Automation + Control

Smart manufacturing practices making use of connected technology hold the power to improve efficiency and optimise factory operations. However, with the increased use of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) comes the threat of a cyber breach. To ensure that its customers can make a safe digital transition, Schneider Electric has built in cybersecurity measures to its latest motor control solution.

Following the completion of a 3 000-hour shallow-water test, ABB’s pioneering subsea power distribution and conversion technology system has proven viable, introducing ground-breaking potential for cleaner, safer and more sustainable offshore oil and gas production.

Phoenix Contact now supplies a complete solution to optimise all the processes in control cabinet manufacturing. Complete line is a system comprising technologically leading and coordinated hardware and software products, consulting services and system solutions. The optimised interactions simplify all the work processes – from engineering through to procurement, installation and operation.

The digitalisation of production is a hot topic – but first, data from sensors needs to find its way to IT and cloud level as easily as possible. IO-Link standardised communication technology is the ideal basis because its various advantages – still unknown in many areas – allow for future-proof and cost-effective communication from the field to the cloud. Pepperl+Fuchs can support users with an integrated system solution ranging from sensors to IO-Link master and software tools.

Mitsubishi Electric has released the company’s smallest and most powerful compact PLC to date – the FX5UC series micro PLC. With its diminutive size, this compact PLC is set to help machine builders and manufacturers pack more functionality into a smaller space, while also providing the web access and network connectivity demanded by smart factory applications.