Process automation and control is an industrial system in which processes are controlled and monitored automatically so that only a few people are needed to carry them out. Process automation and control ensures repeatable high quality products and avoids generation of faulty batches due to operator error.
A machine’s automation system primarily consists of power and control components. For a smaller machine, these may be housed in one panel (figure 1); whereas larger machines may require multiple panels, often one for control and another for power. The main subsystems and components of a machine automation system are:
- power distribution
- motor control and drives
- safety system units
- SCADA System Components
- programmable controllers
- discrete and analog I/O
- communication systems
- human-machine interface (HMI)
The power distribution subsystem feeds power to components, such as motors, drives, and controllers. The control subsystem primarily consists of safety systems, programmable controllers, discrete and analog I/O, communication systems, and HMIs. Let’s look at each of these areas in more detail.