For decades, this push-button control panel is still ubiquitous. Today's consoles, however, incorporate a wealth of innovative technologies that make buttons more complex but easier to deploy.
Typical products in this respect are Siemens' SIRIUS ACT 3SU1 series buttons. With modular snap-on combination structure, the series realizes tool-free installation, so designers can flexibly and easily match buttons, select switches, indicators and housings.
This convenience complements the rugged design for demanding environments. SU1 module adopts metal and advanced plastic structure, with IP69K waterproof performance and meets the NEMA class requirements such as NEMA 4. The module is certified worldwide, including parts with ATEX and SIL safety certification, and functions such as emergency stop can be used even in hazardous areas.
In addition to traditional hardwiring, the 3SU1 series also supports networks such as AS-Internet, IO-Link, and PROFINET. In addition to other advantages, these networks can be seamlessly integrated with the Siemens Fully Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal, which has hardware configuration, fault diagnosis, and data management capabilities.
Command Point Profiling for 3SU1
To understand how this pushbutton system works, refer to the components required for the front illuminated pushbutton (Figure 1). The core of this pushbutton system is a base with mounting holes, with front to fit the pushbutton and rear module slots for mounting contacts, LEDs and other accessories.
Figure 1: The basic composition of a front-mounted illuminated pushbutton comprises a pushbutton (A) on the front of the control panel (B), a base (C) on the rear of the control panel for fixing the pushbutton, a contact module (D) and an LED module (E). Picture Source: Siemens)
This modular concept extends to the broader 3SU1 family. For example, the system includes a housing that can accommodate up to six controllers in a single weatherproof unit, a tagging system for custom identification, and a protective ring to prevent inadvertent actuation of critical controllers.
Design example: luminous start button
Let's look at a widely used control component: the start button. With this controller, 3SU10510AB400AA0 is a good choice (Figure 2). The illuminated button is a metal structure with a bright illuminated ring around the green plastic button.
Figure 2: 3SU10510AB400AA0 is a luminous start button specially designed for severe environment. Picture Source: Siemens)
The environmental performance of the actuator is impressive. The actuator has IP69K protection, which means it can resist dust, spray and even high pressure and high temperature cleaning. The device also complies with NEMA Class 1, 2, 3, 3R, 4, 4X, 12, and 13 requirements. With an operating temperature range of - 25 ° C to 70 ° C and an expected mechanical life of 3 million cycles, this actuator is clearly designed for demanding industrial applications.
Mounting of push buttons with metal base
The buttons we select can be integrated with a variety of bases, including the 3SU15500AA100AA0 base (Figure 3). The base of this model is made of metal and has an anti-twist design to ensure correct orientation. There are three slots at the back of the base that easily accommodate the contacts and LED modules required for this application.
Figure 3: 3SU15500AA100AA0 is a metal base with three module slots, which adopts the anti-twist design. Picture Source: Siemens)
Siemens also offers plastic bases and bases with one to four slots to meet the complexity of control functions. Modules can even be stacked in two layers to realize complex multifunctional control points in a compact space.
Snap-on module with high control and lighting reliability
SU14001A101BA0 (Figure 4) provides the actual electrical switching function. This normally open (NO) contact module can handle up to 10 amperes (A) and 500 volts alternating current (VAC) voltages. Its silver alloy contacts ensure reliable switching operation over a 10 million electrical lifetime. Fitting the contact block to the base is simple enough to snap it in.