December 2, 2012 - B&R introduces X20 modules with onboard intelligence for vibration analysis. The condition parameters generated by this module not only provide operators with the information they need to optimize maintenance intervals, but are also available for use directly as input in the automation software.
The X20CM4810 dedicated condition monitoring tool can be used by machine builders and end users. With a width of two slots, the module provides four input channels with an IEPE interface (integrated electronic piezoelectric) for querying acceleration sensors. This interface supplies the sensors with power, samples their signals and processes them internally to generate more than 70 condition parameters like configurable damage frequency values, which are then transferred directly to the CPU via POWERLINK or any other standard fieldbus system.
The integrated evaluation of vibration patterns completely eliminates the need to forward raw data to an external CPU for analysis resulting in a reduced load on the fieldbus and system CPU as well as the elimination of superfluous interfaces.
Until now, preventive maintenance based on data from permanent condition monitoring has been rarely practiced due to the high cost of conventional systems. The X20 module remedies this by maximizing machine availability while minimizing the time and money spent on maintenance, allowing significant reductions to the total cost of ownership of machines and systems. Preventive maintenance control based on the condition of the machinery can be planned more efficiently and performed during breaks in production.
"This innovative X20 module allows operators to continuously monitor the status of an entire system," explains Andreas Waldl, technical manager at B&R. "The results can then be used to determine exactly which parts of the machinery, if any, require maintenance."
"The main criteria we focused on when developing these modules was that they needed to be easy to use as part of an overall automation solution – without requiring expertise in vibration mechanics," explains Waldl.
B&R is the world’s largest and most successful private company in the area of automation equipment manufacturing. The motto “Perfection in Automation” has provided the foundation for the company since B&R was founded in 1979. Today, B&R employs 2,300 employees worldwide and has an exceptional global presence with 168 sales offices in 68 countries.As a global leader in industrial automation, B&R combines state-of-the-art technology with advanced engineering to provide customers in virtually every industry with complete solutions for machine and process automation, motion control, HMI and integrated safety technology.
With industrial fieldbus communication standards like POWERLINK and openSAFETY as well as the powerful Automation Studio software development environment, B&R is constantly redefining the future of automation engineering.
B&R Industrial Automation, Inc. North America, based in Atlanta, GA, has been working closely with its customers since 1987. Since then, B&R North America has continuously grown as a sales and support organization through both direct sales offices and B&R’s unique Automation Partner distribution network. Today, B&R North America has a network of more than 24 offices throughout the USA and Canada and is there for its customers locally.