What Is A PLC?
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a rugged industrial computer designed to automate multiple components of a manufacturing process. PLCs produce real time data and analytics as they receive input from different sources along the manufacturing line. They monitor and immediately detect faults using sensors, timers, and setpoints. They can be customized to reflect a specific set of needs down the manufacturing line, such as temperature monitoring. A temperature PLC would provide immediate data and responsive action for industrial heating and cooling needs.
How Do PLCs Work?
When operating, a PLC program continuously runs in a loop and reads input from the connected manufacturing equipment. As it receives input, it communicates with other parts of the system, diagnoses faults and problems, and executes pre-programmed output to fix those problems.
Ladder Logic
PLC programs are built using what is known as a ladder diagram. Ladder diagrams are essentially if/then flowcharts for circuit relays, electronics, and mechanical systems. “If” certain conditions occur…”then” certain actions are executed. Levels or “rungs” of logical rules run the programming.
Temperature PLCs
These same logical rules apply to special temperature controllers to maintain ideal temperatures. A Temperature PLC would help control industrial heating and cooling devices that relieve thermal stress on machinery and equipment.
For example, let’s consider a temperature controller within an automotive factory. All down the assembly line, robotic arms equipped with lasers are scoring, cutting, and welding parts of a car chassis. Each of these machines has a duty cycle, or a duration of time in which the lasers can operate without overheating. Industrial chillers placed down the assembly line electronically connect to a temperature PLC. As the lasers operate, timers and temperature sensors communicate with the PLC. When sensors detect pre-programmed temperature thresholds, the industrial chillers turn on to cool the lasers. Next, the PLC turns off the chillers when the sensors detect another temperature set-point. The temperature controller records, stores, and analyzes all of this data.
As you can see, temperature controllers are valuable tools for preserving equipment, increasing workplace safety, and manufacturing productivity. They protect machinery and reduce downtime by meeting temperature needs in real time.
Powerblanket Temperature PLC Solutions
As innovative as Powerblanket’s industrial heating and cooling products are on their own, how convenient would it be if you could monitor them all from a central location? The good news is you can. Enjoy custom temperature control with our state of the art temperature PLC, the Beacon Smart Controller.
Beacon Smart Controllers
Beacon will monitor and regulate all of your Powerblanket heating and cooling solutions at once. Not only will it monitor the temperatures within all your blankets, but the ambient temperature as well. This allows you to anticipate heating and cooling needs before they even happen.
Our Beacon Smart Controllers aren’t just a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, they’re entirely customizable. You have the power to pre-set any number of temperature ranges and heating a cooling schedules. Then, sit back and let Beacon work for you.
With wifi remote access from a web browser or our mobile app, Beacon provides total temperature control right at your fingertips. As a result, you can enjoy peace of mind without babysitting your industrial thermostats anymore.
Learn more about the advantages of teaming up with Beacon and take control of your temperatures. Contact us today to put total temperature control right at your fingertips, at 844.627.2588 or [email protected].
Powerblanket's industrial control solutions give you the power to automate, remotely control, and monitor your valuable materials and equipment.
