Balluff
Balluff has been a pioneer in sensors, cabling systems, safety components and communication infastructure for over 90 years. Designing and manufactureing a wide range of sensors, transducers, ID systems as well as connectivity products that are used in a variety of industries including automotive, packaging, metal fabrication. Offering not only automation components, but also our consulting and service. Let Balluff be your partner in automation success.
Products
Sensors
Balluff offers premium sensors for a wide range of application requirements, from presence detection and position measurement to level detection and pressure, for general industrial use or for tough applications in critical environments.
Pressure Sensors
piCOMPACT® is an ejector family with integrated controls, so called compact or "all-in-one" ejector unit. It is a stackable platform with the possibility to mount several units in the same manifold and have common pneumatic and electrical connections.
With the state-of-the-art vacuum engine? COAX®, the product is outstanding. By working at low feed pressure and maximizing the utilization rate of the compressed air, the COAX® ejectors reduce energy consumption for manufacturers while increasing productivity and reliability.
Inductive Sensors
Piab is introducing a complement to its range of Value Line® vacuum ejectors. The new aluminum block mounted ejector is dimensioned to emulate a popular ejector format, making it easy to install into many existing systems. Offering improved performance and more energy-efficient operation, the ejector is a cost-effective and easy-to-install alternative for operators of basic automated vacuum systems.
The capacity of the new ejector is twice that of our inline ejectors. But the really clever advantage is that it is designed to slot nicely into existing systems, where it will offer better performance and more energy-efficient operation for the same price as competing ejectors.
- Ejector with improved vacuum performance compared to corresponding size conventional single-stage ejector.
- Ejector stage without flap valve gives high reliability in dirty and dusty environments.
- Light weight body.
- Integrated push-in fittings or thread connection for quick and low cost installation.
- Available in "Inline", "T-design" or aluminum block version.
- The T-design is suitable if exhaust air needs to be piped away.
- The VL206 1/8™ block version is an easy-to-install alternative, targeting operators of basic automated vacuum systems.
Capacitive Sensors
Energy efficient micro-ejector system, piCOMPACT Piab launches its piCOMPACT10 range, the first manifold-mounted and functional ejector system on the market based on the energy-efficient MICRO COAX® technology.
- Provides three times more vacuum flow than similar products
- Reduces energy consumption by 30-50 percent
- Available as a single unit or as 2-6 units mounted in a manifold
Magnetic Field Sensors
Improved and intelligent blow-off functions, a split unit design, and a self-adhesion control feature are a few of the new added extras on offer in Piab?s premium piCOMPACT®23 vacuum generator platform. This impressive range of proprietary and patented added features, which also includes IO-Link communication, has the potential to provide optimal vacuum generation for every application.
The compact, all-in-one ejector platform is stackable; up to four units can share the same manifold and pneumatic connections, such as a common feed pressure and exhaust. The option to utilize a split unit design and separate the ejector from the control unit offers added flexibility, particularly where space is limited or for minimizing the weight carried by robot arms.
The integrated and patented valve of Piab's proprietary Blow-off feature ensures more efficient and energy-saving blow-off, enabling faster production cycles. It can also be used to float suction cups whilst positioning them in, for instance, ergonomic lifting aids, or simply to clean suction cups in dusty environments.
A patented Intelligent Blow-off (IBO) feature automatically switches off the blow-off when the vacuum is gone, offering further energy-saving. This feature is also compatible with the bi-stable (latching) on/off valves that can be used in systems prone to emergency stops or those handling expensive objects.
Magnetic Linear and Rotary Encoders
COMPACT10E is a simple vacuum solution that also increases productivity for fast pick and place applications. The COMPACT10E is stackable up to 8 units in one manifold with a common compressed air connection. The manifold can be configured with a common silencer or a common exhaust suitable for cleanroom applications.
- Configurable vacuum ejector based on COAX technology with integrated controls, developed for robotic applications
- Optimized design for high reliability, high vacuum flow and fast cycle times
- Slim package (10mm width) and light weight thanks to high performance plastic parts
- High speed valves for vacuum and blow-off, and blow-off control
- Cleanable and replaceable filter element
- Low noise level
Magnetostrictive Linear Position Sensors
Rugged, absolute linear position measurement from 1 to 300 inches
Balluff Micropulse?? linear position sensors have achieved a worldwide reputation for accuracy, stability, and rock-solid reliability. This doesn't happen by chance. Micropulse sensors are designed from the ground up to exceed expectations in demanding industrial environments. Balluff understands that quality, performance, and reliability are only part of the story. Diverse applications require diverse products with features that enhance usability and improve process efficiency.
