Tag: Factory automation
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Input & Output Modules of a PLC – Types & Applications
The input/output modules act as the signal interface between the monitoring sensors and actuators, and the controller. Additional they provide electrical isolation, if needed, to convert the input signals into an electronic format appropriate for evaluation by the controller; the I/O modules provide the memory storage and format the output signals for displays and control…
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Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs) – Features & Applications
What are Programmable Automation Controllers? Programmable automation controllers (PACs) are process controllers with an open configuration and possessing the enterprise integration power of a PC-based structure. In other words, PACs are industrial controllers that combine the functionality of a programmable logic controller (PLC) with the processing capability of a PC. Basic Features of Programmable Automation…
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The Role Played By Edge Computing in Manufacturing
Edge computing can be defined as a distributed computing framework that brings enterprise applications closer to data sources like local edge servers. In manufacturing, edge computing offers an effective processing and storage choice since intensive data handling and storage can be kept on the plant floor. Edge computing has developed, and plays an important role…
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How PLC Systems are Protected from Plant Voltages
Internally a PLC typically operates at 5 V dc. The external devices such as solenoids, limit switches, motor starters, etc. operate at voltages up to 110 V ac. The mixing of these voltages will cause irreparable damage to the PLC electronics. A less noticeable problem may occur from electrical noise introduced into the PLC from…
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Technical Aspects of Foundation Fieldbus
Foundation fieldbus (FF) is an all-digital, serial, two-way communication system for industrial applications. Foundation fieldbus specifications include two different configurations: H1 and HSE. H1 Foundation Fieldbus (FF) H1 FF communication system is mainly applied to distributed continuous process control; running at 31.25 kbps. It connects digital field equipment such as sensors, actuators and inputs/outputs allowing…
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What is Fieldbus in Industrial Communication Networks?
Fieldbus can be defined as a digital, serial, multidrop, data bus for communication with industrial control and instrumentation devices such as sensors, transducers/transmitters, actuators, local controllers, etc. Alternatively, Fieldbus can be defined as a digital, two-way, multidrop communication link among intelligent or smart measurement and control devices. It serves as a local area network (LAN)…
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Electromechanical Relays (EMR)
Electromechanical relay (EMR) is a device that uses an electromagnet to provide the force to close or open switch contacts i.e. it is an electrically powered switch. When the electromagnet (also called coil) is energized, it pulls down on the spring-loaded armature. Relay contacts can be described as normally open contacts (NO), which are open…
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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 are: Servomechanisms Numerical control machines Industrial robots Variable speed drills Digital torque wrenches Hard-drive head-positioning…
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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 costs of doing the upgrade. The legacy DCS systems faces increased components failure that leads…
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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 is to monitor crucial process parameters and adjust process operations accordingly. A PLC can be…