Rockwell Automation Expands On-Machine Portfolio

Rockwell Automation has expanded its on-machine portfolio with four new products:

• ArmorKinetix distributed servo drives, which provide the high-performance of the Kinetix 5700 platform in a compact, IP66/67 rated form factor, configurable as near-motor drive or integrated drive-motor solution. 
• ArmorBlock 5000 I/O blocks with ratings up to IP69K, three power variants, flexible mounting options and use of IO-Link technology for harsh environments.
• Armor PowerFlex drives for on-machine variable frequency drive motor control. These drives feature gigabit dual-port EtherNet/IP communication with hardware and network safety features.
• ASEM 6300PA on-machine industrial PCs with a fanless design and wide temperature specs.

Rockwell Automation says its on-machine technologies “enable decentralized control architectures where automation components are field-mounted rather than kept in large electrical enclosures. This approach offers more simplified, modular machines that can have lower total costs, reduced footprint and require less time to set up for operation. By enabling key components to be easily accessed by factory personnel, they are better enabled to proactively identify and address problems and increase system uptime.”

“Manufacturers are facing market trends that quickly change and consumers are demanding more customization and innovation,” said Joe Azzolina, senior product manager, Armor PowerFlex, Rockwell Automation. “On-machine solutions are less constrained by physical boundaries such as enclosure size or ridge architectures. This means that modular design is easier to achieve, and OEMs and end users alike can be more adaptive to build for the future.”