From innovative surface technology and state-of-the-art fuel cell technology, through to control centre solutions and time- and cost-saving product innovations.
Rittal launched its new comprehensive 'Fascinating Future' programme at Hanover Fair in April. As a trend-setter for state-of-the-art innovative technologies and a specialist in the protection of high-tech equipment the Herborn-based company presented its latest trends for the future.
Nano coatings and fuel cells
Particular attention is being paid to the application of nano coatings. Rittal showed, for instance, anti-fingerprint, anti-graffiti, or anti-bacteria surfaces allowing cleaning intervals to be increased. The resultant advantages when used with climate control equipment are significant. The ultra-thin glass-like sealing layer on the fins reduces the contamination of the condensers inside the cooling units.
Other development work at Rittal is fuel cell technology. Rittal presented a fully-functional 5 kW unit for the IdaTech fuel cell, the ElectraGen5, with 48 V d.c. output voltage. In critical high-availability applications in particular, where high redundancies are needed, for example the mobile radio sector, the fuel cell technology will in future be a convincing alternative to battery-based backup systems. For these applications Rittal developed a reliable, physical infrastructure solution based on the proven Rittal CS outdoor enclosure and climate technology.
Live monitoring by control centre
With its example of a control centre based on Rittal products, the company demonstrated networking of electronics, climate control, and power distribution, including its engineering tools (Eplan) for control monitoring. Monitoring of the complete physical infrastructure is carried out with Ethernet and the CMC-TC monitoring system. On the monitor screens, visitors could see live transmission displayed from Rittal's production facility at Herborn by webcam and CMC-TC, live monitoring of a re-cooling system, and the simulation of a defect and its visualisation right up to the circuit diagram level.
Time and cost-saving innovations
With the user benefit in mind, Rittal presented as another highlight, its new RiLine60 busbar system in its line of power distribution components. In the operator panel area, the new Comfort Panel gives the operator more safety, optimised access, and universal mounting options. Finally, the new Rittal CM Compact-Medium compact enclosure system was shown that offers more flexibility and more room for interior fittings due to the extensive TS 8 installation options.
With its 'Fascinating Future' range, Rittal demonstrates that it is setting new yardsticks in respect of quality, cost-effectiveness, and environmental awareness.
