A 2-axis hydraulic module for the ControlLogix platform can be used to accurately position and control a hydraulic cylinder and carry out multi axis co-ordinated movements.
Rockwell Automation introduces the 1756-HYD02, a 2-axis hydraulic module for the ControlLogix platform. The latest addition to the Allen-Bradley range is simple to program and, for the first time, brings hydraulic motion capability to ControlLogix. ControlLogix allows users to integrate sequential logic, drive, motion and process capabilities on a single control platform.

The new 1756-HYD02 module can be used to accurately position and control a hydraulic cylinder.

It can be wired to a linear displacement transducer (LDT) for feedback and a proportional valve to control the hydraulic axis.

ControlLogix allows the user to carry out multi axis co-ordinated movements so that a variety of complex tasks can take place at the same time.

ControlLogix supports up to 32 axes and racks can be linked to control as many as 8,000 cylinders if needed.

Most applications require multiple controllers but with ControlLogix users can manage everything from a single location, preventing communication problems between equipment.

The 1756-HYD02 module monitors the exact position of the cylinder through the LDT and generates an analogue command reference for the valve, ensuring that the cylinder precisely follows the correct profile.

This combines the accuracy normally associated with electrical actuation with the increased power of hydraulics - ideal for a variety of applications including clamping, injection moulding, flight simulators or amusement park rides.

The module mounts in a ControlLogix chassis and uses a removable terminal block (RTB) or interface module (IFM) so that all the field wiring can be connected quickly and easily.

It is also simple to program using Rockwell Automation's popular RSLogix 5000 development software, which offers IEC6113-3 languages including Ladder Logic, Sequential Function Chart and Structured Text.

Dedicated hydraulic controllers have previously used proprietary languages, which are unique to a specific company and drive.

The 1756-HYD module not only uses standard programming but also the same commands as a servo motor application.

This means that an engineer familiar with motion control can now easily carry out a hydraulics application.