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PLC

Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)

This course introduces to the fundamental engineering principles within the industrial automation field. You will examine the operation and behaviour of various electronic components. DC and AC electrical circuits will then be explored, and key calculations developed. Pneumatic and Hydraulic systems, which are essential disciplines within automation, will be covered. You will acquire an understanding of the hardware aspects of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's). This will be followed by familiarization with the software aspect of PLC's, where simple Ladder Logic programs will be designed and tested. Finally, you will learn about different industrial safety standards and best practices.

PLC

Course Contents:

1. Introduction to Industrial Automation and Basic Electronics

  • Describe the role of automation in industry.
  • Define automation simulation and its advantages.
  • Describe the basic components and features in simple electronic circuits.
  • Use resistors, capacitors, inductors, and solenoids to create simple circuits with correct specifications and wiring procedure.
  • Use a multimeter to measure values in an electronic circuit using correct procedure.

2. DC Circuits

  • Differentiate between AC and DC current types and circuits.
  • Explain the characteristics, operation, and application of DC circuits.
  • Create simple DC circuits.
  • Construct simple series and parallel circuits.
  • Analyze simple series and parallel circuits.

3. AC Circuits

  • Explain the characteristics, operation, and application of AC circuits.
  • Create circuits using single phase AC voltage and current.
  • Create circuits using three phase AC voltage and current.
  • Use an oscilloscope to measure values in an electronic circuit using appropriate procedures.

4. Power and Energy

  • Explain the meaning and characteristics of power in DC and AC circuits.
  • Calculate power values in DC circuits.
  • Calculate power values in single and three phase AC circuits.
  • Explain the meaning and characteristics of energy in a circuit.
  • Calculate energy and usage cost values in circuits.
  • Use a wattmeter to measure values in an electronic circuit using correct procedures.

5. Introduction to Relay Control Systems

  • Describe the purpose, characteristics, and operating principles of an electro-magnetic relays.
  • Describe the purpose, characteristics, and operating principles of solid-state relays.
  • Explain the purpose and characteristics of relay coils, contacts, and circuits.
  • Explain the purpose and characteristics of contactors, overloads, and timer relays.
  • Create relays based electronic circuits using industry best practices.
  • Use relay ladder logic to control circuit operation.

6. Introduction to PLC and PLC Programming

  • Describe the main components of PLC hardware including their purpose, types, characteristics, and operating principles.
  • Describe the common PLC software structures and languages and their appropriate applications.
  • Explain scan cycle and its application in PLC operation.
  • Use XIC, XIO, OTE instructions in PLC programs.
  • Use basic PLC instructions to implement simple logical procedures.
  • Construct ladder logic diagrams using basic timer and counter instructions according to industry best practices.

7. Introduction to Fluid Power

  • Discuss the characteristics and applications of fluid power in industrial automation.
  • Explain the significance of Pascal’s law in force multiplication.
  • Discuss the application of pneumatic and hydraulic principles in automation.
  • Explain the function of various pneumatics including compressors, Filter-Regulator-Lubricator (FRL) units, actuators, and valves.
  • Explain the function of various hydraulic components including pumps, valves, and cylinders as they would be used in automation circuits.
  • Create simple pneumatic and hydraulic circuits using best industrial practices for practical applications.

8. Industrial Safety Standards and Practices

  • Describe the importance and application of safety standards and regulations in industrial automation.
  • Discuss the purpose and industry best practices for the use of interlocks and emergency shutdowns in automation.
  • Discuss the purpose and best practices for the use of electrical safety devices in automation.
  • Explain the importance and best practices for implementation of LOTO (LockOut/TagOut) procedure.
  • Create simple safety circuits for practical applications using simulation software.