The EP3744 EtherCAT Box is an IP 67 rated module that combines compressed air measurement, EtherCAT connectivity, and digital I/Os for use in the process, outside of electrical cabinets.

In addition to six digital inputs and two digital outputs, the box has four pressure inputs with integrated 6 mm fittings. The pressure is measured as the difference to the fifth pressure connection, which is fed through a hose into a protective housing for IP 67 conformity. The measured data is provided in the form of 16-bit values, which are transmitted in an electrically isolated manner to the controller. The measuring range is 0 to 1 bar (15 psi), with a resolution of 1 mbar per digit.

The EP3744 can similarly contribute to a smooth workflow: for example, the vacuum necessary for the gripping process in automatic pick-and-place machines can be monitored without great expense. To do this, the EtherCAT Box only needs to be integrated into the compressed air supply of the suction gripper through a simple T-junction.

Beckhoff Automation
www.beckhoffautomation.com