’s Product Demonstration Vehicle visits Routeco Dartford

The Rockwell Automation Product Demonstration Vehicle is touring the UK throughout July and will be at our Dartford branch on Monday 6th July. It is packed full of the latest automation products available, with working demonstrations of how the products can be integrated together to give effective solutions.

It’s a great opportunity for you to come and see the range and discuss your applications with us. 

The systems on the bus include the latest HMIs, PLCs, Drives with built-in safety, light curtains and safety switches.

Our Routeco safety specialist Kevin Kirby will also be on board if you have any safety related questions.

We hope you are able to spare some time during the day to come and visit us and get some ideas for updating or improving your manufacturing processes and  machines.

Address: Routeco Ltd, Unit 4, Orbital One, Green Street, Green Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1QG

Date: Monday 6th July, 10:00 - 16:00

If you are able to attend, please email: techworkshop@routeco.com

New Mobile Tethered Operator Interface solution from Rockwell Automation

While manufacturing applications are becoming more complex, staffing resources are becoming leaner – increasing the need to access and view application information beyond the control panel.

The Allen-Bradley MobileView Tethered Operator Interface from Rockwell Automation expands the visualisation portfolio of products – taking terminals mobile while increasing operator productivity. With a hardwired E-STOP and 3-position enabling switch, the terminal helps contribute to a safe production environment.

With its ergonomic design, the MobileView Tethered has a comfortable handle for easy carrying and fatigue-free operation. MobileView will run the Windows Embedded Standard 7 operating system, optimised for FactoryTalk View ME and FactoryTalk View Studio applications – helping reduce development costs.

A mobile operator interface can be used in many industrial applications without compromising safety. MobileView can be effective in applications with line of sight requirements, setup/calibration activities where an operator needs to be near an application with access to operator interface, and maintenance applications.

Features and benefits:

The MobileView Tethered Operator Interface allows you to mobilise your view of applications by putting the terminal in your hands. The MobileView Tethered offers innovative features to meet various application needs.

Increase operator productivity

• Reduce time by having the operator terminal within line of sight of process
• 5M, 10M or 15M cable with “quick connect” connector and mounting bracket options
• Optional software assignable function keys with either hardwired momentary push button or key switch

Establish a safer environment

• Hardwired E-STOP and 3-Position enabling switches for additional safety
• IP65, 0-45°C operating temperature
• 1M drop rated to work in industrial environments

Innovative Design

• 10” wide display (1280 x 800) with resistive touch screen for easy viewing
• Windows® Embedded Standard 7 operating system that is optimized for FactoryTalk™ view ME Station
• Internal SD card for application and data log storage

The MobileView Tethered product range is available to view and buy online on our website here.

For more information please contact us at info@routeco.com

Connectors that stand up in harsh environments

Manufacturers of food and beverage process equipment involved in the logistics, processing, filling and packaging industries face many challenges. 

There are a wide range of regulations for food products which need to be met and working in a wet environment can wreak havoc on processing machinery. 

Maintaining the processing lines to ensure continuous flow with no shutdowns requires constant attention, special skills and extensive training.

Molex’s Brad® Ultra-Lock Stainless Steel Connection System meets the stringent standards of the food and beverage industry. Its IP69K seal can withstand washdowns up to 100 bar (1500 psi), ensuring optimum performance even in harsh, wet environments.

Because the system does not have threaded grooves like traditional M12-based hard-wired systems, it is not susceptible to the lodging and transfer of bacteria, ingredients and other foreign materials that can contaminate a processor’s end products.

Other features of the Brad Ultra-Lock system include:

• Threadless, “push-to-lock” technology saves time when installing and maintaining the control unit
• Material compatibility with a multitude of washdown chemicals
• Smooth 316 stainless steel construction limits where bacteria can collect

With the Ultra-Lock Connection System, processors can realize a rapid return on investment due to decreased assembly/ disassembly time and labor costs. Using the system also results in increased production uptime with less risk of intermittent or loose connections versus traditional M12 connection systems.

Our product specialists are on hand to assist so please contact your local Routeco branch.

