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Selecting the right stepper motor requires precise calculations to ensure optimal performance. When making a selection, factors such as flange size, number of phases, motor length, shaft length, and the number of output wires must be carefully considered. Additionally, it’s essential to calculate torque and current requirements and verify compatibility with the matching driver.

1. Choosing the Torque for a Stepper Motor

The holding torque of a stepper motor is analogous to the “power” in traditional motors, though there are fundamental differences. The physical structure of stepper motors is distinct from that of AC or DC motors, as the output power of a stepper motor is variable. Selection is typically based on the required torque, i.e., the force needed to drive a load.

• For torque requirements below 0.6 N·m, motors with frame sizes of 28 mm, 35 mm, or 42 mm are suitable.
• For torque requirements above 0.6 N·m, 57 mm motors are generally more appropriate.
• For higher torque needs, such as several N·m or more, motors with frame sizes of 86 mm, 110 mm, or 130 mm are recommended.

Common Stepper Motor Sizes:
20 mm | 28 mm | 35 mm | 42 mm | 57 mm | 60 mm | 86 mm | 110 mm | 130 mm

2. Selecting the Number of Phases

The number of phases is an often-overlooked factor when selecting stepper motors. However, it significantly impacts performance. Different phase configurations (commonly two-phase, three-phase, or five-phase) provide varying levels of precision and stability.

• A higher number of phases results in smaller step angles and reduced vibration during operation.
• Two-phase motors are widely used in most applications.
• Three-phase motors are preferable for high-speed, high-torque applications.

3. Selecting the Motor Speed

The speed of a stepper motor requires careful consideration because the output torque is inversely proportional to the rotational speed.

• At low speeds (several hundred RPM or less), stepper motors produce higher output torque.
• At high speeds (1,000–9,000 RPM), the torque output decreases significantly.
• For applications requiring high-speed operation, motors with lower coil resistance and inductance are recommended.
• For low-speed, high-torque requirements, motors with higher inductance (e.g., 10–50 mH) and higher resistance are more suitable.

4. Selecting the No-Load Start Frequency

The no-load start frequency, commonly referred to as the “start frequency,” is a critical parameter for stepper motors.

• Applications that require frequent instantaneous starts and stops, especially at speeds around 1,000 RPM or higher, often require an “accelerated start.”
• For direct high-speed starts, reactive or permanent magnet stepper motors with higher start frequencies are ideal.

By carefully analyzing these factors, you can select a stepper motor that meets your specific application requirements while ensuring reliable and efficient operation.

The ABB PP845A 3BSE042235R2 is an operator panel, also known as a human-machine interface (HMI) panel.

It is part of the ABB Panel 800 series and is used to control and monitor industrial processes.

Key features:

• Touchscreen: The panel has a touchscreen display that allows users to interact with the system.
• Communication: It supports various communication protocols, including Ethernet, RS-232, RS-485, and USB.
• I/O modules: The panel can be connected to various I/O modules, such as digital, analog, and motion modules.
• Customization: The panel can be customized with different software and hardware configurations to meet specific application requirements.

Common applications:

• Process control: The panel can be used to control and monitor various industrial processes, such as chemical processes, food processing, and manufacturing processes.
• Machine control: The panel can be used to control and monitor machines, such as robots, CNC machines, and packaging machines.
• Building automation: The panel can be used to control and monitor building systems, such as HVAC systems, lighting systems, and security systems.

Additional information:

• Technical specifications: The technical specifications of the PP845A can be found on the ABB website or in the product documentation.
• Compatibility: The panel is compatible with various ABB controllers and drives.
• Support: ABB provides technical support for the PP845A.

In recent years, 3D printing technology has developed rapidly and has evolved from a seemingly distant “high-tech” to a convenient technology within reach, gradually penetrating into various fields that we can come into contact with. With the rapid popularization of 3D printing technology, 3D printing models of aircraft, 3D printing COSPLAY props, etc. have emerged rapidly.

