Clever circuit design that requires minimal space in the control cabinet

If control cabinet space is limited but machine or system functionality has increased, planners and developers can use a multi-level terminal block like the PT four-level terminal block to address this issue.

Multi-level terminal blocks streamline the structure

The idea of multi-level terminal blocks isn’t new. Like high-rise buildings, the terminal blocks grow in height, not in width. Classic wiring with single-level terminal blocks is like a bungalow with a large footprint. Multi-level terminal blocks save horizontal space on the DIN rail, making it more efficient. Experienced planners may already use double or three-level terminal blocks, but the new PT 2,5-4L four-level terminal block combines all wiring tasks while saving even more space.

The PT 2,5-4L family is an all-rounder

Versatility was key in developing the terminal block family, ideal for space-limited applications. The new four-level terminal block family includes various versions with the same geometry. The classic PT 2,5-4L has four individual levels, allowing connection of different signal types (DI, DO, AI, AO) to a single block.

Distribution across multiple blocks is also possible. Depending on the controller and space, using one block may be better. It can also support AC and three-phase power distribution, saving space compared to single or double-level blocks. PV versions connect all four levels with a vertical bridge, while standard versions use the FBS-PV potential bridge to connect sublevels. The new FBSW N wire bridges will soon allow connection of distant potentials.

Protection and disconnection

The PT 2,5-4L series features versions with a disconnect base zone (TG) or knife disconnection (MT). The TG version can act as a fuse terminal block with the P-FU 5×20-5 fuse plug, protecting circuits up to 10 A. Lower levels can be used for PE, supply, or signal contacts.

The TG zone offers disconnection and measurement options, ideal for analog control circuits (4…20 mA or 0…10 V). The MT version’s integrated disconnect knife or plug-in isolating plug (P-DI) simplifies commissioning and maintenance. P-CO component connectors allow integration of passive components like diodes or resistors, easily replaceable without special tools.

Sensor and actuator wiring up to 2.5 mm²

The PT 2,5-4L series is ideal for sensor and actuator wiring. While the PTIO 1,5/S series is limited by its 3.5 mm pitch, the PT 2,5-4L supports 2.5 mm² conductors and 18 A nominal current.

The PT 2,5-L RD/L BU/L/L modular system can handle power supply on lower levels and signal/actuator applications on upper levels. Versions with integrated LEDs simplify troubleshooting. For shield connections, the PT 2,5-PE/L RD/L BU/L LED 24 RD and PT 2,5-PE/L RD/L BU/L have integrated PE contacts. Alternatively, SCC series shield clamps can connect shielded cables to the busbar.

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Increased energy efficiency with reduced costs

Sustainable production using renewable energies starts with an industrial DC grid. Phoenix Contact’s Contactron ELR HDC is a multifunctional DC switching device that includes monitoring and protective functions in a compact design.

Efficient engineering with a hands-on approach

OPC UA remains a key communication technology, offering a wide range of functions for modeling simple to complex information models. While it provides many opportunities, it can overwhelm new users. Phoenix Contact addresses this with intuitive solutions and application examples.

In Industry 4.0, OPC UA is a key technology for mapping and accessing complex data. Driven by the OPC Foundation, it is based on three pillars:

Efficient and resource-saving production

Using anomaly detection in press shops allows early problem detection and proactive maintenance, minimizing downtimes and ensuring product quality, as demonstrated by Changan Automobile.

Automotive companies face global competitive pressure; therefore, they are driven to seek efficient production methods. Moreover, as innovation leaders, they face social and political expectations to build Net Zero factories. Car production, for instance, starts with pressing metal plates into molds to form body parts, a crucial and energy-intensive step. Consequently, this process impacts product quality and can cause significant production delays and cost increases if issues arise.

Implement applications more easily and cost-effectively

AI could revolutionize automation. How can Time-Sensitive Networks (TSN) make AI applications easier and more cost-effective? What network requirements does AI need for the future? What new applications and solutions can TSN enable, and what is the path forward?

Since detailed TSN information is widely available, this article will explore AI-focused applications benefiting from TSN, excluding motion control. These examples aim to inspire exploring options beyond current limits.

The rapid development of AI tools, accelerated hardware capabilities, and integrated Ethernet interfaces is opening new applications and segments. These generally require:

• Transporting large amounts of data from the field to the AI system.
• Providing forwarded data with highly accurate time stamps for comprehensive time series data analysis.
• Feeding AI processing results back into the field.

Conventional 100 Mbit industrial Ethernet can’t fully meet these requirements. Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) offers solutions. The following examples show how AI-focused applications can be implemented or improved by a convergent TSN network.

Greater flexibility and scalability for all system sizes

Virtualization is not new; it was first introduced in mainframe computers in the 1960s. Since 2000, its use has grown and is now widespread in many companies. Phoenix Contact has developed a virtual industrial controller. What advantages does this solution offer for factory automation?

Efficient and safe operation with open automation solutions

Fuel cell systems are crucial for the All Electric Society, requiring efficient, reliable, and safe operation. What benefits do industrial solutions in connection technology, networking, and automation offer?

Though fuel cells have existed for over a century, they have recently gained attention for power generation. They convert the chemical energy stored in hydrogen and oxygen into electrical power, heat, and water without local pollution or noise. Additionally, fuel cells are more efficient than internal combustion engines, as they aren’t limited by Carnot efficiency.

Efficient terminal strip construction and mounting

Control cabinet builders face challenges in cost-effectiveness due to rising costs and a shortage of skilled workers. This article covers the production and mounting process of a terminal strip, from digital construction to marking and mounting, highlighting efficiency solutions for each step.

Despite increased automation in control cabinet building, mounting tasks are mainly manual. Automation is mostly used for material and work preparation, such as preparing the mounting panel and housing, cutting cable ducts and DIN rails, and preassembling wires. Manual tasks include picking components, mounting, wiring, and testing, usually done on the installed mounting panel by a qualified specialist.

Uncooled DC charging cables for realizing a wide range of charging solutions

With reliable DC charging infrastructure, charging electric cars on medium and long-distance journeys at semi-public and public stations is now practical for everyday use. Long charging times are a thing of the past.

Even with uncooled DC charging cables, charging currents up to 375 A and short charging times are achievable. Power transmission requirements vary by location and application, so optimizing the charging infrastructure makes sense for many operators. The robust Charx connect DC charging cables offer future-proof features and power versions from 150 A to 375 A.

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) enhances modern communication infrastructures. Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive SPE product portfolio, providing technical solutions and cross-industry expertise.

Unlike conventional Ethernet, Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) uses just one wire pair to transmit data and power. It supports transmission rates from 10 Mbps over 1,000 m to 1 Gbps over 40 m, making it ideal for demanding applications like networked sensors and camera systems. SPE overcomes previous limitations in data rates, ranges, and seamless communication.