Category Archives: Industry Field Connectivity

Plastic VS Aluminium – Heavycon Edition

From |
Leave a reply

Heavy-duty connectors are typically made of aluminium as it is supposed to be tough and durable. However, being an innovative company and discontented with the current industrial norm, Phoenix Contact had come up with HEAVYCON EVO in plastic.

The plastic used in HEAVYCON EVO housing is not just any normal plastic, it is made of polyamide, reinforced with glass.

So, how strong is strong? Several tests were done to the plastic HEAVYCON including basic IP and NEMA tests in accordance with DIN EN 60529, NEMA 250. This ensures that the contact inserts within the plastic housing are protected against the ingress of dust and heavy jet water. The other tests include:

Vibration test in accordance to IEC 60068-2-6

Harmonic, sinusoidal vibration is applied to HEAVYCON plastic housing to simulate rotating, pulsating or oscillating forces. HEAVYCON plastic housing fulfils these requirements, making it ideal for heavy machinery application.

Temperature shock test in accordance to IEC 60512-11-4

We simulate significant temperature changes by switching HEAVYCON plastic housing between 2 chambers of extreme temperatures within seconds. The result is affirmative – HEAVYCON plastic housing is suitable to be used in applications with ambient temperature between -40 to 125 degree Celsius.

IK shock test in accordance to IEC 62262

Shock is introduced by dropping a hammer of 1.7 kg mass from a height of 0.3m. HEAVYCON plastic housing is able to meet the mechanical requirements similar to the HEAVYCON aluminium housing.

Roll over test in accordance to DIN IEC 62196-1

This is a special test carried out on the plastic housing where a forklift truck weighing several tons rolls over it. HEAVYCON plastic housing is able to withstand high amounts of stress from heavy, moving loads without any adverse effects on its function. In fact, in Singapore, we proved it again by driving a car over the connector.

Dynamic load test

Besides the strength of the plastic housing, we have to ensure the latching mechanism is heavy-duty enough as well. In this test, we applied a force of 200N to the cable at an angle of 90 degree. This is to test the HEAVYCON EVO bayonet as well as the locking latch between the housing and panel mounting to make sure that they do not malfunction under extreme static load.

Through the tests we have done, we can conclude that plastic can be as strong as metal too, in this case aluminium. To find out more about the durability of our HEAVYCON EVO in plastic, leave us an email at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

Please accept statistics, marketing cookies to watch this video.

5 Ways to Terminate Cables into an Electrical Panel

From |
Leave a reply

There are several criteria when it comes to choosing the right cable entry method into an electrical panel, such as ingress protection (IP) rating, ease of connection/ disconnection, cost of the connector etc. In this post, we have sorted out 6 different cable entry methods that Phoenix Contact has to offer.

  1. Cable Gland

The most common way to terminate cables into an electrical panel would be to use a cable gland. It is easy to use and comes in many variants such as different sizes, materials and with additional certifications such as ATEX. Cable glands are probably one of the most affordable cable entry methods mentioned in this article.

However, cable glands have its limitations too. It is difficult and time consuming to do multiple connections/disconnections with cable glands as the cables are terminated directly into the components within the electrical panel. In addition, the pre-cut holes on the gland plate are irreversible. It provides limited flexibility for mistakes and modifications.

  1. Heavy-duty Connector

As the name suggests, it is rugged and enables fast and easy connection/disconnection to the electrical panel. Cables are prewired into the connector base, which is mounted onto the panel while the field cables are prewired into the connector hood. The hood is then plugged into the base on the electrical panel for a complete connection up to IP 69K.

Heavy-duty connector is especially useful for portable applications and testing facilities as it allows quick connection and disconnection. Although heavy-duty connectors are more expensive than cable glands, it minimises time and labour needed for onsite installation and commissioning up to 80%. It also reduces errors that could occur during onsite installation.

Heavy-duty connectors are typically made from Aluminium. However, Heavycon EVO from Phoenix Contact also comes in plastic (polyamide with reinforced fibre glass) to support applications that do not require metal housings and provides cost savings of up to 30%. Besides that, the dual entry cable gland enhances the flexibility for onsite installation. Phoenix Contact’s well known Push-in Technology is also used in Heavycon to further reduce the installation time.

