2nd Quarter 2013Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Festo has introduced an intelligent linear actuator for the process automation industry, the DFPI series. Based on the successful DLP range of actuators, the patented DFPI technology combines the functions of a linear actuator, a positioner and a distance measuring system.
As an improvement, a 4-20 mA feedback signal has been added to provide information on the position of the piston rod within the cylinder. All these components are integrated into the cylinder housing, a first for the industry. This saves time during installation and daily maintenance of the unit. It is self-initialising so there is no need to set up parameters such as the span and zero – it is a single purchase, plug-and-work solution.
The optional flexible protective conduit, which contains the electrical cables and two pneumatic tubes for the power supply and exhaust, makes installation even easier. This accessory can be customised to the required length for each application. The integrated positioner, valve block and potentiometer are practically maintenance free as these fragile components are protected by the cylinder from dust, chemicals and corrosion in the external environment.
The performance of the DFPI is impressive. Firstly, the travel speed can be set using the integrated flow control screws, which gives the DFPI the flexibility to adapt to the needs of each individual application. Secondly, with a corrosion resistance equivalent to that of stainless steel, the DFPI is suitable for outdoor applications. Additionally, the actuator has a customer-defined safety position that is assumed if the operating voltage or the analogue setpoint value fails. This causes the actuator to either extend or retract. Positions are specified via an analogue setpoint signal (4-20 mA), either through a PLC or manually via an external setpoint generator.
To date, a number of DFPI actuators have been installed on flotation cells in the local platinum mining industry. Flotation cells work by agitating a mixture of ore, water, frothing reagents and collecting reagents in a slurry. The valuable minerals float up and can be skimmed off for further processing while the waste is removed. If fluid levels are not accurately controlled in the flotation cell, mineral production is compromised. By using the DFPI actuator with integrated positioner, control of the flow was optimised, thus increasing the recovery rate significantly.
The DFPI actuators are ideally suited for use in the water and sewage, mining, and paper and pulp industries. The product offers a clean solution for control slide valves. As with the DLP, the DFPI interface conforms to ISO 5211. Therefore the adaptor and other accessories, as well as additional sensors, can be used on both products.
Read more...PC-based control for additive machine tools Beckhoff Automation
Editor's Choice Electrical switching & drive systems & components
IRPD is a specialist in additive machine tools. Development is heavily focused on high system throughput and consistently high process quality. This goal was achieved with the help of PC- and EtherCAT-based control and drive technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...Major software release for Parker PSD servo drives Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Parker Hannifin has released its PSD servo drive family delivering new control modes, advanced synchronisation functions and performance optimisations designed to improve throughput, accuracy and system efficiency in demanding industrial applications.
Read more...Beckhoff expands economy drive system Beckhoff Automation
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Beckhoff’s new AM1000 servomotor joins the company’s economy drive system. The compact, powerful motor and the AX1000 servo drive provide users with a perfectly coordinated, cost-optimised drive system.
Read more...Moving next-generation monopiles
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Wind turbine sizes are increasing at an unprecedented rate. The bigger the turbine, the more power it can generate and the fewer are needed per wind farm. Mammoet has been ahead of the curve in coming up with ways to make the movement of even XXL monopiles faster and more cost-effectively.
Read more...PC-based control for flat wire motors for electric vehicles Beckhoff Automation
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Special machine manufacturer, ruhlamat Huarui Automation Technologies has unveiled the second generation of its mass production line for flexible stators with bar winding (pins). This enables an extremely short production cycle and line changeover times, supported by PC- and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...New generation surface drill rig
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
Epiroc South Africa is launching a new and improved PowerROC T45. This new generation surface drill rig offers increased fuel efficiency and high availability, and is a welcome addition to the PowerROC family.
Read more...Rip-and-ship solution speeds up nuclear decommissioning project
Electrical switching & drive systems & components
When removing steam generators from decommissioned nuclear reactor buildings, the most economical method is to remove them in one piece. Mammoet was commissioned by Framatome to support with the removal of four steam generators from PreussenElektra’s Nuclear Power Plant Unterweser in Germany.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version