Compared to traditional production methods, the flexibility and diversity of 3D printing technology bring more choices and greater creative freedom. In the field of model airplane production, 3D printing technology is particularly popular because it not only improves production efficiency but also greatly reduces costs. More importantly, the development of 3D printing technology enables model airplane enthusiasts to customize personalized model works.

However, in the process of DIY model aircraft, material properties are crucial to the flight performance of the model aircraft. Different materials have different strengths, weights, and durability, which directly affect the flight stability and handling performance of model aircraft. This is also a major issue that has previously troubled many model aircraft enthusiasts. PLA, ABS, carbon fiber reinforced materials… among many 3D printing materials, which one is more suitable for printing model aircraft?

ESUN Easy to Produce Lightweight PLA (ePLA-LW), also known as foamed PLA, is a 3D printing material developed specifically for aircraft models, ship models, and COSPLAY. The interlayer bonding is more stable, and the foaming rate and strength can be controlled by adjusting the printing temperature. Lightweight PLA adopts active foaming technology to achieve lightweight and low-density PLA parts, with a foaming volume ratio of 220% and a density as low as 0.54g/cm ³. Foaming makes the layering almost invisible, and the printed surface is matte and delicate. Under the same model conditions and speed, using lightweight PLA can significantly improve the performance of model aircraft by providing lighter wing loads and lower stall speeds.

The product features of lightweight PLA are as follows:

1. Low density, up to 0.54g/cm ³;

2. Foam volume ratio of 220%, printing the same volume model, 1 roll of ePLA-LW can be used as 2.2 rolls of ordinary PLA;

3. Foaming makes the layering almost invisible, and the surface of the printed item is matte and delicate; At around 210-270 ℃, this material begins to foam during printing, increasing its volume by nearly 1.2 times. The printing extrusion rate can be reduced to 45% to print lightweight parts.

4. The strength and foaming ratio can be freely adjusted;

5. Possess excellent interlayer strength, explosion resistance, and easy repair;

6. The printed model is easy to paint and has strong surface adhesion.

As a model aircraft material, the advantages of lightweight PLA are very obvious, and its biggest advantage is its “lightness”. In the same volume model, lightweight PLA weighs less than half of regular PLA. The real machine printed with it has a lighter weight than models that pursue light wing loads such as KT board, EPP, PP board, etc.

It is worth mentioning that on September 9, 2022, the China Light Industry Federation announced a list of 58 recommended upgraded consumer goods and 68 recommended innovative consumer goods. Among them, several internationally renowned enterprises such as Gree and Midea were selected, and eSUN’s lightweight PLA was also successfully selected for the recommended innovative consumer goods list due to its innovation and influence in the industry.

Since its launch, lightweight PLA has been warmly welcomed and widely loved by a large number of model airplane enthusiasts due to its unique “light” advantage and excellent performance. This material not only solves many problems of traditional materials in aircraft model production, but also greatly promotes the application and development of 3D printing technology in the field of aircraft models. The emergence of lightweight PLA undoubtedly brings new possibilities for 3D printing of model aircraft, allowing the creative dreams of model aircraft enthusiasts to set sail more lightly.

Intelligent driven logistics, green future

When a large number of express deliveries are accurately and efficiently classified on the sorting conveyor line; When solar panels quietly absorb sunlight on the roof; When every kilowatt hour of electricity is intelligently allocated to where it is most needed. What is providing a solid and reliable connection technology for this future where intelligence and green are intertwined? Follow in the footsteps of industrial connectivity expert Weidmuller and explore this innovative and intelligent future green world together.

