For industrial process heat, the electronics specialists at Phoenix Contact in Blomberg, Germany, now meet globally applicable standards such as DIN EN ISO 13577-2/4 and NFPA 85, 86, and 87 with the PLCnext Technology ecosystem. With this step, the company aims to position itself in both the European and North American markets as a provider of functionally and data-secure automation solutions for furnaces and incinerators. The goal is to reduce emissions and increase safety through IIoT, intelligent combustion processes, and open interfaces.

Modular platform

The expanded PLCnext platform connects machine-level control with the requirements of combustion processes. It is designed to help manufacturers meet the high demands for safety, reliability, and performance with an open and uniform solution. “Industrial process heat is developing rapidly,” says Markus Kick, International Business Development Thermoprocessing and Digitalization at Phoenix Contact, adding: “Our customers need scalable, intelligent, and certified solutions. With PLCnext Technology, we offer a forward-looking ecosystem that combines safety, connectivity, and advanced analytics in a modular platform.”

Everything from a single source

The company's thermal processing solution is designed to include all the necessary components. EMpro devices monitor energy consumption and provide insights into real-time consumption. High system availability is achieved through the use of certified voltage monitoring, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and modular fuse distribution systems. SPE and APL switches as well as solid-state relays are used for secure data transport. Machine learning is also integrated: The MLnext software solution handles predictive control and optimization of processes. The virtualized control system via Virtual PLCnext Control ensures flexible use. Modern PID controllers replace electromechanical components such as leak testers and temperature monitors.

Consistent functional safety for machine and process applications

Phoenix Contact also offers consistent functional safety for machine and process applications, including safe signal coupling and isolation, safety relays for Ex/ATEX environments, and support for external emergency stop devices. To maintain robust connectivity in high-temperature and vibration zones, Phoenix Contact's Heavycon high-performance connectors provide IP69K protection, EMC shielding, and modular contact inserts for power, signal, and data in a single interface. The connectors are designed for maximum durability and, according to Phoenix Contact, are indispensable for combustion systems, boiler controls, and process-critical environments.

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