Electricity + Control August 2017

CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION

[2] Siemens - Digital Grid, EnergyIP: A Flexible, Scalable Platform for Smart Grid Applications http://w3.siemens.com/smartgrid/global/en/ products-systems-solutions/software-solu- tions/emeter/pages/energyip.aspx, Last Ac- cessed: 28/06/2017

equipment failures. This analysis can be used to trigger programs that prevent equipment failure, which may be hazardous causing injuries and fa- talities to life in the surroundings of the equipment and damage to property and large costs to utilities. The Siemens EnergyIP MDM Systems and Analyt- ics Foundation is currently installed on many sites globally, executing accurate billing functions, and analytics functions enabling the smart grid drive operate distribution grid infrastructure within safe boundaries. References [1] Johnson L, Potreck L. Getting smart about smart meter analytic: Satisfying customers, enhancing operations, and running a better utility business, August 2016.

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Desmond Mabilo is a Systems Architect in Energy Management – Digital Grid, Siemens.

+27 (0) 11 652 3667 desmond.mabilo@siemens.com www.siemens.com

round up

CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION

Object detection for long ranges and difficult surfaces Alternative for difficult surfaces: Ultrasonic sensors transmit and receive sound waves in the ultrasonic range. The object to be detected reflects the sound waves and the distance information is determined via time of flight measurement, as opposed to photoelectric sensors colour, trans- parency or the object’s surface shine do not play a role. Blister packages in packaging technology or transparent plastic bowls in the food industry, for example, can be reliably detected. High performance: The ifm ultrasonic sensors in M18 design provide a particularly small blind zone and long sensing ranges which are usually only achieved by sensors of a considerably larger design. The sensors operate reliably with heavy soiling so that they can be used in applications in which photoelectric sensors meet their limits. Enquiries:Tel: +27 (0) 12 450 0400 or email info.za@ifm.com

Connection for intelligent sensors Robust field bus modules with safe connection: The decentralised IO-Link master mod- ules are used as gateways between intelligent IO-Link sensors and the fieldbus. They are the perfect choice, even in the most difficult environments: The materials and production methods are identical to the ifm jumper cables of the tried-and-tested EVC product series. The ecolink technology guarantees reliable, permanently ingress-resistant M12 connections of the connection cables. Energy limitation for UL class 2 units: Many sensors require an energy-limited supply with UL class 2 approval. The limitation of energy is usually achieved via a corresponding power supply. With the AL series IO-Link master, sensors can be supplied according to UL class 2 without using an energy-limited power supply approved to UL class 2. Enquiries:Tel: +27 (0) 12 450 0400 or email info.za@ifm.com

Electricity + Control

AUGUST 2017

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