What the module drives
The TM168BEVCM is an application-specific expansion module from the Modicon M168 logic controller range, built as a stand-alone electronic expansion valve driver. It sits beside a host M168 controller and handles the valve actuation loop directly, taking the EEV sizing decision off the main controller's scan. The module carries one or two analogue inputs that accept 0...10 V or 0...5 V ratio voltage, 0...20 mA or 4...20 mA current, and Pt 1000 or NTC 10k temperature probes across the -100...400 °C (Pt 1000) and -50...+120 °C (NTC) ranges, with a 12 V sensor power supply on board. Two non-isolated discrete inputs round out the field-side interface.
Output ratings and switching duty
The discrete output switches 250 V AC at 5000 mA with volt-free contacts and is rated for 100000 cycles at 24 V AC or 24...37 V DC. That makes the relay half of the module the limiting factor on refrigeration plant service life — a few hundred thousand valve actuations a year is the realistic ceiling before the contact wear becomes the maintenance event, not the valve itself.
Panel fit and environmental envelope
IP20 means finger-safe only — the module belongs inside an enclosed panel, not at the equipment skin. Operating range is -10...60 °C with storage from -25...60 °C, 10...90 % non-condensing humidity, and up to 2000 m altitude, in pollution degree 2 and overvoltage category III environments. Conformal-coating class is not declared on the spec line, so for washdown or condenser-room atmospheres the panel enclosure rating has to carry the sealing burden.
Standards on record
The module is CE-marked and certified to EN 60730-1, EN 61000-6-3, EN 61000-6-1, UL 60730, and the 2006/95/EEC low-voltage directive. For HVAC/refrigeration machinery bearing the UL 60730 listing, this covers the automatic electrical controls piece of the panel's compliance file.