Rockwell Automation is expanding its Armorstart product line to include IP69K-rated variants of its Bulletin 280/281/283 and 284 distributed motor controllers. The new additions enable users in food and beverage applications to benefit from lower installation costs, reduced engineering times and ease of maintenance. In addition, the Armorstart products' voltage ratings have been expanded to include 575V versions for all the models in the range, including the Bulletin 284 with built-in Powerflex 40 drive.

The Armorstart is an integrated, pre-engineered enclosed motor controller designed for quick and easy installation.

Its pre-tested, quick-connect wiring assembly minimises cabling, cuts labour costs and helps reduce wiring problems. The compact, space-saving design can be mounted near the motor rather than in a separate control cabinet. This avoids the need for complex multi-core field wiring, minimises space requirements and can reduce installation times by up to 30percent. An innovative gland plate design enables either a traditional cable entrance or use of the Allen-Bradley Armorconnect system for even easier installation.

Armorstarts, which are CE marked and cULus-listed, have already proved extremely popular in applications such as materials handling, mining and automotive assembly. The new IP69K versions extend the benefits of Armorstart into the harsh environments typically encountered in food and beverage applications. Together with a wash down rating of 69bar (1000psi), the new Armorstart products are resistant to caustic cleansing agents such as sodium hydroxide. White enclosures and the use of stainless steel on all exposed metalwork make them extremely suitable for hygiene-controlled environments.

The built-in peer-to-peer connectivity of the Armorstart distributed motor controller makes it suitable for large-motored conveyors. Along with on-board Devicenet communications and Devicelogix technology, Armorstart's Zone Interlocking Parameters (ZIP) allow it to consume data directly from up to four other Devicenet nodes without going through a network controller.

Peer-to-peer networking also greatly improves efficiency in conveyor applications such as merge, diverter and accumulation.

Along with its modular design, Armorstart’s built-in diagnostic functions simplify maintenance and troubleshooting. The in-built LED display indicates the device’s status and faults conditions such as overload, open control or Devicenet power, I/O fault, communication problem, etc – enabling technical personnel to find and isolate problems quickly and efficiently.

For more information, visit www.rockwellautomation.co.uk