Introduction of PLC
PLC is a Programmable Logic Controller. PLC is an
industrial computer used as a standalone unit. It can be used in a PLC network
to control a process or perform a specific function automatically. To get information
from the outside world, such as the temperature of a liquid, level in a tank,
speed of an object etc., it uses different connected sensors. The future of
industrial automation would be great if automation people use PLC to control
processes. The real-world signals are transformed into electrical signals by
the external sensors and relayed to the PLC that processes the electrical
signals and uses them to complete its pre-programmed task.
Scope of PLC Programming
PLCs are continuously growing and evolving to
become the best option for a variety of industrial automation applications. The
scope of plc programming is increasing rapidly because of greater programming
flexibility, scalability, more memory, small sizes, very high-speed (gigabit)
Ethernet, and built-in wireless features. PLCs benefit from USB technology and
thus make it easier than ever before to get the online program and monitor your
control systems. The PLC programming will evolve, and with the availability of
small micro and mini USB connectors, we can expect to see this option on more
of the smaller PLCs. In the future, PLCs will evolve while adapting technology
enhancements in communications, hardware, and software.
Features of PIC for a Promising Future
- Compact
size, Cost Optimization Processing Time
With the recent trends in nanotechnology, smaller Programmable Logic
Controllers have been introduced in the nano and micro classes offering
features previously found only in larger of its kind. This has meant the
abandonment of the larger PLCs, as even those in the nano class are capable of
ethernet communication, motion control, on-board PID with auto tune, remote
connectivity and other features.
In response to market demands, many features and functions are now provided by lower end PLCs. For example, we can expect that small PLCs will evolve to include many features of higher-level PLCs, mid and high-end PLCs will offer a smaller, more compact, and customized solutions to meet users' needs.
- Higher
Integration
Programmable Logic Controller I/O ports can be increased adding certain additional modules by system extension through extension slots. Such a modified PLC that provides provision of extension modules is called a Programmable Automation Controller (PAC). Each module can contain both input and output ports. Extension modules can have inputs and outputs of a different nature from those on the PAC.
- Programming
Ease
An aspect of the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) that reflects both
the past and the future is programming language. The programming languages and
classified as two graphical and two textual PLC programming language standards
namely:
- Ladder
logic (graphical)
- Function
block diagram (graphical)
- Structured
text (textual)
- Instruction
list (textual)
New developments in PLC system technology for
industrial furnaces
The PLC (programmable logic controller) used for
furnace control works together with the operation panel, where the panel view
is an interface to control the operation and the PLC acts as the brain.
1. Two-finger touchscreen
- Allows
you to zoom in the screens, mainly in graphics.
- ‘Shift’
functions with dual-key commands – ‘Ctrl + another key’, etc.
- Increases security in some operations.
2. Direct
connectivity with SQL databases
- The new
PLCs include connectivity, mainly with SQL (Structured Query Language).
- They are
very easy to program, so it is not necessary to request support from IT
staff in order to set them up.
- They
allow us to have the information that interests us most for daily
operation and process optimization.
- They save
money and time in product development.
3. Robot
control via PLCs
- There is
mid-range PLC equipment currently available that can handle up to 32 axes,
which can be translated into the control of five robots with six axes
each.
- There are
dual ethernet ports to facilitate ring type topologies.
- Many screens already incorporate a web connection, so with a simple configuration we can access the robot's operation console from any mobile device.
4. Operator
safety
- Reduces
risk in everyday equipment operation for the worker.
- SIL-certified
equipment has redundant (duplicated) CPUs that separate risk functions
from ordinary ones.
- There are
inputs and outputs capable of handling redundant channels according to the
case.
- Programming
with certified functions in emergency shutdowns, safety curtains, etc.
- Security
with powerful encryptions that help prevent possible hacks.
5. The time traveller
- Allows
the user to ‘go back in time’ to reproduce the recording of the failed process
and see what the PLC was doing at that instant.
- Makes
fault analysis easier and helps find solutions quickly.
The latest PLC technology
The Latest PLC technology helps to monitor and
control distributed server/multi-user applications. It provides a comprehensive
and accurate picture of operations, meeting the demands of multiple
stakeholders, including maintenance, engineering, operations, and production
information technology (IT). These technologies enable us to take advantage of
visualization, mobility and other new technologies, meeting various challenges
in the process, discrete applications and delivering critical visibility when
we need it.
Conclusion
The future of PLC in industrial automation has been
rising since 1947. Most industries, including automation, use PLCs and install
control systems to reduce manual labor and improve precision and efficiency.
PLCs are very popular because of their accuracy.
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Nice blog!
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