Electricity + Control August 2017

round up

CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION

Wide range of automation cables for sophisticated equipment

Speciality cable manufacturer, Helukabel , is gaining global recognition for its wide range of automation cables that have been specially designed for optimal performance on sophisticated automation equipment. Automation cable systems are unique in that they require precision manufacture that not only ensures the total integrity of information relayed and current transport- ed, but also need to be durable and reliable to handle the high mechanical stress and repetitive movements that is often associ- ated with automated processes. In South Africa, there is an increased move towards automation as stricter stand- ards require ever tighter tolerances, while the market place requires higher volumes and keener pricing. It is therefore essential that cabling systems, which are effectively the lifeblood of automation project, are of the highest quality and fit-for-purpose. According to Helukabel South Afri- ca sales manager, Hardus van Dyk, au- tomation is becoming commonplace in manufacturing, be it packaging, food and beverage processing, automotive, phar-

maceuticals and a host of other production lines. “Our high-quality cables and cable accessories (e.g. cable tracks, glands and connectors), guarantee durable and relia- ble systems that can handle the high me- chanical stress and repetitive, automated movements. Pre-assembled servo, motor and feedback cables are also available for the world’s leading drive system manufac- turers and these offer an economical alter- native to track cables. In addition, our tech- nical teams are more than happy to assist with the design and specification of cable system solutions to suit customers’ own

Helukabel’s advanced Topserv Hybrid is a single cable servo motor and controller cable in one.

An advanced Servo Motor control cable.

unique requirements,” he says. Pre-Assembled Cables include: • SIEMENS drive systems • REXROTH drive systems • LENZE drive systems • SEW drive systems • HEIDENHAIN drive systems • Robot cables • Connecting cables • Extensions/Supply cables

Enquiries: Doug Gunnewegh. Email doug.gunnewegh@helukabel.co.za

Best practices for industrial risk management Industrial organisations around the world struggle to manage risk. Incidents, such as product recalls, data breaches and worker inju- ries, have immediate consequences and can impact customers, employees, intellectual property and revenue. Risk management should be focused on where problems originate. In many cases, that is within the automation infrastructure. Rockwell Automation has outlined four key areas for managing risk at its source: • Equipment Obsolescence: Modernising production systems can play a major role in minimising downtime and improving quality, safety and security • Quality: Harnessing the power of existing operational data can improve quality management and help drive adherence to regu- latory requirements • Safety: Addressing safety in crucial areas of culture, compliance and capital helps reduce the number of safety incidents and im- prove operational performance • Security: Embracing end-to-end security across facilities and enterprises helps to protect people, intellectual property and physical assets “We view enterprise risk management as a continuous cycle of im- provement that includes assessments, technology and infrastruc- ture,” said Christo Buys, Business Manager for Control Systems, Rockwell Automation sub-Saharan Africa. Enquiries: Christo Buys.Tel. +27 (0) 11 654 9700 or email cbuys@ra.rockwell.com