The choice of the right cable or line for transmitting signals on your machine has essential influence on the device availability. Usually, when determining the instruments of machines and plants, a profound amount of attention is directed at deciding on the best sensors.
For example, the user determines which measuring principles are used for level measurement, which power supply ought to be provided to the device and which type of signal transmission ought to be used. Usually, the cables shown in the wiring schemes as simple connection lines between sensor and SPS are problematic. This poses a fascinating paradox in the automation technology ? a sensor is tested for highest demands to assure it meets certain requirements of the application form, whereas a cable is only regarded as a component which supposedly guarantees a trusted connection under all circumstances.
However, cables and connectors pose probably the most frequent sources of error. This is exactly where unforeseen potential for increasing machine availability can be found. During my span of research I learned that in a high two-digit percentage of most cases, renowned cable manufacturers traced back sensor failure on machines to mechanical failure of the cable due to faulty installation, handling and especially due to the selection of an unsuited cable for the specific application. Principally, there is no patent remedy for determining which cable and which plug connector is most beneficial suitable for the application.
For example, flexibility demands for cables found in level probes for level measurement in deep wells aren?t high, whereas the demands on tensile strength in addition to high longitudinal and transverse water tightness are. In level probes, plug connectors are barely ever applied as a result of lack of permanent leak tightness. For machine tools which are set up in factory buildings, the simplest cable materials with a straightforward M12 connector are used. In this instance, however, the usage of the right cable that permanently withstands ambient conditions such as temperature fluctuations and that has resistance against oils and fats can significantly raise the option of your machine.
The utilization of cable assemblies with factory pre-assembled connectors also prevents failure risk through improper on-site assembly. It is therefore a fallacy that all cables are the same and that any given cable with the sufficient amount of wires would work for an application.
In one of my previous articles, I drew up a short overview of the most relevant criteria for choosing cables and connectors. Invest some time in specifying a suitable cable for your application. Think about the demands your plug link with sensors and PLC must meet. Savings matched wiring concept offers a measurable increase of the device availability and higher safety during operation.
Should you need assistance or consulting for specifying a suitable pressure sensor and associated cable / connector, feel absolve to contact us.

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