The new type-2 protective device with SEC technology

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The world’s narrowest type-2 surge protection

The world's narrowest type-2 surge protection

The new Valvetrab-SEC from Phoenix Contact, the world’s narrowest type-2 surge protective device, offers impressive features such as durability and high performance, thanks to the use of Safe Energy Control (SEC) technology.

The powerful disconnect device and the high short-circuit current rating of up to 50 kA offer protection for each small distribution panel at just 12 mm per channel. The type-2 protective device provides safe protection against severe voltage fluctuations and high stresses caused by lightning currents. Downstream components experience less stress, thanks to the low voltage protection level.

An additional advantage is that main system fuse can be used for up to 315 A without additional backup fuses. This saves space and money in the control cabinet. The basic element and the plug can be rotated by 180° to one another. This enables a connection with shorter cable lengths with the label remaining legible. All type-2 protective device product versions are pluggable and can be tested with the test device for the Checkmaster 2 surge protective devices

Uninterruptible power supply with integrated power storage

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Compact UPS with integrated power storage

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In keeping with the Uno Power power supply range, the UnoUPS uninterruptible power supply is now available with a 60 W output power and integrated power storage in a compact housing.

The UPS operates flexibly at input voltages of 23 to 30 V DC. The integrated lead AGM power storage ensures long buffer times of 45 minutes at 0.5 A, for example. When combined with a Uno Power power supply from the 100 W performance class, the overall dimensions are just 160 x 90 x 90 mm. This means that this space-saving APS is also suitable for small control and distributor boxes.

The high MTBF (mean time between failure) value of over 1.9 million hours and the large temperature range of -15 to +50°C are superb features for a device of this performance class. The device also has LED status indicators for signaling and function monitoring, as well as active 24 V DC switch outputs for forwarding to a higher-level control system.

Energy-efficient data logger for decentralized automation

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Energy-efficient data logger for telecontrol and remote maintenance solutions

Data logger PSK RTU 50

Its energy-saving technology makes the new PSK RTU 50 stand-alone data logger from Phoenix Contact especially suited to stand-alone telecontrol and remote maintenance solutions associated with decentralized automation.

The module simplifies data logging with its many interfaces and supported protocols and requires no additional power supply. It combines an SMS/GSM/GPRS modem and interfaces in a compact device and provides an opportunity for saving space when used with small control cabinets.

The device can function as a data logger, gateway, and alarm manager and supports the IEC 60870-5-101 and IEC 60870-5-104 protocols and Modbus. User-friendly software makes the data logger quick and easy to parameterize. The especially energy-saving technology ensures low-maintenance, long-term employment with standard batteries.

Four solutions for the PV market

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Four solutions from Phoenix Contact that can help you gain competitive advantage in the photovoltaic market

Solar-Farm

1. String Combiner Boxes (SCBs)

In various regions with diverse climatic conditions, achieving maximum availability and performance for a photovoltaic system presents a major challenge for planners and installers.

The important factors here are collecting and distributing string currents, protecting the individual modules againstString combiner boxes damage from lightning and surge voltages, and also monitoring the performance of the system.

Thanks to the use of optimally coordinated components and communication interfaces, the string combiner boxes can be connected to a higher-level park management system quickly and easily.

Phoenix Contact String Combiner Boxes, from 2 to 32 ways, offer:

  • Optimum performance
  • Fast installation and start up
  • Operator satisfaction due to high availability
  • Due and proper consideration of the ambient conditions
  • Optimum positioning of surge protection
  • Use of the best connection technologies and high quality components
  • New compact SCB ( string fusing is done externally with new encapsulated string fuses – this keeps the SCB cool and reduces its size considerably!).

2. Weather Stations

A solution for the evaluation of meteorological sensors for monitoring ambient conditions in weather stationsutility-scale solar power plants.

Fully engineered, boxed solution based on an ILC 171 2TX featuring:

  • all necessary I/O channels
  • surge protection for data and power lines
  • supply option for sensors
  • sensor heating option
  • Ethernet connectivity
  • Standardised MODBUS-Data mapping according to SUNSPEC
  • Simple parametrisation via WEB based management for adjusting sensor types and signal ranges

3. Array controllers

Each fully engineered, boxed solution is controlled by a PLC. PLC programming for all arrays can be identical.   Tasks on array level:Array controllers

  • Aquisition and preprocessing of all relevant data for monitoring (string monitoring, local ambient parameters, inverter data …)
  • Retransmission of monitored data to master PLC/IPC/SCADA in the central control room via a standardized data model (e.g. SUNSPEC/IEC 60870 …)
  • Evaluation of power control commands from master PLC and corresponding control of the inverters with respect to effective and reactive power.

Individual arrays are networked to central control room via appropriate  network infrastructure, e.g. fiber-optic ethernet/MODBUS TCP

4. SolarWorx solar library

The Application:

In recent years, the programming standard IEC 61131 has become established in automation Solarworxtechnology. This standardisation provides many advantages that can also be used for the solar industry. The Solarworx function block libraries are optimally tailored to our Inline and Axioline automation systems. For the user, this means less complex and more functions during planning and implementing solar projects. Training times and therefore costs can be kept low and system documentation becomes more transparent.

In order to keep risks during project planning and implementation as low as possible, EPCs require flexible and scalable concepts for photovoltaic systems as well as calculable software engineering options.

Customer requirements:

System integrators, however, set value on the compatibility of the individual park devices, such as string combiner boxes, inverters, energy meters and power managers. Often, system integrators are lacking the staff and know-how that they would need to implement programming for the automation of a solar park themselves. Setup and start up must be implemented quickly to enable prompt supply of the network with the generated current. Companies charged with the operation and maintenance of photovoltaic systems usually depend on fast error detection and troubleshooting.

