NT control software simplifies tube machinery

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 16, 2001

Automated tube bending machinery maker Eurobend has reduced hardwiring, programming and the number of PLC units in machine build by using Hayes Control Systems' Beckhoff TwinCAT PC software

Eurobend Ltd, the international manufacturer of automated tube bending machinery, has reduced hardwiring, programming and the number of PLC units in machine build by using Hayes Control Systems' Beckhoff TwinCAT PC software.

TwinCAT provides PLC and NC motion control functions under Windows NT and, in a recent project, Eurobend has made use of this system to control the automation of a complete process line for one of its customers; the line encompasses equipment and systems such as auto loading, camera checking, two robots, CNC bending, end forming, ultrasonic welding and product handling.

Traditionally, to achieve effective automation of a line of this type, Eurobend would have had to use numerous handshaked PLC units and extensive hardwiring, as well as spending many hours on system programming.

"The benefits to our company in using TwinCAT, in terms of reduced build schedules and cost, as well as increased functionality, are easily quantifiable", comments Phil George, Managing Director of Eurobend Ltd.

"We chose TwinCAT primarily for its ease of use and its powerful capabilities and we have not been disappointed.

Other benefits to the company have been the ease of access by our licensee's, enabling them to make alterations for bespoke applications without the complex software modifications previously required; enabling our customers to maximise productivity, while minimising costs." Eurobend's principal activity is the design and manufacture of CNC controlled tube and section manipulating machines, predominantly for the automotive, aircraft, marine, earthmoving, air-conditioning and refrigeration industries.

The Beckhoff TwinCAT solution supplied by Hayes Control Systems is a technically superior, lower cost alternative to conventional PLC's.

Eurobend are currently using the TwinCAT NC PTP package, that incorporates a virtual camshaft facility as part of an integrated process control system for industrial PCs running Windows NT.

In addition to supplying and supporting TwinCAT, Hayes Control Systems also supplies Eurobend with a cost effective 'all-in-one' IP65 rated panel PC.

This system enables Eurobend to eliminate the requirement for a costly, bespoke PC cabinet.

In essence, the single board IPC is attached to the reverse of a flat panel, 12" touch screen, via an IP65 housing with an integral air circulation system and cooling fins.

The result being a PC for control functions that is protected from the environment and that can be mounted on the machine, quickly and easily with just a pole and mounting bracket.

All cabling from the PC to the machine is fed internally through the mounting pole, ensuring full protection.

Phil George summarises, "Eurobend is a successful international company and we are pleased to have found an equally successful and efficient supplier in Hayes Control Systems.

I am sure we will continue to discover further business and technical benefits in working with the company and developing the use of its IPC and TwinCAT control technologies.".