The selection of the right cable or line for transmitting signals on your machine has essential influence on the machine availability. Usually, when determining the instruments of machines and plants, a profound amount of attention is given to choosing the right sensors.
For example, the user determines which measuring principles are used for level measurement, which power supply ought to be provided to the device 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 trusted connection under all circumstances.
However, cables and connectors pose probably the most frequent resources of error. This is often where unforeseen prospect of increasing machine availability can be found. During my span of research I learned that in a high two-digit percentage of all cases, renowned cable manufacturers traced back sensor failure on machines to mechanical failure of the cable because of faulty installation, handling and especially due to the selection of an unsuited cable for the precise application. Principally, there is no patent remedy for determining which cable and which plug connector is best suitable for your 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 and also high longitudinal and transverse water tightness are. In level probes, plug connectors are barely ever applied because of the insufficient permanent leak tightness. For machine tools which are create in factory buildings, the simplest cable materials with a straightforward M12 connector are employed. In Absurd 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.
Using cable assemblies with factory pre-assembled connectors also prevents failure risk through improper on-site assembly. It is therefore a fallacy that cables will be the same and that any given cable with the sufficient number of wires is suitable for an application.
In another of my previous articles, I drew up a brief overview of the most relevant criteria for choosing cables and connectors. Take your time in specifying a suitable cable for the application. Think about the demands your plug link with 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 absolve to contact us.