nass magnet, a manufacturer of electromagnetic valves and actuators, has developed the Smart Valve Connector to provide digital control for pneumatic valves.
Features of the Smart Valve Connector include:
- remote control and monitoring of valves
- connectivity to cloud-based systems
- collection of diagnostic data
- use of IO-Link for continuous data processing.
Smart Connector Provides Better Valve Performance and Monitoring
The Smart Valve Connector is designed to provide a direct connection for pneumatic valves into a machine or system, minimizing the need for detours or additional adapters. It utilizes the IO-Link protocol which allows for remote control and monitoring of valves as well as continuous communication of processes and performance.
In addition, connectivity with cloud-based systems is possible which enables the creation of smart systems and Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities.
According to nass magnet, its Smart Valve Connector can be installed into existing or new systems to provide flexibility to various customers. It features an M12 connector for easy installation and an unshielded 3 core signal cable, reducing the interference sensitivity of the digital signals passing through it compared to conventional analog signals.
Use of the IO-Link protocol allows process data to continuously be communicated and the electrical signals from the valve system to be checked, ensuring optimal performance and early detection of any potential maintenance issues.
Several diagnostic data points can be collected, such as:
- supply voltage
- output current
- load resistance
- power consumption of solenoid coil
- temperature
- switch-on time of the valve.
Limits can be set for many of the above and a warning issued should they be exceeded, helping machine owners to further ensure the performance of their systems.
The Smart Valve Connector also features a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) mode to help reduce power consumption. As explained by nass magnet, switch on time can be set up to maximum 2.000 milliseconds to ensure the perfect pull-in of the valve. In this phase the coil receives the full power. After switch-on time, the PWM mode is activated, and the required power reduction can be achieved by adjusting the duty cycle parameter.
The valve connector can be used in a range of applications, and robust versions with IP65/IP67 protection classes are available for use in extreme environmental conditions.
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