When you introduce IIOT to your client, one of the first questions your client will ask you is “What is IIOT?” (Yes, we get that a lot).
The typical look our clients are giving us when we talk about IIOT
Many manufacturers are baffled when they were asked to implement IIOT in their plant.
Well IIOT is not as complex. Here’s a sentence to explain what IIOT is:
“Using smart machines to consistently capture data in order to improve inefficiencies.”
See. It’s not that hard, is it?
When we further explain the sentence above, “smart machines” are simply referring to intelligent products like PLC or sensors that are able to help you in generating or gathering data.
Smart Machines are getting smarter by the day
Smart machines allow data to be aggregated and analyzed in real time. With more accountability and control over equipment, workers can better predict maintenance issues and make faster decisions.
Not forgetting the ultimate motive “to save cost”.
Feel like a million bucks when you automated your business, and save half the installation cost. (Courtesy: Red Granite Pictures)
Okay, so where do we begin?
Firstly, the most important step in embracing IIOT – “Installing the smart machines” (pretty obvious).
Installing smart machines includes harnessing lots of sensor data, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication cables and even automation technologies that involve tons of twisted pair or multi-core signal cables.
Here’s the catch: You need cables. Huge bulks of it.
Cables are costly and a can be a menace.
With twice or 3 times the amount of cables needed, it is really important to ensure the overall budget will not burst (cables are not cheap especially the quality ones).
Also, ensuring the minimum panel size needed for your entire IIOT application is a key area to consider when the budget comes into mind, without compromising the installation of IIOT.
With so much effort and money involved, is it worth the trouble?
Terminal Blocks are not just “one in one out, single layer or feed through”
As the pioneers of the terminal block, way back in 1923, we have evolved our terminal blocks so much so that we cater to different applications.
We always advise our business partners, “Let the terminal blocks help you in designing your panel”.
So in the world of IIOT, how can our terminal blocks help you cut cost and also ensure a smaller panel?
For that, we need to look into the types of cables or smart products that have involved.
- Sensors and Actuators
When it comes to sensors and actuators, Phoenix Contact offers smart and compact terminal blocks that cater for any number of wires.
Be it 3 or 4 wires, instead of having multiple oversized single deck terminal blocks, you can now connect all cables from a sensor to one PTIO terminal block. (Imagine 3 or 4 terminal blocks in one!)
PTIO comes with standard 1.5mm² cables fittings, appropriate for your small wires that connect the sensors.
As for the power distribution, PTIO terminal blocks can accommodate up to 2,5mm² power feed-in distributed across using our smart colored bridging system.
The revolutionary PTIO terminal blocks by Phoenix Contact
- DCS and PLCs
With the increased IO that’s needed to be connected to the control panel, you will definitely need the terminal blocks to be multi-functional and most importantly help you to save space.
Imagine if you have a control cabinet that looks like the picture below.
Neat and east to maintain space. *Picture from an actual client’s plant.
With a better solution, you are able to cut down the number of terminal blocks by half or even 3 quarters!
Just think of how much you’ll save!
Think how much space you have!
Think of the clutter free workspace!
The Solution?
Introducing our new PT Functional Terminal Blocks!
Introducing our new PT Functional Terminal Blocks!
Using the conventional design, you will need at least 3 terminals for a single I/O.
With the 2 and 3 layer combinations, you are now able to even shrink your marshaling cabinet even further by using only 1 terminal.
You heard that right! ONLY 1 Terminal Block.
The best part is, like all our terminal blocks, they also come in fuse breaking, knife disconnect or PE technology!
All of above functional terminal blocks mentioned are integrated with Push-in Technology that allows us to even shorten the installation time.
This is especially useful when you are dealing with tons of small little tiny cables with your fingers. This process can be really tough for installers (yes we know. We tested it with some of our big sized men here).
If you wish to find out more about our Push-in technology, do check out my previous blogs using this link here.
Alternatively, like all our products, request for a sample today!
You never know unless you try. (Did we also say that we can automate your business with our complete range of products too?).
Get in touch with us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!