PLC

In the realm of industrial automation, precise timing often determines the efficiency, safety, and reliability of operations. Enter the time relay, an essential component in programmable logic controller (PLC) systems, often affectionately referred to as the “alarm clock” of electrical control. But what exactly is a time relay, and why is it indispensable in electrical […]

Introduction In Distributed Control Systems (DCS), the configuration of redundant signals and the implementation of bumpless switching functions play a critical role in ensuring the reliability of automation systems and thermal control interlocks. Properly configured redundancy and switching mechanisms help maintain continuous control during signal failures, minimizing the risk of process disturbances. This document outlines

PROFIBUS (Process Field Bus) is a widely-used standard for fieldbus communication in industrial automation systems. Developed in 1987 by a group of companies led by Siemens and supported by several research institutes, PROFIBUS is a crucial technology in industrial control systems. It is important to note that PROFIBUS and PROFINET (used in industrial Ethernet) are

In industrial automation and process control systems, the terms “control scheme” and “interlock loop” are often used, but they refer to different aspects of a system’s logic and safety design. Understanding their differences is important for proper system design, operation, and communication. 1. Control Scheme A control scheme (or control strategy) is the overall plan

In the field of industrial automation, the choice of signal transmission is crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable communication between sensors, controllers, and actuators. Among the various signal transmission methods available, the 4-20 mA current signal is widely preferred over voltage signals (such as 0-10V or 0-5V) due to several inherent advantages. This article explores

Pressure control is a critical aspect of industrial systems, particularly in processes involving fluids or gases. Safety valves, as integral components, ensure that systems operate within safe pressure limits. To fully understand how these devices function, it is essential to distinguish between three related but distinct parameters: set pressure, popping pressure, and relieving pressure. Each

In the process industry, it’s often difficult to fully understand the characteristics of the controlled systems. Building a strict mechanistic model is time-consuming and costly. To reduce operational costs and manage uncertainties, the industry heavily relies on feedback control. Feedback allows the system to remain stable in the face of external disturbances and internal fluctuations,

Introduction Advanced Process Control (APC) technology has been widely adopted in the refining industry but remains underutilized in many other sectors. Understanding how to optimize APC systems can help businesses maximize their return on investment (ROI) and achieve higher operational efficiency. In highly commoditized industries such as refining, competition is fierce, and companies often sell

Modbus is one of the most widely used communication protocols in industrial automation and control systems. Among its various implementations, Modbus RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) and Modbus TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) are two prominent options. While they serve similar purposes, they differ in their communication mechanisms, application scenarios, and performance characteristics. This article explores these

Introduction In industrial automation, control systems play a critical role in ensuring efficient, stable, and safe operations. Among these, Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and configuration software are two essential components. While they may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes and complement each other in many industrial environments. This article explores the fundamental differences between DCS