Communication

Networking robot welding cells

IP67 switches reduce wiring effort and cycle times in tool-changing applications

Industrial Ethernet, Robotics, Industrial Switches

Benefits

Fast tool-changes in under 150 ms thanks to Quick-Link-up
Maximum security through firewall, NAT routing and VLANs
High data throughput due to the gigabit high-speed backbone and cut- through forwarding
High availability thanks to network load monitoring and a broadcast barrier
Minimal wiring effort, as IP67 protection enables field installation

Challenge

Robotic welding cells must be efficiently and reliably networked to ensure fast tool changes and smooth process control. Short cycle times, high data rates for camera systems and secure networks are particularly crucial. At the same time, cabling is minimized while reliability is maximized to ensure constant system availability.

Solution

The TBEN-L-SE-M2 managed IP67 switch optimizes data communication in robot welding cells. Thanks to cut-through forwarding it minimizes latencies, so camera systems can be used for real-time robot guidance. Two GBit ports ensure fast connection to the controller and a powerful backbone.

For tool changes, the switch provides ultra-fast link-up times of less than 150 milliseconds. EtherNet/IP subscribers with Quick-Connect and Profinet devices with Fast-Start-up are almost instantaneously online. Integrated network load monitoring provides users with a real-time overview of available bandwidth, while "broadcast storm" protection prevents network overload.

Additional security features such as VLAN, firewall and NAT routing enable clear separation of production and management networks, prevent IP address conflicts and protect against unauthorized access. The robust IP67 design also allows direct use in harsh industrial environments. The switch ensures maximum efficiency and fail-safe performance in modern robot welding cells.