Automation24, an online shop for industrial automation technology, announces Schmersal, Inc. machine safety devices are now available to U.S. customers. A global leader in machine safety, Schmersal produces innovative mechanical and electrosensitive switching devices that comply with current safety standards. High-speed operation and aggressive production goals in demanding packaging, metal forming, cutting and milling processes…
The difference between contactors and motor starters (and reduced-voltage starters)
Electric motors are absolutely essential to automating innumerable applications around the world. In most cases, the driving of motors — the supplying of electric power to them — requires some engineered system that must also be compatible with the motor’s winding arrangement. Because these motor-powering systems are often found employing or accompanying the other electrical […]
Choosing between (or combining) relays and PLCs
Top design objectives for control installations include capability, reliability, and cost effectiveness. Many new and retrofitted control panels employ components such as PLCs and even industrial PCs (IPCs) and programmable automation controllers (PACs) for advanced connectivity and control. It’s often appropriate to use these more complicated (and capable) options and remove or forgo electromechanical relays […]
Solid-state relay characteristics and applications
Solid-state relays (SSRs) serve the same functions as electromechanical relays but are non-moving noncontact devices that can switch voltages to several hundred Vac for hundreds of thousands of cycles and beyond … which makes them useful for switching heating elements, motors, and transformers needing frequent and high-speed switching. ⚙️ Download this article (and the rest…
DIN rail: Basic construction and versions
The ubiquitous nature of components for DIN-rail mounting makes this standard particularly helpful … especially when panel redesigns are in order. Here, a technician need only to unclamp components, slide them to their new locations, and reclamp them to the DIN rail. In addition, DIN rail prevents upside-down and other incorrect installation. A typical DIN […]
Basics of terminal blocks and their various subtypes
Download this article (and the rest in our connectivity series) at the Design Guide library. Terminal blocks are one variety of connector component for joining sections of electronic circuits in industrial applications. They include electrically conductive assemblies having wire-securing receptacles — all encased in monolithic plastic housing. Some terminal blocks have contact pads or legs…
Comparing the two main relay types: Electromechanical and solid-state relays in automation
Relays are electronic devices that accept current or voltage signals in an input circuit as a prompt to switch open or close another circuit or pilot device. In this way, relays are switches that are controlled by some other input. The output is to trigger a predictable state change in the connected system. Variations abound:…
Weidmüller Klippon connect terminal blocks available from Automation24
Starting immediately, automation professionals can obtain terminal blocks from automation24.com. The online shop offers Universal Range Terminal Blocks from Weidmüller with Push In technology or with screw terminals. These modular terminal blocks have a streamlined design, high mounting density, copper power rails, and large marking surfaces to support efficient installation and maintenance. “We hold ourselves […]
Automation24 now selling a variety of terminal blocks
Starting immediately, automation professionals can obtain terminal blocks from automation24.com. The online shop offers Universal Range Terminal Blocks from Weidmüller with PUSH IN technology or with screw terminals. These modular terminal blocks have a streamlined design, high mounting density, copper power rails, and large marking surfaces to support efficient installation and maintenance. Terminal blocks for…