Festo: Pioneers in total Automation
When you think of automation technology, Festo is a name that stands out. Known globally for their innovative solutions, for many people, Festo is known as a leader in the world of pneumatics but their expertise in electrical automation is as equally impressive. In our Ask the Expert interview which you can view here, we discuss how Festo approaches the world of electrical automation with the same fervour.
In this article we will cover Festo's electrical automation range, highlighting their products and the seamless integration of electrical and pneumatic systems.
Festo Facts
- Founded in 1925.
- Turnover of €3.81 billion in 2022
- 20,800 employees worldwide.
- A strong commitment to sustainability, digital learning, and reducing their CO2 footprint.
Electrical Automation: It’s A Comprehensive Range
Festo's electrical automation products are designed to offer seamless connectivity, flexibility, and efficiency. Their range includes everything from servo drives and motors to complete handling systems. Let’s look at some of their key products:
Servo Drives and Motors
CMMT-AS/CMMT-ST Servo Drives: These drives are known for their seamless connectivity in both hardware and software. They are designed to work flawlessly with Festo's servo motors, providing precise control and high performance.
EMMT-AS Servo Motors: These motors are part of a complete drive system that includes the CMMT-AS/CMMT-ST servo drives. They offer high dynamics and precision, making them ideal for various applications.
Simplified Motion Series (SMS)
The SMS axes are electromechanical actuators designed for easy wiring, commissioning, and operation, similar to pneumatic actuators. They are perfect for end-to-end positioning tasks.
Motion Control and Remote I/O
Festo offers a range of motion control solutions and remote I/O systems that enhance the efficiency and flexibility of automation processes. These systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with other automation components, ensuring smooth operation.
Electrical Linear Actuators: Precision and Versatility
Festo's Electrical Linear Actuators, such as the ELGD series, are designed for high performance and reliability. These actuators are available in various configurations, including toothed belt and ball screw drives, and are suitable for a wide range of applications, let’s take a look at one, Pick and Place Systems.
Pick and place machines rely on precision, speed, repeatability, and long service life components. Festo's actuators are ideal for these environments due to their high load-bearing capacity, torsional rigidity, dynamic movement, and robust design. Electrical actuators are ideal for small parts handling, for example in clean rooms where contamination is an issue and in industrial environments where throughput and accuracy are prevalent.
It's Not Just Products:
The Festo Automation Suite is a powerful tool that simplifies the setup and management of automation systems. This PC-based software combines parameterisation, programming, and maintenance of Festo components into one application. Here’s how it benefits engineers:
Ease of Use: The software’s user-friendly interface allows engineers to quickly get systems up and running. With drag-and-drop functionality and modular design, setting up drive packages from the mechanical system to the controller becomes straightforward.
Comprehensive Integration: The Automation Suite integrates all Festo components, making it easy to manage and configure devices. Engineers can insert components via drag-and-drop and graphically connect devices and controllers.
Efficient Diagnostics: The software provides detailed graphics for diagnostics and analysis, helping engineers quickly identify and resolve issues. The history of diagnostic messages allows for effective troubleshooting.
Expert View: For advanced users, the expert view offers full access to all device parameters, enabling detailed optimisations and configurations.
The Relationship of Pneumatics and Electrical Automation
One of Festo's strengths lies in its ability to combine the robustness and speed of pneumatic systems with the control and flexibility of electrical systems. This symbiosis leads to improved machine performance and increased system efficiency. This allows Festo users to combine pneumatics and electrical automation systems to achieve the best possible outcome.
For example Valve Terminals with Fieldbus Interfaces.
These terminals offer efficient communication between electronic controllers and pneumatic actuators, minimising installation complexity and increasing system reliability.
Modular System Architecture
Festo's open system architecture supports both centralised and decentralised I/Os, allowing for significant flexibility without additional complexity. This modular approach reduces storage costs and ensures product availability.
Integrated Automation Platforms
These platforms combine controller units with modular I/O and fieldbus interfaces, making them suitable for managing hybrid systems in industrial automation. They facilitate efficient control and monitoring of both electrical and pneumatic components.
Software Tools and Digital Twins
Festo's engineering tools simplify the design, simulation, and diagnostics of automation systems. The use of digital twins allows engineers to virtually simulate and test systems before physical implementation, reducing development time and costs.
Festo's Electrical Automation Expertise
While Festo is renowned for its pneumatic solutions, its electrical automation expertise is equally noteworthy. The company's commitment to innovation and quality is evident in its extensive range of electrical automation products. By integrating electrical and pneumatic systems, Festo offers comprehensive solutions that meet the diverse needs of modern industries.
Whether you're looking for robust pneumatic solutions or advanced electrical automation products, Festo has the expertise and the range to meet your needs. Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction ensures that they remain at the forefront of the automation industry.
For a closer look at Festo’s Electrical Automation, we have engaged DesignSpark blogger Andrew Back to unbox their CMMT motor and motor drive starter kit.
For product information about Electrical Automation Solutions by Festo then go to RS.
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