Photoelectric Sensors
Balluff's photoelectric sensors include a wide variety of housings including exclusive miniature designs, tubular styles from 8mm through 30mm, and small, medium, and large block styles. These devices provide non-contact detection of parts over longer distances than other sensing modes such as inductive or capacitive sensors while providing numerous mounting options and flexibility.
Ultrasonic Sensors
Whether for position detection, distance detection or detection of powdery and fluid media - our ultrasound sensors are precise all-rounders. Their high resolution and small blind spots guarantee the highest precision. And with a large detection area, even larger object distances are no impediment for them.
Temperature Sensors
With infrared temperature sensors, you can monitor high temperatures even in environments that are inaccessible or hazardous for humans, detect hot objects (even in motion), reliably detect temperature values and measure/monitor temperatures with or without contact in a wide range of applications.
Inductive Couplers for Discrete Sensors
When quick or frequent wiring changes need to be made, inductive couplers can provide a fast and error-free way to connect multiple discrete PNP sensors. Balluff offers two versions to meet your specific application needs. The version in an M18 cylindrical housing can connect to up to four sensors, while the version in a Q40 cuboid housing can connect up to eight sensors. These IP67-rated couplers transmit power and signals across a small air gap.
An inductive coil in the base and remote units sends and receives the magnetic signals. A single base unit can be used with multiple remote units, so you can create several wiring setups on the remote-unit side and interchange them as needed. Balluff?s passive junction boxes make this wiring a simple task. To connect to the base unit, simply place the base in front of the remote. Perfect alignment isn?t necessary, and their orientation can be changed. They begin communicating once they are in close proximity, at which point LEDs on the base and remote will switch on to indicate that a connection is active. Magnetic mounts for the Q40 models protect the couplers and keep them aligned and at the optimal distance.
This is a smart retrofit to replace electromechanical or hardwired connections on existing machines. A slip ring or rotary connector will eventually wear out, but an inductive coupler avoids mechanical failure, since the base and remote don?t come in contact. Changing a die or mold often requires disconnecting and reconnecting cables, where it?s easy to bend a pin in the connector or put other stresses on the connector, eventually causing it to fail. With inductive couplers, you mount the remote coupler at the same position on each die or mold, and then swap as needed. Give your machines a productivity boost by changing out wired connectors for non-contact onestes.
SMARTLEVEL sensor
An extension of Balluff's level detection family, designed for automatic point-level detection of water based liquids when immersed, or looking through container walls.
RFID Solutions
Balluff RFID systems are designed for some of the toughest environments and can connect to just about any control network. With the widest selection of tags, antennas, and processors, Balluff can address just about any identification application in the plant. From the stalwart BIS C system, which has revolutionized the machining center, to the BIS U, which can read tags at distances up to about 6m, Balluff has the system that is right for the job.
BIS M Industrial RFID System
High frequency RFID designed for the toughest applications
The BIS M RFID system (13.56 MHz) supports global ISO standards and is capable of reading tags up to 400mm away. Ideal for work in process(WIP) applications, the BIS M system is built to withstand the rigors of the manufacturing world. With tags built to survive temperatures up to 220C and systems capable of processing massive amounts of data quickly, chances are good that the M system will exceed most requirements for data collection needs.
BIS C Industrial RFID System
Short-range RFID for harsh environments
Especially high-performing and flexible are the BIS C low-frequency RFID systems with the reliable tool identification in coolant- and lubricant-enriched machining centers. An exact positioning is not always necessary. Many data carriers can also be dynamically read and described "in passing".
BIS L Industrial RFID System
The answer for easy identification tasks
Our low-frequency RFID system (BIS L) is suitable for applications which involve simple "license plate" identification.
The 125-kHz system is capable of reading data up to 100 mm and performs well in an environment of liquid and metal.
BIS U Industrial RFID System
Long-range traceability
BIS U is a long range system which operates at the FCC approved standard frequency, 902-928mHz. The U system can read tags up to 6m away. Like the M system, there are U tags designed for high temperature applications up to 220C. This system is common for addressing logistics or work in Process applications that may require a read range greater than 1ft.
Quite possibly the most versatile passive RFID system available, UHF can address a myriad of applications due to its flexible read ranges, high-speed reading and multi-tagging capability.
Machine Vision and ID Solutions
Balluff Vision solutions from Balluff meet the increasing requirements for maximum quality and great flexibility in modern production plants by using industrial image processing and providing reliable detection for ultimate quality control. Optical identification via 1D and 2D barcodes is a well established method of identifying components and objects and flawlessly managing systems and processes.
Machine Vision
High-quality vision for harsh environments
Vision solutions from Balluff meet the increasing requirements for maximum quality and great flexibility in modern production plants by using industrial image processing and providing reliable detection for ultimate quality control.
Optical Identification
Secure identification and traceability
Optical identification via 1D and 2D barcodes is a well-established method of identifying components and objects and flawlessly managing systems and processes.