On November 5th, 2024, CeMAT Asia, the Asia International Logistics Technology and Transportation Systems Exhibition, kicked off. Industry pioneer Weidmuller unveiled its logistics industry full application scenario connectivity solution at the exhibition. The organic combination of star products such as Weidmuller frequency converters, code readers, power supplies, remote I/O, industrial Ethernet, and wiring terminals can provide a comprehensive connection and communication solution for the smart logistics industry from sorting, warehousing, to transportation and other sub links, efficiently helping enterprises quickly build a smart logistics ecosystem. Especially the dynamic display of logistics conveyor line electronic control integration, which made its debut, won continuous praise from the audience with its unique operating mode.

In addition to surprising innovative solutions, Mr. Wu Shang’an, Chief Manager of Standard Products at Weidmuller Industrial Connector Division, gave a keynote speech on “Weidmuller Efficient Connection Solution” at the VDMA Intelligent and Sustainable Solutions Forum, which was held at the same time as the exhibition. He further revealed to the audience how Weidmuller has brought revolutionary changes to the logistics industry through intelligent connection and digital solutions, and triggered a profound reflection on smart logistics innovation.

If intelligence and efficiency are the core elements of Weidmuller’s solution, then green and low-carbon are indispensable. Weidmuller has long been committed to promoting exploration and practice in the field of green energy, actively responding to the vision of global sustainable development.

From November 14th to 16th, at the upcoming 26th China International High tech Fair (CIFTIS) in 2024, Weidmuller will showcase a series of green energy solutions aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental pollution. Their application scenarios include energy storage, hydrogen energy, photovoltaics, wind power and other sub industries, providing comprehensive assistance to customers to achieve a win-win situation of economic and social benefits, and contributing to the construction of a sustainable future.

At the Weidmuller booth (Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center (Bao’an) Hall 9-A50), not only can you fully experience the magical power of Weidmuller’s intelligent solution “Green Future”, but you can also obtain the latest industry information in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere through Weidmuller’s live broadcasts of different themes and activities such as filling out questionnaires to win gifts.

ABS has always been a popular material in the field of 3D printing. In recent years, with the increasing demand for industrial grade 3D printing, ABS wire has been highly favored due to its excellent performance and diverse application scenarios.

Technology is constantly advancing, and the performance of ABS materials is also continuously improving, resulting in various versions of wires such as ABS+, fast ABS+, and low odor ABS. In order to meet the printing needs of higher strength and durability, carbon fiber reinforced ABS (eABS CF) has emerged as a new star in the ABS wire family.

ABS+carbon fiber, strong alliance

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS, as the name suggests, is achieved by adding carbon fiber reinforced material to ABS material and modifying it to significantly improve its performance. Carbon fiber is known for its excellent mechanical properties and lightweight characteristics. Integrating it into ABS not only greatly improves the rigidity and strength of the material, but also endows it with more outstanding chemical and temperature resistance, thereby further expanding the application range of carbon fiber reinforced ABS.

82% increase in stiffness, performance leap

According to the print test results, compared to ordinary ABS materials, carbon fiber reinforced ABS has a particularly significant improvement in rigidity and strength, with a bending modulus of 2694Mpa, an increase of 82%; The bending strength increased from 46Mpa to 76Mpa, an increase of 65%. Carbon fiber reinforced ABS not only improves its mechanical properties, but also enhances its chemical and temperature resistance, with a thermal deformation temperature of up to 95 ℃. This means that carbon fiber reinforced ABS can maintain stable performance in more demanding environments, making it very suitable for special applications such as outdoor use.

From models to industrial components, widely used

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS has the characteristics of lightweight while maintaining strength. The material density is low, and the weight of printed models is lighter than that of general materials. Therefore, it can also be used for rapid manufacturing of models such as drones, aircraft models, and ship models. In addition, carbon fiber reinforced ABS is widely used in the production of 3D printer accessories, fixtures, engineering accessories, and electronic and electrical related accessories, providing high-performance and high-quality solutions for various industries.

Exterior matte texture, balancing aesthetics

Unlike traditional carbon fiber materials that are typically limited to black, carbon fiber reinforced ABS offers a variety of color options, such as black, dark red, dark purple, dark blue, dark green, etc. These dark colored products have a more textured visual appearance, coupled with the unique frosted surface brought by carbon fiber, making the printed models more sophisticated, while ensuring strength and aesthetic appeal.

