Quantum Automation News - Quantum Automation

AutomationDirect | Cable Entry Systems for Control Cabinets

4/1/2020

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The KDL/D cable entry system allows cables to be installed through enclosures or other bulkhead surfaces, with the added benefit that pre-made, terminated cables can be installed without disassembling the connectors. The split-frame system enables the quick and simple installation of up to 48 cables in a single frame. Four frame sizes, starting at $16.00, fit standard cut-out dimensions and provide integrated strain relief. The multi-part split-frame system clamps together with a grommet block and grommets to provide a high-density cable entry point with an IP65 environmental rating. Small and medium size grommets (from $6.00) accept cable diameters from 0.08 to 0.87 inches (2 to 22mm). Optional discharge plates ($29.00 each) install directly to the cable entry frame on the inside of the control cabinet and eliminate interference that can occur on cable shields.

AutomationDirect | Expanded communications and analog I/O capabilities for the BRX PLC

3/25/2020

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Expansion modules snap onto the side of any BRX Micro PLC Unit (MPU) or BRX Remote I/O controller. Added BRX serial communications modules ($159.00) provide four isolated RS-232 ports that support communications flow control or RS-422 serial ports. Also available are BRX single-channel RS-232 (with flow control) and RS-422 Pluggable Option Modules ($49.00). Universal analog I/O modules (from $159.00) have combined current and voltage options. Universal temperature modules provide thermocouple, mV level voltage, RTD or thermistor selection with 24-bit resolution. The 4-channel combination temperature I/O expansion module ($349.00) has universal temperature inputs and analog outputs. Four-channel combination temperature input / discrete output modules ($199.00) provide universal temperature inputs and discrete sink, source or relay outputs.

BRX Micro PLC Features

AutomationDirect | Quick-disconnect M8 cables and M12 field wireable connectors

3/12/2020

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Quick-disconnect cables have a 3, 4 or 5-socket M8 female connector on one end and 3, 4 or 5 open leads on the other end to provide fast and easy connection between field devices and terminal connections. A "lock in place" nickel plated brass or zinc coupling nut resists high levels of shock and vibration. New 5-pole, M8 (Pico) quick-disconnect cables are available with axial or right-angle female connectors and pigtail wiring in 1.5, 5 and 10M cable lengths. The black PUR (polyurethane) jacket of these cables is well-suited for oily, direct sunlight and robotic applications. Starting at $8.50, the 5-pole cables are IP67 rated, UL and CSA approved and have a 1-year warranty. 5-pole, 125V AC/DC, right-angle female M12 screw connectors ($9.75) are field wireable, IP67 rated, accept various cable gauges and diameters, and offer good resistance against chemicals and oils.

Pico (M8) Quick Disconnect Cables Overview
Pico (M8) Quick Disconnect Patch Cables Overview

AutomationDirect | Motor Control Relays and Intrinsically Safe Relays

3/11/2020

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Motor control relays (starting at $24.00) perform specific protective functions for motors or motor components to ensure proper and efficient operation. Phase monitor relays can detect faults in a 3-phase system and provide protection against phase loss, phase reversal, phase unbalance, under voltage and overvoltage. Alternating relays are used in special applications where the optimization of load usage is required by equalizing the run time of two loads. Pump seal failure relays monitor submersible pump shaft seals; the relay output can be used to give an alarm indication of a leaking seal. The relay automatically resets when the fault condition clears. Intrinsically safe relays (from $75.00) allow control of up to four loads with corresponding discrete input devices (switches, sensors) located in hazardous areas. The onboard SPST relays operate at either AC or DC coil voltage ratings.

AutomationDirect | CLICK PLC input simulator and relay output modules

2/12/2020

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Higher amperage relay output modules and an 8-point input simulator module are now available for the CLICK® series stackable micro brick PLCs. The CLICK C0-04TRS-10 ($54.00) is a 4-point, 10A per point, isolated relay output module with four Form A (SPST) relays and 4 isolated commons. Operating voltage range is 6-24 VDC / 6-240 VAC. The C0-08TR-3 ($49.00) is an 8-point, 3A per point, relay output module with eight Form A (SPST) relays and 4 isolated commons. Operating voltage range is 6-27 VDC / 6-240 VAC. Priced at $40.00, the C0-08SIM input simulator module provides 8 toggle switches to simulate input devices, 8 logic side green status LED indicators and an LED power indicator. CLICK PLC units, starting at $69.00, are low-cost, brick/stackable PLCs with the processing, memory, communication and I/O interface needed in an automated control system.

