December 2011 Control Engineering archive
Using the Automation Integrator Guide
The 2012 Automation Integrator Guide expands its print and online offerings. Automation integrator resources follow for system integrators or those working with system integrators. » more
CSIA grows in numbers, internationally
Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) is growing in members, international presence, conference participation, and organizational mission, helping automation system integrators and their... » more
Be a player when it comes to electrical energy efficiency
Industrial Energy Management: The U.S. electrical grid is characterized by mechanical switches with slow response times, a lack of analytics, and poor system visibility. Sounds like a job for an... » more
Solutions provided, motivation required
Industrial Energy Management: Schneider Electric wagers that discrete and process manufacturers are serious about energy management, introduces StruxureWare. » more
Energy management: The start of something big
According to the National Resources Defense Council, process industry energy costs have risen from below 7% of total cost in the 1950s-90s, to between 15% and 20% today. » more
November 2011 Control Engineering archive
Power regeneration system generates power, instead of heat
Case study: Briggs & Stratton’s first-of-its-kind power regeneration system cuts costs in reliability lab. Global small engine maker captures wasted energy, expects to save $50,000 per year, and... » more
Water treatment plant upgrades automation
A user reflects on his utility’s decision to move to PLC control 17 years ago. Getting rid of the old SCADA system gave the utility flexibility that it still enjoys. » more
Center Ethanol plant finds efficiencies
Even in a tough market, smart companies that leverage efficiencies can stay in business and even thrive. » more
October 2011 Control Engineering archive
Cellular router connects Ethernet, remote LANs
Product Exclusive: Spectre 3G cellular router from B+B Electronics connects Ethernet equipment and remote LANs via the cellular telephone network, with secure Ethernet connections, for... » more
Vision sensing technology in track-and-trace applications
Sensors work with control systems to follow perishable and critical products through manufacturing and distribution. » more
Diagnostics for machine tool monitoring
An open modular architecture diagnostic system is designed for machine tool condition monitoring, as reported by Control Engineering Poland. » more
Product Exclusive: B&R Automation Studio meets programming goals faster
B&R Automation Studio 3.0 enables faster control software programming using a mechatronic approach and object-oriented programming, using C++ along with IEC 61131-3 programming languages. » more
Process instrumentation: Get the data, use the data
Smart instruments can deliver unprecedented amounts of information, but using the data to improve plant performance can be challenging. » more
September 2011 Control Engineering archive
Inside process: System upgrade saves operating costs
Texas water utility narrows down to one platform provider for greater efficiency while keeping existing networking infrastructure. » more
Design trends in PLC-based control systems
Advances in electronics manufacturing are supporting higher functionality levels in industrial automation hardware. » more
August 2011 Control Engineering archive
Laser spectroscopy for measuring moisture in natural gas
Spectroscopy avoids sensor degradation possible with direct contact analysis methods resulting from contaminants in the product stream. » more
Inside Machines: Automated measuring system
New control system for an automated measuring system testing improves communications and saves space. » more
An iPhone as Your Next HMI?
Consumer-grade smartphones and tablet computers are fast becoming commonplace extensions of industrial networks, permitting process monitoring and, even (gasp!) process control. » more
Inside Machines: Fly Me to the Moon
Tiny motion control technology helps with a prototype lunar mechanical tool changer for a robot that could unload moon landers from a spacecraft and then do various science experiments. » more
Think Again: Walt Disney Imagineering, NASA space travel
What do Walt Disney Imagineering and NASA space travel have in common? Engineering inspiration. » more
July 2011 Control Engineering archive
Developing People: Making operators more effective
Tools and methods for creating an industrial operator workplace ready for the needs of today and tomorrow. Improved situational awareness and better handling of abnormal conditions helps operators... » more
Pinch valve allows automated control of low-volume, clean, sterile liquids
Emerson Process Management's Baumann 85000 eliminates the inefficiencies and poor control given by manually-operated pinch valves typically used in these high value applications. » more
Inside process: Industrial gas producer upgrades control
Airgas Madison plant runs sold out, so downtime is very costly. Upgrading its DCS helped maximize production and maintain operational data. » more
Inside process: Instrumentation challenges of walnut processing
Walnut meat kernels have to be dried to optimum moisture content quickly and efficiently. How do you measure that? » more
Cover story: Giving your plant a cyber health checkup
Creating a strong cyber security health regimen so you can defend against threats, external and internal. » more
June 2011 Control Engineering archive
Cover Story - Wireless Applications: Less Cost, More Productivity, Compliance
What does industrial wireless do for you? There’s up to 90% installed cost savings. Look for productivity, security, and regulatory compliance advantages. » more
