Page 325 - Programmable Logic Controllers, Fifth Edition - Mobile version

14.1 Types of Processes
Flow
Material input 1 meter
Process control is the automated control of a process. Material input 2
Such systems typically deal with analog signals from sen- Material input 3
sors. The ability of a PLC to perform math functions and Mixer
utilize analog signals makes it ideally suited for this type motor
of control. Manufacturing is based on a series of processes
being applied to raw materials. Typical applications of Heat batch
process control systems include automobile assembly, Heater
petrochemical production, oil refining, power generation,
and food processing. Mix batch
A continuous process is one in which raw materi-
als enter one end of the system and the finished product
comes out the other end of the system; the process itself
runs continuously. Figure 14-1 shows a continuous pro-
cess used in an automotive engine assembly line. Parts
are mounted sequentially, in an assembly-line fashion, Store batch
through a series of stations. Assembly and adjustments
are carried out by both automated machine and manual
operations. Figure 14-2 Batch process.
In batch processing, there is no flow of product mate-
rial from one section of the process to another. Instead, a
set amount of each of the inputs to the process is received
in a batch, and then some operation is performed on the
batch to produce a product. Products produced using
the batch process include food, beverages, pharmaceuti-
cal products, paint, and fertilizer. Figure 14-2 shows an
example of a batch process. Three ingredients are mixed
together, heated, and then stored. Recipes are the key
to producing batches as each batch may have different
characteristics by design.
Discrete manufacturing is characterized by individ-
ual or separate unit production. With this manufacturing
process, a series of operations produces a useful output
product. Discrete manufacturing systems typically deal
with digital inputs to PLCs that cause motors and robotic Figure 14-3 Discrete manufacturing.
devices to be activated. The work piece is normally a Source: Courtesy Automation IG.

Completed discrete part that must be handled on an individual basis.
engines Adjustments, checks
Making car interiors, as illustrated in Figure 14-3, is one
example of discrete manufacturing.
Possible control configurations include individual,
centralized, and distributed. Individual control is used to
control a single machine. This type of control does not

Automated normally require communication with other controllers.
machine Figure 14-4 shows an individual control application for
assembly Hand assembly a cut to length operation. The operator enters the feed
length and batch count via the interface control panel and
Engine then presses the start button to initiate the process. Stock
block lengths vary, so the operator needs to select the length and
Figure 14-1 Continuous process. the number of pieces to be cut.

306 Chapter 14 Process Control, Network Systems, and SCADA

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