Complete CLICK PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) Overview

AutomationDirect | HDPE filter elements for NITRA A-series Filters and Filter Regulators

2/12/2020

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40-micron and 5-micron filter elements for NITRA® AF-series Filters and AFR-series Filter Regulators are available with new HDPE (high density polyethylene) filter material for all sizes. The 40-micron replaceable filter element is standard; for stricter filtration, the optional 5-micron filter element is available and is easily installable. NITRA AF-series pneumatic air filters clean incoming compressed air for shop/plant air supply or air sources for individual machines. NITRA particulate and moisture separation air filters are available in a wide variety of port sizes to meet a broad range of pneumatic air supply filtration applications. AFR-series combination air filter/regulators combine a pneumatic particulate / moisture separation line filter and adjustable pressure regulator for pneumatic line filtering and regulation in a single unit. NITRA HDPE filter elements start at $1.25 and have a 2-year warranty.

NITRA Air Prep FRL Accessories Overview

AutomationDirect | Quick-disconnect M8 cables and M12 field wireable connectors

2/12/2020

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Quick-disconnect cables have a 3, 4 or 5-socket M8 female connector on one end and 3, 4 or 5 open leads on the other end to provide fast and easy connection between field devices and terminal connections. A "lock in place" nickel plated brass or zinc coupling nut resists high levels of shock and vibration. New 5-pole, M8 (Pico) quick-disconnect cables are available with axial or right-angle female connectors and pigtail wiring in 1.5, 5 and 10M cable lengths. The black PUR (polyurethane) jacket of these cables is well-suited for oily, direct sunlight and robotic applications. Starting at $8.50, the 5-pole cables are IP67 rated, UL and CSA approved and have a 1-year warranty. 5-pole, 125V AC/DC, right-angle female M12 screw connectors ($9.75) are field wireable, IP67 rated, accept various cable gauges and diameters, and offer good resistance against chemicals and oils.

AutomationDirect | Wenglor 50 x 50mm Rectangular Photoelectric Sensors

1/29/2020

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Rectangular 50 x 50 x 20mm photoelectric sensors from Wenglor include diffuse with background suppression, retroreflective, retroreflective for transparent objects, and through-beam models. The popular size makes these sensors ideal for drop-in replacement of other higher-cost rectangular photoelectric sensor brands. Sensing ranges vary from 1200mm for background suppression sensors to 20m for through-beam models. Wenglor rectangular photo sensors provide long range and small spot diameter, simple potentiometer sensitivity adjustment, visible red-light emission, and are compatible with the IO-Link open-standard protocol. Outputs are LO/DO (light-on/dark-on) complementary NO/NC. Right-angle fixed and swivel mounting brackets are available for flexible mounting options. Starting at $69.00 , OPT series photoelectric sensors are UL/CE approved and have a 1-year warranty.

OPT Series Photoelectric Sensors Overview

AutomationDirect | Open-Source ProductivityOpen Controller (Arduino-compatible)

1/29/2020

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The Productivity®Open platform provides all the great features of a standard Arduino plus the added power and reliability of an industrial controller. The P1AM-100 Arduino-compatible CPU is compatible with most available Arduino MKR format shields, and/or the industrially-hardened ProductivityOpen shields, and can utilize most Arduino sketch programs found on open-source websites. The P1AM-100 CPU supports the full line of Productivity1000 I/O modules including discrete, analog, temperature, relay, high-speed input and pulse-width-modulation modules. The industrial-grade P1AM-100 Arduino-compatible CPU is $49.00. Priced from $32.00, available ProductivityOpen UL-certified shields include the P1AM-ETH Ethernet shield and the P1AM-GPIO general purpose I/O shield. The P1AM-PROTO shield is also available for creating your own prototype designs.

Features of ProductivityOpen

AutomationDirect | STRIDE Field I/O modules for Modbus TCP-capable systems

1/29/2020

STRIDE communication products provide reliable connectivity to industrial controllers and field devices. STRIDE Field I/O modules offer a simple and economical means to connect inputs and outputs to a Modbus TCP communications network via Ethernet 10/100 Base-T. Each module operates as a stand-alone Modbus TCP server, and can be remotely configured via a built-in web server. STRIDE Field I/O digital modules provide up to 16 discrete inputs each with options for discrete and relay outputs. STRIDE analog input modules are available with up to 8 current (-20 to +20 mA) or voltage (-10 to +10 VDC) inputs. Analog output modules provide four 0-20mA/0-10VDC output channels. Temperature modules provide 4 or 8 thermocouple inputs or 4 RTD channels per module. Starting at $139.00, STRIDE Field I/O modules are UL listed / CE marked and have a 2-year warranty.

