Application Overview
In steel and mining operations, yard machinery such as stackers and reclaimers play a crucial role. These sophisticated machines are tasked with forming and retrieving material stacks in storage and homogenization yards. Ensuring precise positioning of these machines is essential for the reliable stacking and retrieval of materials like ore.
Objective
The primary goal is to maintain accurate machine positioning across the entire travel path, even under challenging environmental conditions. Sensors deployed for this task must be exceptionally robust, capable of withstanding iron ore dust and harsh weather conditions.
Proposed Solution
A combined RFID system and absolute rotary encoder provide an optimal solution for monitoring yard machinery positioning. The RFID setup includes a long-range IUH-F190 RFID read/write device, an IUC87-F257-T17-M-FR* UHF tag, and an IDENTControl evaluation unit. Complementing this, the ENA58IL absolute rotary encoder offers precise measurement.
The system works by placing UHF tags with position data along the machine’s travel path. The RFID read/write device (F190), mounted on the yard machine, reads these tags from distances up to two meters. As the machine moves, each tag read triggers a signal to the PLC, which is then matched with the ENA58IL encoder’s position data.
Key Features of the IUH-F190 RFID Read/Write Device:
- Sensing range: up to 2 meters
- Operating frequency: 865 – 928 MHz
- Multitag reading capability
- Adjustable transmission power and polarization
- High-visibility LED indicators
- Compatibility with EPC Gen2 standard tags
- Robust, compact housing (114 × 112 × 63 mm)
- IP67 protection rating
- Connects to IDENTControl interface
Key Features of the IUC87-F257-T17-M-FR UHF Tag:*
- Operating frequency: 865 – 928 MHz
- Compliant with EPC Gen2 (ISO/IEC 18000-63)
- Optimized for metal mounting
- Durable housing for industrial use
Key Features of the ENA58IL Absolute Rotary Encoder:
- High resolution and absolute accuracy (<0.1°)
- Compact design (Ø 58 mm) for versatile use
- Shaft types: solid and recessed hollow shaft
- Maximum rotational speed: 12,000 rpm
- Protection ratings: IP65 and IP67
- High axial (40 N) and radial (110 N) shaft load tolerance
- Noncontact technology for extended service life
- Compatibility with various Fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet interfaces
Advantages
The F190 RFID read/write device excels in this application by reliably reading positions even when exposed to ore and extreme conditions. Its ability to read multiple RFID tags in a single operation enhances efficiency. The passive nature of the tags eliminates the need for external power or battery replacement, and their metal-mountable design simplifies installation on the conveyor belt base.
The ENA58IL magnetic rotary encoder’s resistance to shock and vibration, coupled with its dust and dirt tolerance, ensures dependable performance. With 0.1-degree accuracy and 16-bit resolution, it guarantees precise positioning data.
Summary
Combining an RFID system with an absolute rotary encoder presents a robust solution for accurate positioning of yard machinery, even under the toughest conditions. This dual-technology approach ensures redundancy and reliability, making it ideal for complex operational environments.
- Dual-technology solution: Combines RFID and rotary encoder for enhanced reliability.
- Robust and durable: Designed to withstand extreme conditions.
- Precision: Ensures accurate positioning with high resolution and absolute accuracy.
This advanced positioning system ensures efficient and reliable operation of yard machinery, crucial for maintaining productivity and safety in steel and mining industries.