New edition of IEC 61918 governs SPE cabling and installation for the automation world

In March 2022, the new edition of the installation standard IEC 61918:2018/AMD1:2022 Amendment 1 – “Industrial communication networks – Installation of communication networks in industrial buildings” was published. The standard describes the installation of communication networks in industrial spaces. In the new version it now also contains important key points about cabling structures based on Single Pair Ethernet. This makes it an important basis for all users who want to bring their production into the IIoT.

The new edition of IEC 61918:2018/AMD1:2022 Amendment1 is the installation standard for communication networks in industrial installations, machines and automation islands. Both the cabling infrastructure and the components to be used, such as cables and connection technology, are clearly defined for all automation profiles. Cabling solutions with fiber optic cables, symmetrical copper cables and for wireless media are discussed.

The new amendment to IEC 61918 addresses the new 1-pair cabling structures for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and the associated remote power supply PoDL (Power over Data Line). This bridges the gap between the classic IT infrastructure and the industry, IoT/IIoT. SPE has a special significance for industry and automation. For the first time, it enables the universal application of TCP/IP-based automation protocols, even for long distances, such as in process automation or for the simple connection of sensors and actuators up to industrial field level. Higher data rates, more power transmission and greater ranges than with classic fieldbuses pave the way for the IIoT and Industry 4.0.

This provides users with clear specifications for infrastructure components that are identical and compatible with ISO/IEC 11801-3 (industrial buildings). Appendix 1 (AMD1) refers to the cable standards for 1-pair data cables according to IEC 61156-11/12/13/14 and the standard for 1-pair data connectors according to IEC 63171-6. This gives system designers and users a stable basis for selecting suitable cables and interfaces, and the implementation of SPE technology in the automation world can begin.

The new version of IEC 61918 now provides a clear and unambiguous normative description of what and with which components a sensor-to-cloud data infrastructure in industrial applications should look like. The tools for implementing IIoT are now available – device suppliers can now start developing and manufacturing SPE devices with internationally guaranteed compatibility and investment security.

It does not matter whether PROFINET, EtherCAT or other Industrial Ethernet protocols – this new IEC 61918 is a common denominator for all automation profiles.

More information can be found here: https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/74769
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About HARTING
The HARTING Technology Group is one of the world's leading suppliers of industrial connectivity technology for the three lifelines of Power, Signal and Data and has 14 production plants as well as offices in 44 countries. In addition, the company also produces cash register systems for retail, electromagnetic actuators for automotive and industrial series use, charging equipment for electric vehicles, as well as hardware and software for customers and applications in automation technology, machine and installation technology, robotics and transportation technology. In the 2020/21 financial year, approximately 6,200 employees generated a turnover of 869 million euros.