STRIDE Field I/O Overview

AutomationDirect | NITRA Rodless Air Cylinders

1/22/2020

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NITRA L-Series Rodless Cylinders offer a robust design in a compact package. Rodless cylinders can offer the same stroke as rodded cylinders in a smaller space. Rodless cylinders have the piston connected to a carriage that rides outside the extruded cylinder wall, reducing overall length, making them ideal for small or tight location applications. All sizes of NITRA rodless cylinders have magnetic pistons and are double acting. The cylinders have front and rear adjustable cushions and tapped end caps for mounting. Four bore sizes from 16mm to 40mm and seven stroke lengths from 100mm to 1000mm are available. NITRA L-Series rodless cylinder accessories include sensor support brackets, end mounting brackets and center support brackets for longer cylinders. Backed by a 2-year warranty, NITRA rodless air cylinder prices start at $215.00.

NITRA L-Series Rodless Pneumatic Cylinders Overview

AutomationDirect | ProSense Digital Panel Meters

1/22/2020

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ProSense digital panel meters in 1/32 and 1/8 DIN sizes are AC or DC powered and feature IP65-rated meter faces, simple menu-driven pushbutton configuration, and accept a wide variety of input signals. Available outputs include alarm relays, milliamp current, and sensor excitation voltage options. New process-display options now include AC or DC voltage (up to 600V) and AC or DC amperage (up to 5A). Existing display options include analog process signals, load cell, or potentiometer inputs, and temperature inputs from RTDs or thermocouples. All panels offer selectable decimal point location. The ProSense DPM2 process meter series is now available with 4-digit (-1999 to 9999) 20mm character height red LED process indicator displays in addition to the existing 4-digit (-9999 to 9999) 14mm red LED displays. ProSense digital panel meters start at $70.00 and have a 3-year warranty.

AutomationDirect | Schmersal IP69K Rated Joysticks

1/22/2020

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Schmersal joystick selector switches have design features that make them suitable for food processing, pharmaceutical, and medical applications. The joysticks comply with the special cleaning requirements of the food industry to prevent cross-contamination, particularly when used in machines that process raw goods. The IP69K rating also makes the joysticks suitable for marine applications, traffic systems, commercial vehicles, and any dusty, dirty environments. Blue bellows versions are used in the food processing industry to assist in the detection of foreign materials. Standard 22mm mounting makes the joysticks easily installed and standard M12 connections are used. The spring-return momentary contact joysticks allow operators to move to 2 or 4 positions. Starting at $85.00, Schmersal IP69K rated joysticks are cULus and CE approved and have a 1-year warranty.

Joystick Selector Switches Overview

AutomationDirect | WEG SSW05 Compact and SSW07 Basic Soft Starters

1/20/2020

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The new Gen 2 WEG CFW100 is a single-phase input (110/230 VAC), three-phase output variable frequency drive (VFD) developed for applications ranging from 1/4 to 1hp (0.18 to 0.75 kW). The CFW100 series features a compact size and is ideal for applications on machines or equipment that require precise control with easy setup and operation. WEG vector control or scalar control can be selected. The built-in SoftPLC with operator interface allows the CFW100 to work interactively with motor and application. Compatibility with free WEG Programming Suite (WPS) software enables custom tailored control schemes including PID control. A variety of plug-in option modules for additional I/O and communications protocols can be added to extend capabilities. A remote keypad and flash memory module are also available. Sixteen CFW100 units are available starting at $139.00.

WEG CFW100 Series AC Drives Overview

AutomationDirect | DW Series Analog Output Inductive Proximity Sensors

1/14/2020

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cylindrical sizes. These reliable DC-powered (10-30V or 15-30V) threaded-barrel sensors are IP67 rated and are available with 2m pigtail cable or quick-disconnect. 8mm analog inductive proximity sensors detect the presence of ferrous metal objects at distances from 0 to 4mm and provide a variable output (0-5 VDC or 0-10 VDC). 12mm, 18mm and 30mm analog inductive proximity sensors detect the distance of ferrous metal objects from 0-6mm, 0-10mm and 0-20mm respectively, providing a variable mA or voltage output (0-5 VDC / 1-5 mA and 0-10 VDC / 4-20 mA) linear to distance signal. Rectangular 8mm x 8mm analog output sensors are also available with 0 to 4mm sensing range. With a lifetime warranty, these UL approved analog proximity sensors start at $92.00.

