Automation has played a fundamental role in industry since the second half of the last century. With the dynamic development of information technology, this area is constantly evolving and becoming increasingly integrated into information systems.
Modern industrial companies increasingly use integrated networks and IT systems in the spirit of Industry 4.0 to improve their production processes, monitor performance and manage resources. However, to ensure a safe and effective connection of OT-IT environments, it is worth paying attention to an industrial automation system adapted for this purpose.
In an article written by experts RA Controls Here you will find an overview of the most important Industrial Automation Elements Supporting the development of networks and integrated IT systems.
Control devices
The basis of any industrial automation system are devices that allow you to control the operation of individual machines and entire production lines. Among these, it is worth highlighting Rockwell Automation's Allen-Bradley brand controllers, with a particular focus on Logix family controllers.
Logix controllers can be programmed through the common Studio 5000 programming environment, regardless of the role they will play in the target automation system.
ControlLogix 5580 controllers are particularly popular on the Polish market and can be used for medium and large applications.
The range of control devices also includes dedicated and decentralized I/O modules. One example is the 1734 POINT I/O module, which is compatible with any Logix control platform, including CompactLogix 5370 and 5380 controllers.
Dynamix monitoring system
Dynamix is an integrated monitoring system that enables effective protection of rotating machines in a standard control system. The system offers exceptional flexibility in application design and helps reduce costs for spare parts, training and support.
Control panels and industrial computers
HMI control panels and industrial computers are important elements of industrial automation systems because they ensure direct communication between the operator and the machine.
Electrical equipment
The category of industrial automation system elements also includes commonly understood electrical devices that support the smooth functioning of automation and drive systems and, among other things, ensure the power supply of individual devices as well as increase the level of safety in the installation. .
Examples of elements from the electrical equipment sector are circuit breakers, circuit breakers, contactors, relays, power supplies and signaling towers.
Drive systems
The drive systems category mainly includes frequency converters, soft starters and direct start (DOL) systems. When assembling the drive system, pay attention to the requirements of the respective application and, if necessary, select devices that can withstand harsh environmental conditions (e.g. high and low temperatures, high dust levels, hazardous areas, etc.).
Security systems
When planning and implementing industrial automation systems in any facility, special attention must be paid to the safety of machines and people. Allen-Bradley security systems include solutions such as:
- GuardLink technology;
- CIP security technology;
- light curtains and laser scanners;
- Security sensors (with presence detection function);
- lock switch;
- safety relays;
- Emergency switch;
- safety limit switch;
Sensors and connection systems
The integration and uninterrupted communication of individual elements of industrial automation systems requires the use of appropriate sensors and connection systems. These are mainly:
- presence sensors;
- limit sensors;
- Sensors for non-electrical quantities;
- Network cable;
- connection systems for modules;
- Connection systems for I/O sensors;
- power distribution systems;
- terminal blocks;
CCM electrical panels
The CCM framework is another important element of industrial automation systems, whose task is to ensure traffic continuity in particularly important applications. The use of CCM panels increases machine safety, increases the reliability of production lines and guarantees their scalability.
RAControls experts recommend CENTERLINE 2500 and 1500 low and medium voltage modular panels.
Industrial housing
The function of industrial premises is to provide free access to the elements of the industrial automation system, which allows for continuous monitoring of its efficiency and, if necessary, quickly responding to detected errors. The industrial casing also provides additional protection for sensitive system components.
About RAControls
RAControls is a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, official distributor of Rockwell Automation technology and the Allen-Bradley brand. The company provides professional technical consultancy and comprehensive implementation of automation systems, including: in production units or factories.
You can read the detailed offer from the sector's innovation promoter on the website https://racontrols.pl/ .
