Beckhoff unveils next-gen PLCs, VSDs, servodrives and I/Os at SPS
12 November 2024 
At the SPS exhibition in Germany, Beckhoff has unveiled a new generation of its TwinCat PLC technology that speeds up both engineering and runtime operations, and can execute control code up to 1.5 times faster than before. Beckhoff describes the new TwinCat PLC++ controllers as “a real leap in automation technology performance”, speeding up everything from control development and commissioning, to machine lifecycles. Project loading times are shorter and translation processes have been improved. The reduced lead times will cut costs and allow machine-builders to launch new machines and systems faster.
The new PLCs were one of a slew of product announcements that Beckhoff made at SPS. The others include:
- A variable-speed drive for basic applications such as conveyors, pumps and fans, that is integrated into the TwinCat system via EtherCat, providing similar commissioning and diagnostics to Beckhoff’s servodrives. The AF1000 VSD is available either with a power range of 0.37-1.5kW for 230V single-phase supplies, or with a range of 0.37-2.2 kW for three-phase 400V AC supplies. Both are available as single-axis or two-axis modules, and support synchronous servomotors, asynchronous and reluctance motors without feedback, operating in UF or vector control modes. The drives contain a power supply, DC link capacitors and a ballast circuit. They are integrated into the TwinCat system via EtherCat.
- An “economy” servodrive in two versions: a low-power single-phase model, and a three-phase version for currents from 1.65-6.9A. The compact AX1000 servodrives integrate into the TwinCat system and all tools for the larger AX5000 and AX8000 drives can also be used with the AX1000. They incorporate a power supply, DC link capacitors, ballast circuit and – in most variants – a ballast resistor. Supported motors include AM8000 synchronous servomotors with One Cable Technology, as well as asynchronous and reluctance motors with or without feedback.
- A range of low-cost linear motor modules for Beckhoff’s XTS transport systems, said to offer 95% of the technical properties of earlier modules at 55% of the cost. The new XTS EcoLine motor modules can be used with the previous versions. The 500mm modules are twice as long as standard modules, yet fit in the same grid dimensions. They support speeds of up to 4m/s and acceleration up to 10g. They offer initial forces up to 30N and peak forces up to 80N per mover, with 0.70mm absolute accuracy and 0.075mm repeatability.
- IP67 I/Os with simple identification and addressing via ID switches. The EtherCat and EtherCat P Box modules have three additional hexadecimal rotary addressing switches, allowing them to be identified regardless of their installation position. Individual addresses from 0 to 4095 can be set and a unique, position-independent identification can be given.
- Embedded PCs for BACnet/IP and Profinet RT applications. The compact (71 x 100 x 73mm) CX7000 embedded PCs are said to open up the TwinCat 3 world to small controllers too, providing a high level of computing power for the small controller sector. The CX7293 has a Profinet RT interface, while the CX7291 is suitable for BACnet/IP and applications such as HVAC, lighting, security and fire alarms. They have 720MHz Arm Cortex-A9 processors.
The TwinCAT PLC++ controllers are said to be a completely new development based on the IEC 61131-3 languages. Familiar functions have been kept, while components of the development environment – such as editors and compilers – have been redeveloped. DevOps principles can be used to implement continuous integration and deployment.
A new compiler makes it possible to enhance control codes in terms of execution times. This option – already familiar in the IT world – leads to further increases in execution speed, and means that industrial PCs with less computing power may suffice, cutting hardware costs. Alternatively, freed-up computer resources can be used to implement more control functions or to increase the machine productivity by cutting cycle times.
