PackExpo 2010 Review, Part 2: HMIs and Bearings

In the first installment of this two-part blog series, I mentioned that I might be able to share some information about a new product series that has not yet been released in the U.S. Well, that news has been confirmed for official release.

The news is that Eaton will release its XV and XP series of operator interfaces in the U.S. in January 2011. Key features to both series are:

Both models come with Eaton’s Visual Designer software development package. This software features data archiving, recipe management, multi-language support, SQL database access and Web serving. Visual Designer also allows Eaton’s XV and XP Series to communicate with a variety of networks, PLCs, Web clients and databases. Additionally, Eaton says it will provide free technical support for both hardware and software for these series of interfaces.

While we’re on the subject of operator interfaces, B&R announced at PackExpo that it now offers HMI devices with IP69K protection. According to B&R, IP69K protection is now available for the company’s HMI devices, ranging from visualization terminals with modular interface cards to its Power Panels that feature integrated control and drive technology. These devices are produced according to DIN 40050 and are available with screen dimensions from 5.7″ to 15″.

If you’re unfamiliar with the IP69K certification, the number 6 defines protection of the electrical equipment against the penetration of solids such as dust due to being complete sealed; and 9K defines protection against the penetration of water during high pressure or steam cleaning.

Even more HMI news came from Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc., which has added six mid-range models to its GT16 series of graphic operations terminals (GOT). Four new 10.4-in and two new 8.4-in models have been added to the GOT1000 lineup; all four feature the same integrated hardware architecture as Mitsubishi Electric’s high-end GT16 models.

The news terminals’ features include:

On the mechanical side, Igus’ showcased its new adjustable linear bearings. The company’s DryLin W linear guides are now offered with a manually adjustable clearance due to the incorporation of a new ‘turn-to-fit’ hand clamp. The tolerance can be adjusted over the whole bearing surface by inserting the provided Allen key into the adjustment screw in the side of the carriage. Adjustment happens in small clicks that can be heard and felt until the bearing fits the shaft correctly. Beyond the addition of an adjustable clearance, igus says this new linear unit requires no lubrication and is contaminant-resistant.

Igus also introduced its new iglide C210 bearing material, which is said to be resistant to a range of acids, solvents and hydrogen peroxide, and can handle continuous temperatures of 212F.  Like igus’ other iglide materials, the tribo-polymer used in this bearing is lubrication-free and corrosion-resistant. Also on display was the company’s new iglide A350 polymer plain bearing material which can handle long-term temperatures up to 356F.