Blog > Electrical > Internet of Things Around Every Corner

Every time I turn a corner, a different manufacturer is getting into or expanding their product offerings into the Internet of Things (IoT). Recently, Rockwell Automation was recognized as Overall IoT Company of the Year by an independent organization, IoT Breakthrough. As a Rockwell Automation® distributor, we frequently see the latest smart manufacturing technologies that support a connected enterprise.

Because we’re so close to its innovations, we know the rise of the IoT is just the beginning. Let’s look at some technological advancements from other manufacturers.

The Internet of Electrical

Even traditional electrical supply manufacturers are getting into the IoT market. For example, Hubbell® Wiring Device-Kellems, a company typically associated with products such as receptacles, cord grips, pin/sleeve connectors, and electrical disconnects, recently launched an InSIGHT™ Data Monitoring line of products. This new line helps industrial manufacturers use information and analytics to better predict and prevent costly downtime before it happens.

The InSIGHT systems wirelessly monitor and track critical performance indicators:

• - Current
• - Power
• - Voltage
• - Internal Device Temperature

These systems use embedded sensors, a wireless mesh network, and gateways that easily integrate into existing control systems.

"This new Hubbell line makes it easier for customers to ensure efficiency, uptime, productivity, and quality. With data and analytics now at their fingertips, customers can be confident about the decisions they’re making and adjust systems accordingly to improve overall performance.” – Mike Williams, Sr. Product Manager for Hubbell Wiring Device-Kellems

The Internet of Safety

Grace Engineered Products is another manufacturer with new IoT products. They are known as a leader in electrical safety product solutions, such as GracePort®. Encompassing a wide array of asset health monitoring smart devices, the GraceSense™ Predictive Maintenance System utilizes IoT, allowing users to view real-time analytics through an intuitive web-based application. Typical smart devices measure vibration and temperature and allow remote monitoring for predictive maintenance decisions, resulting in increased productivity and minimized downtime.

Ready for the Future?

When you look around the next corner, don’t be surprised to see more IoT products from both the market leaders and the traditional electrical supply manufacturers. Rexel is an authorized distributor for Rockwell Automation, Hubbell Wiring Device-Kellems, and Grace Engineered Products, so we see these innovations as they happen. We can help you find cutting-edge solutions to make your facilities smarter. Contact us today!