PLC Report
PLC Report
CONTROLLER
GROUP 8
ARROZ, KELSEY BELLE
JIMENEZ, JANELITO
LANUZA, ARIEL
ORACION, MAVERICK
PRENCILLO, JULIUS
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER
What is a PLC? Communication Protocols: The development of protocols like Modbus
A PLC is an industrial computer system used to automate and Profibus enabled PLCs to communicate with other devices and
electromechanical processes. It continuously monitors input devices, systems, leading to integration, scalability, and the foundation for
makes decisions based on programmed logic, and controls output devices. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
PLCs are essentially miniature industrial computers designed for Microprocessor-based Technology: The shift from relay-based logic to
automation in various industries, including manufacturing, microprocessor-based PLCs enhanced processing speed, memory
transportation, food processing, and mechatronics. capacity, and reliability, allowing them to handle complex tasks.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are important in modern Integration with other technologies: Modern PLCs are integrated with
industrial automation due to their robust design, enabling reliable SCADA systems, Industrial IoT, cloud computing, and even artificial
operation in harsh environments; their programmable nature allows for intelligence and machine learning, further enhancing their capabilities.
flexible adaptation to changing production needs and easy integration
Applications of PLCs
with other systems; they enhance safety through programmable safety
logic and monitoring; and they significantly improve efficiency and PLCs are widely used in various industries and applications, including:
productivity by automating processes and providing valuable real-time Transportation Systems: Controlling escalators, elevators, and other
data for optimization and predictive maintenance, ultimately leading to transportation systems.
substantial cost savings. Food and Beverage Industry: Facilitating packing and labeling
History and Evolution processes.
The first PLC, the Modicon 084, was developed in 1968 by Dick Morley and Glass Industries: Controlling temperature, pressure, and timing during
his team at Bedford Associates. This marked the beginning of modern glass production.
industrial automation, replacing hard-wired relay systems with Water Pump Monitoring and Control: Managing water levels in
programmable logic and flexibility. basements, reservoirs, and sewage systems.
Cement Manufacturing: Ensuring accurate mixing of raw materials and
Since then, PLCs have undergone significant evolution, with controlling shaft kilns, coal kilns, and ball mills.
advancements in: Oil and Gas Industries: Controlling purging procedures to eliminate
flammable atmospheres.
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER
Mechatronics: Software:
Industrial Robotics: Precisely controlling robotic arms, grippers, and
other components. PLC Programming Software: Used to create the PLC program that
Automated Assembly Lines: Coordinating and synchronizing activities in controls input and output devices.
assembly lines. Human Machine Interface (HMI): Provides a graphical interface for
Packaging and Labeling Systems: Managing and directing the operation operators to interact with the PLC.
of multiple packaging machines.
PLC Programming Basics
Car Parking Management Systems: Making it easy for people to find
parking spots. PLC programming involves creating instructions for the PLC to follow. The
file discusses five common PLC programming languages:
Components of a PLC System
A PLC system consists of hardware and software components: Ladder Logic: A graphical language based on relay logic circuit diagrams.
Hardware: Function Block Diagram (FBD): A graphical language using blocks with
Processor (CPU): The "brain" of the PLC, responsible for data processing inputs and outputs.
and instruction execution. Sequential Function Charts (SFC): A graphical language using steps and
Input/Output (I/O) Modules: Interface the PLC with external devices like transitions to control program flow.
sensors and actuators. Structured Text (ST): A high-level textual language with syntax similar to
Power Supply: Converts facility voltage to signal level voltage for the C or C++.
PLC. Instruction List (IL): A low-level textual language that is being
Communication Modules: Allow data transfer between PLCs and other deprecated.
systems.
Hardware Mounting System: Provides physical connection for the PLC
components (rack-mounted, rail-mounted, or panel-mounted).
Programming Device: Used to write and modify the PLC program.
PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER
PLC Operation and Control Improved Connectivity: Faster and more reliable communication
through protocols like Ethernet/IP and PROFINET.
PLCs operate on the principle of reading input signals from sensors, Advanced Software: User-friendly programming environments and
processing them according to programmed logic, and sending output diagnostic tools enhance productivity and system health monitoring.
signals to control devices. This creates a closed-loop control system. Key Cybersecurity: Increased security features protect against cyberattacks.
aspects of PLC operation include: Modular Designs: More flexible and customizable PLCs for changing
Control Logic: The software program that controls the PLC's operations. industrial processes.
Communication Protocols: Define rules for data exchange between the Edge Computing: Faster data processing and decision-making at the
PLC and other devices. Common protocols include Modbus, Profibus, source, reducing latency.
and Ethernet/IP.