Product Exclusive: Large, color PLC+HMI touchscreen
Unitronics new Vision1210 is an industrial programmable logic controller integrated with a 12.1-in. color human-machine interface with touchscreen. » more
Product Exclusive: 3D physical modeling simulation software
Maplesoft MapleSim 5 release opens new avenues for 3D model development, faster feedback and resolution, and code exports for other systems. » more
Adding Ethernet protocol options
If your device has to be able to communicate using more than one industrial Ethernet protocol, the number of options is growing. » more
Beyond the PV: Advancing instrumentation
How sophisticated signal processing and advanced applications are expanding the measurement palette. » more
May 2011 Control Engineering archive
Optimizing your HMI
Taking time to reevaluate workstations and interfaces can uncover countless ways to increase performance, optimize efficiency, and boost profitability. » more
Cover story: Control loop monitors help optimize controller performance
Vendors of control loop performance monitoring and optimization software describe what it does and how users benefit. See graphics, related links. » more
Product Exclusive: Wireless gateway
B&B Electronics Zlinx Wireless Gateway provides an alternative to expensive field calls or manual monitoring processes. This is a May 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Product Exclusive: Single airflow sensor
Festo SFAM 90 Flow Sensor reduces energy costs and improves productivity and quality. This is a May 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Batch operations benefit from process analytical technology
A successful application of batch analytics for online operation, resulting in a solution validated for a specialty chemicals batch process. The discussion illustrates basics of batch analytics... » more
April 2011 Control Engineering archive
Decreasing the Cost of Control
One of the most basic ways to reduce the cost of control is to reduce the number of variables. Using advanced process control (APC) can cut down the number of loops required to run a given process,... » more
Belden’s GarrettCom purchase expands smart grid offerings
Acquisition of GarrettCom strengthens Belden's wireless offerings with technologies for the smart grid, including grade switches, routers and security software. » more
Product Exclusive: United Electric Controls TX200H, HART 7 smart pressure transmitter
Designed for upstream oil and gas applications, the TX200H simplifies field adjustments and communicates asset management data via the latest HART 7 specification. This is an April 2011 Control... » more
Distillery retains tradition, but upgrades control system
While making bourbon is steeped in traditional practices, Four Roses likes to keep its automation up to date. » more
Overcoming Barriers to Wireless Adoption
Wireless is flexible, versatile, and can be cost effective; however, concerns with security, reliability, and capacity of wireless continue to prevent conservative end users from reaping its... » more
March 2011 Control Engineering archive
Product Exclusive: Multiaxis drive for motion control
Galil AMP-43540 4-axis Sinusoidal Drive integrates with Ethernet DMC-41x3 and DMC-40x0 motion controllers, saving cost, space, wiring. This is a March 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Product Exclusive: Software exports info from electric-pneumatic distributed I/O
Festo CPX-FMT software exports configuration assembly data from the electric/pneumatic Distributed I/O system, Festo CPX, into RSLogix5000 software from Rockwell Automation. CPX supports Ethernet/IP... » more
Product Exclusive: Panel wiring system saves time, space
Eaton transforms panel wiring, lowering total cost of ownership, improving system reliability for original equipment manufacturers. This is a March 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Portable 4-channel oscilloscopes for harsh environments
Fluke ScopeMeter 190 Series II are a family of hand-held portable oscilloscopes designed for harsh industrial use and are safety rated for CAT III 1,000 V / CAT IV 600 V environments. The... » more
Process engineer job satisfaction survey
Process engineers are stable and generally happy people who say they enjoy their work. The pay's not bad, too. » more
February 2011 Control Engineering archive
Cyber security vulnerability assessment
The first step in creating an effective defense is figuring out where the vulnerabilities are in the system. This is a difficult but necessary process, and it never ends. » more
2011 Engineers’ Choice Awards - Spotlight on Innovation
Cover story: Best automation, control, and instrumentation products in 30 categories. » more
Product Exclusive: Ethernet 2.0 controller; SD card adds 8 GB
Get up to 1000 instructions in 235μ for industrial Ethernet applications in the Wago Corp. 750-880 Ethernet 2.0 Programmable Fieldbus Controller, with 1 MB data memory and an SD port allowing up to 8... » more
January 2011 Control Engineering archive
PLC performs high-speed sequencing, interlocking operations, extends larger control platforms
Honeywell's Master Logic programmable logic controllers bring power and robustness to very high-speed logic, interlock and sequencing applications. » more
Cataloging loop drawings, tags in a spreadsheet
How a refinery used Excel to document its automation infrastructure during a DCS upgrade. Some simple tools can keep it all in order. » more
Technologies cooperate to control critical mixing operation
Is sophisticated batch control rocket science? Mixing ablative coating for space shuttle rocket boosters requires very high levels of precision and repeatability. » more
Unfolding Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)!
