Controllers, HMIs earn marine certification

-- Control Engineering, 3/13/2008

Evaluation for marine certification ensures that products will operate in high humidity and extreme hot and cold temperatures. It also tests for ability to withstand vibration, electromagnetic compatibility, and extent of radio frequency emissions. Two Allen-Bradley CompactLogix controllers and several PanelView Plus operator interfaces from Rockwell Automation recently were certified.

Allen-Bradley CompactLogix L32E and CompactLogix L35E controllers, and several PanelView Plus operator interfaces underwent a rigorous testing process from seven global agencies over a 45-day period at Rockwell Automation’s Mayfield Heights, OH, laboratory.

As part of the process, products are tested to evaluate performance in high humidity, extreme hot and cold temperatures, vibration, and electromagnetic compatibility, as defined by marine societies and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. Products are evaluated so that radio frequency emissions do not exceed the established marine industry standards; excessive emissions can potentially interfere with the performance of a ship’s electronic devices.

“Marine environments present unique operational challenges for automation equipment, which makes the selection process that much more critical,” said Mike Hannah, marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. “With high-performance features, exceptional scalability, and proven reliability, the CompactLogix controllers and PanelView Plus operator interfaces offer the ideal mix of attributes to help meet these tough application demands.”

The CompactLogix L35E controller combines benefits of Rockwell Automation’s Logix control platform with compact design. The controller is suitable for applications in material handling, conveyors, and packaging, where EtherNet/IP connectivity permits cost-efficient, plantwide data-sharing. The CompactLogix L32E controller is a scaled-down version of CompactLogix L35E controller, creating a solution for less complex applications. With user memory capacity of 750 Kb, the CompactLogix L32E controller supports 16 local I/O modules.

PanelView Plus operator interfaces help optimize system development, performance, and efficiency, and they feature modular components, multiple communication options, advanced graphic features, and reusable development tools. Select 6-, 7-, 10- and 12-in. PanelView terminals with marine certification are being introduced in phases this year.

— Edited by Renee Robbins, senior editor
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