Phase 3: Grouping and segmentation of I/Os and Racks (functional distribution) In this article we discuss the importance of the functional distribution of I/Os, especially in medium size and large control systems (index of design phases). 3-Grouping and segmentation of signals and racks – Functional distribution The way we distribute I/O signals, modules and racks …
Phase 2: Selection of I/O modules (part B) In this article (part B) we discuss other design factors of the selection of Input / Output Modules such as intrinsic safety, electrical isolation, redundant I/Os, etc. (index of design phases) 2B-Hardware selection of input / output modules Link to part A. G) Electrical isolation Normally there …
Phase 2: Selection of I/O modules (part A) In this article we discuss the selection of Input / Output Modules (part A) (index of design phases) 2A-Hardware selection of input / output modules The selection of the type of modules should be based mainly on the technical requirements, on the one hand, and on the …
PLC module sizing We want to do some thinking on how to make the PLC module sizing as to the density of the cards, i.e., about what’s the optimal number of channels, and we see that in many cases is more important than it looks like. At first glance all tend to think that the …
BMS Safety PLC Let’s see an example of I/Os distribution in the case of a safety PLC for a Boiler Protection and Burner Management System for a Heat Recovery Steam Generator with post-combustion. The boiler has 8 burner ramps as shown in the image. It is advisable to use a safety PLC and verify the …
Optimize the PLC architecture This post explores the impact that the I/O distribution and density of the modules can have on the cost of hardware, that is how we can optimize the PLC architecture according to the requirements of each project. We have used the tool “IO_Builder” that allows us to make different distributions of …
Select the PLC modules The first step in selecting the PLC modules is to analyze the technical requirements of the application. In most cases this analysis will guide us in selecting the PLC and the I/Os. The next step will be to do different considerations that affect the total cost of the automation solution. In …
Input/Output Architecture in the control system We will give an overview of most common input/output architectures in a control system, depending on whether the priority is “Safety” or “Availability“. 1-Architectures of Inputs The following image shows the most common configurations. The letter “D” in yellow stands for “Diagnosis” and usually is associated with the Safety …
Availability versus Safety This is an important point to be considered when designing a control system with a programmable logic controller. The analysis must be performed with all the elements involved: the PLC, field instruments, valves, motors, dampers, etc. In addition, it is essential to analyze the process or machine. The design will be very …