  1. Cable entry system

Cable entry system (CES) is similar to cable glands. However, it helps to arrange the cables neatly and systematically into the electrical panel. By better managing the cables, the gland plate can be better utilised. It works in a modular form where the cable sleeves can be flexibly combined depending on the wiring. The slotted sleeves also allow the use of sensor actuator cabling while cone sleeves come in handy when the cable diameter is not predefined.

The cut-out of CES is the same as that of heavy-duty connectors. Thus, they are interchangeable. However, CES is not a pluggable connector. Thus, it is not suitable for applications that require frequent connecting/disconnecting.

  1. CES Multigate

Similar to CES, multigate offers great cable management. However, unlike CES, multigate has prefixed cable entry. Each cable entry is a cone-shape membrane that is able to accommodate a range of cable diameters. This is especially suitable for panels with defined cable specifications. As the cables are well arranged, it is easier to isolate faulty lines, if any.

  1. Service interface

Service interfaces make maintenance, servicing, and diagnostics easier than ever. The front plate comes in different configurations of D-SUB, RJ45 and USB, offering numerous combinations.  The mounting frame offers up to IP 65 protection with locking mechanism for extra security. This reduces the need to open up the panel during programming or configuration.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to choosing the most suitable cable entry method to your electrical panels. Let us help you with the selection by leaving us an email at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg!

DIN Rail Plug-in Terminal Block

From |
Leave a reply

Today I would like to share a bit on the little guy that usually goes unnoticed in our daily life.

The UMSTBVK Series – DIN Rail Mounted Plug-In Terminal Block

This product seemingly portrays images of an underdog. It has never been in the limelight by nature. That is due to the limited exposure that the UMSTBVK connectors are exposed to.

Other products such as the “UT 2,5/1P” Terminal Blocks & “UM 25” Interface Module are more commonly used in market, whereas the UT 2,5/1P terminal blocks are mainly used for high power feedthrough, and UM 25 interface modules are mainly used for signal feedthrough.

UT 2,5/1P

“UT 2,5/1P” Terminal Block

“UM 25” Interface Module

“UM 25” Interface Module

Comparing the trio, the UMSTBVK is actually a hybrid between the two.

Where are these products commonly used?

It is commonly used as a middleman between the controller and the field devices.  As the controller is usually the “Heart” of the entire system, hence, the use of UMSTBVK will come into place as one of the essential parts of the system, being “The Bridge” between the Controller and the field devices.

It will allow easy testing, maintenance and replacement for users, minimizing the need to connect and disconnect the wires that are already installed onto the main controller and field devices.

What are the most common objections as to using the UT 2,5/1P or the UM 25 modules integrated into their systems / devices / instruments?

  • Indeed these are convenient, but take up too much space.
  • Nice products, but pricing not very competitive.
  • Connectors for UT 2,5/1P has only one direction of wire entry, it compromises on the space taken in terms of depth.
  • There are no other options except 10 / 18 position for the UM25 Interface Module.

The UMSTBVK Series terminal blocks might not be the perfect solution, but it has the best features of both of its predecessors:

  • Great Versatility – Multiple variant of different number of position to choose from, and can be used on both NS35 / G DIN Rails.
  • Time-Saving – Minimizes time needed for assembly of terminal blocks into desired number of positions & eliminates the need to purchase additional accessory like “End Covers”
  • Readiness – “Clip and Go” type of product.
  • Cost Savings – competitive pricing based on per pole, which can achieve savings up to 30% per pole for the whole set including the plug in connectors.
  • Spoilt for Choice – You have multiple types of connectors that are compatible to choose from, with various connection technologies & angle of wire entry that you may prefer.
  • Screw Connection
  • IDC Connection
  • Push In connection
  • Crimp Connection

Up to this point, I see great potential for the UMSTBVK product family to shine in coming years.

Do you agree with me? If you do…

Do feel free to contact us at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg for more details to help you understand this better!

Phoenix Contact – Your Partner in Safety and Reliability for Railway Industry

From |
Leave a reply

RailwayPhoenix Contact has been serving the railway industry for decades, especially for rolling stock and signalling. Safety and reliability has always been our number one concern when developing products for railway applications.

