The new MX-System from Beckhoff Automation, which the company said is making waves as the first cabinet-free automation solution for machines and systems, will be on display at CeMAT in Sydney from 22-24 July.
“It’s our first time exhibiting at this premier intralogistics show and we feel that the MX-System is the perfect solution to showcase,” said Lokitha Ratnasekera, service manager at Beckhoff Australia.
When asked about its rising popularity in the market, Ratnasekera points to the company’s deep automation roots.
“The MX-System is built on over 40 years of experience and delivers the functionality and reliability of traditional control cabinets, but in a more compact, modular and flexible format,” Ratnasekera said.
“If you’ve ever worked with traditional control cabinets, then you will know how time-consuming and space-hungry they can be. There’s planning, wiring, cooling and hours of assembly – all before the machine even starts working.
"With the MX-System, customers retain all the advantages of a traditional control cabinet, while gaining access to a new generation of enhanced features and benefits."
In terms of benefits, Ratnasekera said customers can enjoy more space savings, a simplified design, a modular system that’s easy to scale, faster installation, a seamless TwinCAT integration experience, and quicker machine start-ups.
“Perhaps, though, one of the best things about it is that almost anyone on the factory floor can carry out the installation and assembly of this unit,” he added.
According to Beckhoff, the MX-System offers fast and transparent system diagnostics to minimise downtime and simplify servicing.
Ratnasekera highlights the sectors that stand to gain the most from the system as follows:
- Automotive: takes advantage of uptime and modularity.
- Food & Beverage: benefits from its IP67-rated protection.
- Warehousing & Logistics: ideal for conveyor systems and adaptable layouts.
- Packaging: compact design and rapid integration are key advantages.
- Battery & EV Production: perfect for modern, evolving manufacturing setups.
Beckhoff says that the MX-System is built for harsh industrial conditions, and its chrome-plated and varnished metal housings have the ability to resist oil, cleaning agents, and external impacts.
Its double-sealing technology ensures IP67 protection, and its 0 to 50°C operating temperature range allows for direct mounting on machines.
To conclude, Ratnasekera explains that while the MX-System is still relatively new, initial customer feedback has been very encouraging.
“Engineers and manufacturers prefer the idea of transitioning away from bulky panels toward something more modular, flexible and easier to maintain,” said Ratnasekera.
“People are especially excited about how much faster they can get machines up and running. We’re still in the early stages, but the buzz is growing – and it’s mostly positive.”
Visit Beckhoff at Stand P7 from 22-24 July at the Dome, Sydney Olympic Park.
