PLC Timer
PLC Timer
OBJECTIVE:
To study the PLCs timer, it functions and types.
PLCs Timers:
A control device that automatically starts or stops machines and other devices when a preset time period has been exceeded called timers.
Functions:
The functions of timers are given below: The timing block functions are used with various contact arrangements and in multiples to accomplish various timing tasks. Typical industrial timing tasks include timing of the intervals for welding, painting, and heat treating. Timers can also predetermine the interval between two operations. With a PLC you can utilize as many timer blocks as you need, within the PLC memory limitations.
Example:
An example of a timer function is in the control of the garage light; on when the garage door is open and off 5 minutes after the door is closed.
The variable time interval may be in accordance with a changing register value. Another advantage of the PLC timer is that its timer accuracy, repeatability, and reliability are extremely high because it is based on solid-state technology.
Types of Timers:
There are three types of timers:
On-Delay Timer
This type of timer simply "delays turning on". In other words, after our sensor (input) turns on we wait x-seconds before activating a solenoid valve (output). This is the most common timer. It is often called TON (timer on-delay), TIM (timer) or TMR (timer).
Off-Delay Timer
This type of timer is the opposite of the on-delay timer listed above. This timer simply "delays turning off". After our sensor (input) sees a target we turn on a solenoid (output). When the sensor no longer sees the target we hold the solenoid on for x-seconds before turning it off. It is called a TOF (timer off-delay) and is less common than the on-delay type listed above. (i.e. few manufacturers include this type of timer)