Programmable logic controllers are one of the most important parts of many industrial processes today. Businesses are reliant on them to keep business processes running efficiently. In this piece we take a look at the advantages of PLC systems.
They are highly flexible
One powerful Programmable Logic Controller like the Vision 350 from All drives and Controls can easily run a variety of machines.
Ease of correcting errors
Before now, wired-relay type panels were mostly in use. Any alteration to be made therefore needed a complete rewiring of devices and panels. With PLC control on the other hand, any change in circuit design or sequence simply involves retyping the logic. This method of correcting errors in PLC is not just very short but also very effective.
Efficient use of space
The memory in the average PLC of today is getting bigger. This means that PLCs can generate more contacts, coils, timers, sequencers, counters and so on. It is now possible to have thousands of contact timers and counters in one single PLC. This would have been unrealistic at best for wired-relay type panels.
Cost effectiveness
The prices for most PLCs range between hundreds and thousands of pounds. This is relatively cheap when compared to the prices of contact coils and timers that will be needed to generate the same result as a specific PLC. When you consider installation costs, shipping costs, etc. you can see why many businesses that run automated processes are thankful for the proliferation of PLC systems.
Easy testing
A typical programmable logic control program can be tested and evaluated in a lab. The program can be tested, validated and corrected before deployment. This is a great way to save valuable time.
Easy visualisation
When running a PLC program, a visual operation can be viewed on screen. This helps simplify the troubleshooting of any circuit making it quick and relatively easy for the trained hands.
What are the disadvantages of PLCs?
You’d have to dig really deep to find any negatives about these units. There are only two things that could pass as negatives of having these systems in your manufacturing plant. The first is that there is need for a skilful workforce for these systems to work. However, this should be expected from a set-up as complicated as a PLC. However, the benefits of having these systems dwarf the cost of having qualified personnel to operate them.
The second possible disadvantage is that problems to the PLC can lead to downtimes in production. However, the number of times this happens can be reduced to almost zero with regular maintenance checks. Besides, PLC systems are more reliable and quicker to fix than systems without the technology.
PLCs are machines that will continue to simplify the process of automation in a variety of manufacturing industries. We first saw them in Automobile manufacture plants. Today they are everywhere.
I have used PLC in my college Lab and it’s awesome. They are very precise.