What is PLC Programming and Automation and What are its Advantages?
PLC is the abbreviation of Programmable Logic Controller, which means "programmable logical controller". It is an automation device that can be programmed on demand, used in the production departments of factories or in the control processes of working machines. PLC programming is an automation device with the ability to perform automatic work in a short time . It plays an important role in cost-effective production and minimizing errors during production .
Although the programs used in PLC operating systems are different, they are generally similar to each other and consist of five main parts. These; Central Processing Unit, Memory, Operator Panel, Power Stage, Input/Output sections. Those who learn one can easily grasp the others. These programs reside in ROM and are installed on the device during production.
The operating system generally performs the following functions:
- •Applies the program determined by the user.
- •It regulates the operation of the event and time dependent interrupt service.
- • Determines if an error occurs in the system.
- •It regulates the communication between PLCs.
Usage areas of PLC
PLC; control of furnaces, control of the on/off positions of motors and valves and their failure conditions, automatic activation of a spare pump instead of a failed pump, energy distribution control, control of which floors the elevators will visit in which order, determining the order of the machines working in a production line, various machinery and It can be used in applications that require data collection about similar equipment and control of parameters such as temperature, pressure, humidity, velocity, weight.
PLC programming works with a different logic than a computer. While other programming puts many different jobs in order and performs them in a certain order; PLC repeats the same job continuously. The program is in a continuous loop. After all commands are executed sequentially, it is returned to the beginning. The PLC program works like the parts called loops in computer languages. The PLC program is designed to perform multiple jobs at the same time. Independent events and commands must run simultaneously, that is, before one event ends, another must begin.
What are the advantages of PLC programming and automation?
Their biggest advantage over computers is that they are designed to be resistant to temperature differences, shocks and electrical noises. PLCs are devices that take up very little space according to their capabilities and can also communicate with each other, with personal computers and with other smart devices.
Advantages of PLC over relay systems; It provides a higher level of automation, can work longer without maintenance, has fewer malfunctions and takes up less space. In addition, when the technical requirements change, the system with PLC adapts to the new situation with less change or without the need for change, while this is difficult in systems with relays.
You can also start your studies in this field with " PLC with Siemens S7-1200 ", which was written for those who want to learn PLC programming or improve their PLC programming knowledge. The book, which reinforces the theoretical knowledge with applications and simulations, will help you learn this system, which stands out in the field of production, from start to finish.