Safety on Board

The basic requirement for safety and reliability is standard compliance. Phoenix Contact has been certified by the International Railway Industry Standard (IRIS) since April 2008 and this standard is based on the quality management standard DIN EN ISO 9001, which has been extended with international railway-specific requirements. The ongoing tests during the development and production cycle of the products are essential to guarantee the product quality.

On top of that, all rail-specific products from Phoenix Contact fulfill the standards of DIN EN 50155, an international standard covering rolling stock; DIN EN 50121 electromagnetic compatibility; and EN 45545, fire protection on rail vehicle. Besides, shock and vibration test, material test and other fire protection is also critical for the railway application.

Safety should not be limited to the big ticket items and should even be extended to the passive component level. For example, the cable markings like shrink sleeve should be halogen-free and fulfill DIN 5510-2 with an oxygen index of 34.9%. besides being halogen-free, the cable ducts should enable individual bars to be broken without using any tools or resulting in any burr through defined breaking points according to EN 45545-2 (R22/R23:HL3). Behaviour in fire is another key concern and the plastic used for Phoenix Contact’s terminal blocks is halogen-free polyamide PA 6.6; which meets the highest safety requirement of UL 94 V0.

Push-in Terminal Blocks and Marking

Push-in Terminal Blocks and Marking

Cable Management

Cable Management

Network on Board

Nowadays, commuters demand for “Internet on board” has made the information and infotainment systems essential in trains. The M12 network connectors with a mechanically robust design, in compliance with IEC 61076-2-101, together with high quality cables meeting the requirement of EN 45545-2 will ensure reliable communications. The heavy-duty connector, compliant with IEC 61373, with modular contact inserts form a flexible and safe transmission of signal and power circuit on rolling stock carriage connection and simultaneously ensures comprehensive protection in the event of electromagnetic interference fields.

Halogen-free Polyamide PA 6.6

Halogen-free Polyamide PA 6.6

M12 Network Connector

M12 Network Connector

Surge Protection

Surge voltages and lightning strikes are common issues in signalling, hence the surge protective device (SPD) become significantly important to maintain reliable signal transmission. Phoenix Contact’s SPD has been tested according to IEC 61643-21 and the plug can be disconnected for test and maintenance by using the portable test laboratory. According to IEC 62305-3, the SPD must be tested regularly and the test values should be documented and traceable. Additional features like multi-stage monitoring (green – operating, red – fail and yellow – reach performance limit) for predictive maintenance and remote signalling for early detection of overloaded SPD can help to further enhance reliability.

HEAVYCON HPR

HEAVYCON HPR

HEAVYCON Modular Inserts

HEAVYCON Modular Inserts

Signal SPD with multi-stage monitoring (PT-IQ)

Signal SPD with multi-stage monitoring (PT-IQ)

Signal SPD with remote signalling (TTC)

Signal SPD with remote signalling (TTC)

Power Supply

The power supply unit (PSU) is used to convert main AC to low-voltage regulated DC power and it should at least be compliant with EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, IEC 60950-1, DIN EN 61558-2-16 and UL 508. To ensure smooth operation and maximum uptime, the redundancy setup of the power supply cannot be overlooked.

A redundant system can made up of two power supplies and a diode or Phoenix Contact’s O-RING to prevent back flow of current. An ORING being a more advanced and modern redundancy module compared to the diode, comes with auto-current balancing (ACB) technology which ensures the power supplies work equally hard. This enables the power supplies to have a longer and more consistent lifespan.

The redundancy status as well as the status of the ORING can be monitored, whereas this cannot be done with a DIODE. The PSU becomes more reliable and dependable when it is capable of sending analogue signals to control system on measurement values such as real time current, voltage and power for early detection of operational fault as well as critical information to the user.

QUINT 4 Power Supply With Diode

QUINT 4 Power Supply With Diode

QUINT ORING with ACB

QUINT ORING with ACB

Transporting You into the Future

Phoenix Contact will continue to develop the products or solutions that suit railway application and safety and reliability will always be the top concern on top of ease of installation, operation and maintenance.

To find out more about the solutions that Phoenix Contact has for the railway industry, check out our website or leave us your contact at marketing@phoenixcontact.com.sg and I will get in touch with you as soon as I can.

QPD in Conveyor Systems

From |
Leave a reply

QPD is a product that was launched few years back. While this “forgotten child” is hiding somewhere in the dark recess of Catalogue 2, I feel that the QPD deserves some credit and limelight.