For more information please contact us at info@routeco.com or visit our website at www.routeco.com

Corrosion Resistant and Hygienic designs by Wittenstein

Corrosion protection is vitally important for quality and maintenance optimised production to meet the rising world-wide demand for industrial cleaning technology. With this in mind, Wittenstein’s Corrosion Resistant and EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group) certified hygienic Design gearheads allow hygienic and sterile automation close to the process. 

Wittenstein alpha offers perfect drive solutions for every production stage and these gearheads are compatible with the Rockwell Automation servo motors also designed for Hygienic applications.

Protection against corrosion

The drive solutions provide innovative, incomparable alternatives for applications in corrosive environments: 

• Special protective coating
• Food grade lubrication (NSF certified)
• Stainless steel output
• Flexible design
• Optional accessories available
• Select food grade Motors (VPF and MPF)

Hygienic and sterile

The Hygienic design gearhead is the world’s first planetary gearhead to be certified by the EHEDG. Safe, direct integration in the process is now a reality:

• Housing material: Hygenic steel 1.4404
• Electropolished surface
• Triple sealing concept (IP69K)
• No dead spaces
• Food grade lubrication (NSF certified) 
• Use with Stainless steel Motors (VPS and MPS) 

For more information about the full range of Wittenstein products available from Routeco, please contact your local branch. Our Routeco experts will be able to explain to you the full details of the products and their application suitability and their benefits to you.

For more information please contact us at info@routeco.com or visit our website at www.routeco.com

PanelView 800. Component Level Human Machine Interface Solutions.

When you want to add value and reduce the cost of your operator interface for your standalone machine, look to the all-new Allen-Bradley® PanelView 800 family from Rockwell Automation. Leverage on the high-speed processor, high-resolution display with LED backlight and internal memory, to help improve productivity and maintenance. 

Preferred integration with Allen-Bradley micro controllers offers you an ideal control and visualization solution for a wide variety of applications. PanelView 800 offers the fundamental features that you need on a full line of displays ranging from 4 in. to 10 in., and supports Ethernet and serial communications. PanelView 800 graphic terminals are part of the Connected Components solution which uses single software, Connected Components WorkbenchTM that provides a common environment for configuring Allen-Bradley HMI, PowerFlex® component-class drives, Guardmaster® configurable safety relays, SMCTM soft starters, Kinetix® 3 servo drive and Micro800 controllers in your standalone machine.

Features and Benefits:

>   Optimized for compatibility with Micro800® and MicroLogix™ controllers

>   Includes high-resolution display with LED backlight supporting 65K colors

>  Offers flexible application modes in landscape and portrait

>   Includes high performance 800MHz CPU processor with 128MB/256MB memory

>   Includes USB host port and microSD™ support file transfer or updating firmware

>    Alerts operators with alarm messages that include embedded variables

>    Provides ability to upload and download groups of data or parameter settings with 

           recipe capability

For more information email info@routeco.com or to buy online Click Here 

Assemblex assembly frames!

Ergonomics in enclosure assembly

Are your panel builders working in the most ergonomic and safest way possible?

When it comes to automation and rationalisation of processes throughout every stage of machining, assembly, wiring and testing of enclosures, we have the right ergonomic solution for you. 

Our Assemblex assembly frames are mobile, tiltable and depending on the version, height adjustable with a maximum mounting plate or enclosure size of 1900 mm x 1900 mm. All 3 types offer simple and variable fixing of mounting plates using quick release fasteners, are independent of mains power preventing the risk of running over power leads and take up minimal space when not in use.

There are also a range of optional extras from managing cables reels to installing the mounting plate inside the enclosure directly from the assembly frame preventing heavy lifting and encouraging a safe working environment.

For further information click here or email info@routeco.com

Certified GRP Enclosures

Our CEP range of ATEX GRP enclosures are designed to meet the highest standards of protection demanded by electrical and electronics designers for a wide range of industrial applications. 

Overview and Key Features: 

•  Highly resistant to corrosion
•  IP66 and IP67
•  Atex Component Certified (Black only)
• Inc. Certified with terminals   Ex e, Ex nA, Ex i Ex t-40°C to +80°C standard, 
  50°C to +120°
• Fire resistant versions
• Colours Black RAL RAL9005
• Stainless Steel fasteners

With a high resistance to corrosion, petrochemical products and fats, and combining strength with a light weight, these GRP enclosures are designed to meet the highest standards of protection.

