Available now from Treotham Automation, the latest generation of intelligent cables from igus feature a new sensor module that exploits Industry 4.0 levels of digitisation and networking to make maintenance easier and more efficient.

The key to the intelligent cable is the CF.Q sensor, which monitors the electrical properties of each of the cores of a Chainflex cable and continuously compares them with the specified values.

The CF.Q sensor module informs the control system by actuating a normally closed contact when the predefined electrical parameters change. This enables early detection of any damage caused by bending or extreme loads.

Key to the intelligence of the cable is an Industry 4.0-capable application called isense-online. This compares the recorded real-time values of the cable and the empirical values existing in a database, and if it detects fluctuations, it prompts the plant operator to initiate maintenance. And this all happens before the damage occurs and the production or plant shutdowns become a risk.

The new generation of CF.Q modules are suitable for switch cabinet installation thanks to top-hat rail housings. They also include an SD card slot for simple data logging as well as a serial interface for fault output.

Users can access data via the isense-online system via any web-connected device – from desktops to smartphones.

Treotham Automation
1300 65 75 64
www.treotham.com.au