Rotary Indexing Tables: The controller makes the difference

Be it automated assembly plants, welding or test processes, automotive production or medical technology – there are many possible applications for rotary indexing tables. When workpieces must be brought into position in series production, the right dynamics, cycle time and indexing accuracy are what count. The combination of a rotary indexing table, motor and controller is decisive. For a wide range of applications, WEISS provides the right controller in a total package with a table and motor.

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• Solutions for dynamic cycling at a high frequency
• Energy efficient in single-shift operation
• Integrated safety functions

In an automation system, a wide range of individual components are connected to form an overall system. Each component comes with its own controller that users must become familiar with. The controllers that WEISS GmbH provides for its rotary indexing tables can be commissioned almost without any prior knowledge and can be monitored and analyzed during use. The portfolio covers applications in which rotary indexing tables are used in a variety of ways – from single-shift operation at low cycle numbers to operation with many time-critical cycles and high dynamics – can be operated with only a few breaks.

One controller for a variety of needs
The EF3 rotary indexing table covers the widest range of applications in the WEISS portfolio. In single-shift operation where few cycles are required and long waiting periods are the rule, the EF3 is particularly energy efficient. Users can preset the energy-saving mode in line with their non-productive periods. High energy savings can be reached, especially for long break times, because the motor is disconnected from the power supply and the motor brake is applied. In applications with a high number of time-critical cycles with high dynamics, the integrated power driver protects the motor and brake coil against wear.

Default parameters and a keypad for operation make commissioning easier. In-depth knowledge of controller systems and controller characteristics is not necessary. The status of the rotary indexing table can be easily and directly read out on the keypad display. The cumulative error display makes error analysis as easy as possible. Remote diagnostics and support ensure fast remedies and reduce downtimes. A fully automated optimization cycle improves the overall performance. The STO SIL 3 safety function is integrated at the factory. At the customer, wiring to SS1-t is possible. The PLC-based servo controller is driven by Digital I/O. The EF3 is available in the 0,75, 2.2 and 4.0 kW power classes.

Web-based user interface
Simple parameterization without special training or controller know-how is standard for WEISS controllers. The web-based user interface of the EF2 rotary indexing table controller is intuitive, and with TeamViewer remote maintenance not complicated. Together with a DRIVE-CliQ encoder, the cam gear enables segment detection to ensure optimized pre- and post-control of processes. When a product change takes place in the automation system, the WEISS rotary indexing table adapts to the new specifications automatically. The combination of a rotary indexing table, motor and controller makes automatic optimization possible, which significantly reduces tooling times and non-productive periods.

This characteristic is particularly interesting for system operators with everything from changing product series to batch size 1 applications. If longer waiting periods between cycles arise, the EF2 has an energy-saving mode that automatically reduces the controller’s energy consumption. Depending on the production process, the energy-saving mode can adjust to different break time lengths. Alongside Digital I/O, the EF2 can be connected via Profibus and Profinet. The EF2 is available in the 0.37, 1,5, 2.2 and 3.0 kW power classes.

The simple solution
In single-shift operation and for a few cycles that are not time-critical, a cost-efficient controller solution is required. The TS control card is designed for such requirements. The power class defines an external power contactor. Safety functions can be implemented via an extra circuit, depending on customer requirements. The control is driven by Digital I/O, and the status of the rotary indexing table is read from a simple LED display. Operating keys directly on the card when it is installed make user access easy. The control panel labels are available in several languages. Parameterization is just as easy as for the EF models and no controller know-how is required. In this basic version, a semi-conductor relay protects the motor and brake coil. Remote diagnostics and support are provided via telephone. The highly compact control card can be installed in control cabinets in a variety of positions.

The WEISS concept
WEISS values intuitive operation and high quality. When a rotary indexing table, motor and controller are perfectly harmonized, users can commission, operate and maintain them without in-depth special training. System operators also save time – in particular, during commissioning and troubleshooting. WEISS remote diagnostics and support are provided easily and simply via telephone or TeamViewer. This enables fast response times and shorter downtimes. If system operators find it necessary to use their own motor or controller, the specialists at WEISS enable the adaptation.