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PLC PROGRAMMING
From drafting electrical schematics for a custom-built machine, to fabricating control panels for power and control, and input and output mapping with sensors and PLC programming, D&R Machine's knowledge of electrical design in industrial machinery can develop new production machines or upgrade existing ones to your benefit. If your production challenges require a specifically designed solution, D&R Machine's engineering services will ensure a project is successfully completed.
PROGRAMMING FUNCTIONAL MACHINES
A programmable logic controller, or PLC, is an industrial computer that is designed for use in production facilities for the sake of controlling industrial processes such as manufacturing and robotics. PLCs primarily allow for reading of input signals that are triggered by sets of switches or sensors which in turn are programmed to activate an output on a PLC that eventually triggers an action. The controller serves as a centralized and easy-to-use component to streamline industrial controls as opposed to having many different mechanical components to conduct certain operations.
Throughout all industries, PLCs come from many different manufacturers with different sizes and functions depending on use cases. Companies such as Rockwell Automation and Siemens have spearheaded the development of automation of which their PLCs have been the forefront for affordable and effective automation and machine control solutions. Their lines of PLCs often come with compatibility for standard communications protocol such as EtherNet, DeviceNet, Modbus, Profibus, and more.
From the Siemens S7-1200 to Rockwell Automation's MicroLogix and Micro800 lines to AutomationDirect's Productivity PLCs, choosing a PLC for your application can be a daunting task due to the sheer amount of PLCs available on the market. Knowing the amount of inputs and outputs intended for your process will simplify your choice as a PLC can be selected depending on matching the amount of I/O the process requires plus additional pins for possible expansion as necessary. If upgrades need be considered, PLCs with expansion slots and additional features can be selected if those options would be beneficial for the use case—an important decision if sensors or additional stations are planned out. With the appropriate PLC, your machine, robot, or any controller-based device can handle any number of inputs and outputs to handle simple and complex projects.
For PLC programming and controller selection, control system design or cable assembly, and other electrical and controls engineering services, contact D&R Machine to partner with us in building new machines to fit your production needs.