W.E.St. Elektronik has further developed its intuitive WPC-300 software to simplify and accelerate commissioning and diagnostics. Screwdrivers and multimeters have long ceased to be sufficient setup tools and are now complemented - or even replaced - by simple software-based solutions like WPC-300. Reliable diagnostic functions are essential during commissioning and maintenance to reduce downtime. With WPC-300, you always have an overview of input and output signals, setpoints, and intermediate control values. Time sequences are also visible and visualized in the integrated oscilloscope. The software is compatible with all W.E.St. Elektronik devices - no tedious searching for the correct version or license required.
We have recently renewed the GL certification for the PAM-199-P to meet the latest requirements of modern marine and offshore applications. This power amplifier is typically used to control directional, throttle, and pressure valves that require flexible adjustment. The integrated power amplifier, with a short cycle time of 0.125 ms for the current loop, is a cost-effective and space-saving solution. Its versatility allows for the control of standard proportional valves from various manufacturers with minimal commissioning effort.
Proven technology made even better: MDR-337-P with commissioning assistant.
Our MDR-137-P module has been a reliable and highly successful solution for pressure control in combination with proportional pressure valves or variable displacement pumps for many years.
Now, with the new MDR-337-P, we’re introducing a significant upgrade to the concept - at the same affordable price!
What’s new in this module: A curve-based pre-control function A commissioning assistant that perfectly adapts the pre-control to your application and automatically optimizes the controller settings
This brings clear advantages for you as a user:
You benefit from precise linearization…
…without any additional effort!
You save the time usually needed to adjust controller parameters…
…and get excellent results right away!
Want to learn more? Application information is available in the download section.
Bereits bei der Konstruktion der Baureihe MICROTURN setzte die Firma Spinner konsequent auf I/O-Link. Ein stimmiges Verdrahtungs- und Schirmungskonzept machte die Entscheidung für I/O-Link für den mittelständischen Maschinenbauer einfach. Speziell in Verbindung mit der Spinner Touch Oberfläche „SPIOS“ wurde hier ein perfektes Inbetriebnahme- und Diagnosetool geschaffen. Sämtliche Aktoren/Sensoren können oberflächenunterstützt parametriert und analysiert werden.
Ganz im Sinne von Industrie 4.0 entstand hier eine komplette Datenbasis für Signalaustausch. Der I/O-Link Ventilverstärker der Fa. W.E.St. Elektronik ermöglicht es dem Bediener, den Spanndruck des Futters optimal auf die Spannanforderung einzustellen. Dies passiert komfortabel über die Oberfläche, es kann aber auch vom NC-Programm der Druck variabel „umprogrammiert“ werden.
Die kompakte Bauform des Ventilverstärkers sowie eine einfache Integration in die I/O-Link Plattform sprachen hier für das Gerät der W.E.St. Elektronik.
Just in time for the Hydraulix Congress – “DIGITALIZATION IN HYDRAULICS – Knowing What Really Matters!” – W.E.St. Elektronik published an article in O+P magazine about the use of IO-Link technology in power amplifiers. You can find the full article in the download section!
Plug-in amplifiers for proportional valves are a simple and cost-effective solution for controlling single-solenoid valves. Typically, the setpoint is provided via an analog signal (0…10 V or 4…20 mA). Parameterization is done directly on the plug or via various interfaces (e.g., USB). These amplifiers have been widely used for over 30 years. Now, products with IO-Link interfaces are available.
IO-Link is a globally standardized point-to-point communication protocol (IEC 61131-9) for sensors and actuators. The IO-Link community aims to develop and promote the technology, which is widely accepted across manufacturers. While many sensors are already available, actuator development is progressing more slowly. Yet, IO-Link is ideal for controlling proportional valves, offering:
In the age of Industry 4.0, the shift to digital interfaces is inevitable. IO-Link, as a point-to-point connection, can easily replace analog interfaces.
Experience Pays Off - PAM-190-P-IO
The IO-Link interface is as easy to use as an analog one, making its integration into a plug-in amplifier for proportional valves a logical step - despite some technical challenges.
Space in the plug housing is limited, and low self-heating and galvanic isolation between power and IO-Link supply are required. Since this is not a high-priced product, smart design is key. Based on our experience with the analog PAM-190-P, we knew how to approach the design. Galvanic isolation for analog current measurement is complex and costly.
Our solution? We used two 32-bit high-performance processors, requiring isolation only for digital signals. One processor handles IO-Link communication, the other manages current control and signal conditioning (ramps, min-max, etc.).
While this may seem excessive in terms of computing power, the simplified circuit design results in fewer components, higher reliability (MTTFd), and lower cost.
The modular approach allows the communication electronics to be easily and affordably integrated into various electronic assemblies. The setup is similar to the standard PAM-190-P, but analog signals are replaced with digital ones. No shielding is needed, reducing costs. Pre-assembled cables and M12 connectors save time. This connector is used to control pressure valves, throttle valves and also directional control valves (then with two connectors).
The amplifier is tailored for hydraulic applications and includes current control, ramp functions, and min-max settings. The output stage is identical to our standard amplifiers. IO-Link devices are parameterized using standard tools provided by PLC manufacturers, often integrated into their development environments. This eliminates the need to learn separate software like WPC-300.
Mit dem IO-Link Konzept kann jetzt ein Tool sowohl für die verschiedenen Sensoren als auch für unseren Steckerverstärker verwendet werden. Was man nicht mehr hat, sind die analogen Signale, die mit einem Multimeter gemessen werden können. Es sind natürlich die typischen Störungen auf den analogen Signalen auch nicht mehr relevant. Mit Blick auf I4.0, die Digitalisierung und eine deutlich erweiterte Diagnostik ist dies aber auch der Weg in die Zukunft.
In addition to a wide range of IO-Link sensors, proportional valves can now also be controlled via IO-Link. For hydraulic systems, this means a unified interface that can even be used to set pressure. Thanks to our modular concept, further developments - from pressure control to positioning systems - are possible. IO-Link is a key building block for the future of modern, digital hydraulic systems.
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