SOLIDS 2020: New Multifunctional HDS Switchgear Series for Heavy Industry
March 2, 2020
The Schmersal Group will be showcasing the new HDS switchgear series at SOLIDS 2020, specially designed for the requirements of the bulk materials industry. The Heavy Duty Switch (HDS) unites a range of functions into a single platform, making it suitable for an extremely wide range of applications. In addition, the HDS platform has a range of international approvals, including CE, UL, CCC, (EAC, ATEX, IECEx, INMETRO in progress).
The basis of the new platform is the standardised enclosure concept, which is available in two versions: plastic (Duroplast) and grey cast iron. The plastic version is resistant to aggressive media and especially suitable in port logistics applications and loading and unloading operations, as well as in the agricultural industry in the processing of fertilisers, minerals and phosphates. The robust grey cast iron version is suitable for uses including the mining of heavy metallic ores in opencast mines, bulk materials and extraction.
The function range is also divided into two basic versions: the emergency-stop, designed as a pull-wire switch, and the position monitor. The basic switch – ‘Position Control’ – can be flexibly combined with a range of actuating elements and can be used for position monitoring on moving machinery and plant parts.
An additional advantage of the HDS platform is that all basic versions have been prepared for use with an optional Dupline 2 wire bus and can be directly connected, allowing the switches to be quickly and easily connected and integrated in series. The Dupline Standard or Dupline Safety 2 wire bus is ideal for reliable signal transmission over wide distances.
Cloud study for monitoring conveyor systems
‘At SOLIDS 2020, we will be showcasing a first cloud study for monitoring of our switchgear on conveyor systems. Our emergency-stop and belt alignment switches are equipped with a WLAN beacon so that all switching operations are transmitted to the cloud. They can then be monitored in real time and online using a web browser or PC or smartphone,’ explains Udo Skin, heavy industry manager at Schmersal.
The Schmersal Group offers complete solutions for conveyor technology, all from a single source, offering not only personal protection but also process protection on conveyor systems as well as real-time quality control of bulk materials during conveyor operation. Users in the mining industry, cement and steel industries and bulk materials and agricultural industries can take advantage of Schmersal’s integrated systems and solutions wherever they are in the world, plus a range of consultancy and other associated services.
