RFID Control of Tube Connections in the Ex Area

RFID control system provides precise identification and reliable control outputs in explosive atmospheres.

If a tube and the corresponding connection point are incorrectly connected it can impact product quality, and plant and worker safety, especially in environments that have potentially explosive atmospheres. For example, if acid is filled into the wrong tank, there is a high potential for danger, damage, and downtime.

To efficiently transfer task-specific automation and predictive maintenance hardware data to multiple devices at the same time, Turck has developed a complete HF RFID solution. When the system’s encapsulated HF reader has detected the correct tube, the opening signal output for the valve and pump is triggered, and data that notes the time and date of the task is transferred to the system controller as well as other ATEX Zone modules via Ethernet gateways.

Your Benefits

Improved plant safety using an HF reader and valve opening control output signal
High quality standard: reliable identification and documentation of pre-products and intermediate products
Customized and comprehensive product tracing and tracking capabilities
Reduces potential for errors with exact RFID data matching instead of broader inductive binary code detection

The TN-R42/TC-EX detects RFID tags embedded in caps at the coupling station
The solution is designed so that the cap with the tag can be fitted on the corresponding read/write head
Turck's modular BL20 system processes the data of the RFID reader

RFID reader in the Ex area

Turck's TNR42/TC-EX encapsulated HF-RFID reader can be used in a potentially hazardous area (Ex Zone 1/21). To check the correct connection, the reader detects the tag fastened to the end of the tube at a tube coupling. Then the read/write head routes the data obtained from the air interface to Turck’s BL20 system via a RFID I/O module, Ethernet gateway, and a cable of up to 50 meters in length. Compared to flameproof RFID readers for Zone 1, the TN-R42/TC-Ex is easier to install due to its compact design and has an interface that operates similar to standard read/write heads used in safe areas.

Data transfer via multiprotocol Ethernet

The modular BL20 system can be installed in Zone 2/22 and process tube identification data as well as socket, time or the degree of tube contamination data. Turck's multiprotocol technology enables data transfer to the control system via three Ethernet protocols – PROFINET, Ethernet/IP and Modbus TCP.

Application-specific RFID tags

Different tag types are available, including a glass variant, and can be adapted to specific application requirements. RFID tags can be embedded directly in a metal cap or attached with a clip.

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