PLC PROCESS

TecQuipment’s PLC Process gives students and engineers practical experience of the principles and application of programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The object is to connect and program an external, programmable logic controller to monitor and control the level and flow rate of water in a two-tank system.

The apparatus has two transparent tanks, mounted one above the other. A variable-speed pump transfers water from the reservoir (in the base of the unit) into the upper tank. The water can drain down to the lower tank and then back into the reservoir. Solenoid valves may be individually opened or closed to control and redirect the movement of the water. The pump control is on or off, but a manual control allows the user to set the speed. A float switch in the reservoir monitors the level of water.

Each tank includes two level sensors which measure maximum and minimum water levels. An in-line flow sensor provides a pulsed output. Its frequency is proportional to the flow rate and the number of pulses proportional to volume.

Indicators next to each input and output socket show the on/off status of the pump, the valves, the maximum and minimum level in each tank, and the flow rate.

An overflow in each tank prevents accidental overfilling.

Note: Essential Base Unit Needed: PLC Trainer (CE123) – An industrial-standard PLC in a compact case with buffered connections for educational use. Includes programming software for use with a suitable computer (not included). You must use the PLC Process with TecQuipment’s PLC Trainer (CE123). A multi-way lead connects the unit to the trainer. This lead carries the power for the pump and valve solenoids, and completes the return path for the input and output sockets. Refer to separate datasheet for details of the PLC Trainer (CE123).

Key features

• Compact, benchtop unit
• Connects to TecQuipment’s PLC Trainer (CE123) to mimic a realistic industrial process
• Allows basic and advanced studies of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in industrial applications
• Demonstrates control of liquid flow, volume and level in two tanks
• Includes a selection of fully controllable valves to give many different liquid level and flow control experiments, including batch processing
• Front panel includes mimic diagram of the process so students can clearly see what they are controlling