Beckhoff Automation Platform Expands Modularity

Source: Beckhoff Automation

Beckhoff Automation has expanded the MX-System control-cabinet-free automation platform with new three-row baseplates and larger function modules in size 3. These devices can be combined with existing size 1 and 2 modules in the MX-System platform, expanding the range of applications for cabinet-free automation.

The MX-System baseplate in size 3 offers an additional row of data slots, which opens up possibilities for larger machines with more complex control requirements. There are now significantly more slots available to accommodate additional pluggable function modules within the same baseplate width. The size 3 baseplate is compatible with all MX-System function modules in the established sizes, but also accommodates new three-row modules. The passive cooling principle remains unchanged in size 3, although the larger cooling surface means that higher performance ranges can be achieved.

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The first size 3 function modules offer a 600-V DC supply with 40 A nominal current, a servo controller with 28 A nominal current and a power supply for up to 63 A. Additional MX-System function modules based on the size 3 format will be added in the future — such as modules for switching AC loads of up to 16 A. It will also be possible to implement feeds of up to 125 A.

This addition to the MX-System portfolio increases the range of applications in which cabinet-free automation can be used. Up to now, machines requiring high-power inputs could only be implemented to a limited extent and in a hybrid manner using the modular MX-System. However, the three-row baseplates are now able to replace the control cabinet for power distribution that was previously required in these cases, enabling larger machines to feature entirely control-cabinet-free designs.

In a machine topology, a three-row baseplate will likely always be positioned above the existing 1-row and 2-row baseplates, serving as a central point in a combined star and daisy-chain topology. For a compact machine, the three-row baseplate can be used to fit as many size 1 and 2 modules as possible in a minimal surface area, providing a full replacement for the control cabinet and making it possible to benefit from the MX-System’s wider range of functions.