Beckhoff Automation’s cabinet-free automation and intelligent motion technologies

Beckhoff Automation showcased its latest technologies at Automation Expo 2026 in Mumbai, presenting a portfolio of solutions focused on modular machine design, intelligent motion control, energy management and control cabinet-free automation.

A highlight was the MX-System, Beckhoff’s control cabinet-free automation platform. Designed to replace traditional control cabinets with rugged metal housing units mounted directly on machines, the system attracted interest for its compact footprint, reduced cabling requirements and simplified installation.

Its plug-and-play architecture allows modular industrial PCs, I/O and drive components to be replaced quickly, while integrated Bluetooth diagnostics enable faster fault identification and reduced machine downtime.

The company demonstrated its EL3475 power measurement terminals, designed to simplify energy monitoring and improve power network transparency. Featuring pluggable RJ45 connections and pre-assembled voltage and current cables, the solution enables faster installation and commissioning.

Electronic nameplates help eliminate configuration errors, while native EtherCAT connectivity allows seamless integration with higher-level energy management and analytics platforms.

Beckhoff’s compact drive technology featured prominently. The EL72xx servo terminals, designed for low-voltage applications up to 48 V DC, were showcased alongside the AM8100 motor series for high-performance servo and stepper motor control. The solution supports high-precision positioning applications through One Cable Technology (OCT) and multi-turn absolute encoders, while integrated Safe Torque Off (STO) functionality enhances machine safety.

The company demonstrated its XTS (eXtended Transport System), a modular linear transport platform that combines motor modules, guide rails, industrial PCs and software into a plug-and-play system. The platform enables machine builders to test production sequences, validate concepts and conduct proof-of-concept demonstrations before full-scale deployment, with components designed for reuse in future production systems.

A major attraction was XPlanar, Beckhoff’s planar motor system, which enables contact-free movement of products using independently controlled magnetic movers over stationary electromagnetic tiles.

By eliminating conventional conveyors, belts and robotic transfer systems, the technology offers manufacturers greater production flexibility, reduced maintenance requirements and more compact machine layouts. The system integrates seamlessly with Beckhoff’s EtherCAT and TwinCAT automation platforms.

Throughout the exhibition, Beckhoff demonstrated how its integrated automation portfolio can help manufacturers improve machine flexibility, reduce installation complexity, optimize energy use and accelerate the transition towards more intelligent and modular production systems, reinforcing its focus on next-generation automation for smart manufacturing.

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Naresh Khanna – 12 January 2026

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