When we present QPD, we always talk about the concept of it and how it benefits the customers in time & cost saving. QPD was never meant to be in the “cheap” category and I think all of us know that good & fast things aren’t cheap!

I would like to share my recent experience with a customer who was deals in warehouse management system. Generally, this system is actually automated conveyors ‘pick & place’ goods and deliver to a designated area.

Conveyor System

A typical conveyor system consists of 2 zones. Firstly, there is the Safe Area (controls) and then the field area (site). The Safe area usually houses the main PLC, whereas the field area is the sensors, motors, e-stops, etc. There will be multiple stations at the field area which usually stations the motors, isolators, e-stops, etc. The number of stations is very dependent on the size of the system itself. These stations are quite a distance apart from each other and power cables are necessary to be laid across the conveyor system to power up the motors, electrical components, etc.

Conventionally, power distribution boxes are used in each station to split the main power to the respective individual stations. This power distribution box has one main requirement; at least IP65 rated. This is where QPD comes into the picture where it fulfills the IP requirement and while offering even more compared to the conventional junction boxes.

Conventional way
 Din Rail

+

  PT Terminal Block

+

  Junction Box

+

  Cable glands
Din rail Terminal Block Box Glands

QPD – The Phoenix Contact way!!

QPD H Distributor QPD T Distributor

This solution require either the QPD H- or T- distributor only! No special tools needed!! No cable stripping & crimping process. This saves you up to 80% of installation time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HPZ1P-1NVU

In conclusion, yes you might need to pay a premium for QPD but I am very confident that the gains you get outweighs what you paid.

Check out our website for more information or leave us your contact and we will get in touch with you.

Let there be Light

From |
Leave a reply

Let there be light: Phoenix Contact Components for Reliable Power Grids

On 7 July 2017, Phoenix Contact Singapore Team organised a’ Dining in the Dark’ event as part of Corporate Social Responsibility.  In the short 2 hours without our sight, we experienced a range of emotions such as fear and helplessness. This event also allowed us to understand the challenges that persons with visual impairment faced daily. It is truly a meaningful event that we are thankful to be able to experience with the friends we made from work.

Phoenix Contact's 'Dining in the Dark' CSR Event

Phoenix Contact’s ‘Dining in the Dark’ CSR Event

In today’s world, it might not be an exaggeration to say that we will feel the fear and helplessness if we do not have access to electricity. For a start, life-sustaining equipment in hospitals will not be in operation. Many of life’s conveniences such as lights, entertainment, air-conditioning etc. will be stripped from us. For this, electrical grids are always considered critical infrastructure all around the world and efforts are made to ensure the grid is always operating. Phoenix Contact contributes to this reliability with our products. Below are some examples:

    1. Terminal blocks (Clipline Complete)Clipline terminal blocks
      Our terminal blocks are widely used in power industry. For quick installation in Marshalling/Pilot panel, our customers prefer the use of

      • Push-in connectionThis connection method is fast, do not require special tools, safe, ensure consistent and good connection for every insertion and ideal for areas with high vibration. Most importantly, unlike screw connection, over time, push-in connection does not loosen.
      • QTC connectionThere is no need to strip the wire using QTC connection, making it the fastest way for wire installations. Moreover, Phoenix Contact QTC terminal blocks do not require special tools!
    2. Protection terminal blocksURTK-6 Test Disconnect Terminal Block

      Especially for CT testing, where you have to make the testing circuit before breaking the transformer circuit, it is important to ensure that the “make-before-break” is done properly! Failure to do so results not just in power outage, but often death.

      Our solution is our range of test disconnect terminal blocks, clearly labelled to ensure operators know exactly what is being done. There are also ample spaces for accessories for you to do the necessary bridging and testing.

      Offering inspiring innovations, Phoenix Contact has come out with a test disconnect system. Instead of manually doing the switching, why not let our system take care of it for you with Fast And Modular Energy system (FAME).

    1. DC/DC Converter and Power SupplyQUINT DC/DC converter and Power Supplies

      Usually in substations, there will be 110VDC power supply. However, most electronics components (remote IO, network switch, RTU) requires 24VDC/48VDC power input.  For this purpose, many substations around the world choose Phoenix Contact Quint IV Power Supply.

