Advantages of PLCs

  • PLCs are well known for their robust reliability , capable for enduring prolonged operation without breakdowns . This minimizes downtime , ensures uninterrupted operation and improves overall reliability .
  • PLCs having faster response time , so that system performance can be improved.
  • PLC programming languages are designed to be intuitive and user friendly . Engineers or technicians with minimal programming language knowledge can develop and modify control logic .
  • PLCs are rugged and having ability to withstand vibrations , humidity and temperature .
  • PLCs can be easily programmed and easy to modify changes in production process or system requirements .This allows for quick adaptation to new tasks or production lines without extensive hardware modifications .
  • PLCs can be programmed to ensure safe operation of equipment.

What are the different types of PLC ?

PLCs focus on implementing logic and switching operations to efficiently control systems. It is used to control various types of machines or processes through digital or analog input/output.

In this article, we will discuss the Types of PLC, We will start our Article with the Definition of PLC, Then go through the Functional Components of PLC, Then we will go through its Various Types of PLC, At last, we will conclude our Article with the Application, Advantages, Disadvantages and Some FAQs.

Table of Content

  • What is a PLC?
  • Block Diagram and Components
  • The Two Major Types of PLC
  • Compact Vs Modular PLC
  • Type of PLC According to Size
  • Small , Medium and Large PLCs
  • Type of PLC According To Power Supply
  • Type of PLC According To Output
  • Advantages of PLCs
  • Disadvantages of PLCs
  • Applications of PLCs

Similar Reads

What is a PLC?

A programmable logic controller(PLC) is a specialized microprocessor-based controller that is capable of storing instructions to implement control functions such as sequencing, timing, counting, arithmetic, communication, and data manipulation. Engineers with limited computer knowledge can operate them. They feature a user-friendly programming language....

Block Diagram and Functional Components of PLC

The basic components of a programmable logic controller are a processor, power supply , memory , input/output interface , communication interface and programming interface....

The Two Major Types of PLC

PLCs are classified into various types based on size and based on hardware...

Difference Between Compact and Modular PLC

Compact PLC Modular PLC The size of compact PLC is small as it integrates all units into one unit . The size of modular PLC is large as it contains separate units . Due to the integrated design , wiring is simplified Due to separate units , wiring design is complex The initial cost of the system is low for smaller systems. The initial cost of the system is high due to modular design. It requires low maintenance due to integrated design It requires high maintenance as it is having separate units . The number of input and output ports cannot be expanded and reduced. In modular PLC , we can add or remove input and output ports according to the requirement . It requires less space It requires more space Due to its simple Design it can be Easily installed Installation becomes more complex due to the modular design. It supports limited programming languages It supports wide variety of programming languages...

Type of PLC According to Size

On the Basis of the Size the PLC can be classified as...

Difference Between Small , Medium and Large PLCs

SMALL PLC MEDIUM PLC LARGE PLC Smaller size larger size compared to small PLCs Larger size compared to medium PLCs Limited programming languages It supports multiple programming languages It supports multiple programming languages It consists of few number of input/output points It consists of moderate number of input/output points It consists of many number of input/output points Lower cost compared with medium and large PLCs moderate cost Higher initial costs Memory capacity of small PLCs is limited Memory capacity of medium PLCs is moderate Memory capacity of large PLCs is high It is suitable for smaller machines It is suitable for medium sized automation projects It is suitable for large scale industrial automation....

Type of PLC According To Power Supply

on the Basis of the Power Supply Plc can be Classified as...

Type of PLC According To Output

On the Basis of the output, Plc can be Classified as :...

Advantages of PLCs

PLCs are well known for their robust reliability , capable for enduring prolonged operation without breakdowns . This minimizes downtime , ensures uninterrupted operation and improves overall reliability . PLCs having faster response time , so that system performance can be improved. PLC programming languages are designed to be intuitive and user friendly . Engineers or technicians with minimal programming language knowledge can develop and modify control logic . PLCs are rugged and having ability to withstand vibrations , humidity and temperature . PLCs can be easily programmed and easy to modify changes in production process or system requirements .This allows for quick adaptation to new tasks or production lines without extensive hardware modifications . PLCs can be programmed to ensure safe operation of equipment....

Disadvantages of PLCs

Once a PLC system is installed and programmed , it is difficult modify the control logic . It requires regular maintenance to ensure proper operation ,otherwise it increases operational costs and downtime . PLCs are having limited processing power and memory capacity that may restrict the complexity and performance of control algorithms . PLCs programs are difficult to develop as well as for debugging. Initial cost of PLCs is high that includes hardware , software and programming services . These are designed for use in industrial environments with specific temperature , humidity and vibration requirements . Fixed circuit operations....

Applications of PLCs

These are widely used in manufacturing industries for automating production processes , packaging machinery and robotic arms. These are used in paper production industry to manufacture products such as books ,newspapers etc. These are utilized in glass industries for the production high standards of quality in glass production . These are essential for efficient and safe operation of all types of transportation systems including escalators and elevators. PLCs are utilized in automated drainage water pump monitoring and control systems to regulate water levels in areas like basements, reservoirs, and more. These are used in smart grid system to monitor and detect fault conditions ....

Conclusion

Thus programmable logic controllers come in various types according to different application requirements . Small PLCs are compact units suitable for controlling smaller machines such as conveyors and motors .They are cost effective and equipped with sufficient memory for logic programs ....

Types of PLC – FAQs

What are the programming languages used in PLCs ?...