The Solution:

The Solarworx function block libraries were created to make the creation and startup of photovoltaic projects with automation components easier and faster. This facilitates the planning and implementation of photovoltaic projects. The customer does not need to have in-depth programming knowledge as the pre-programmed blocks must only be connected with one another. Solarworx offers three different function block libraries for different tasks during the implementation of photovoltaic projects. The following figure gives an overview of the Solarworx structure. So far, there are three function block libraries: Solar Basic, Solar Advanced and Solar Add On.

Phoenix are currently working on additional function block libraries, which will be released soon.

 

*Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in Phoenix Contact Untied Kingdom’s Blog

More safety for charging stations

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With the new EV RCM residual current monitoring modules, Phoenix Contact fulfills the standard requirements according to IEC 61851-1 as regards DC residual current acquisition in charging equipment.

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According to current draft standards in charging infrastructure, in the future, either a Type B residual current or alternatively a Type A residual current with additional detection and shutdown equipment will be required in the case of DC residual currents > 6 mA. This should ensure that any occurring DC residual currents, e.g., due to insulation faults in the vehicle, do not have a negative impact on safety equipment in the infrastructure.

The modules detect AC and DC residual currents and the charging process is aborted before the residual current can affect the installation. The RCM modules are compatible with the EV Charge Control series of charging controllers from Phoenix Contact. This means that the residual current modules can be automatically reset and even carry out an automatic self-test. This lowers costs for service operations and increases the availability of the charging station. The module is available in a single- or two-channel design and can therefore be used to monitor residual currents in a domestic charging station or at commercial charging points.

Tablet PCs for portable use, both indoors and outdoors

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Phoenix Contact has consistently developed the industrial tablet PCs for portable use. The new Industrial Tablet Computer (ITC) 8113 with improved processor performance and luminous Full HD display excels when used both indoors and outdoors.

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Modern industrial networks increasingly require mobile workflows and remote-controlled processes. The configurable tablet PC not only has a corresponding design and comprehensive accessories, but it is also optimized for use in the service environment. Thanks to its reduced weight of just 1800 g, it is very easy to transport. The devices have IP54 protection, IP65 on the front, and are suitable for use indoors and outdoors.

A 10-finger multi-touch display and Windows 7 or 8 with the latest fourth generation Intel processor architecture ensure easy operation and high performance. For wireless connection to an existing network, wireless communication is possible via WLAN 802.11 a/g/n, Bluetooth 2.0 Class 1, and Class 2, and a UMTS/LTE data communication module is optionally available.

Building installation with push-in three-level terminal blocks

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Thanks to the new PTI 4 three-level installation terminal blocks with push-in connection technology from Phoenix Contact, rigid conductors up to 6 mm² can be easily and directly wired without tools. The terminal blocks are specially tailored to the requirements of the electrical installation and the distributor construction, thanks to their compact design.

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The snap-in, no-screw disconnect slide with status indicator makes contacting the neutral busbar easy and safe. The function shaft on each level provides for easy potential distribution, thanks to the flexible jumper system. Each terminal point can be clearly marked and, in addition to the testing facility, has its own test connection in the function shaft.

Thanks to the insertion force, which has been reduced by 50 percent, it is possible to insert solid and stranded conductors with ferrules and cross sections from 0.5 to 6 mm² without tools. The built-in actuation lever allows fully insulated release with any tool. The orange-colored button indicates the actuating element. This prevents the terminal from being activated accidentally. Flexible conductors without ferrules can also be connected, from 0.2 mm by actuating the lever.

The push-in three-level terminal blocks share all the system characteristics with the CLIPLINE complete terminal block series and are therefore compatible with all installation terminal blocks from Phoenix Contact.

The world’s narrowest, pluggable lightning arrester combination

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The Flashtrab-SEC-T1+T2 protective device combination consists of line-follow-current-free type 1 lightning arresters on the basis of a spark gap and varistor-based type 2 surge protective devices. This combination, in just one device, is the only one on the market worldwide.

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Thanks to Safe Energy Control technology (SEC), the products are durable and powerful. The load of the entire installation is reduced to a minimum in the event of lightning. The lightning arrester combination provides specific protection for installation environments with frequent switching operations. High lightning currents are safely controlled from the spark gap free of line follow current and temporary surge voltages are reliably limited by the varistors. The resulting low voltage protection level and fuse-free use in 230/400 V power supply systems are further advantages of this product range.

The compact arrester reduces the effort required for installation and maintenance. All products are pluggable and can be tested with the test device for the Checkmaster 2 surge protective devices.

New box PCs for use directly on site

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The next generation of Valueline box PCs now offers an entirely new, robust design and new processors in various performance classes. Box PCs are a flexible solution for industrial computer use directly on site. To this end, they are built without a fan. All key components are equipped with maintenance-friendly access points.

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The device can be extended by a PCI/PCIe slot. Data security is increased, thanks to two mass storage devices and RAID support. The processor can be selected to meet requirements: Intel Core i5-4300U, 4th generation (Haswell) or Intel Celeron N2930 or 3rd generation (Baytrail). The PC enables versatile networking, using the following interfaces: 4 x USB 2.0 or 2 x USB 2.0 and 2 x USB 3.0. Furthermore, the box PC supports multiple displays and large displays up to 4K. The device can be installed in a bookshelf or on a wall, according to requirements

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

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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.

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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.