Inductive Proximity Sensors Overview

AutomationDirect | VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) / Servo Cable with Signal Pair

1/14/2020

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VFD-SC series VFD/Servo cable offers 4 conductors, available in 16 AWG to 10 AWG gauges, plus a foil-shielded signal pair. The VFD-SC series is the same high-quality cable as the standard VFD-C series; the addition of the shielded 16AWG signal pair allows the cable to be used with motors and drives requiring brake control or feedback from devices like temperature or position sensors. Having the integral signal pair allows this cable to be used with SureServo drives and motors up to 3kW. These VFD cables utilize cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE) conductor insulation with Class K, flexible stranded tinned annealed copper conductors. XLPE insulation can withstand voltages as much as 3 times higher than standard PVC/nylon insulation for VFD cables. Signal pair VFD cable is available in cut-to-length 1-foot increments starting at $3.45 per foot (20-foot minimum).

VFD/Servo Signal Pair Cable Overview

AutomationDirect | ProSense® Variable Area Mechanical Flow Meters

1/14/2020

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ProSense FG1 Series mechanical variable area flow meters provide visual indication of flow rate for water or petroleum-based fluids. These meters provide +/-5% full scale accuracy and a repeatability of +/-1%, important for cyclical applications requiring consistent readings. Two adjustable flow limit pointers are available to provide preset indication of high, low, or normal flow rates. The flow meters are constructed of high-impact polysulfone plastic (body, piston, cone) with brass fittings (1/2 and 3/4 NPT models). FG1 series flow meters are available with 1/2", 3/4" or 1" NPT process connections and have easy-to-read flow scales in both gallons per minute (GPM) and liters per minute (LPM). Measurement ranges are from 0.25 - 2.5 GPM (1 to 10 LPM) to 4 - 28 GPM (20 to 100 LPM). FG1 series flow meters start at $96.00 and have a 1-year warranty.

FG1 Series Variable Area Flow Meters Overview

AutomationDirect | Hammond Industrial Enclosures

12/4/2019

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Hammond Manufacturing® enclosures, including disconnect, stainless, commercial, console and other enclosure styles, are now available along with our existing AttaBox®, Hubbell-Wiegmann® and Integra enclosure lines. A wide variety of metal and non-metal enclosures, rated NEMA 1, 3, 3R, 3S, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12 or 13, are available. NEMA 1 enclosure units are an economical choice for basic protection. NEMA 12, NEMA 4/12, NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X enclosures are gasketed to add a significant amount of protection for indoor or outdoor use. Enclosure types and styles include wall-mount enclosures, junction boxes, pushbutton enclosures, floor-mount and freestanding enclosures, disconnect enclosures, consoles and consolets, and wireways. Many door and window configurations and latch/lock options are available. Hammond enclosure prices start as low as $8.50.

AutomationDirect | VFS Series Vortex Flow Sensors

11/20/2019

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ProSense® VFS series vortex flow sensors offer a very cost-effective solution optimized for monitoring water and deionized water flow in industrial applications. Vortex flow sensors are a reliable alternative to other flow sensing technologies and are a simple, low cost, and proven method for measuring flow of water-based liquids that is independent of the liquid's pressure or temperature fluctuations. Using the pushbuttons and display, the VFS series can be easily set up to measure both flow rate and temperature. The VFS series is available with 1/2" or 3/4" NPT process connections. The TFT color display and switch point LEDs are used during configuration and operation to provide clear indication of both flow and temperature measured variables simultaneously. ProSense VFS series vortex flow sensors start at $199.00

AutomationDirect | Compact Thermoplastic and Halogen-Free Limit Switches

11/20/2019

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The new AEP series of reinforced thermoplastic compact limit switches includes a variety of actuator types including metal plunger, side rotary lever, adjustable lever, rod actuator, and 360-degree spring actuator. These compact-sized plastic limit switches have standard U.S. 25mm mounting hole spacing; housings are double-insulated and epoxy resin-filled, providing IEC IP67 protection. Contacts are Snap-action (Z11) with 1 N.O. and 1 N.C. contact on all units. Connection types are 5-pin M12 quick disconnects or 3-meter pre-wired pigtail cable. Operating temperature range is -13 to 158°F. Starting at $15.00, the UL and CE approved AEP series limit switches have a 1-year warranty. Also new, AEM series metal limit switches ($24.00) have a 1-meter halogen-free cable designed for low toxicity and smoke emissions in case of fire.

