Latest Forest Products Articles

Categories

SPC Pillar: Using Control Charts

SPC Pillar: Using Control Charts

Learn how control charts are used in statistical process control (SPC) to show how a process changes with time as compared to past measurements, providing reliable visualizations for data-driven decisions.


What Is a PLC? An Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What Is a PLC? An Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What is a PLC? This article will lay out a succinct definition of a programmable logic controller and explain its basic components.


Info Byte: Definition of Pressure and Flow in Fluid Systems

Info Byte: Definition of Pressure and Flow in Fluid Systems

Pressure and flow rate are terms used in all areas of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Learn the definition and science of these terms, and the reason they are so important within industry.


SPC Pillar: Data Collection

SPC Pillar: Data Collection

Statistical process control (SPC) is meaningless without the proper collection and analysis of data. For some process parameters, this is a simple task. But not every part of a process is driven by simple, quantitative parameters.


Sinking vs. Sourcing for Control System Modules - Explained

Sinking vs. Sourcing for Control System Modules - Explained

Digital control systems are particular about the direction of current flow from sensors and input devices. The terms sourcing and sinking (often abbreviated source and sink) are among the more confusing ratings found on I/O module datasheets. Part 1 of a 3-part series.


Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Any industrial electrician can instantly recognize a relay, but when it comes to wiring, why are the terminals numbered in such apparently random order?


What is Statistical Process Control (SPC)?

What is Statistical Process Control (SPC)?

Learn how statistical process control (SPC) can provide a foundation for decisions used to reduce waste and increase efficiency in the manufacturing process.


Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship between DH and Ethernet networks.


Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.


Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.


Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Ladder diagrams, or ladder logic, is a popular programming language used for PLCs. Programmers can utilize boolean logic as a base for their ladder diagrams. Learn the basics and structures for boolean logic.


Developing a Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Servo Motor Using Mathworks Simulink

Developing a Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Servo Motor Using Mathworks Simulink

Servo motors are widely utilized in industry for numerous applications. How do you use fuzzy logic to control a servo motor?


Introduction to Smart Sensors

Introduction to Smart Sensors

Smart sensors differ from traditional sensors in that they offer benefits such as self-diagnostics, simplified wiring and communication, and more efficient remote monitoring.


Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Learn the similarities and differences between GUIs and HMIs in the industrial sector. Can they be used together?


Protecting Control Systems with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

Protecting Control Systems with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

Safety is of utmost importance in the day-to-day operations of any system, especially a system where humans and machines work together. Learn all about Safety Instrumented Systems and what it takes to keep workers safe, and the system running smoothly!


How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

Struggling to find the best ways to utilize real-time production data? This article reviews six steps to achieve better manufacturing results.


Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Sensing objects is a tricky business because of the many variables in light, surface texture, distance, color, and other factors. Learn how a photo sensor works!


How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

This article reviews how to implement the data science lifecycle CRISP-DM model phases into industrial computer vision.


Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Motors drive all sorts of processes in a facility. Depending on the application, which motor starter is best suited for your needs?


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.