Motors are the heartbeat of core industrial processes and provide drive in a wide range of applications such as conveyor technology, ventilation or water and wastewater management. Every improvement in the control of the approximately 300 million electric motors worldwide directly helps to permanently reduce energy consumption and wear on motors and the connected loads. The reliable recording of measurement data is the prerequisite for optimizing the operation of a machine or system.
For this application, ABB’s Novolink™ modules offer a simple way to digitize AF contactors and motor starters and reliably provide information about the connected loads. This intelligent motor control solution can be seamlessly integrated into existing wiring and connected to standard AF contactors. Installation is uncomplicated thanks to reduced wiring effort and a smaller number of variants. Investment protection is guaranteed because AF contactors that have already been installed can continue to be operated. Retrofit measures are therefore possible at any time.
Thanks to the new Smart Gateway, which is based on the open standard communication interface OPC UA, manufacturer-independent integration of ABB Novolink™ into any modern control system is possible. The use of Novolink™ modules increases system availability and significantly reduces operating costs, as planned and unplanned downtimes are reduced through predictive maintenance. In addition, complete remote access to data opens up new opportunities for demand-based and preventative maintenance concepts and provides the basis for data analysis and innovative business models. ABB Novolink™ enables the collection of data and measurements such as current and voltage as well as the provision of performance data, energy consumption, diagnostic information, maintenance counters and condition monitoring. The modules can also be seamlessly integrated into the B&R Automation Studio and, thanks to the OPC UA interface, into any other PLC or into a higher-level system.
The ease of use and functionality of ABB Novolink™ opens up extensive possibilities for a wide range of industrial applications. These also include, among others:
- Food and packaging machines
- Metal and wood industry: pumps, elevators and cranes
- Plastic and injection molding machines
- all industrial heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
“Novolink™ modules address the key challenges of the industry: digitalization and energy efficiency. This solution, which is particularly suitable for retrofits and modernizations, creates a bridge from conventional switching technology to the world of Industry 4.0 via an OPC UA interface. This allows seamless integration into system solutions from all third-party providers. The comprehensive data availability offers users the opportunity to implement new maintenance concepts, increase their operational efficiency and at the same time optimize energy consumption. Anyone who plays the topic well can also develop new business models,” explains Sven Glöckler, Head of Mechanical Engineering Segment Support.