October 9, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Crohm brand VFD brake resistors, which feature NEMA 1 enclosures and installed thermal switches. These resistors are offered in many popular resistance values from 3.7 ohms to 400 ohms and power ratings from 240 W to 18 kW to ensure a good match per your manufacturer’s recommendation. The…
Here are some of the typical continuous/analog level measurement methods, with a summary of their strengths and weaknesses: Ultrasonic level sensors: These are generally installed at the top of a vessel looking down into the product. They generate a periodic ultrasonic sound impulse and measure the echo’s return time to determine the distance to the…
Here are some of the typical discrete level detection methods, with a summary of their strengths and weaknesses: Float level switches : These simple devices provide an on or off signal as a liquid moves up or down. Some travel along a guide rod, while others just bob up or down on a cable, and either…
Detecting the level of a product or liquid in a vessel is required for many machinery and process applications, so designers need a working understanding of the available technologies and best practices. Manufacturing and processing equipment automation systems often need to detect the presence/absence, or even the exact level, of a material in a bin,…
AutomationDirect CLICK PLUS PLCs, when combined with stepper motors, make advanced motion control and edge integration simple for smaller systems. Electric motors provide the motive force for many types of machinery and equipment. Sometimes standard AC and DC motors are operated at fixed speed, and other times they are driven using a variable frequency drive…
In the manufacturing industry, companies are clamoring for products that can automate processes to increase efficiency. The safety and comfort of machines and their operators is also paramount, causing a rising demand for more protective workplace solutions. That’s why innovative solutions, such as programmable support arms, operator control systems and enclosures, are becoming more essential…
September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added LUTZE ELECTRONIC shielded or unshielded flexible control and signal cable. This industrial-grade multi-conductor cable is ideal for use in machines and machine tools, plant cabling, HVAC technology, assembly/production lines, process instrumentation, and industrial controls. These cables are 300V rated and are third-party evaluated by ECOLAB for resistance to…
September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added a variety of new Metrol limit switches to their growing lineup of precision limit switches. These ultra-precise mechanical limit switches have a repeatability down to 0.5 microns (µm) and are some of the smallest switches/sensors available. Their tiny size allows them to be mounted in extremely tight locations….
September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the RHINO PSE-S series power supplies which are fully encapsulated in ultra-compact, low-profile housings and ideal for space-limited applications. These cost-effective power supplies offer a wide input voltage range, up to 89% efficiency, and are available in 5, 12, 15, and 24 VDC output voltage options with up…
September 18, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added ProSense FSC series mechatronic digital flow sensors that monitor liquid media and provide flow sensing up to 50 GPM and temperature measurement up to 212°F. They feature a stainless steel construction, are available with 3/4”, 1”, or 1-1/2” FNPT process connections, and provide two analog, frequency, or switch…