subject: Water and Wastewater Processing Using Programmable Logic Controller [print this page] Water and Wastewater Processing Using Programmable Logic Controller
Water and waste water systems continue to expand their use of Programmable Logic Controller as a method to control processes. The PLC is actually a small computer used for automation control for machinery such as motors and pumps used for water and waste water processing. The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is unique in that unlike general purpose computers, the PLC is packaged and designed for extended temperature ranges. And it can function in dusty or dirty environments. PLCs are also immune to electrical noises. A PLC is mechanically more rugged and resistant to vibrations and impact than a general purpose computer. The PLC replaces the may relays, timers and other devices used to control start/stop, the run times and the level controls as just a few examples of their adaptation to municipal uses.
PLCs provide increased reliability as once the information has been written it can be easily downloaded to a new PLC. The PPLC has more flexibility can be updated by programs from the original equipment manufacturer. Security can be provided through key lock and password. PLCs provide a lower cost if an application has more than a half dozen control timers and relays.
Communication capability is greatly increased with a PLC as it has the capability to communicate with other computer equipment and controllers for better supervisory control and data gathering. They provide faster response times and real time applications than the older type timers and relays such as turning on and off fill valves for components such as water storages and chemicals.
The basic knowledge of ladder logic is necessary to understand PLCs. It recommends those who are not familiar with ladder logic to attend the training or course. Systems that are considering improvements or new facilities such as water or waste water treatment ought to suggest that their designer include PLCs in the design and also to make sure that the program is provided to the water or waste water utility. This information should belong to the system as proprietary information.
PLCs were invented as a less expensive replacement for older automated systems using hundreds of timers and relays. Often a single PLC can replace thousands of relays. A PLC is not a large electrical device piece, depending on the amount of controls they are replacing, but in most cases is no larger than a bread toaster.
One of the many beauties of PLC is that once it is programmed you can save the information on a disc and a computer. Then if the PLC needs to be replaced or updated, the utility can reinstall the program. Another that is you can keep a spare on hand to load the saved information for a waste water treatment facilities or water plant using the same devices.
This allows the spare to be programmed for the place it is needed in a matter of seconds. The PLC has been around since the late 1960's. They were started by the automotive industry for a replacement of the hardwired relay systems. The need arose form the changing model years when it would take days to rewire the relays instead of the few hours it now takes to reprogram the PLC.
Even you no expert in the PLC, but they are a very useful piece of equipment to upgrade for better control and data gathering. Most of this information was taken from the free encyclopedia that is obtained from Wikipedia. To gain information and knowledge, we recommend you to attend the training or course session of programmable logic controller. By attending the training it could upgrade your knowledge and skill in programmable logic controller field, especial PLC for water plant and waste water treatment.
