Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

November 3, 2011 - Users of the Allen-Bradley CENTERLINE 2100 motor control center (MCC) from Rockwell Automation can help reduce workers’ exposure to live voltage with SecureConnect. This optional safety feature allows operators to disconnect the power from an individual MCC plug-in unit without opening the enclosure door or entering the arc flash boundary. SecureConnect enables personnel to disengage an individual MCC unit from the power source before opening the door to perform maintenance or troubleshooting, which can be done at the unit or remotely.

Confirmation of complete power removal process is provided by SecureConnect’s multipoint validation system, which notifies operators when the unit’s power stabs are entirely withdrawn from the vertical bus, further decreasing the risk of hazardous electrical incidents. In addition, SecureConnect helps companies get their processes back up and running faster by reducing the need to obtain hot-work permits when servicing equipment. Because SecureConnect isolates a single unit from the power source, the remaining MCC units can operate without interruption.

 SecureConnect addresses safety at the unit level, adding a third tier to the Rockwell Automation safety portfolio for low-voltage MCCs. At the component level, Allen-Bradley IntelliCENTER technology helps users perform remote monitoring for troubleshooting their MCCs, all while outside the arc-flash boundary. ArcShield from Rockwell Automation, introduced in 2009, helps reduce flash hazards by providing protection against internal electrical arc faults that could occur without warning.

“We designed SecureConnect in response to the needs of customers who have told us they want the best possible protection for their people,” said Wayne Tompkins, global marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. “While safety is the primary benefit, SecureConnect also helps reduce downtime, increase productivity and improve compliance with the growing number of industry standards governing electrical safety.”

“When operators can remove voltage from bucket units without opening unit door, they significantly reduce their exposure to hazardous voltage,” according to Craig Resnick, research director, ARC Advisory Group. “This built-in protection delivers improved safety, resulting in greater productivity, cost-saving advantages and, most importantly, protection for personnel and assets.”

“Rockwell Automation offers the most comprehensive arc-flash safety solutions for low-voltage MCCs in the industry,” Tompkins said. “With SecureConnect, customers can now provide their personnel with a level of protection, not found in any other motor control center available today.”

Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and information, makes its customers more productive and the world more sustainable.Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., Rockwell Automation employs about 21,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.