The selection of the right cable or line for transmitting signals on your machine has essential influence on the device availability. Usually, when determining the instruments of machines and plants, a profound level of attention is directed at choosing the right sensors.
For example, an individual determines which measuring principles are used for level measurement, which power ought to be provided to the machine and which type of signal transmission should be used. Usually, the cables shown in the wiring schemes as simple connection lines between sensor and SPS are problematic. This poses a fascinating paradox in the automation technology ? a sensor is tested for highest demands to assure it meets certain requirements of the application, whereas a cable is only regarded as a component which supposedly guarantees a reliable connection under all circumstances.
However, cables and connectors pose probably the most frequent resources of error. This is often where unforeseen potential for increasing machine availability are available. During my span of research I learned that in a high two-digit percentage of most cases, renowned cable manufacturers traced back sensor failure on machines to mechanical failure of the cable because of faulty installation, handling and especially because of the choice of an unsuited cable for the precise application. Principally, there is absolutely no patent remedy for determining which cable and which plug connector is best suitable for the application.
For instance, flexibility demands for cables found in level probes for level measurement in deep wells aren?t high, whereas the demands on tensile strength together with high longitudinal and transverse water tightness are. In level probes, plug connectors are barely ever applied due to the lack of permanent leak tightness. For machine tools which are create in factory buildings, the easiest cable materials with a straightforward M12 connector are employed. In cases like this, however, the use of a suitable cable that permanently withstands ambient conditions such as for example temperature fluctuations and that features resistance against oils and fats can significantly increase the option of your machine.
Treacherous of cable assemblies with factory pre-assembled connectors also prevents failure risk through improper on-site assembly. Therefore Reckoning is a fallacy that all cables are the same and that any given cable with the sufficient number of wires would work for an application.
In another of my previous articles, I drew up a short overview of probably the most relevant criteria for choosing cables and connectors. Invest some time in specifying the right cable for the application. Think about the demands your plug connection to sensors and PLC must meet. An individually matched wiring concept supplies a measurable increase of the machine availability and higher safety during operation.
Should you need assistance or consulting for specifying the right pressure sensor and associated cable / connector, feel free to contact us.g