Rexroth Mecman has developed a new fieldbus system that offers greater flexibility and economic benefits to automation specialists. The system can be used with a wide range of protocols, including PROFIBUS-DP, INTERBUS-S, CANopen, devicenet and AS-Interface. The concept is based on a separate Bus Module (node) that is connected to the Fieldbus system and that communicates internally with a modular valve unit via a unique 'intelligent contact bridge'.
The valve unit consists of subplates and contact bridges that can be fitted with a maximum of 16 valve positions and solenoid valves.
The contact bridges are interconnected by means of plug contacts.
This modular concept offers the flexibility to make modifications at any time, enabling individual valve units to be extended by adding extra outputs and inputs.
Unlike other pneumatic Fieldbus systems, the Rexroth Mecman bus node can also support a combination of valve types and sizes.
System capacity depends on the Fieldbus protocol, but generally the node offers double the capacity of a conventional system.
Rexroth Mecman's new Plug-In valve range also offers significant advantages to Fieldbus networks.
With this valve, both electrical and air connections are made simultaneously when it is plugged into the base - completely eliminating wiring.
The Type Plug-In is pre-wired and tested to reduce design, purchasing and installation time.
The valve is also faster and easier to replace because no electrical knowledge is required to change it.
The Type Plug-In valves provide excellent design flexibility as they can be used in manifolds or single valve units, connected with centralised or decentralised serial links and used with a variety of electrical connections.
In addition, different-sized valves can be combined in one unit.
Customers can configure valve manifolds, obtain a product number and approximate prices through the company's web site.