The new mass flow controllers and mass flow meters of the 874x series from Bürkert offer an efficient method of connecting several sensor-actuator modules to Industrial Ethernet via a single system control unit (SCU). A MEMS sensor that measures directly in the gas provides maximum precision and very short response times of the flow controllers/meters. The Bürkert Communicator software, part of the new device platform EDIP (Efficient Device Integration Platform) allows user-friendly parameterization.
In the new Type 8741 mass flow controller (MFC) / mass flow meter (MFM) Bürkert removed control-relevant elements. These control tasks are transferred to a higher-level controller, which communicates with the sensor actuator modules (SAMs), like e.g. mass flow controllers, via a system bus. While previous MFCs/MFMs contained their own control hardware, now the system control unit (SCU) of Type ME2X is used.
The actuators used in the MFCs are the excellent solenoid control valves of the 287x series. These are direct-acting and normally closed valves, available in widths from 0.05 to 4 mm. All Type 8741 devices come in a stable polycarbonate housing, which is mounted on the fluidic body made of aluminium or stainless steel. Type 8741 devices are the first MFCs/MFMs which use a terminal block for the electrical connection. It can be easily configured with a 4-wire cable and then plugged into the socket on the MFC/MFM.
The MFC / MFM Type 874x and the system control unit Type ME2X are intended especially for gas applications in the glass industry and surface technology, as well as the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. A well-known example for the use of such a controller is the control of high-precision gas mixtures such as those needed in plasma control and medical technology or for protective and reactive gas atmospheres. An overall system consisting of the SCU controller and the new compact MFCs is convincing in terms of efficient Ethernet connection and an easy but powerful, integrated software.
Source: Bürkert Fluid Control Systems
