Festo VTUX Flagship Valve Terminal: Modular Design, 128 Valves + 16 Vacuum Channels, IP65/67

Festo has introduced the new VTUX flagship valve terminal, which can serve as I/O, remote I/O, and decentralized I/O. These compact and rugged IP65/67-rated terminals can be located anywhere on a machine, boosting operational performance and OEM installation productivity. VTUX modularity results in less inventory and lower overhead costs.

VTUX is both compact and lightweight, an advantage for end-of-arm tooling and conserving space on a machine or in a control cabinet. The terminal is made from a high-performance polymer so rugged and durable that these units can be placed in welding cells.

Modular Assembly: 128 Valves + 16 Vacuum Channels

The key to the VTUX’s unparalleled flexibility is its modular design. For high flow rates up to 670 lpm, a high flow compact sub-base is used; for space saving needs, a compact sub-base is available. A single valve model can be used for both sub-bases, which simplifies ordering, stocking, and support. High flow and compact sub-bases of one or four valve positions can be mixed and matched on a terminal. VTUX terminals can have up to 128 valves with up to 128 solenoid coils.

VTUX offers a platform for a fully integrated vacuum solution allowing configuration of up to 16 vacuum channels per terminal. The platform enables bidirectional communication from the PLC to the vacuum generator. Vacuum and ejector pulse can be individually controlled. VTUX vacuum delivers high vacuum or large suction volume flows and can be combined with valves. Parameters can be changed via teach-in from the PLC during operation. An integrated vacuum sensor provides continuous monitoring of actual values with a parameter-based air saving function. The system monitors vacuum for early detection of faults or errors during operation.

Electronics Side: Equally Modular

The electronics side of the terminal offers the same flexibility as the pneumatics side by featuring mix and match modules. Users can add multiple analog or digital I/O modules, including IO-Link. The modular concept continues through to the method of communication: the new Festo Automation Platform (AP) provides backplane speed communication, with all AP-based modules appearing under a single IP address to the control engineer — simplifying commissioning and allowing smaller, less expensive PLCs to be specified. Additional communication modules include IO-Link, AP-I for decentralized I/O, and multipin connector.

Globally Stocked, Drop-In Ready

VTUX terminals are assembled and tested prior to shipment from the Festo Regional Service Center in Mason, Ohio, which means they are drop-in ready for installation. As a core Festo product, VTUX components are stocked globally for fast, assured replacement and minimum downtime wherever the machine is located. The modular design not only lowers inventory, but also decreases the learning curve, troubleshooting time, and repair effort. The VTUX offers an outstanding price/performance ratio.

Visit Festo at www.festo.com for complete selection guides and specifications.