Automation is the core element of a modern and developed industry. Automated machinery systems help increase productivity, optimize costs, and save time for businesses. To build an automated machinery system and production line, automation equipment is indispensable. So, what does automation equipment include? What are the functions of each automation device? What are the advantages and disadvantages of automation equipment? What should be considered when choosing automation equipment? And where should you buy automation equipment? Let's explore these questions with FERMENTUM in this article!
Automation equipment refers to the types of devices used to automatically control, monitor, and perform production activities. These devices consist of two main component systems: mechanical systems and electrical systems. The electrical system enables the automated machinery and equipment to function according to their designed capabilities. Examples of automated machinery and equipment include industrial robots, conveyor belts, and sensors.
In this article, we will focus solely on the electrical system. Therefore, the scope of automation equipment discussed here is limited to the electrical system, as it is considered the soul of the automation system.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Implementing automation equipment helps businesses significantly cut labor costs.
- Higher Productivity: Automation allows businesses to operate 24/7, significantly increasing productivity.
- Consistent Product Quality: Using automation equipment enhances the uniformity and consistency of output products. It helps minimize human-related errors in product creation, resulting in higher and more consistent quality products.
- Higher Flexibility: Instead of training employees for new tasks, a simple computer program can quickly change the production process.
- Replaces Humans in Hazardous Environments: Automation replaces human labor in dangerous and harmful environments, such as chemical plants, nuclear facilities, and other hazardous areas.
- High Costs: The initial investment for automation equipment, control technology, and high-level human resources required for operation, implementation, and maintenance can be quite expensive.
- Requires High-Level Workforce: To operate and maintain an automation system, the technical team must be well-trained and have a solid understanding of the technology.
A PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is a programmable controller that allows for flexible implementation of control algorithms through a programming language. It is a critical device in automation systems, providing precise control over various processes.
- Internal Memory: Includes program memory and can be expanded with external memory.
- Processing Circuit: Has a connection port between the PLC and I/O modules.
PLCs come in various types, differentiated by their main components such as input/output (I/O) ports, RAM capacity, counters, memory bits, functions, processing speed, and communication capabilities.
Commonly used PLC brands in the market include PLC Siemens, PLC Mitsubishi, PLC Schneider, PLC Delta…
- Compatibility with I/O Requirements: Ensure the PLC matches the number and needs of the I/O devices and machinery it will control.
- Processing Speed: The PLC's processing speed must meet the specific requirements of the factory's operations.
- Communication Functions: Consider the PLC's communication capabilities and ensure it is compatible and synchronized with the overall communication system of the enterprise.
Sensors are electrical automation devices used to measure signals such as pressure, temperature, speed, light, and other external variables, which are then converted into standard electrical signals for control systems to process and analyze.
- Common Types of Sensors: Pressure Sensors, Flow Sensors, Optical Sensors, Temperature Sensors, Proximity Sensors, and pH Sensors,….
- Top Brands and Manufacturers of Sensors: Emerson (USA), IMF, Endress+Hauser, Azbill, Siemens, Omron,…
As sensors play a crucial role in measurement, even a small error can lead to significant inaccuracies in calculations, resulting in faulty or damaged products and equipment. Therefore, when selecting sensors, prioritize quality and technical aspects.
- Refer sensors from reputable brands: Emerson (USA), IMF, Endress+Hauser, Azbill, Siemens, Omron, etc.
- Check the technical specifications of the sensors. Choose sensors that are suitable for the designed parameters. Opting for excessively high standards may lead to unnecessary costs while selecting too low standards can result in serious errors. Some important technical parameters include measurement range, accuracy, IP rating, etc.
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are automation devices designed to change the frequency and voltage applied to the motor winding inside an electric motor. Through this, they control the motor speed smoothly without the need for mechanical gearboxes.
In a manufacturing system, various devices operate at different levels. With continuous changes in production volume and productivity, the existing levels often cannot meet the demands. VFDs offer an intelligent solution, reducing starting currents, preventing voltage drops, facilitating easy reversal, and adjusting motor speeds, thus ensuring system safety and stability.
- Power Rating: The power rating of the VFD must be carefully calculated and selected based on the motor power, load characteristics, and other technical requirements.
- Communication: If the VFD is controlled and monitored via PLC, choose a VFD control module with compatible communication functions suitable for the PLC.
- Prefer New Generation Models: Using newer generation VFDs enables businesses to utilize more modern and stable technologies, avoiding obsolescence issues.
- Product Origin and Quality Assurance: Ensure the product comes from a reputable brand with clear origins and possesses necessary certifications such as CO, CQ, and complete test reports. Some of the leading brands in industrial VFDs include Siemens, SEW, ABB, and Mitsubishi.
The term Human Machine Interface (HMI) broadly refers to any screen interface that humans can use to interact with devices, most commonly used in industrial manufacturing fields. Plant operators utilize HMI screens to control and monitor processes and production activities remotely from locations without physical presence.
- Hardware: Includes the screen, chips, buttons, memory cards, and various connectivity ports.
- Software: Involves programming, hardware configuration, interface design, and communication setup for the HMI.
- Communication: Encompasses ports and communication protocols such as ProfiNet, ProfiBus, USB, RS232 /22/85, Ethernet, CAN bus, MODBUS, MQTT, EtherNet / IP, CANopen, SNMP…
- Technical Specifications: Evaluate the suitability of the HMI's technical parameters.
- Compatibility with PLC: Prioritize using an HMI from the same brand as the PLC, which facilitates synchronization and ease of use for customers.
When purchasing relays, there are three key factors to consider:
- Control Voltage: This refers to the voltage required to activate the relay's coil and initiate the switching action.
- Maximum Current Rating: Indicates the maximum current that the relay contacts can handle without damage. It's essential to ensure that the relay can safely handle the intended load current.
- Contact Rating: This specifies the number of times the relay can reliably open and close the circuit before experiencing wear or failure.
Power supply is a component that provides power for the operation of other devices. The power supply can be adjusted within the phase range and is specially designed to provide the necessary DC voltage for the operation of electrical devices.
- Suitable for the power consumption of the device.
- The product has a clear origin, from reputable brands, with full certificates such as CO, CQ, and Test Report. Some of the leading and reputable power supply manufacturers today includes Phoenix Contact, Schneider...
FERMENTUM is always a reputable and high-quality supplier of automation equipment. With a team of highly skilled engineers who have extensive experience in designing and installing projects for large corporations both domestically and internationally. We have a deep understanding of automation equipment and always prioritize updating the latest technologies and automation devices. We will assist you in choosing the highest quality and most optimized automation equipment at reasonable prices.
- As partners of leading manufacturers and brands of automation equipment today, including Siemens, Mitsubishi, Schneider, ABB, IMF, Endress+Hauser, Azbill, Siemens, Omron, ...,
- We guarantee professionalism, sincerity, and meticulousness in our work.
- Our working process is systematic and professional
- We provide comprehensive consulting, design, and installation services to help you save time and costs.
Therefore, if you have any needs for automation equipment, do not hesitate to contact us for consultation and service. We are always ready to listen and honored to serve you.
