Comprehensively communicative

The IO-Link compatibility of the ionizers from series IZT41-L/42-L/43-L enables users to perform comprehensive remote control and monitoring, making the dissipation of electrostatic charges even more efficient and safer. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

The IO-Link compatibility of the ionizers in series IZT41-L/42-L/43-L enables users to perform comprehensive remote control and monitoring, making the reduction of electrostatic charges even more efficient and safer. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

Since static electricity can cause sticking of plastic packaging or contamination through particle adhesion, and even damage electronic components, ionizers are indispensable in many production processes. Depending on the application, various variants are used. To enable comprehensive remote control and monitoring, SMC has now made its established ionizers of series IZT41/42 (rod type) and series IZT43 (nozzle type) IO-Link compatible (IZT41-L/42-L/43-L). Companies thus take another step forward on the path toward Industry 4.0. The IZT series continues to impress with rapid dissipation of electrostatic charge, space savings through the connection of up to four devices to a separate controller, and easy installation.

From packaging to the food industry to the electrical industry: Dissipation of electrostatic charges is necessary in a range of production processes to ensure product quality and process safety. For example, it can prevent surfaces from sticking together, particles from adhering and causing contamination, and electronic components like circuit boards from being damaged. To provide users with comprehensive device communication options, SMC has now equipped its ionizers of series IZT41-L/42-L/43-L with IO-Link compatibility. This enables communication between sensor and actuator levels via connection to higher-level fieldbus systems or a PLC. The extensive advantages, such as connecting four ionizers to a separate controller, rapid dissipation of static electricity, and quick, simple installation, remain a hallmark of SMC's rod (series IZT41-L/42-L) and nozzle ionizers (series IZT43-L).

Full Control and Everything in View

Thanks to the newly added IO-Link compatibility, users now have the possibility for comprehensive remote control and monitoring of the ionizers of series IZT41-L/42-L/43-L. All device settings such as parameter values or control data can be made via master modules. Reading out various device data is also possible through connection to higher-level fieldbus systems or a PLC. This includes the ON/OFF signal for ion generation and data on offset voltage, device information such as manufacturer and product order number, as well as device status—errors are detected immediately. Overall, companies ensure that they are prepared for Industry 4.0 both when using the rod-type (IZT41-L/42-L) and nozzle-type (IZT43-L) ionizers.

Variants for Different Requirements

The two different versions (rod and nozzle) are particularly suitable for different applications. The rod versions of series IZT41-L, IZT42-L are especially used for discharging large surfaces such as conveyor belts for films or paper, to prevent materials from sticking together. On the other hand, the nozzle versions of series IZT43-L are designed for processes requiring precise neutralization, especially in hard-to-reach areas, such as the interior of plastic bottles or cups. The rod ionizers of series IZT41-L and IZT42-L can also be combined with the nozzle ionizer of series IZT43-L, expanding the range of applications.

All three variants allow for easy and quick installation—this also applies to mounting with two types of fastening elements, providing high flexibility. Connecting up to four devices to a separate controller simplifies machine design—especially in tight spaces. Different electrode cartridges—from high-performance to energy-saving cartridges—enable tailored use. Rapid dissipation of static electricity is possible, for example, from 1000 V to 100 V in 0.1 seconds (IZT41-L). Additionally, the electrode cartridges are low-maintenance, as compressed air is blown onto the surface of the electrode needle, minimizing contamination. To further enhance process safety, a double-acting lock prevents the electrode cartridge from falling out, suitable for both nozzle and rod types.