R&M Targets Industrial Digitalization with Networking Solutions for Harsh Environments

Industrial Networks Built for Extreme Conditions

R&M is focusing on connectivity systems designed to operate in harsh environments—from wet, dusty, and oily factory floors to outdoor installations exposed to extreme temperatures and weather.

The company’s industrial solutions are designed for manufacturing facilities, campuses, renewable energy sites, ships, and healthcare environments, with plans to expand further into sectors such as utilities, mining, transportation, and ports.

Rise of the Hyper-Connected Factory

According to HMS Networks, Industrial Ethernet accounts for more than 70 percent of newly installed factory network nodes, reflecting Ethernet/IP’s role as the foundation of modern industrial communications.

Emerging data-intensive applications including AI, machine learning, digital twins, connected workers, and robotics are increasing demand for real-time data processing. To support these workloads, manufacturers are deploying additional cabling, edge and micro data centers, and AI clusters.

5G is also being introduced to support real-time control, but it still depends on high-performance fiber and copper cabling to connect antennas and network infrastructure.

Cost-Efficient, Scalable Industrial Networks

R&M emphasizes a holistic approach to industrial network planning. Ethernet/IP continues to serve as the cost-effective backbone for these environments, offering flexibility, scalability, and more.

As device density and data volumes increase, network planners must account for higher bandwidth requirements. R&M points to Category 6A cabling as a baseline for copper installations, supporting up to 10 Gb/s within 100 meters, with Category 8.1 recommended for shorter distances. Fiber optic infrastructure is mentioned as the preferred solution for longer distances, backbones, and convergence between office, data center networks, and more.

Technologies Shaping Industrial Connectivity

To address reliability and durability concerns, R&M uses industrial-grade materials and insulation displacement contact (IDC) technology designed to maintain stable electrical performance under vibration, dust, moisture, and other variables. The company also highlights the growing role of Power over Ethernet (PoE) in industrial settings, where delivering power and data over a single cable can reduce installation complexity.

Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) is another technology gaining traction, enabling Ethernet/IP communication over distances up to 1,000 meters. SPE allows sensors, cameras, controllers, and other IIoT devices to connect directly to the LAN in field and outdoor  through plug-and-play installation.

R&M is also addressing shielding requirements with reinforced connector and cable solutions.