SMC Corporation has upgraded its range of bar and nozzle-type ionisers with IO-Link technology, which now provide customers with greater control and enhanced insights into their manufacturing process and equipment status, in addition to delivering rapid static neutralisation within 0.1 second.
These compact, standalone ionisers also feature a separate controller, to optimise space and enable flexible ionizer installations.
“The IO-Link upgrade delivers a step forward for communication in manufacturing,” explained Ming Liu, senior product manager for SMC Australia New Zealand.
In applications where a high level of automation is required, IO-Link provides for greater control, enabling real-time collection of data on equipment status for improved accuracy and delivery times.
Equipped with detection and maintenance functions, as well as LED display, the ioniser makes manufacturing monitoring easier.
“This is a cost-effective solution, with reduced hardware and programming costs. It facilitates remote monitoring and control,” elaborated Liu.
These IZT series of ionisers (available in four models – the 40/41/42/43) work together with the IZTC41 controller from SMC, meaning that it is easily added to an existing installation, without the need for additional programming.
Up to four different ionizers (bar or nozzle type) can be added to a single controller, enabling centralisation of information and a single source of control.
The IZT is available with two types of low-maintenance electrode cartridges – energy saving or high speed – delivering additional flexibility and choice for different applications. Both types are removable and replaceable for easier maintenance.
With a flexible layout, offering bar length variations of between 160 mm and 2500 mm, and selectable air supply (right, left or both sides), the IZT bar type stands out for its adaptability. Plus, choice of brackets for both bar and nozzle types further increases the versatility of the product.
SMC’s ionisers enable safer manufacturing processes and reduce production faults (in turn, driving down costs) by preventing electrostatic breakdown of electric parts. With their space-saving design, they efficiently monitor the operation of nozzles and bars that have been installed in small, hard-to-reach spaces.
SMC ionisers are equipped with an auto-balance function, for precise and rapid ion balancing. Their intelligent air sheath structure makes use of compressed air to prevent dust from coating the emitter, meaning they require minimal maintenance.
IZT features detection and maintenance functions plus LED display, the operation of the ionizer can be effectively monitored allowing any contamination of the emitter to be detected, further enhancing efficiency
“With a comparatively low installation cost, these energy-saving and Industry 4.0-ready ionisers deliver a cost-efficient and smart solution,” concluded Liu.