Certification Includes: 

• SIRA 08 ATEX 3213 & IECEx SIR 13.0039X
• Ex II 1 GD, Ex ia IIC T5 and T6,
• Ex ta IIIC T85°C and T100°C,
• Ex II 1 2 GD, Ex e IIC T5 and T6,
• Ex tb IIIC T85°C and T100°C

Click Here for pricing information and to buy online. 

Graphic Terminals Designed to Improve Performance

The Allen-Bradley PanelView™ Plus operator interface from Rockwell Automation has been providing both a hardware and software platform for factory automation for years. It has continued to be an integral part of the Integrated Architecture® system – providing operators at the machine level a view into the control system.

The PanelView Plus 7 Standard was developed as a continuation of the PanelView Plus family to continue to provide years of quality operator interfaces for industry.

In combination with FactoryTalk® View Machine Edition, this release continues the unmatched integration with Logix and complete scalability. This offering helps strengthen our Integrated Architecture offering for machine builders along with the CompactLogix™ L1, L2 and L3 controllers.
The new operator terminals are ideal for applications that require monitoring, controlling and displaying information in dynamic ways, where operators must quickly understand machine status and make better decisions.
The PanelView Plus 7 terminals are available in a variety of display sizes, including widescreen, enabling you to select exactly what is required for your application.
Features and Benefits include;

> Single controller connection, Complementary to CompactLogix 5370 controllers  
> Form factor includes sizes from 4" to 10" with wide screen option
> Up to 25 displays and Up to 200 alarm messages 
> ATEX Rated for Hazardous Areas
> Windows CE 6.0 standard features, including email and text notification and secure FTP server
> Monitor applications from a secure remote location with VNC connectivity
> Use an SD card to copy and restore the operator interface quickly
> Brandless (Blank Bezel) options available

For more information please click here and for pricing information and to buy online please click here 

Reduce the Effects of EMI/RFI in your control panels

One of the core issues affecting the performance and reliability of industrial control systems is electrical noise emitted from devices. This electrical noise can create voltage spikes in victim wiring, affecting component performance. Proper noise mitigation and panel layout practices help to ensure system productivity, quality, and safety. Panel designers have historically used air spacing between components and wire pathways for noise mitigation, per IEEE recommendations. With Panduit® PanelMax™ Shielded Wiring Duct and Noise Shield, panel designers can provide noise mitigation with reduced air spacing requirements allowing for a space optimized control panel layout. These products route, separate, and shield sensitive wiring from noise emission. This allows pathways to be placed in closer proximity, saving valuable space within industrial control panels. The shielding provides up to 20dB reduction in noise (EMI/RFI), or 90% noise voltage reduction (NVR), which is equivalent to 6 inches of air spacing between sensitive and noise-emitting wiring. Several wire routing and segregation configurations are possible with the innovative Shielded Wiring Duct and Noise Shield, delivering greater design flexibility to satisfy a wide range of applications. These products are part of the broad range of reliable product systems offered by the Panduit Industrial Automation Solution. These product systems aid in reducing design and assembly time, create valuable panel space savings, and provide easier installation and maintenance.

For further technical information on this new innovative product please click here  and for pricing information and to buy online from Routeco please click here

Maximise your panel space with DIN Rail mounted Wiring Duct from Panduit

PanelMax™ DIN Rail Wiring Duct is an innovative wire management solution from Panduit that maximizes space utilisation within industrial enclosures for flexibility in panel layout and reduced material and installation costs.

The unique design raises components from the panel surface for easier access and faster terminations. DIN rail wiring duct is compatible with common DIN rail and DIN mount components1 to satisfy a wide range of applications.

The Industrial Automation Solution from Panduit meets the most demanding requirements and applications with a broad range of product systems that aid in reducing design and assembly time, creating valuable panel space savings, providing easier installation and maintenance, and improving reliability.

For further technical information on this new innovative product please click here and for pricing information and to buy online from Routeco please click here 

HMS adds EtherNet/IP to Netbiter Remote Management Solution

By connecting a Netbiter EasyConnect 300-series gateway, users of EtherNet/IP-based equipment can carry out maintenance from any location. 

