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6 years ago

MDA Technologies 3/2014

MDA Technologies 3/2014

MEasurement and control

MEasurement and control Interview with Andreas Huster, M01 pressure transmitter series project manager at Sensor-Technik Wiedemann Will the modular system truly enable you to meet every need in terms of different versions of pressure transmitters? No, there are some special applications that we will not be able to cover, of course, such as transmitters with an integrated display. We are also unable to handle high-precision measurements close to an absolute vacuum, such as might be necessary in process technology. But application coverage of roughly 80 % is real progress. What proved to be especially difficult in making the modular system a reality? Since there is no uniform media-resistant measuring cell system for the stated pressure range, we had to come up with a design for the pressure connector that we could fit with silicon as well as stainless steel cells. That was not easy to do. It was also quite a complex task to create testing equipment and automate testing procedures in such a way that it’s possible to calibrate and test the wide range of transmitters effectively. Many administrative processes had to be adapted to the modular design principle. What sets your modular system apart from those of your competitors? The sheer variety of modules, not to mention the extremely wide pressure range. And we plan to systematically round out the modular system going forward by continuously adding more modules. That is why we see variety vis-à-vis the modular design principle as our model for success. We are already able to profitably produce the M01 transmitter series in smaller batch sizes. Which modules exactly do you plan on adding? Right at the moment we’ve added the modules for different widths across flats. That was necessary to be able to tighten transmitters with large connector plugs with a nut from behind. This was a request from a customer − and that’s how we want to proceed in the future. If a customer makes a request that could prove interesting to others as well, then there will be a new module. In the medium term, we will probably be creating more field bus systems. Innovations have to provide our customers a tangible benefit. One other development in the works is expanding the safety features. Also completely new and available shortly is a new stainless steel measuring cell that can go down to three bar, which means that customers will have a transmitter − even in the lower range − whose wetted parts are all made of stainless steel. Can all modules really be put together manually to form a pressure transmitter? Yes and no. The individual circuit boards are equipped with connector plugs and can be pieced together quite easily. The “modular system” is an image, however, and serves to illustrate the concept. The stainless steel cells and the housing are welded together with a laser due to concerns over quality, for instance. How does your company benefit from the concept of the modular system? We gain satisfied customers as we are able to offer small production volumes at affordable prices thanks to lower production costs. But savings come in the form of streamlined sales as well. How would you summarise the benefit for the customer in one sentence? Qualify once − and (nearly) all your transmitter needs can be met. Or even better: We offer pressure transmitters to go! 52 MDA Technologies 3/2014

Module designation Available modules Pressure range 1, 5, (absolute or relative, respectively), 10, 16, 25, 50, 100, 250, 400, 800, 1,000, 2,000 bar, and intermediate ranges Pressure connection Electrical interface Connector plug Screw Nut Maximum measurement error Qualifications Identification plates Table 1: Details on existing modules G1/4, G1/8, 1/4 NPT, 1/4 NPTF, 3/8 NPT, M10x1, M12x1, M12x1.5, M18x1.5, M22x1.5, 7/16-20 UNF (SAE4) O-ring and cone, 9/16-18 UNF (SAE6), DIN 20043 DN10, many connections also available with damping, G1/4 also with pressure gauge pin, as internal thread, with drain valve, flush mounted Voltage 0-5V, 1-5V, 0-10V, ratiometric, electricity (double and triple conductor), voltage, CAN, switching outputs (NPN/PNP), M12 plastic, M12 stainless steel, AMPSS, AMP-EJ, DeutschDT04, MPM, EN175301-803-A, DIN-72585 DIN Bayonet, Cannon connector, SuperSeal, cable outlet, T-piece for CAN, 22 mm, 27 mm and 30 mm 1 % or increased accuracy 0.25 % UL, CE, E1, ASIL, SIL, PL, calibrated, (ATEX in preparation) Adhered, laser engraving; customer logos and 2-D barcodes also possible mitters. The in-house production of the thin film for manufacturing measuring cells also leaves room for customer-specific solutions. Special solutions, such as uncommon con- nection threads or adapted EMC properties, were cause for making additional expansions to the modular system in the past. Final assembly of the modules directly at the customer’s place of business creates the potential for further applications. Summary Customers – especially those who require electronic pressure transducers for spare parts supply or product development – value the high degree of flexibility and quality of STW products. Customers who only have an irregular or low level of need for such products are also taking advantage of the benefits provided by the M01 modular system: the cost-effective and quick manufacturing of high-quality pressure transmitters – even for smaller production volumes. By systematically implementing the modular system, STW seeks to unite the efficient mass production of pressure transmitters with otherwise costly customization. The customer should have to use nothing but one well-known product − and still have all the necessary configurations available. Photographs: STW Technic LP, Norcross, GA 30071 www.stw-technic.com 04 Piecing and plugging together the electronic module components About Company name: STW Technic LP Headquarters: Norcross, GA 30071 Employees: approx. 400 Established: 1985 Products: controllers, I/O modules, sensors, measurement technology, hybrid technology, teleservices

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