Learn how to set up Ethernet/IP communications, including steps for both the FANUC controller and the Studio 5000 environment for a Rockwell PLC. Connecting a PLC to a FANUC robot via Ethernet/IP offers numerous benefits for industrial automation. It gives access to integrated control, allowing coordination between different manufacturing process components. The PLC can send … Read more
Coil, field winding, rotor, stator, eddy current… When it comes to motors, there are numerous terms that describe the theory of operation, but what is inside a 3-phase motor? Take a look, and learn how they work. One of the most common devices to find inside any industrial operation is the 3-phase induction motor. These … Read more
AC motors are common throughout industry – easily controlled by VFDs and without the maintenance that comes with DC brushes. So then, why are DC motors still used in certain applications? Direct Current (DC) Motors All motors work on the principle of switching magnet forces to rotate a shaft. A DC motor uses direct current … Read more
A brief overview of controllers through history and an analysis of factors to consider when deciding which one to use. A Historical Context PLCs were initially introduced in the 1960s and early 1970s. The goal back then was to replace relay switch cabinets and large masses of wires with a more compact and efficient solution. Later … Read more
There are multiple methods for mapping inputs and outputs to an industrial robot. In this article, we cover two of the most popular methods: letting the robot or the PLC control the I/O signals. There is one unavoidable question to ask during your next robotic design, no matter what brand of robot is used: you … Read more
In this article, we take a look at hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators and how they are used in different scenarios. Actuators are key in automating processes as they convert energy into a form of mechanical motion. What types of actuators are available to engineers and when should they be used? What is an Actuator? Generally speaking, an actuator … Read more
PID controllers are an excellent method of using feedback to turn an otherwise open-loop system into one which can follow a carefully prescribed profile, correcting for inconsistencies caused by the equipment, the environment, and even the products in the manufacturing process. In many systems, it is sufficient to send voltage to a motor or valve, … Read more
Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in parallel circuits common in industrial control systems. The simplest form of circuit configuration, the series resistance circuit, does not appear in the vast majority of industrial control circuits. This is surprising since it seems to be … Read more
Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in industrial series (or control) circuits. For most electrical engineers and students, the most basic form of circuit combination is the series circuit. However, when it comes to industrial control circuits, the definition of a series circuit … Read more
Wiring design systems can become confusing when some switching devices send power to the load automatically while others do not. Often called ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ contacts, these devices are fairly easy to troubleshoot once the differences are understood. In the world of control devices, we can find a nearly endless variety of brands, models, and … Read more