The Netbiter Remote Management solution has previously offered connectivity to Modbus devices, but now HMS can also offer direct, on board compatibility with EtherNet/IP. Via the LAN port on the Netbiter Gateway, users can connect via UCMM (UnConnected Message Manager) which is an acyclic messaging channel separate from the control loop messaging.

Features of Netbiter include:

• Users can configure EtherNet/IP devices remotely using their regular configuration software (RSLogix for example), log trends, monitor performance over time, and get alarm or event notifications whenever critical thresholds are reached.

• Users can connect an EtherNet/IP-based automation device to a Netbiter gateway via the LAN port. The Netbiter gateway sends data via Ethernet or the cellular network to the cloud-based data centre called Netbiter Argos. 

• Users access Netbiter Argos at www.netbiter.net using a regular web browser. They can also set up a secure tunnel to the remote machine or equipment which enables commissioning and debugging just as if they were on site.

• The new Netbiter release includes the ability to group and filter alarms, as well as free access to map functionality showing the exact location of each Netbiter gateway. 

Click on the video below to how Netbiter is used to remotely monitor water treatment systems.

For more information please click here or to buy online visit our website here. 

If you require more information please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000.

Simple and Low Maintenance Air to Air Heat Exchangers

Air to Air Heat Exchangers provide a simple, stand-alone, low maintenance and energy efficient means of cooling electrical enclosures. The effectiveness of Air to Air Heat Exchangers is fundamentally dependent upon the ambient air temperature and the required internal air temperature; not only must the former be lower than the latter but the available cooling output varies with the difference between them.

Air to Air Heat Exchangers have only two moving parts, an internal fan and an external fan, which draw air through separate circuits of a heat exchanger, ensuring that the ambient air, which may be aggressive, or any debris or contaminants present in it, are not permitted ingress into the enclosure.

The fans fitted in the Rittal Air to Air Heat Exchanger are maintenance-free and therefore maintenance is limited to cleaning between the lamellae of the aluminium heat exchanger, which may be removed both quickly and easily. Debris and coarse dust particles or oil vapour may be removed from the ambient air prior to the heat exchanger using either a polyurethane (PU) foam filter mat or a metallic filter mat respectively.

Since the Air to Air Heat Exchanger requires only an electrical supply and its energy consumption is limited to that of two fans, the energy efficiency of this cooling solution is greater than that of alternatives that utilise refrigerant.

Rittal Air to Air Heat Exchangers are available as either roof-mounted or wall-mounted variants and for either internal or external use and so there is a product suitable for most applications should the ambient air temperature and the required internal air temperature permit.

At Routeco we have a great, easy to use thermal label to help you determine the temperature of your products. By adhering the small label to an internal surface of your enclosure, you will be able to see how hot or cold it is from the temperature gauge. The thermal label is quick to stick with results appearing straight away and is suitable for all types of equipment.

To request your free thermal label please email info@routeco.com and one of our sales engineers will come and help select the best product for you.

To view stock availability and pricing of the Air to Air Heat Exchangers online click here.* 

*Please note not all products may be available to purchase online, please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000 for product enquiries.

Miniature Split Core Current Transformers

We have a wide range of miniature split core current transformers available from Crompton Instruments.

These offer a cost effective and efficient method by which current can be measured, without the need to break the conductor. Each current transformer is supplied with colour coded leads of up to 3 meters for connection to your monitoring device.

The MSC range of current transformers offer primary currents between 60-500A with 1 or 5A secondaries with class 1 accuracy performance (class 3 for 60-80A range).

Features of the current transformers include:
• Cost effective moulded case
• Ratio’s ranging from 60/1 to 500/5
• Fast cable clamp connection.
• Multiple fixing options
• Safety plug in shorting link

Benefits
• Faster installation
• Compact size profile applications

For further information please click here.

To view pricing, stock availability and to buy online, please visit our website.

If you require more information please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000.

Hardy's EASY 8™ Plug-In Modules

This low cost weighing solution with 16bits of resolution is designed to provide "just enough" functionality that strikes a balance between price, quality of weight reading and Hardy's reputation for high quality process measurement products.

