IO-Link: A simple, fast, and efficient way to connect your sensors

Welcome to our latest newsletter where we understand the transformative capabilities of IO-Link technology in industrial automation.

Introduction:

Process plants across various industries use media such as steam, water, and industrial gases. These services are best managed by basic instruments.

IO-Link is a well-established communication standard for such basic devices, offering the data-rich visibility and controllability.

IO-Link is the first I/O technology for sensor and actuator communication and adopted as an international standard (IEC 61131-9).

It facilitates continuous and intelligent communication at the sensor level, unlocking new opportunities for automation in the manufacturing industry.

How IO-Link Works?

• An IO-Link system is composed of a device, such as a sensor or actuator, and an IO-Link master, as illustrated in Figure 1.
• Each device can connect to only one IO-Link master, whereas a single IO-Link master can manage multiple devices.

• The IO-Link master functions as a gateway, bridging the connection between the connected devices and the upstream industrial network utilized by a process controller, as shown in Figure 2

Where can IO-Link be used?

IO-Link is ideal for factory automation applications, including:

1) Automated assembly lines: Enables quick installation and swift changeover of production runs.

2) Machine tools: Facilitates fast setup by allowing sensor parameter settings (temperature, pressure, airflow) to be easily adjusted, making faulty sensors easier to identify and replace.

3) Conveyor belts: Allows dynamic changes to speed and stop points based on the load.

4) Personalized manufacturing: Offers the flexibility of personalized manufacturing through easy remote configuration.

5) Hydraulic systems: Ensures reliable signal transmission and meets key requirements for temperature, pressure, and level monitoring.

What Are Its Limitations?

1) Please note that IO-Link is not designed to support every type of sensor or actuator.

2) It can transmit only up to 32 bytes of process data per cycle, making it not suitable for devices that produce large volumes of data, such as cameras or scanners used in industrial imaging equipment.

3) With a typical cycle time of about 2 milliseconds, IO-Link is fast enough for most factory automation needs but not for high-speed applications.

What are benefits of IO-Link instruments in process industry?

1) Simplified Installation and Setup: IO-Link devices are easy to install and configure, reducing setup time and labour costs.

2) Enhanced Data Availability: They provide detailed diagnostic and operational data, improving process visibility and control.

3) Reduced Complexity: Basic IO-Link devices eliminate unnecessary complexity, making system management easier.

4) Flexible Integration: IO-Link is compatible with various fieldbus systems, ensuring seamless integration into existing systems.

5) Increased Process Efficiency: Accurate and real-time data from IO-Link devices lead to better decision-making and optimized process performance.

6) Standardization: IO-Link provides a standardized communication protocol, ensuring compatibility and interoperability across different devices and manufacturers.

Digitalize your plant with IO-Link (Digital and cost-efficient)

Smart Ethernet devices, such as valve islands, remote I/Os, recorders, liquid analyzers, and flow measurement devices, are digitized using Industrial Ethernet protocols like PROFINET or Ethernet/IP. Additionally, basic devices can achieve digital accessibility through IO-Link, enabling offline parameterization, data transparency, and plug-and-produce device exchange for all types of devices.

Key benefits for engineers:

• Easy and efficient integration using standardized function blocks.
• Compatibility of high-end Industrial Ethernet devices with basic IO-Link devices.
• Reduced variety of plugs and cabling
• Reduced variety of sensors, with configurable switching points via IO-Link.
• Rapid commissioning and start-up facilitated by standardized cabling and automated parameter setting.

Key benefits for operators and maintenance personnel:

• Higher precision from digital signal transmission.
• Remote access and parameterization of IO-Link devices.
• Diagnostics with cause and remedy information, including cable break detection.
• Simplified device exchange through automatable parameter data storage and download.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IO-Link presents a significant advancement in industrial automation, providing efficient method for connecting sensors and actuators.

By enabling continuous and intelligent communication at the sensor level, IO-Link enhances data availability, simplifies installation and setup, and reduces system complexity. This results in increased process efficiency and flexibility in manufacturing.

The integration of IO-Link with smart Ethernet devices further digitalizes process plants, offering benefits such as remote access, diagnostics, and easy device exchange, making it an invaluable asset for engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel.

Need help with an application? Call us for a free engineering consultation today!

If you have any general questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected] . We are here to help!

For more information please visit our website www.kobold.com

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