It should be noted that carbon fiber reinforced ABS material has a high shrinkage rate. When printing, attention should be paid to insulation and printing should be done in a closed box printer. During the printing process, it is recommended to maintain continuous ventilation. If the environment permits, it is recommended to use an air filter in combination. In addition, due to the relatively poor cooling performance of carbon fiber reinforced ABS, the use of fans can be moderately adjusted or the printing speed can be reduced during the printing process to optimize the printing effect. The following are the relevant parameters obtained from multiple tests of eSUN for your reference.

Carbon fiber reinforced ABS not only improves the overall performance of the material, but also expands the application range of 3D printing technology. Its lightweight characteristics and rich color choices also add more possibilities to it. Whether for 3D printing users seeking high-performance materials or those who have a demand for model appearance, they can experience and try this wire through actual printing.

The use of DCS process alarm classification control plays a crucial role in the safety of the site. According to relevant data surveys, the selection of alarms has a significant impact on the level of alarm safety factor. When using this technology, attention should be paid to the selection of alarms. 

This article proposes several principles for selecting alarms through the study of different control systems, ensuring that alarms can fully play their role in the system.

The hierarchical control technology can ensure that alarms in different areas are independent. Different alarms are used for alarm monitoring in each area, which can ensure timely alarm in case of abnormal situations within the detection range to attract the attention of operators.

DCS process alarm classification control technology can effectively improve the safety of the operation site, effectively ensuring the safety of construction personnel and enterprises. This article is based on the concept and characteristics of DCS, and studies the application of toxic and harmful gas alarms and key operating parameter alarms, in order to provide reference for scholars in this field.

1. DCS multi-layer hierarchical control system

The basic design concept of DCS is to adopt the idea of decentralized control, centralized operation and management, and achieve a multi-level hierarchical control and cooperative structure. At present, it is mainly used in fields such as metallurgy, power, and petrochemicals.

DCS is a system that implements multi-layer hierarchical control, which has two basic hierarchical links during use: on-site control unit and operation station.

DCS basic grading process

● On site control unit:

A control system that is used near the site and is far away from the control center, and can monitor and control the site based on the DCS’s own structure. The use of on-site control units requires the preparation of different devices, such as configuration plugins, which are configured according to the requirements of the system with corresponding central processing unit plugins, power plugins, and communication plugins, laying the foundation for later hierarchical control;

Redundancy configuration is one of the important links in hierarchical control systems, and during the configuration process, it is necessary to implement redundant configuration for host plugins, power plugins, and communication plugins; Implementing on-site hierarchical control and monitoring requires adding DCS to different hardware to ensure the reliability of hierarchical control.

● Operation station:

The operation station records and displays different data in the control system, which is a place for displaying human-computer interaction. Commonly used operation stations include host control, display devices, and keyboard input devices, which are mainly used for manual operation recording and feedback. It mainly realizes various important functions such as displaying different data, alarms, and operations.

2. Application of DCS process alarm classification control technology

Toxic and harmful gas alarm

Through the study of different DCS process alarm classification control technologies, it has been found that the DCS devices used in current on-site work mainly detect and alarm toxic, harmful, and flammable gases. When these gases are detected, an alarm will be triggered. The alarms on the market have diverse characteristics, and to ensure the normal operation of DCS, standardized alarms should be used.