The EASY 8 is a single channel plug-in module that reads, conditions and digitises load cell sensor and strain gage signals commonly found in process weighing applications.

Featuring vibration immunity based on Hardy's exclusive WAVERSAVER® technology, the HI 800-WS module increases production speed by eliminating the effects of unwanted machine and system vibration noise on the weighing system. This dramatically reduces the scale settling-time often required to output stable Gross and Net weight data.

With an output of 55 times/second of stable processed weight, It is an ideal and cost effective solution when used in conjunction with the Micro820 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Click here to find out more about the Allen-Bradley Micro820® PLC starter kits.

For further information on the EASY 8 plug-in modules click here.

If you require more information please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000.

Let’s get started…. with the Allen-Bradley Micro820 PLC

The new Allen-Bradley Micro820® Programmable Logic Controller ‘Starter Kits’ are designed to introduce you to the features and benefits of using the Micro820 PLC. 

The Micro820 controller is ideal for controlling small standalone machines and remote automation applications that require flexible communications and I/O capabilities and can be configured using the Connected Components Workbench software.

Key features of the Micro820 include:

• The Micro820 20-pt controller has embedded Ethernet/IP and Serial ports and a microSD slot for data logging and recipe management.

• It can function as a remote terminal unit (RTU) for SCADA applications with support for Modbus over serial and Ethernet communications.

• Embedded support for 4 thermistor temperature inputs means it can function as a direct digital control (DDC) for building management systems (BMS).

• EtherNet/IP for Connected Components Workbench programming, RTU applications and HMI connectivity.

• 5KHz PWM Output for controlling solenoids and valves.

• Built-in Real Time Clock (RTC) with no battery required.

• microSD slot for program transfer, data logging and recipe management.

• Available with removable terminal blocks for easier wiring and installation.

• Supports up to two plug-in modules.

The ‘Starter Kit’ has been created to provide you with all of the basic hardware and software required to get you started with the Micro820 and includes the following parts:

• 1x 2080LC2020QWBR - Micro820 20pt I/O

• 1x 2080REMLCD – Micro820 LCD Display with Keypad

• 1x 2080PS120240VAC – Micro820 24v Power Supply

• 1x 1585JM8TBJM5 – Allen-Bradley 5M Ethernet Cable

• 1x Connected Components Workbench Software on DVD

This Micro820 starter kit has a special introductory price of £250.00 (only while stocks last).

For further information on the Micro820 please take a look at the online Virtual Brochure and to order your starter pack visit our website here.

If you require more information please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000.

Reducing the Risk of Arc Flash with Grace Engineered Products

Permanent Electrical Safety Devices (PESDs) are electrical components hardwired to a source of voltage(s) and installed into electrical systems. These enable engineers to validate zero electrical energy without being exposed to voltage. PESDs inherently minimise arc flash and electrical shock hazards because they reduce voltage exposure, provide voltage labelling on all sources and provide 24/7 visual and/or audible indication of voltage.

When engineers can determine a zero electrical energy state without any voltage exposure to themselves, their electrical safety program is safer. Verifying the proper operation of a meter and testing for absence of voltage before working on an electrical conductor (“test before touch”) for all practical purposes should always remain a habitual practice for engineers. The goal of PESDs is to ensure that when engineers “test before touch”, that they test only de-energised conductors.

Without PESDs, a failure of an isolator may go undetected until the engineer discovers live voltage after opening the control panel. This exact scenario is a common cause of arc flash. A direct short circuit may result from one mistake by the engineer while checking voltage.

Voltage detectors are a low-cost, redundant voltage verification tool that reduces arc flash risk, increases safety and adds productivity at a low installed cost.

We stock a wide range of “Safeside” voltage indicators and portals from Grace Engineered Products, who are a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner. We also supply customised communications GracePorts and IR Windows that allow engineers to access control panels easily through closed doors.

Take a look at the video below on Grace Engineered Products at Automation Fair 2012.

For more information on voltage indicators click here.

To browse and purchase our range online please visit our website.

If you require more information please email info@routeco.com or call 0370 607 1000.