Balluff's range of products in this area includes stationary barcode readers, mobile handheld readers and accessories for standard and industrial grade applications. All devices offer scanning options for the standard 1D or 2D barcodes.
Network Technology
The intelligent combination of powerful industrial networks with the IO-Link communications standard enables reliable and flexible information exchange under the most diverse areas of application.
The requirements for industrial networks are extensive and diverse. Increasingly higher data volumes and complex communication require powerful and reliable components that are capable of transporting information across all levels. This is especially true if high protection types, robustness, use at high temperatures or special interfaces and connections for maximum security are needed.
IO-Link
Intelligent combining of industrial network with the IO-Link communication standard is the ideal solution for ever faster, more flexible, more efficient, and more adaptable production. This provides you with a powerful infrastructure for reliably managing the growing volume of data. It transports your data through the entire manufacturing process and enables seamless communication from the sensor into the Internet, making IO-Link the ideal enabler for Industry 4.0.
Balluff offers holistic IO-Link solutions with high-performance IO-Link sensors and the best IO-Link network and connectivity. Balluff speaks IO-Link in every field and with all principles of operation, so you have access to these IO-Link advantages throughout the entire system.
- Read This Article About Balluff IO-Link
- More Information on IO-Link
- More About EtherNET IP
Network Blocks
Ever faster, more flexible, more efficient and variable production demands seamless communication from the sensor to the Internet. The result is a growing amount of data within the production processes. This demands components which can make this information available. At the same time an infrastructure is required which transports the data across all levels.
- Profibus
- Profinet
- CC-Link
- CC-Link IE/Field
- DeviceNet
- EtherNet/IP
- EtherCAT
I/O Blocks
Efficient transport of signals
I/O blocks from Balluff connect discrete I/O and analog sensors and actuators to the control level via a fieldbus or network. The number of lines is substantially reduced by the use of the blocks.
Moreover, I/O blocks offer additional functions for signal preprocessing and expanded diagnostic options. Different designs and connection techniques enable solutions for a wide variety of applications, even under the most extreme environmental conditions.
Network Switches
Optimum infrastructure for complex networks
The Ethernet-based network systems are increasingly gaining significance in industrial automation. Balluff offers diverse portfolio of Ethernet-based systems and network components for machine and system design, for example, Profinet and Ethernet/IP.
Inductive Couplers
Contact-less transmission for complex networks
Balluff portfolio of inductive couplers offer unique contact less solution to transmit data and power across an air gap. Thus, no mechanical wear to worry about. The system availability is higher, the cycle times are shorter, the sequences are more flexible. The units can quickly be disconnected, are easy to handle and maintenance-free. enabling you to meet new demands quickly. As the inductive couplers are IP67 encased devices they are practically immune to water, dust and any other debris in the environment.
Solutions
Connectivity
Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation.
Single-ended Cordsets
Flying leads, pigtails, single-ended cordsets
Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation. Many combinations of solutions are available and are presented below to facilitate connectivity designs.
Double-ended Cordsets
Plug and play cordsets. Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our double-ended cordset portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience.
Y-Splitter
Robust splitters for rapid, reliable connections
Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our Y-splitter portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect.
Receptacles
Balluff's line of receptacles offers a full family of sizes, threading, and number of conductors to fulfill an automation requirements. Receptacles are a key component in connecting power to the outside world while protecting the inside of the cabinet. Receptacles can be used in many different applications which needs to connects power on one side and equipped to connect a plug while keeping the operation IP67 rated.
Field Attachables
M8, M12, M23 and 7/8" field wireables
Balluff's line of field attachables offers a full compliment of options to establish standard sensor and actuator solutions in the automation environment. These components provide a high level of reliability and confidence, enabling accurate and repeatable connection IP ratings during maintenance. Many combinations of solutions are available to facilitate future connectivity designs.
Balluff's field attachable provide the fastest method to add a connector to a cable, and that means increased productivity. The color-coded insert allows quick placement of the individual conductors with a reduced chance of mis-wiring.
Junction Blocks
M8 and M12 blocks cable out, terminals and quick disconnect versions
Balluff's multiple interface blocks (MIB) allow multiple sensors and actuator signals to be easily routed back to a control system. These fully potted blocks carry shock and vibration ratings and are well-suited for many types of industrial applications. Balluff junction blocks are characterized with ease of integration in mind that enables their perfect integration into systems and machines. Balluff's MIBs have flexibly mounting to all standard profiles and baseplates using the central and additional lateral fixation holes.
Bulkheads
We offer you an extensive product range of bulkheads. Our plug connectors RJ45 and M12 (A-, B- and D-coded) in various designs are exceptionally robust, resistant to shocks and vibration.
