Improving power control in Industry 4.0 applications

In the REOTRON range, the devices include three-phase thyristor controllers for industrial ovens in food manufacturing environments, metal evaporators, melting crucibles and infra-red dryers, as well as current converters for electroplating applications.

The REOVIB range includes devices that control and automate vibratory feeders and conveyor assemblies. Here, the units are used to deliver accurate, variable voltage to the magnets and frequency converters to generate the desired operating frequency and amplitude for the vibratory conveyors.

"Automation is increasingly being used in a wide variety of applications," explained Steve Hughes, Managing Director of REO UK. "Whether it's conveying, sorting, filling, cooking and packaging in the food and beverage and pharmaceutical sector, or applying the latest coating for rust prevention in the electronics sector, industry 4.0 is thriving.

"We've added PROFINET and EtherNet/IP compatibility to many of our devices to meet the demands of increasingly complex production facilities," continued Hughes. "Today's manufacturers need to ensure that their equipment can communicate effectively. Being able to connect different types of devices to a centralised control system is essential for real-time insights and forecasting.

"At the same time, the convergence of information and operational technology (IT/OT) means that security is becoming a growing concern for industrial applications. As well as connectivity, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) must also ensure that their systems meet standards such as IEC 62243, which makes provisions for the network and system security for industrial-process measurement and control."

REO UK provides customised interfaces for a wide range of industrial control products including DeviceNet, Profibus, CANBus and EtherCat in addition to EtherNet I/P and PROFINET.