Electricity + Control September 2015

STANDBY + BACK-UP SENSORS, SWITCHES + TRANSDUCERS

ROUND UP

Extends functionality of machines

IO-Link is the intelligent connection be- tween the device (sensor or actuator) on one side and PLC or field module on the other side. The AC5225 AS-i IO-Link module from ifm electronic combines the advantages of the AS-i wiring system with the standardised IO-Link communication. The simple AS-i system connects the data and power supply for IO-Link sensors and actuators. AS-Interface has become a well-estab- lished means of simplifying and speed- ing up machine wiring, while adding diagnostics. IO-Link, as a supplementary system on the lowest field level, is rapidly increasing in the number of devices avail- able on the market as this standard is now supported by so many major manufactur-

ers. IO-Link not only simplifies the design and construction of machines by virtue of its standardisation, it also significantly extends the functionality of machines. Short set-up times, higher productivity, and new modern maintenance concepts send a clear message for IO-Link. To as- sure its international use, IO-Link has been incorporated into the globally recognised PLC standard IEC 61131. Mandatory test specifications, test tools for masters and devices, and the resulting manufacturer’s declaration ensure the interoperability and quality of IO-Link. As defined by the IO-Link standard, the AC5225 can connect to binary or analogue sensors, standard devices or IO-Link- enabled. A feature of IO-Link is exact data

transmission with IO-Link: IO-Link andAS-i transfer analogue values in a digitisedman- ner, i.e. without conversion losses. Distort- ed signals by electromagnetic interference or contact resistances are excluded. Using an IO-Link sensor extends the powerfulAS-i diagnostics to the sensor level.

Enquiries:Tel. 012 450 0370 or email info.za@ifm.com

Foam – no problem for new level sensor

Exact level measurement in heavily foaming media is no problem for ifm ’s new LR2750 level sensor for hygienic applications.. The device was specially developed for de- manding applications in the food industry. It features a hygienic design and resists ag- gressive cleaning processes. In addition, the sensor is equipped with an Aseptoflex Vario thread for a multitude of process adapters. Due to the use of high quality and insensitive sealingmaterials such as PEEK and EPDM, as well as a high grade stainless steel housing, the new level sensor is best suited for internal

and external cleaning. LR2750 meets IP 69K require- ments, has an enhanced pressure resistance of up to 40 bar and is also rated for high medium temperatures of up to 150°C.This makes the sensor extremely resist- ant to the most adverse operating conditions such as steam cleaning. An optional tank adjustment feature ensures extreme flexibility for the LR2750. Even if an installation proves to be difficult, the device operates precisely and reliably.Whether smaller storage tanks, expansion tanks, separators, or for filling, the LR sen- sor can be used almost everywhere. Enquiries:Tel. 012 450 0370 or email info.za@ifm.com

Sensors for early tsunami warning

SENIX specialist distance measurement manufacturers, repre- sented in South Africa by Instrotech , have their ToughSonic sen- sors playing a critical role detecting sea level changes as part of a sophisticatedTsunami EarlyWarning System (TeWS) in the Philip- pines. Senix engineers collaborated with the PhilippinesAdvanced Science andTechnology Institute (ASTI) to customiseToughSonic 50 ultrasonic sensors for this first-of-its-kind system. EachTough- Sonic 50 sensor is integrated into a tide gauge platform that also includesASTI-designed wet and dry sensors, a solar power system

and wireless communications equipment. Hundreds of these tide gauge platforms are integrated to create the largest and most sophisticatedTsunami warning system in the world. The impetus for the TeWS system is the Manila Trench, an earthquake-prone zone west of the Philippine island of Luzon that reaches depths of 17 700, which is prone to earthquakes.The Philippines Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has forecast that a strong earthquake in the Manila Trench could trigger tsunamis with waves up to 32 feet high that could reach the populous Manila metropolitan area in less than an hour. How it works: The Senix sensors detect any significant rise and fall in the sea level.The data is logged on each platform and then sent in real time to a data receiving center operated by PHIVOLCS where data from all the sensors are consolidated and analysed using data visualisation, interpretation and decision software. The analysis results can be sent to local government agencies in near real-time where officials can sound off sirens to warn people in high risk areas to move to higher ground. Enquiries:Tel. 010 595 1831 or email sales@instrotech.co.za

Electricity+Control September ‘15

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