If you are somewhat familiar with mechanical engineering, you have undoubtedly come across the term “PLC” before. We explain what those three letters mean specifically and the difference it makes in the automation of your machinery.
What is a PLC?
PLC, also known as “programmable logic controller” or “programmable logic unit,” is a computer that contains a microprocessor. It captures incoming signals, which can be used to trigger certain systems.
A little history…
The device was first developed in 1968 by American, Richard “Dick” Morley (December 1, 1932 – October 17, 2017) for General Motors.
He is considered one of the founding fathers of this technology. In its first years, the PLC was eagerly picked up by the automotive industry. Not much later, it also managed to convince a lot of engineers and entrepreneurs to also optimize their production process through PLCs.
The advent of PLCs caused some suspicion in the early years. After all, the adaptation of the technology allows many operations to be automated. Ideal for a company’s productivity and profitability, but workers were initially quite skeptical of the invention’s arrival. Today, we know better. Man and machine can work perfectly side by side. More than that, today man and machine are constantly reinforcing each other. And that is exactly what we strive for at Meyland: a cohesion that only benefits your business.
What is the function of a PLC?
PLCs are used in various industries. Primarily in industry to automate systems. Think of factories, ports, printing companies, agricultural companies, industrial bakeries, and so on. But it doesn’t stop there. Because even in amusement parks today, PLC systems are used to automate attractions.
How does a PLC work?
A PLC is programmed so that the machine to which the PLC relates knows what the next action is. When such a system receives an incoming signal, the machine knows exactly what to do. Not every PLC reads input the same way. How the PLC interprets the input depends on the interface cards present. To further coordinate the systems, fieldbus networks are used. These allow the different machines to correctly exchange information with each other. Essential if you want to make a difference in industry 4.0.
It should come as no surprise that PLCs are exceptionally important within industrial automation. This is precisely why PLCs are so well protected from moisture, noise, vibration and other factors that could compromise the proper operation of the system.
What are the advantages of PLCs?
PLCs make your machinery smarter, and there are several benefits to that:
- Controlling sequential processes
- Interpreting input
- Making real-time data available
- The adaptability of the system
- The ability to integrate safety systems
- The increased efficiency of your systems
- Minimizing wasted time
- Maximizing profits
These are just a few of the many benefits that using PLCs can bring to your business. Discover how your production process can be positively affected by smart and dynamic machinery.
What types of PLCs exist?
There are many different types of PLCs. We will discuss fixed, modular and safety PLCs in advance.
Fixed PLC
Fixed PLCs are generally relatively small and offer fewer features. Specifically, they have more limited memory and contain fewer inputs and outputs. A fixed PLC certainly has its value, but its limitations do not allow for large expansions in the future.
Modular PLC
Unlike the fixed variant, modular PLCs are completely future-proof. They are designed to grow with your machines and production process. Modular PLCs let you go either way with your machinery. Dynamic times, call for dynamic systems. And that is the great advantage of a modular PLC.
So you don’t have to worry when you want to optimize your production process. Thanks to the resilient system of modular PLCs, your production process and your company can be ready for the future.
Safety PLC
PLCs are protected from moisture, vibration and other factors. But the PLC also protects your machines, taking your entire production process under its wing. Safety PLCs are used to recognize any errors or unsafe situations and send a signal to the person in charge.
Safety PLCs are programmed to prevent dangerous situations as much as possible. Specifically, this means that the PLC closely monitors temperature and humidity, among other things. As soon as the temperature of your machine rises, a notification will be made. This allows timely intervention in most cases and prevents worse. By integrating such systems into the production process, we try to avoid having to shut down the entire production process.
These PLCs can interface with a variety of safety systems, such as emergency stops, RFID switches, safety doors, and so on.
Get advice to further optimize your production process
Every production process is structured differently and thus requires a unique approach in terms of PLC integration. Our experts have years of experience in integrating smart systems that store and transport goods. Request a no-obligation analysis of your machinery. Then, based on the results of this audit, we determine what the opportunities are for your company.