Remote diagnosis for conductivity and pH sensors

pH-/Redox transmitter (links) and conductivity transmitter with IO-Link and the Bürkert system bus (büs). This provides the user with many diagnostic and remote maintenance options. (Source: Bürkert Fluid Control Systems)

Bürkert has now integrated IO-Link and the Bürkert System Bus (büs) into its master capability and pH sensors. The installation effort decreases through digitalization, and users additionally have access to diagnostic data and remote maintenance options; plant availability increases.

Sensors used in water or chemical applications to monitor pH value or oxidation-reduction potential (Redox) of liquids or those measuring conductivity typically deliver analog signals that are transmitted to a PLC. This means installation effort, costly wiring, and appropriate input cards for the control system. Therefore, Bürkert Fluid Control Systems has integrated two digital industrial protocols into its pH/Redox Transmitter Type 8202 and its Conductivity Transmitter Type 8222: IO-Link and the Bürkert System Bus büs/CANopen. The digitalization reduces installation effort, provides users with diagnostic data and remote maintenance options, and increases plant availability.

Simple commissioning and networking

All data can be transferred in real time to the PLC or to a cloud. This opens up many evaluation possibilities for plant operators, OEMs, and system integrators. Digital communication also enables quick commissioning, as sensor parameters can be conveniently entered via laptop. The free Communicator software for users updates automatically when connected to the internet. Additionally, the transmitters can be easily networked with other sensors or actuators. In the “Bürkert-büs world,” up to 128 participants (sensors, valves, or valve islands) can be connected. To implement an Ethernet protocol such as PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus/TCP, EtherCAT, or CC-Link, only one gateway is needed for the entire plant, saving costs for the user.