Halogen-free Limit Switches Overview

AutomationDirect | 4mm and 5mm photoelectric sensors redesigned for more applications

11/16/2019

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4mm (smooth) and 5mm (M5 threaded) round photoelectric sensors are now available in a wider range of sensing distances in both diffuse and through-beam sensing configurations. These DC-powered metal sensors provide high accuracy in minimal mounting space and are ideal for use in a variety of short or long-distance sensing applications. Diffuse photoelectric sensors that detect object presence with reflected light from the target are available in detection distance ranges up to 120mm. With available detection distances up to 600mm, through-beam photoelectric sensors detect object presence when the target obstructs light traveling from the emitter to the receiver. Emitters and receivers are sold separately. Starting at $66.00, these photoelectric sensors are IEC IP67 rated and cULus and CE approved.

Photoelectric Sensors Selection Guide

AutomationDirect | IronHorse Helical Bevel Gearboxes with Cast-Iron Frames

11/13/2019

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The new IronHorse® HBR series of helical bevel gearboxes combines the helical gearset with a bevel gearset to create an output that is perpendicular to the input. All HBR series gearboxes are hollow shaft output and accept double or single shafts. Dual and single output shaft kits are available. The universally interchangeable compact design ensures easy OEM replacement and provides flexible installation with C-face and TC-face inputs, perpendicular output and 6 mounting positions. Five gearbox sizes support 56C up to 254/6TC NEMA motor frames and 6 ratios are available from 10:1 to 120:1. The gearboxes are sized to handle from 1 to 24 hp motors and feature cast-iron one-piece housings and high hardness alloy steel pinion and gears. Ironhorse helical bevel gearboxes start at $1070.00 and have a 2-year warranty.

IronHorse Helical Bevel Gearboxes Overview

AutomationDirect | High bus voltage microstepping drives and stepper motors

11/13/2019

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The SureStep® STP-DRVAC stepper drive is powered from either 115VAC or 230VAC and is intended for use with step motors designed to handle high bus voltage. MTRAC motors are designed to work with the 115 or 230 VAC powered drives. Auto-setup configures motor current control and anti-resonance gain settings. The high voltage drive (priced at $199.00) uses 90 to 240 VAC input (selected by switch) and output current is settable from 0.6-2.5A/phase (peak of sine). Microstep resolution is switch selectable with 16 settings from 200 to 25600 steps/rev. High voltage, high torque MTRAC motors are available in single and dual-shaft configurations with steel case and stainless-steel shaft(s). Starting at $57.00, SureStep MTRAC motors are available in NEMA frame sizes 23 and 34 with holding torques from 75 to 1841 oz-in.

SureStep AC Input Stepper Drives Overview

AutomationDirect | High bus voltage microstepping drives and stepper motors

11/13/2019

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The SureStep® STP-DRVAC stepper drive is powered from either 115VAC or 230VAC and is intended for use with step motors designed to handle high bus voltage. MTRAC motors are designed to work with the 115 or 230 VAC powered drives. Auto-setup configures motor current control and anti-resonance gain settings. The high voltage drive (priced at $199.00) uses 90 to 240 VAC input (selected by switch) and output current is settable from 0.6-2.5A/phase (peak of sine). Microstep resolution is switch selectable with 16 settings from 200 to 25600 steps/rev. High voltage, high torque MTRAC motors are available in single and dual-shaft configurations with steel case and stainless-steel shaft(s). Starting at $57.00, SureStep MTRAC motors are available in NEMA frame sizes 23 and 34 with holding torques from 75 to 1841 oz-in.

SureStep AC Input Stepper Drives Overview

AutomationDirect | Leadshine 2-phase Digital Stepper Drives

11/13/2019

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Leadshine Technology is an industry leading motion control supplier offering high quality steppers that are simple, easy to use, long-lasting, and reliable at very reasonable prices. Leadshine 2-phase digital drives with microstepping motor movement and anti-resonance for optimal torque provide extra smooth motion, low motor heating and low noise. These drives accept a wide range of input voltages (12-110 VDC, 18-80 VAC) and provide over-voltage and overcurrent protection, motor auto-configuration on power up and soft-start at power on. Motor output current ranges up 7.2A and pulse input frequency up to 200kHz. Leadshine drives support NEMA 11, 14, 17, 23, 24, 34 and 42 frame size step motors. Starting at $25.50, all Leadshine drives support step and direction control, some models support CW/CCW as well.