As technology advances, many manufacturing facilities are incorporating industrial robots into their production lines. Countries such as the United States, Germany, China, South Korea, and Japan have, on average, more than 930 robots per 10,000 manufacturing employees, according to Statista. This drive for robotic implementation comes as no surprise, given the benefits of robotic process automation, including productivity, reliability, consistency, and accuracy.
Industrial Robotics
There are many ways factories and manufacturing facilities implement process automation and robotics. For example, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) can transport items in production quickly by following specific paths through a facility.
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), similar to AGVs, use smart navigation to optimize their routes in terms of time, power consumption, and even safety. Many are already familiar with Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), which handle material storage as they strategically place and retrieve items while supporting software systems for facility management inventory.
How Industrial Robotics Are Built
The four primary parts of an industrial robot are the manipulator, controller, human interface, and power supply. Regardless of the type of robot under discussion, these four components are critical to its safe, reliable, and effective operation. Each of these components will be different depending on the type of application they are used for.
AMRs, for example, require rechargeable power supplies and a variety of sensors to provide data to the intelligent navigation system. An ASRS may need specialized manipulators for handling delicate or fragile inventory. Some automated systems have an onboard human interface, such as a teaching pendant that allows the robot to learn the correct sequence of movements for process automation.
All these robotic components have one thing in common: they require electrical connectors to communicate and work properly.
Industrial Solutions For Process Automation
RJ45 and M8/M12 circular connectors are the most commonly used components for robotic process automation. For example, RJ45 connectors are used in factory automation to support data exchange via Ethernet cables between industrial I/O applications, devices, and systems, including tasks involving distributed control. M8/M12 connectors work exceptionally well for robotics, production machinery/equipment, and industrial automation and control applications.
While many different connector solutions are on the market, not all are suitable for industrial facilities and plants' working conditions, including exposure to moisture, liquids, water, and dust. The ability to maintain connection integrity in harsh industrial environments is critical.
Amphenol LTW RJ45 Modular/Ethernet Connectors
Amphenol LTW's RJ45 ethernet plug connectors are built to withstand harsh industrial environments, boasting an IP67 rating for water resistance. Available in various configurations such as receptacle, coupler, and overmolded with cable, they cater to both Cat. 5e and Cat. 6A requirements. These connectors, featuring durable construction with ratings for 750 mating cycles, support transmission speeds up to Cat. 6A (10Gbps) and are designed to meet Ethernet/IP RJ45 standards. With EMI shielding and support for Power over Ethernet (PoE), they ensure reliable data transmission while offering IP67 protection, making them ideal for industrial Ethernet applications.
Amphenol LTW M Series Connectors 
PEI-Genesis partners with Amphenol LTW to offer M series connectors. These interconnects are robust, waterproof solutions for industrial environments, rated from IP65 to IP68 with current ratings of 1.5A to 28A. Featuring a patented push-in terminal design, they ensure fast and reliable wire termination. These connectors are corrosion-resistant and operate in temperatures from -40°C to +105°C.
Compliant with IEC standards, they're ideal for industrial process control and other applications requiring secure data transmission. The M series includes various types like M8, M10.5, M12 (A, B, D), heavy-duty shielded connectors, and M23.
PEI-Genesis: Your Partner in Industrial Robotic Connector Solutions
At PEI-Genesis, we provide reliable connector solutions for the latest technology for industrial automation. As your trusted advisor, we will work with you to find the right solution to fit your industrial application requirements. Contact us today for electrical connector solutions for industrial robotics.