In the process of selecting alarms, the following rules should be noted:

● It must be able to provide power supply for monitoring toxic and harmful gases and other connecting components;

●Being able to emit appropriate alarm signals after detecting toxic and harmful gases until someone discovers them, greatly improving the effectiveness of the alarm function;

●The range of combustible gas monitoring should be within the normal explosion range;

●Adapt to the concentration and measurement range of toxic and harmful gases, ensuring the detection of harmful gases within the normal range;

●Indicating alarm equipment is quite important and the key to determining whether it can alarm correctly. In the process of selection and purchase, alarm equipment with fire protection and interlocking protection functions should be selected;

●The alarm should have independent monitoring and alarm functions, ensuring that each alarm only monitors toxic and harmful gases within its scope of responsibility;

●The installed alarm should have a continuous alarm function. If toxic and harmful gas leaks are found during use, the alarm function should be activated. When the concentration decreases, the alarm also needs to continue to sound to ensure timely detection of toxic and harmful gas leaks.

Alarm is the key to alarm classification control technology. In the use of modern DCS process alarm classification control technology, responsible personnel can select and use alarms based on the above principles to ensure the safety and standardization of the control site.

Key operating parameter alarm

Each parameter in the DCS process alarm classification control technology using computer control systems needs to be strictly set and controlled. If the parameters are too high or too low, it will cause incalculable losses to the site. It is required to achieve the accuracy and standardization of alarm parameters through strict data analysis when setting alarm parameters.

When setting the alarm mode, a pop-up window or voice alarm can be used to effectively increase the attention of staff, provide the best solution time for staff, and avoid more serious accidents and losses.

Pop up alarm mode

When setting up pop-up alarms, the operator achieves the accuracy of the alarm process through on-site monitoring and control. The pop-up window should be set in the center position of the control display page, making it convenient for the staff to pay attention to the location of the alarm and the direction of the problem at the first time, providing more preparation time for the operator to effectively solve the problems that occur during the process;

● Voice alarm method

The use of voice alarm function requires staff to record the voice alarm in advance according to possible situations on site, and play the alarm information through the computer’s voice output function.

1. The new generation of electromagnetic flowmeter product portfolio simplifies the original product series, dividing ABB electromagnetic flowmeters into two powerful categories: ProcessMaster and AquaMaster

2. The new ProcessMaster and AquaMaster product lines integrate high performance, modularity, and IoT connectivity capabilities, optimizing the choices of industrial and utility customers

3. The new product line will ensure customers’ future investments, and existing devices can be directly upgraded and connected to various latest IoT environments on the provided module upgrade path without the need for large-scale reinvestment

ABB has launched a new generation of electromagnetic flowmeter product portfolio, bringing high-precision, high connectivity, and high flexibility flow measurement experience to utility and industrial applications. This product portfolio strategy simplifies the electromagnetic flowmeter product portfolio, divided into two categories of powerful ProcessMaster and AquaMaster products. These products integrate high performance, modularity, and IoT connectivity capabilities.

Ms. Han Meina, Global Head of ABB’s Measurement and Analysis Instrumentation Business Line, said, “Customers expect us to continuously expand the functionality and performance boundaries that instrumentation can provide. By integrating high-performance, modular, and IoT connectivity capabilities, we redefine our electromagnetic flowmeter products based on customer expectations, ensuring that they achieve high precision, high connectivity, and high flexibility in various applications

The new ProcessMaster series is suitable for flow measurement applications “inside” industrial and utility factories, while the AquaMaster series is designed for “outside” facility applications in factories, providing excellent measurement accuracy in water distribution and trade metering.

Modularity is key to the new product portfolio, stemming from ABB’s commitment to providing sustainable and future oriented solutions and “reducing waste” for customer operations and ABB’s own operations. All models in the new flowmeter series come from a common technology platform, allowing customers to seamlessly switch transmitter and sensor combinations, customize communication options as needed, simplify the upgrade process, while maintaining backward compatibility with the previous generation of electromagnetic flowmeters. Overall, modularity enables customers to adapt to constantly changing technological environments and operational requirements without the need for major maintenance. This reduces overall cost of ownership and extends the product lifecycle.

The IoT connectivity feature has been embedded in all new flow meter models. Users can choose high-speed communication options based on factory on-site measurement or remote applications to enhance the application performance and control of flow meters, strengthen data analysis and process control.

