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Three-Wire vs. Six-Wire Three-Phase Motors

Three-Wire vs. Six-Wire Three-Phase Motors

Three-phase motors with three or six wires have limited options for wiring, but are easier to use and have important roles to play. Learn the difference between three- and six-wire three-phase motors for low and high voltage applications.


Comparing Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Motors

Comparing Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Motors

In this article, learn the differences between single- and three-phase motors, including how each one works and applications best suited for each type.


 An Overview of Hall Effect Sensors

An Overview of Hall Effect Sensors

Learn about Hall Effect sensors and how they are used in a variety of ways from robotics to proximity applications.


Controlling VFDs with Manual Inputs

Controlling VFDs with Manual Inputs

To increase the flexibility of a motor control system, a variable frequency drive (VFD) is a common device that solves many motor control problems. In this article, learn how to control manual input of VFDs.


Common Motor Windings and Wiring for Three-Phase Motors

Common Motor Windings and Wiring for Three-Phase Motors

This article looks at some common windings and wirings for three-phase motors, including internal Wye windings and low and high voltage wirings.


Introduction to Advanced Motor Control Circuits

Introduction to Advanced Motor Control Circuits

This article looks at a few of the more advanced motor control circuits for a three-phase motor.


An Introduction to Parallel Circuits for Industrial Engineers

An Introduction to Parallel Circuits for Industrial Engineers

Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in parallel circuits common in industrial control systems.


Understanding Boiler Safety Controls

Understanding Boiler Safety Controls

This article looks at the safety systems included in boilers to alert malfunctions and prevent damage when issues arise. Learn about the safety systems and the ISO standard used to keep boilers running smoothly.


Introduction to Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

Introduction to Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

Distributed control systems (DCS) evolved out of control systems for facilities, but their scope can be difficult to fully understand. This article explores the role of a DCS and how it fits in with PLCs and PACs.


The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The following will examine how to reduce the wear on motors during startup and compare soft starters and variable frequency drives (VFDs). 


Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

This article discusses how to use sensors with open collector outputs and learning some of the module connections involved.


The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses.


Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

This article will provide an overview of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, IEC standard 60529, sometimes referred to as International Protection code.


Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Learn about orifice plates and specifically how to size orifice plates for flow measurements and the different flow rates associated with them.


How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

Electrical noise is a common problem inside industrial facilities. The following will explain a few simple strategies for reducing this noise.


Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Two of the most common protocols are Modbus and Profinet. They are similar in many ways, but there are some crucial differences.


Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

This article discusses several different types of NEMA enclosure ratings and which one may be the right one for your specific applications.


Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

This article discusses motor contractors and how they play an essential role in most robotic cells.


Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral or Reset Windup is a problem that can occur from these systems, and there are a few possible approaches to minimize the effects.


An Overview of Integral Gain

An Overview of Integral Gain

This article discusses the meaning of integral gain and how to calculate integral gain to achieve better control results.