The ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner from Kistler is beneficial for smart factory applications of PE sensors.

ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner

Ready for your smart factory

Piezoelectric sensors play a fundamental role in smart factories because they provide real-time information about machine and process operating conditions. They are enablers for data-driven decision-making, predictive maintenance, and optimization of industrial processes. Manufacturers who want to benefit from piezoelectric sensors in industrial environments need robust measuring chains that include smart factory ready charge amplifiers – such as the ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner from Kistler.

ICAM-B has new features and capabilities that offer clear advantages for smart factories – where the key issues are:

Maximize efficiency

Efficiency, quality and cost reduction

[object Object]

Interconnectivity and data sharing

[object Object]

Predictive maintenance

[object Object]

Cybersecurity

Increased efficiency, enhanced product quality and reduced costs

Maximize efficiency

Smart factories have two main goals: to increase efficiency across all aspects of manufacturing, and to enhance product quality. In a smart factory, processes are automated, waste is minimized and resource utilization is improved – in line with the overall aims of reducing production costs and optimizing overall profitability.

A piezoelectric measuring chain in an automated assembly line can detect defects or deviations from specifications. In such cases, the ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner sends a trigger signal to the control system so that production of defective items is halted. The benefits of continuous production monitoring? Improved resource efficiency, less waste, higher product quality, and sustainability – the key objectives of the smart factory approach.

Interconnectivity and data sharing

[object Object]

Smart factories foster the integration of various systems and devices via the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This facilitates seamless communication and data sharing throughout the value chain. The ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner for piezoelectric sensors comes with an Ethernet interface to enable a whole range of functions: remote access, remote configuration and monitoring, firmware updates, integration with control systems, data streaming – and all of these are easily accessible from a web-based user interface. 

The ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner features two integrated IIoT protocols – OPC UA and MQTT – so multiple devices can be interconnected and controlled remotely. Data can also be streamed easily from field level to higher-level systems and the cloud. Thus, users benefit from remote monitoring and control of industrial processes as well as data exchange between different entities in the manufacturing environment – leading to increased automation, higher efficiency, and greater flexibility. 

Predictive maintenance

[object Object]

Analyzing data from a piezoelectric measuring chain enables predictive maintenance – so manufacturers can identify and address potential issues before they cause costly downtime or equipment failures. Condition monitoring involves the use of various parameters to assess and analyze the health of machinery or systems.

Key parameters for smart factory processes of this sort include RMS and integral . The D-sub connector of the ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner has pins that can be configured as digital outputs; these send a signal to control systems if the user-defined threshold value for a process is exceeded. Machine monitoring based on defined process thresholds in the ICAM-B can help prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduce downtime, and extend machinery lifespans.

Cybersecurity

[object Object]

With increased connectivity, robust cybersecurity measures are essential to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure against cyber threats. Smart factories make it a priority to implement cybersecurity protocols and standards to ensure system integrity and security. Thanks to self-signed certificates, the ICAM-B charge amplifier and signal conditioner for piezoelectric sensors offers a secure connection to the network. Users can also upload their own certificates via the web user interface. 

Customer benefits

Individual channel configuration and control

  • Up to 4 different sensors can be connected, configured and controlled individually

Broad measuring range

  • Starts at ±20 pC
  • Enables measurement of small signals

Web user interface for configuration and control

  • User-friendly and intuitive web UI

IIoT connectivity

  • OPC UA for parametrization
  • MQTT for data streaming

Two virtual channels

  • Real-time calculations from one or more sensor signals

Flexible output selection

  • Output signal mode can be selected from various available options (RMS, integral, Min, Max, and more)

Flexible offset and scale adjustment

  • Six analog outputs with fully flexible scaling, internal routing and offset definition

Process control with threshold

  • Digital output signal from ICAM-B to control systems, based on user-defined thresholds

Suitable for harsh environments

  • Can withstand harsh industrial environments thanks to degree of protection of up to IP67

Need a consultation?

Our experts are just a click away.