Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

July 5, 2011 -- Siemens announces Sirius 3RB24 electronic overload relays with IO-Link.

Contactors, connected to the Sirius 3RB24 provide integrated motor protection and superior communication advantages, including readout of motor current and diagnostics. Rotary switches allow for easy setting of the device’s motor current and the required trip class. A consortium made up of the leading suppliers of automation products has come together to support the new concept in all areas of sensors, actuators and control technology. IO-Link represents an open, standardized and manufacturer-independent system for the uniform connection of sensors and switching devices to the control level.

The 3RB24 is part of a comprehensive line of cabinet based control products including motor control and monitoring relays that have IO-link communication capability.

“The Sirius 3RB24 is designed to reduce machine downtimes and optimize planning of maintenance measures, in addition to the added confidence of diagnostic measures like ground fault tripping, overload, thermistor protection tripping in a higher level control,” says John Burns, product manager, of Siemens Industry’s Automation Division. “This product combines easy system documentation, optimization of system processes and flexibility for on-site control and monitoring.”

According to Burns, a direct customer benefit is the product’s simple configuration for a communication capable product. “Most power controls are more complicated to set up. When compared to typical fieldbus overload relays, the 3RB24 is much simpler to configure while providing full control and diagnostic capability.”

Siemens Control Components and Systems Engineering business unit manufactures and markets products for commercial industrial applications. Headquartered in Norcross, GA, its products include IEC/NEMA control solutions, motor control centers, solar inverter systems and technical training. The business unit’s customers include contractors, facility managers, OEMs, electrical distributors, end users and consulting specifying engineers.