Category: Mechatronics, Industrial Control & Instrumentation
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Solid-state Relays (SSR) Features and Operation
A solid-state relay (SSR) is a purely solid-state device used for turning ON and OFF AC loads such as motors. Features of a Solid-state Relay Let’s consider the figure below: Figure (a) SSR being used to drive a motor Physically, … Read more
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What is Motion Control?
Motion control generally refers to an open loop or closed loop electromechanical system in which things are moving. A motion control typically consists of a motor, mechanical parts that move and often feedback sensor(s). Typical examples of motion control applications … Read more
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The Basics of Ladder Diagrams for Programming PLCs
The ladder diagrams are universally used as a symbolic and schematic way to represent the interconnection between the elements in a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The ladder network is also used as a tool for programming the operation of PLC. … Read more
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What is Sequential Control System?
This is a control system that manages a process defined by a series of tasks to be performed i.e. a sequence of operations, one after the other. Each operation in the sequence is performed either for a certain period of … Read more
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Basic Features of Distributed Control Systems (DCS)
In distributed control system, each process has its own separate controller located at the site. These local controllers are interconnected via a local area network so that all controllers on the network can be monitored or reprogrammed from a single … Read more
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What is Process Control?
Process control can be defined as a control system that manages a particular industrial process so that a uniform, correct output is maintained. It does this by monitoring and adjusting the control parameters such as the flow rate or temperature … Read more
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Types of Sensors used in Measurement and Process Control
A sensor is an element in a measurement system that detects the magnitude of a physical variable or parameter and changes it into a signal that can be processed by the system. The active element of a sensor is often … Read more
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Basic Facts about Data Acquisition (DAQ) and Process Control
The goal of most electronic systems is to measure or control some physical quantity. The system will have to acquire data from the environment, process this data and record it. As a control system, it will also have to … Read more
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Why you should replace your old DCS systems with modern ones
To keep up with evolving technology manufacturers need to upgrade their legacy Distributed Control Systems (DCS). This might be a challenging task to undertake and at a cost to the company, but in the long run the benefits outweigh the … Read more
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Basic Features of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers What is a Programmable Logic Controller? A PLC is a user friendly; microprocessor-based specialized equipment that carries out many types of control functions with levels of complexity for use in industrial automation applications. Its objective … Read more