Ethernet I/O modules address harsh environments
1 min read
Molex has announced new Ethernet I/O technology enabling industrial controllers to be connected to I/O devices in harsh environments where liquids or vibrations may be present.
With the introduction of QuickConnect (QC) technology for the EtherNet/IP and Fast Start-Up (FSU) technology for PROFITNET, Molex says the Brad HarshIO Ethernet I/O modules bring 'exceptional' speed and versatility to industries using robots for repetitive tasks. QC and FSU are designed to start and operate the module in less than 500ms. Potential applications include industrial, factory automation and automotive. Molex says the Brad HarshIO devices have been tested with Rockwell and Siemens compatible PLCs and deliver 'significant' operational advantages over conventional I/O modules.
Eric Gory, Molex' global product manager, said: "As Ethernet flows from the office management level down to the factory floor, automation device manufacturers need to adapt their products to the constraints of industrial applications. When Ethernet is used to control the sensors/actuators on the robot tooling – such as on a welding robot – it is sometimes necessary to perform quick change of tools. In the automotive industry, for example, this tool change period is defined by manufacturers that the swapped Ethernet field devices must be able to start and operate in less than 500ms."
The modules support safety automation architectures using separate power supplies to power the inputs (sensors) and the outputs (actuators). The HarshIO Ethernet power connector includes separate grounding isolation between the input/logic ground and the output ground. This feature allows for powering the module with two distinct power supplies – typically used in safety applications.
"Often, system designers are using safety relays that regularly perform pulse tests to be able to detect short circuit, ground fault or an earth fault," added Gory. "If an error is detected, the safety function is triggered and unwanted and dangerous plant conditions are therefore avoided. However, if the separate grounding for safety is not required by the system designer, the HarshIO modules can operate using a single power supply where the ground of both logic/input and output is identical."
