In this issue of the Automation Notebook…
In each issue of the Automation Notebook we feature a section of brainteasers. These are the brainteaser answers from Issue 20, 2011 of the Automation Notebook. The brainteaser questions are repeated in black. The answers to the brainteaser questions are highlighted in red with explanations. You can view the brainteasers from Issue 20, 2011 without the answers…
1. Shopping Cart Jumble An engineer went to: www.AutomationDirect.com to purchase some high-value automation parts. She purchased various quantities of three parts: proximity sensors at $50 each, Stable motor mounting bases at $10 each, and Nitra pneumatic fittings at $0.50 each. She purchased a total of 100 parts, and spent exactly $1000 dollars (qualifying…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookIndustryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMachine ControlManufacturingNotebook IssueOperator InterfacePLCProcess ControlProductProgrammable ControlTech Thread
PLC-Based System Works Where Single Loop Temperature Controllers Fell Short
In many applications, single loop temperature controllers are sufficient to provide control of heating and cooling. But in some applications, including the one detailed in this article, closely coordinated control among many temperature control loops is needed. In those cases and others, PLC-based temperature control can be the best solution. A meltblown machine, a melted…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookAutomationDirect SpotlightEnergy/UtilitiesIndustryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMotion ControlNotebook IssuePLCProcess ControlProductProgrammable ControlStudent SpotlightStudent Spotlight
Multi-Mirror Solar Array Pleasantville High School
The Industrial Technology students at Pleasantville High School, in Pleasantville, Iowa (southeast of Des Moines), have spent the last three years building a multi-mirror solar array. Students from four different technology classes have contributed to the project over the three year period; the AutoCAD and drafting classes have helped design and document the project, students…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookAutomationDirect SpotlightEntertainmentIndustryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssuePneumaticsProductStudent SpotlightUser Solutions
House Theatre of Chicago
House Theatre of Chicago’s original-script production of The Nutcracker demanded moving, changing scenery that magically transformed the set at the push of a button. AutomationDirect’s extensive line of pneumatic and electrical components helped us realize these design elements easily, elegantly, and reliably.
+Tech TopicsApplicationAutomation NotebookEnergy/UtilitiesIndustryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssueProductProgrammable ControlTechnology BriefVariable Speed Drives
Top 10 Tips: Specifying VFDs (Part One of a Two-Part Series)
This is part one of a two-part series on variable frequency drives. VFDs can reduce energy consumption, improve real-time control, and lengthen motor life; selecting the right one for your application requires asking the correct questions. Here are some expert tips to consider. Determine if a VFD is right for your application. The primary function of…
We have added several exciting products since our last edition of the Automation Notebook. Here are some highlights about some of those new products including: AutomationDirect renews partnership with Kepware for communications, Encapsulated transformers line expanded, Inductive DC proximity sensors, Compact fusible switches available, Current sensing line expands with ground fault sensors and DC current transducers…
AutomationDirect’s safety product line now includes Dold safety relay devices for use in industrial applications. Used in conjunction with our light curtains and safety limit switches, these relays offer reliable control for machine safety applications. LG5924 Series relays are singlechannel E-stop relays designed to protect people and machines in applications with emergency stop buttons. Available…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookFeature StoryIssue 20 – 2011Learning ResourcesMotor ControlsNotebook IssuePLCProcess ControlProductProgrammable Control
Upgrading Pump Stations with PLCs
When relays and timer circuits get old, they cause problems. Replacing them with PLCs keeps pumps running smoothly. One of the most important jobs of a water distribution system is to reliably deliver water to its customers. At our water district in California, we had pumping stations (Figure 1) with relay-based controls that were more…