      Your advantages

      • SFB Technology selectively trips standard circuit breakers, loads connected in parallel continue working
      • Preventive function monitoring indicates critical operating states before errors occur
      • signalling thresholds and characteristic curves that can be adjusted via NFC maximize system availability
      • Easy system extension thanks to static boost; starting of difficult loads thanks to dynamic boost
      • High noise immunity, thanks  to integrated gas-filled surge arrester and more than 20 ms mains failure buffer time. Moreover, Phoenix Contact Quint IV Power Supply comes IEC61850-3 certified. This means that the unit can be used even for IEC61850 applications!
    1. Interposing relays
      With a wide range of relays, Phoenix Contact has the right solution for all standard relay applications, such as interposing relays.

      Your advantages

      • Easy handling, thanks to modern wiring and potential distribution concept
      • Easy extension to a timer relay, thanks to plug-in special function module
      • Complete product range covering all standard relay applications
      • Reliable system for high machine and system availability
      • Available as a complete module or modular system
Easy Wire Termination  Easy Power Distribution  Complete Product Range

Test Disconnect Push-in Connection

Our relays with push-in termination technology provide fast and easy tool-free wiring. Simply push the wire into the terminal , using very little force. Remove the wire by pushing done on the release button, using a screwdriver or ballpoint pen.

Test Diconnect Terminal Block Jumper

Reduce your wiring time up to 70 percent by using our modular terminal block plug-in bridges. These time-saving bridges ensure a reliable connection and reduces the possibility of wiring errors.

RIFLINE Complete

Switch currents up to 16 A. From coupling relays to a replacement for small power contactors; the product range offers the right relay for every application. Benefit from a uniform and consistent system
  1. Heavycon (Heavy-Duty Connector)
    Substations have high EMC and electrostatic interferences. They are also generally not places that people like to hang around in! Heavycon can help to reduce installation/maintenance time and at the same time, ensure reliable power/data/signal transmission. With a modular system, you can combine Fibre, Ethernet, Serial, signals, power all in 1 connector!

HEAVYCON Modular Connector

For example,

  1. the Local control cabinet can be connected quickly to the bay cabinet
  2. The Circuit breaker compartment can be easily disconnected/connected to the switchgear

Electric Power and Renewable Energy 2016 Myanmar

From |
Exhibition Image

Electric Power and Renewable Energy 2016 Myanmar

We will be participating at the 4th International Electric Power and Renewable Energy 2016 Myanmar Exhibition from the 13th – 15th of October at the Myanmar Event Park (MEP) in Yangon.

Come down and join us to find out more about what we can do for you in the area of Power generation and transmission and solar. We are located at G16, Singapore Pavilion.

Click here to register at the event’s website.

HEAVYCON Modular- Everything in One Housing

From |

In production processes, assemblies and machines are interconnected using industrial plug-in connectors. These connectors have to be reliable and flexible enough to accommodate to future modifications and expansions. Phoenix Contact sees this and introduces the newly enhanced HEAVYCON Modular into HEAVYCON Complete family.

Continue reading →

Photovoltaic Monitoring System With Visualisation – A Project with ITE College East

From |

Photovoltaic (PV) Monitoring System With Visualisation

The Photovoltaic (PV) monitoring system was designed to monitor the performance of the PV panels’ output versus the temperature on the PV panel. There were two different types of PV panels used for monitoring, namely the mono-crystalline and amorphous silicone (Thin Film). The data that was collected were the DC output and the temperature on the PV panels.

Continue reading →

Ready-to-assemble sensor/actuator cables in PVC construction

From |
Leave a reply

Phoenix Contact now also offers ready-to-assemble cables in PVC cable quality as a standard stock item for sensor/actuator cabling. These cost-effective cables are easy to assemble because even long stripping lengths can be used. They can be applied in all areas with moderate mechanical stresses, such as machine construction. The cables are also distinguished by a high resistance against chemicals and mineral oils.

4759

The product range includes SAC cables of types M8 and M12, as well as valve connectors. The 296 newly designed items are in stock and available at quantities starting at one and above. Just like the PUR range of products, the PVC range has a universal UL certification (cULus Listed) for types M8 and M12 and a CSA certification for model A valve connectors.