ABB launches FieldBusPlug device that provides universal solution for all fieldbus applications

Citation

(2005), "ABB launches FieldBusPlug device that provides universal solution for all fieldbus applications", Assembly Automation, Vol. 25 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2005.03325baf.002

ABB launches FieldBusPlug device that provides universal solution for all fieldbus applications

ABB launches FieldBusPlug device that provides universal solution for all fieldbus applications

Keywords: Fieldbus

ABB has launched a new concept designed to bring simplicity and flexibility to fieldbus applications. The FieldBusPlug (FBP) allows devices to be quickly connected to any bus for a “phig and produce” solution (Plate 2). Instead of having to offer multiple variants to suit a large number of industrial fieldbuses, such as Profibus DP, DeviceNet, AS-i, and so on, ABB is now able to offer control equipment such as its new FBP motor controllers and starters in one standard version, with a neutral fieldbus-independent interface. All the installer has to do is to attach the appropriate ready-made bus-specific FBP connection cable to suit their fieldbus.

Plate 2

Intelligence built into the plug

The FBP establishes the connection of the individual switching and automation devices to the process controller. The design of the plug is very simple – a fieldbus-neutral plug is fitted at one end of the cable and a plug with the fieldbus-dependent interface is located at the other end. Intelligent electronics have been built into a compact plug to convert the neutral device data into a language which the process fieldbus (such as AS-I or DeviceNet) can understand. ABB will offer plugs to suit all the major fieldbuses on the market.

A major advantage of the FBP concept is that ABB is not inventing its own additional bus, but is utilizing the many fieldbuses already available. Also, since it is an open system, the FBP can embrace any PLC system used by a customer. Because ready-made plug-in connectors are used to attach the device to the fieldbus and the supply voltage, there is no need to cut, isolate and prepare cables.

FBP devices

The first family of ABB products to benefit from the FBP are motors and controllers including the following.

Motor Starter Direct MSDll-FBP. A compact fuseless motor starter unit with versatile mounting features for the operation of a motor in one direction, for line current from 0.1 to 12A.

Motor Starter Reverse MSR22-FBP. Switches and protects individual motors and their connecting cables in both directions of rotation. An installation width of only 45mm makes it particularly suitable for applications where space is restricted.

Motor Fieldbus Interface MF121-FBP. The motor fieldbus interface can be expanded to form a complete starter by coupling onto the MS325 motor protection switch up to 25A. Integrated motor control functions and a preventative diagnostic function make it especially suitable for sensitive process areas and it incorporates three digital inputs at 24V DC and three digital outputs (relays).

Universal Motor Controllers UMC22- FBP. The flagship of the fieldbus- compatible motor protection range for working currents from 0.24 to 63A, with six digital inputs at 24V DC and three digital outputs (relays). The motor start data can be set directly on- site via a removable control panel. Direct, reversing, star-delta and actuator start functions area are available. Electronic overload, phase loss and motor blocking are all integrated protection features of this device.

For further information visit the web site: www.abb.com