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Grounding for Control Transformers

Grounding transformer connections presents its own set of challenges. This article addresses these challenges and several common configurations for control transformer grounding.

12 hours ago by David Peterson

Honeywell Report Suggests Using Automation to Avoid Stagnancy and Track Performance for DC Logistics

As logistics providers face increasing consumer demand and disruption, automation plays a key role in stabilizing the supply chain via future-facing integration and worker specialization.

July 20, 2022 by Caitlin Nicholson

Understanding Centralization vs Decentralization of PLCs

Centralized control systems are often seen as outdated compared to decentralized systems; however, both have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to choosing which one to use in manufacturing. 

July 13, 2022 by Seth Price

CTRL F3: Factory Explosion Field Study

The CTRL F3 series reviews field studies and failures in the field focused on control fails, fixes, and facts. This article covers an explosion at an industrial sawmill.

July 12, 2022 by Jon Peterson

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Hardware - Control Automation

Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems are the core of most industrial control systems that drive modern manufacturing. In this Control Automation video, we discuss the important hardware elements that define a PLC, regardless of its size or purpose.

July 06, 2022 by David Peterson

Control Automation Launches PLC Tutorial Video Series

Watch our 'Introduction to PLCs' series by our very own Control Automation engineering staff. Join us for the YouTube premier LIVE event on Wednesday, July 6th with a Q&A from the video author and engineer.

July 05, 2022 by David Peterson

Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) - Control Automation

Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems are the core of most industrial control systems that drive modern manufacturing. In our Control.com video tutorials, we will share information, experience, and tips for working with PLCs—from the hardware, to the wiring, to the programming logic of inputs, outputs, and communication processes.

June 24, 2022 by David Peterson

Rockwell Automation on the Present and Future of PLC Technology - What Should You do to Prepare?

Explore trends in PLC technology that give us a glimpse into what the future may hold for hardware, software, and system architecture.

In partnership with Rockwell Automation

A How-to Guide to Control Automation Day 2022

Welcome to Control Automation Day 2022—Control.com’s digital-only event for engineers! Here is your guide to navigating the keynote addresses, live educational sessions, and exciting giveaways from your favorite manufacturers!

June 20, 2022 by David Peterson

Obsolescence in Control Systems - Disaster or Opportunity?

One of the most considerable risks in aging control environments is that eventually, spare parts become obsolete and unavailable, and the lack of an upgrade plan can turn a simple failure into a catastrophe.

June 14, 2022 by Antonio Armenta

End-to-End Automation Solutions: What Does That Mean?

Many companies offer automation solutions that work from the beginning to the end of a process. Not the progress of the product through the facility, but rather hardware from the shop floor to the cloud level and everything in between. We highlight here some solutions from Emerson and Bosch Rexroth from Automate 2022.

June 09, 2022 by David Peterson

Using AWS Greengrass and SageMaker Tools to Detect Manufacturing Defects

This article discusses Amazon Web Services (AWS), Amazon SageMaker and AWS IoT Greengrass, and how their capabilities at the edge can impact machine learning use cases such as defect defection.

May 24, 2022 by Ali Osman Ors, NXP Semiconductors

Control.com Announces Control Automation Day 2022!

Control Automation Day 2022 will be on June 21st, focusing on PLC systems, packed with keynote addresses, educational live sessions, and exciting giveaways from your favorite manufacturers!

May 18, 2022 by David Peterson

Launcher’s 3D-Printed E-2 Engine Successfully Completes Test Fire

Pioneering space vehicle developer, Launcher, announces a testing milestone as its 3D-printed E-2 engine achieves full thrust at the NASA Stennis Space Center.

May 09, 2022 by Stephanie Leonida

Rockwell’s New Armor Powerflex Variable Frequency Drive

Rockwell recently announced the newest addition to the PowerFlex family of VFD units - the Armor PowerFlex series, designed for on-machine control with heightened IP ratings over previous models.

May 03, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich

Parker Hannifin Announces PAC Motion Controller and Modules

Hydraulic component leader Parker Hannifin recently announced a new PAC motion controller and module series with web-based visualization for instant remote monitoring of up to 40 motion axes.

April 28, 2022 by David Peterson

Replacing a Control Cabinet with Modules? Beckhoff Says Yes!

Beckhoff Automation is advancing the concept of reducing cabinet space and lowering construction time with their recently announced MX-System.

April 21, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich

SmartScan: Could it Improve the Quality of Metal 3D Printed Parts?

A University of Michigan team recently created a new control software called SmartScan, which promises to increase speed and reliability of printing (particularly in metal) by optimizing toolpath based on material properties.

April 20, 2022 by Damond Goodwin

Web-Based Industrial HMIs: What’s The Difference?

With the increasing appearance of “web-based” HMIs, we investigate these devices, learn how they differ from the graphical HMIs, and see implications for our modern control system architecture.

April 13, 2022 by Anish Devasia

Control Techniques Launches VFD With App-Based Commissioning Tools

Commander S series of variable frequency drives from Control Techniques enables parameter upload and download as well as performance monitoring through secure NFC, app-based communication.

April 13, 2022 by David Peterson