Eurotherm releases EtherNet/IP for EPower SCR power controller

New connectivity improves communication, expands networking choices.

By Peter Welander August 3, 2009

Eurotherm, a manufacturer of industrial instrumentation for process control and data acquisition, has introduced EtherNet/IP communication protocol to its EPower SCR power controller series . The company says this is the first SCR Power Controller with EtherNet/IP. Now with six different networking options, the EPower controller covers most major industrial protocols, including CC-Link, Modbus TCP, Profibus, Modbus RTU, DeviceNet, and now EtherNet/IP.

The new protocol offers a direct connection to major PLCs and other control hardware with EtherNet/IP, eliminating the need for third party gateways and support for multiple protocols. Overall it’s a great benefit as it reduces network complexity and cost of operation.

Eurotherm says it has already introduced innovative functions in power management and energy cost reduction, such as predictive load management for advanced power distribution and load synchronization and the load tap changer for power factor improvement and harmonic distortion reduction in phase angle applications. This addition now also provides OEMs, system integrators, and end-users with the protocol they need for easy integration into industrial networks.

Adding EtherNet/IP to the EPower SCR power controller is a new step in the complete versatility strategy of the product. With seven different configurations and up to four channels, from single phase to true three-phase or even four-single-phases, this power controller can be customized to fulfill exact customer requirements and more.

Products are available pre-configured from 50 to 630 A, as well as up to 4000 A, covering the entire spectrum of electrically fired industrial applications.

-Edited by Peter Welander, process industries editor, PWelander@cfemedia.com
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