High dust and water protection and high-quality materials distinguish the connectors. They ensure a reliable and rapid connection through the control cabinet wall or other housings.
Bulk Cables
Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation. Many combinations of solutions are available and are presented below to facilitate connectivity designs.
Tees
Splitters without wires ensure secure connections
Balluff has an extensive product range of tees for the reliable collection, connection and splitting of two signals. They are distinguished by their small, narrow and compact design and are available in different physical forms.
Power Supplies
Balluff power supplies are designed by Balluff with control products in mind, so you can be sure they will integrate perfectly with your control suite. These supplies have reliable power and performance to meet the high demands of industrial automation.
DIN Rail Mount Power Supply
High-performance power supply units ensure reliability
Balluff's short-circuit-proof, single, or triple-phase power supplies for automation are approved according to CE/TV, UL, and CCC. Different voltages of 12 V, 24 V, and 48 V can be selected. The most important features include: top-hat rail assembly, status display, regulatable output voltage, parallel connection, ready and alarm output. Output power of 18 to 960 W. Protection class IP20.
IO-Link Power Supply Units
Continuous monitoring power supplies
Heartbeat® power supply ensures a reliable and efficient power supply of sensors, actuators, controllers, and HMIs. It was developed especially for critical applications with high demands on quality, long service life, and diagnostic capability. And, it is distinguished by especially high-quality components, a long service life, and integrated monitoring.
Intelligent Power Supply Units
For excellent system availability
Intelligent power supplies with Heartbeat® technology give reliable feedback on the real time and long term status of the supply. Built with the roughest applications in mind, these power supplies provide many great advantages:
- High energy efficient (>93% efficiency)
- Electrically durable (power boost 150% for 4 seconds)
- Long lasting (minimum service life of 15 years)
- Vibration and shock resistant
- IP67 - Outside the cabinet rated
Enclosed Power Supplies
Power supplies for stand alone machines
Enclosed power supplies are ideal for small to medium-size applications where no control cabinet is used, eliminating an additional distribution board.
The compact form of enclosed power supplies make them ideal for small, self-contained applications such as vending machines, slot machines, or machine modules. They are installed directly into the device enclosure.
Safety
The same quality and precision that Balluff is known for in the automation world is now extended to safety with innovative products and solution offerings. Balluff's growing portfolio of safety is focused on minimizing risks to humans while adding innovation to how safety is integrated in the workcell.
Download the Smart Safety Catalog
Safety I/O Modules
Safe signal acquisition and communication
The Safety Hub links automation and safety technology for the first time via IO-Link. This new safety I/O module is connected to the IO-Link Master. All safety field devices are directly connected to this safety hub for communication with the safety controller.
Balluff's unique approach integrates safety and automation in one single system. This is possible with IO-Link as it supports both sensor/actuator communication and safety communication on the same line.
Balluff IO-Link I/O Hub with Safety Interruptable Output Power
The challenge of safely interrupting output power from an IO-Link-enabled I/O hub - while maintaining the device state of the hub - is met with Balluff's BNI00CL All-In-One Module. Now it's no longer necessary to drop power to the entire I/O hub in order to assure that the output circuits are safely de-energized.
The new I/O hub eases integration of IO-Link applications where safe interruption of outputs are required. The output power is electrically isolated from the input power bus. During safety interruption, the output power can be dropped while the current sate of inputs and communication over IO-Link is maintained. This simplifies diagnostics during the event and ensures quick recovery of the system after an E-stop is reset.
This product's top features include:
- Output power bus isolated from input power bus
- Input state and IO-Link communication maintained when output power is interrupted
- Up to 8 inputs and 8 outputs on the same hub with port-level short-circuit protection and diagnostics
- Up to 2 amps of power per output with a maximum capacity of 9 amps for the entire hub
- TUV certification to Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2 according to EN 61508 with Performance Level (PL) according to ISO 13849
Safety Switches
Robust and reliable guard locking devices
BID F101 safety switches from Balluff with a separate actuator provide protection for persons and machines. Together with a machine control system and a protective barrier, they safeguard access to the hazardous areas.
Balluff offers a wide range of safety switches to fit applications requirements; safety switches without interlocking function, with mechanical interlocking, and with electrical interlocking.
Safety Light Curtains
Photoelectric danger zone protection
BLG 4A safety light curtains from Balluff are photoelectric, electrosensitive protective equipment. They detect fingers, hands, and other body parts and are used in work areas where machines present potential hazards. They stop hazardous movements in these areas.
Emergency Stop Device
Compact housing for easy installation
As a supplementary protective measure, the emergency stop device initiates an immediate stop command whenever necessary. Therefore, it can be used for personal protection functions. The device must be visibly and easily accessible at any time to permit a stoppage in the event of an emergency.