Terminal enables the measurement of all relevant electrical data of the
supply network. The voltage is measured via the direct connection of
L1, L2, L3 and N. The current of the three phases L1, L2 and L3 is fed
via simple current transformers. All measured currents and voltages are
available as root-mean-square values. In the EL3403 version, the
effective power and the energy consumption for each phase are
calculated. The root-mean-square value of voltage U, current I and the
effective power P, apparent power S, reactive power Q, frequency F and
phase shift angle cos φ can be derived. The EL3403 provides a
comprehensive network analysis and an energy management option.
The Beckhoff EL3403 is a highly specialized, 3-channel analog input terminal designed for accurate electrical power and energy measurement within the Beckhoff TwinCAT automation environment. It seamlessly integrates into any EtherCAT system, transforming your standard I/O rack into a powerful energy monitoring station.
By directly measuring voltage and current on up to three phases, the EL3403 provides critical data on active power, reactive power, apparent power, and energy consumption. This makes it an indispensable component for optimizing machine efficiency, implementing predictive maintenance strategies, and achieving detailed cost-center accounting for energy usage.
Key Features & Benefits
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High-Precision, 3-Channel Power Analysis: Simultaneously measure voltage (U) and current (I) on three channels with high accuracy. Calculate vital parameters like active power (P), reactive power (Q), apparent power (S), power factor (cos φ), and frequency (f) for each phase and the total system.
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Seamless EtherCAT Integration: As a fully-fledged EtherCAT Terminal, the EL3403 plugs directly into your Beckhoff I/O system. It eliminates the need for complex standalone power meters and separate communication gateways, reducing hardware, wiring, and integration costs.
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Comprehensive Data Provision: The terminal goes beyond simple power reading. It provides accumulated energy values (kWh, kvarh), making it perfect for long-term energy monitoring and billing purposes. All data is process-image available in real-time via EtherCAT.
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Industrial-Grade Reliability: Designed for harsh industrial environments, the EL3403 features robust electrical isolation and is built to withstand the noise and interference common in automation cabinets, ensuring stable and reliable measurements.
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TwinCAT Engineering Simplification: Configuration and parameterization are handled entirely within the familiar Beckhoff TwinCAT engineering environment. This unified software approach streamlines development, diagnostics, and data visualization.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
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Technology: EtherCAT Terminal
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Channels: 3
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Signal Type: Analog Input for Power Measurement
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Input Ranges:
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Current (I): 0…5 A AC (via external current transformer, CT)
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Voltage (U): 0…230 V AC (via external voltage transformer, VT) or direct measurement for lower voltages.
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Measured Values:
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Voltage (U), Current (I)
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Active Power (P), Reactive Power (Q), Apparent Power (S)
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Power Factor (cos φ), Frequency (f)
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Active Energy (kWh), Reactive Energy (kvarh)
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Connection: 3-wire system via screw-type terminal block
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Bus System: EtherCAT
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Protocol: EtherCAT Automation Protocol (EAP)
Primary Applications
The Beckhoff EL3403 is the ideal solution for a wide range of industrial monitoring and control tasks:
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Machine & Plant Energy Monitoring: Track the real-time power consumption of individual machines or production lines.
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Condition Monitoring & Predictive Maintenance: Detect abnormal power draws that signal mechanical wear, such as a failing pump motor or a blocked conveyor.
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Load Management: Dynamically control non-critical loads to prevent exceeding main power circuit limits.
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Energy Cost Allocation: Accurately assign energy costs to specific departments, cost centers, or production batches.
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Power Quality Analysis: Monitor power factor and harmonic distortion to ensure grid compliance and optimize energy efficiency.