The new ProcessMaster and AquaMaster production lines also adopt intelligent new manufacturing methods, which can shorten delivery time.

The ABB Process Automation Division provides automation, electrification, and digital solutions for industrial operations, meeting a wide range of user needs from energy, water, and material supply to product manufacturing and transportation. With advanced technology and service expertise, the ABB Process Automation Division’s approximately 20000 employees worldwide are committed to helping customers in process industries, hybrid industries, and maritime industries improve operational performance and safety, empowering a more sustainable and efficient future.

ABB is a technology leader in the field of electrical and automation, committed to empowering a more sustainable and efficient future. ABB integrates engineering experience and software technology into solutions to optimize manufacturing, transportation, energy, and operations. With over 140 years of outstanding history, ABB’s approximately 105000 employees worldwide are dedicated to driving innovation and accelerating industrial transformation. ABB has comprehensive business activities in China, including research and development, manufacturing, sales, and engineering services, with approximately 30 local enterprises and 15000 employees in nearly 130 cities. Its online and offline channels cover approximately 700 cities across the country.

1. Heavy display of ABB’s latest robots, frequency converters, and high-efficiency motors, with multiple new products welcoming their debut and debut

2. Jointly released the latest industry white paper with Porsche Consulting, providing insights into the future trends of the consumer electronics market

3. Rich booth live streaming activities and prize winning interactions bring immersive experiences to both online and offline audiences

From September 24th to 28th, the 24th China International Industrial Fair will be held at the Shanghai National Convention and Exhibition Center. ABB will showcase its latest industrial robots and the next-generation robot control platform OmniCore at booth E001 in Hall 8.1 and booth B171 in Hall 6.1 ™、 Dozens of innovative products, services, and solutions such as cloud drives, frequency converters, high-efficiency motors, and servo motors will be released, and industry white papers will be released to support users in various industries to accelerate transformation, upgrading, and sustainable development.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of ABB’s robot innovation journey. At this milestone, ABB will introduce multiple new products, technologies, and applications, and release the GoFa ultra high precision feature options for collaborative robots, modular large robots IRB 7710 and IRB 7720, showcasing the new generation of robot human control platform OmniCore ™ All members, the fusion of two ABB robots and the flexible track system of B&R ACOPOStrak, vividly interpret the core theme of “being a robot, but also infinite possibilities”. Among them:

1. The newly launched Ultra Accuracy leading feature will provide excellent operational accuracy and speed for the ABB GoFaTM collaborative robot series. Compared with other collaborative robots on the market, its path accuracy has increased by more than 10 times, supporting precision manufacturing in the electronics, automotive, aerospace, and metalworking industries.

2. ABB’s new generation robot control platform OmniCore, with a research and development investment of 170 million US dollars ™ Provides a faster, more precise, and sustainable intelligent automation platform, with a 25% increase in operating speed and a 20% reduction in energy consumption compared to previous ABB controllers. This architecture will realize the comprehensive integration of artificial intelligence, sensors, cloud computing and edge computing systems, and create advanced and autonomous robot applications.

3. ABB’s new IRB 7710 and IRB 7720 series of large robots provide unprecedented flexibility, including 16 models that are widely suitable for high load assembly and high-precision applications. They can efficiently handle various application processes in the production of electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and traditional vehicles, including stamping, body in white, electric vehicle battery assembly, and vehicle final assembly, and can save up to 30% of energy consumption.

On the first day of the CIIE, ABB Robotics will join hands with Porsche Consulting to jointly release the latest industry white paper on site, insight into the future trends of the consumer electronics market, and reveal the revolutionary application of robot technology in the field of surface treatment. ABB Robotics will also lead everyone to visit the nearly 800 square meter ABB Robotics exhibition hall through rich live streaming activities, watch new product releases and expert interpretations, and bring limited time discounts and surprise gifts to online users through live streaming sales.