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Topics: Pump control with a PLC on PLC - Programmable Logic Controller
#1
Start by
Peter S Grote
10-26-2013 09:33 PM

Pump control with a PLC

I would like to develop a standard pump control, and plan to use a PLC. If there are some who can provide input to functions, suggestions for programming languages, examples are very welcome.
10-26-2013 11:38 PM
Top #2
Philippe DEFERT
10-26-2013 11:38 PM
Hello
Look at the UNITY sotfware from Schneider Electric. You will be able to use many languages (ST IL LD FBD). The software can be tested under the simulator provide into the IDE. Many Efs avaliable. Many PLC range usable...
A must have for people starting a PLC application.

http://www2.schneider-electric.com/sites/corporate/en/customers/alliance/system-and-architectures/system-platform-and-engineering-tools/system-platform-and-engineering-tools-unity-pro.page
10-27-2013 02:35 AM
Top #3
Luigi Conti
10-27-2013 02:35 AM
Hello
you can use Scheneider Electric PLC (serie 37 - 57) or Siemens PLC (serie S300).
Both have many languages (ST, LD, IL) and the possibility to use the subroutine (FB) for dedicated controls. Both have hevy duty hardware and the possibilty to be connected into a network and controlled by a SCADA software.
10-27-2013 04:47 AM
Top #4
Peter S Grote
10-27-2013 04:47 AM
Thank you for the PLC suggestion I will look into the provided link.
How about functionality, any sample or suggestion
Great help from allan.
10-27-2013 07:21 AM
Top #5
Martin Mckelvie
10-27-2013 07:21 AM
Like your style Peter everyone would like to get a job done for nothing !
10-27-2013 09:28 AM
Top #6
Michael Affronte, Jr.
10-27-2013 09:28 AM
Peter, a bit more info, please. Are we talking speed control of the pump, or just start/stop/status/alarm? Are there valves associated? Where is the pump located- a pump house, or just inline with some piping and accessible? VFD, or across the line start? And, just how expensive do you want to go with this? Is there going to be integration later to a larger system? I can't believe everyone's jumping to one specific solution so quickly without any info. That's ignorance.
10-27-2013 11:52 AM
Top #7
Michael Affronte, Jr.
10-27-2013 11:52 AM
It just seems there are more things to consider here, and a PLC may or may not be the right solution.
10-27-2013 02:47 PM
Top #8
David Smithson
10-27-2013 02:47 PM
I agree with michael I have seen many pump control systems well over engineered using PLC SCADA and profibus etc when a simple instument would have been more than enogh for the control. It doesn't matter whether the pump is used for flow, level, or volume control there are very often solutions that don't involve PLC's and coming from me (my speciality is PLC control) is quite honest.
10-27-2013 05:11 PM
Top #9
David Stonier-Gibson
10-27-2013 05:11 PM
Peter, PLCs are fine for one-off or very small quantities. If this is to be made in volume, say 50+ per year, then you should consider an OEM controller approach. It just so happens that's what my company does :-) . You develop your application using our off the shelf products (we can help you), then we make a board for you that does exactly what you want. This includes tightly integrated fluid level detection, temperature, pH etc. ... whatever your product needs, at a fraction of the cost of buying individual PLC add-ons.

David Stonier-Gibson
10-27-2013 07:39 PM
Top #10
Umashankar AB
10-27-2013 07:39 PM
I agree with David about OEM when it comes to big volume and the repetitive requirement. Cost and complexity would come down if worked out in better way. If the volume is very small and not repeating, I would suggest, small & simple modules like LOGO, which can be programmed easily with out the need for Software Tool & Programming Cable.
10-27-2013 09:55 PM
Top #11
Mark Nelson
10-27-2013 09:55 PM
Peter, if you're talking about a simple on/off control for a pump, I would suggest a PLR vs. a PLC - unless you wish to control other items or if a PLC already exists for this application. PLR's are far less expensive than PLC's and have great features. Also, if you require a VFD for a more complex operation, PLR's also come equipped with Analog Inputs/Ouputs so that you can even develop a PID loop to control your app., if required.

I'm not sure what your budget is, but you may want to take a look here: http://www.factorymation.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.11443/.f

You can also purchase pre-assembled motor/pump starter controls (contactors, overloads, etc., ) from this site. I use'em all the time. Good luck.
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