When it comes to industrial configurations, one of the most important pieces of the puzzle is an energy efficient installation of variable frequency drives (VFDs). Also known as adjustable-frequency drives (AFDs) or AC drives*, VFDs should be a mainstay in nearly any manufacturing operation. After

Many factors can cause a transformer to unexpectedly fail, but moisture buildup is a debilitating factor that can be monitored and prevented with the right methods. Transformers are an important part of industrial controls; however, they are just as susceptible to degradation and acceler

The programming for control systems is of the utmost importance to everyone involved in the engineering process, and there are many features that can make the programming process much easier. Specifically, there are five integral features that are a necessity for industrial controllers, listed as

If you were in the manufacturing and automation industry during and before the 1960’s you likely had a couple of problems. First was the music, and second was that every machine was hardwired through relays. But all was solved with Creedence Clearwater Revival and the PLC. Although these solution

When people hear about programming, they typically think of the A+ students who memorize computer languages and write 1s and 0s. While this is somewhat true, It’s important to point out that programming is much more than learning a foreign language. It’s logic. A lot of a programmers job is n

The industrial environment is a tough one, and it takes its toll on all electrical equipment. For this reason, we make electrical enclosures to protect our sensitive electrical components from damage caused by elements such as water, wind, dust, dirt, heat, cold, humidity, and chemicals in the env

Competition drives innovation, and the manufacturing industries haven’t seen competition this intense since the invention of an assembly line in 1913. While 3D printing, also know as additive manufacturing, has been around since its early invention in 1986, it is just now becoming a cost effe

Protecting Sensitive Sensors Sensors that gather electronic data directly affect the reliability of electronic devices that use that data. With that knowledge, manufacturers tend to create protective housings around electronics using high-quality, delicate sensors. While control panel designs

In order to stay ahead in industry and to keep a company profitable, it is important to stay up to date with technology.  Using the most efficient systems and products in manufacturing can help your company save money and save energy, which helps to not pollute the earth. There are several opp

When working in the field of manufacturing there will come a point when your shiny new automation system slows down, breaks down, and is on its way to becoming completely obsolete. It’s a sad truth, but there are a few ways to go about upgrading your system to run even better than when they w

Until the late 1960s, large relays were the best option for controlling automation machines. They were expensive, difficult to work with, and horrible for troubleshooting. Then came along a new technology that could fix all of that, programmable logic controllers (PLCs). This allowed

Ladder Logic 101: The Basics Anyone who has worked in automation software knows that using the right tool for the job is essential to a successful and worthwhile implementation. Recognizing this, software vendors often allow multiple programming methods to be used with their software. These fundame

Ladder Logic 201: PLC Scanning In the beginning of this series of articles, you were introduced to the basics of the programming language ladder logic. With such fundamentals under the belt, it is time to move on to some higher level aspects of this tool, so you can see why it is so widely used in

In the last ladder logic article,  Ladder Logic 201, we began to see some of the interaction between PLCs and ladder logic, and that will continue now with a quick introduction to ladder and PLC memory organization and its benefits. Memory Allocation One of the first things to consider when de

  Control system integration is key to improving industries and automation.  Automation has been increasing the use of more machines to complete tasks alongside of workers, which improves efficiency and quality of production.  However, these machines are dangerous and it is vital&nbs

Human Machine Interface (HMI) is a core component of any SCADA or industrial automation system. Siemens is already an industry leader in all state-of-the-art smart technologies ranging from PLCs to Intelligent Drives to HMIs and supportive software. Mobile HMI Panels are Siemens way of implem

Careless outsourcing can become an extreme weakness for an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Here are some common mistakes an OEM may commit while outsourcing. Incomplete Definition of Essential Requirements If you are outsourcing an assembly for your OEM product, be sure of what essent

Unnecessary Waste Every year, the world discharges 2 million tons of sewage, industrial and agricultural waste, polluting waterways and directly killing 1.8 million children from waterborne diseases. This statement alone should be enough to encourage an effective framework for increasing a country

Are you properly testing your motors? The importance of motor insulation testing should not be pushed aside or neglected.  Making sure the insulation around the motor is still working efficiently is just as important as checking motors and testing their performance.  This insulation is s

Outsourcing items not directly in your line of specialty can help ensure overall quality and reduce costs. But outsourcing is also the biggest possible vulnerability of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). A single little item can hold up the whole large project if the outsourcing contractor