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 … Read more
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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 … Read more
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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 … Read more
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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 … Read more
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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; … Read more
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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 … Read more
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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. Figure (a) Parts of an electromechanical relay When the electromagnet (also called coil) … 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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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