An OSHA/legal definition of de minimis and a clearer understanding of – What do employees need to know? will certainly help all companies unfold LOTO for full compliance. » more
Using the Automation Integrator GuideThe 2012 Automation Integrator Guide expands its print and online offerings. Automation integrator resources follow for system integrators or those working with system integrators. » more
CSIA grows in numbers, internationally Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) is growing in members, international presence, conference participation, and organizational mission, helping automation system integrators and their... » more
Be a player when it comes to electrical energy efficiencyIndustrial Energy Management: The U.S. electrical grid is characterized by mechanical switches with slow response times, a lack of analytics, and poor system visibility. Sounds like a job for an... » more
Solutions provided, motivation requiredIndustrial Energy Management: Schneider Electric wagers that discrete and process manufacturers are serious about energy management, introduces StruxureWare. » more
Energy management: The start of something bigAccording to the National Resources Defense Council, process industry energy costs have risen from below 7% of total cost in the 1950s-90s, to between 15% and 20% today. » more
Power regeneration system generates power, instead of heatCase study: Briggs & Stratton’s first-of-its-kind power regeneration system cuts costs in reliability lab. Global small engine maker captures wasted energy, expects to save $50,000 per year, and... » more
Water treatment plant upgrades automationA user reflects on his utility’s decision to move to PLC control 17 years ago. Getting rid of the old SCADA system gave the utility flexibility that it still enjoys. » more
Security considerations for wireless implementation
Whether specifying a new wireless installation, expanding an existing implementation, or evaluating wireless protocols, the security issues are similar. Understanding them can improve the security... » more
Whether specifying a new wireless installation, expanding an existing implementation, or evaluating wireless protocols, the security issues are similar. Understanding them can improve the security... » more
Center Ethanol plant finds efficienciesEven in a tough market, smart companies that leverage efficiencies can stay in business and even thrive. » more
Cellular router connects Ethernet, remote LANsProduct Exclusive: Spectre 3G cellular router from B+B Electronics connects Ethernet equipment and remote LANs via the cellular telephone network, with secure Ethernet connections, for... » more
Vision sensing technology in track-and-trace applicationsSensors work with control systems to follow perishable and critical products through manufacturing and distribution. » more
Diagnostics for machine tool monitoringAn open modular architecture diagnostic system is designed for machine tool condition monitoring, as reported by Control Engineering Poland. » more
Product Exclusive: B&R Automation Studio meets programming goals fasterB&R Automation Studio 3.0 enables faster control software programming using a mechatronic approach and object-oriented programming, using C++ along with IEC 61131-3 programming languages. » more
Process instrumentation: Get the data, use the dataSmart instruments can deliver unprecedented amounts of information, but using the data to improve plant performance can be challenging. » more
Inside process: System upgrade saves operating costsTexas water utility narrows down to one platform provider for greater efficiency while keeping existing networking infrastructure. » more
Launching a gas turbine control upgrade project
Knowing how to engage with prospective suppliers when requesting a proposal will enable a good decision and lower your risk. » more
Knowing how to engage with prospective suppliers when requesting a proposal will enable a good decision and lower your risk. » more
Disturbance-Rejection vs. Setpoint-Tracking Controllers
Designing a feedback control loop starts with understanding its objective as well as the process’s behavior. » more
Designing a feedback control loop starts with understanding its objective as well as the process’s behavior. » more
Gas detectors help with drug tablet coating thickness
Sensitive detectors, from Minneapolis-based Sensor Electronics, monitor ethanol gas concentrations in the exhaust streaming from the coating machine. » more
Sensitive detectors, from Minneapolis-based Sensor Electronics, monitor ethanol gas concentrations in the exhaust streaming from the coating machine. » more
Design trends in PLC-based control systemsAdvances in electronics manufacturing are supporting higher functionality levels in industrial automation hardware. » more
Laser spectroscopy for measuring moisture in natural gasSpectroscopy avoids sensor degradation possible with direct contact analysis methods resulting from contaminants in the product stream. » more
Inside Machines: Automated measuring systemNew control system for an automated measuring system testing improves communications and saves space. » more
An iPhone as Your Next HMI?Consumer-grade smartphones and tablet computers are fast becoming commonplace extensions of industrial networks, permitting process monitoring and, even (gasp!) process control. » more
Inside Machines: Fly Me to the MoonTiny motion control technology helps with a prototype lunar mechanical tool changer for a robot that could unload moon landers from a spacecraft and then do various science experiments. » more
Think Again: Walt Disney Imagineering, NASA space travelWhat do Walt Disney Imagineering and NASA space travel have in common? Engineering inspiration. » more
Developing People: Making operators more effectiveTools and methods for creating an industrial operator workplace ready for the needs of today and tomorrow. Improved situational awareness and better handling of abnormal conditions helps operators... » more
Pinch valve allows automated control of low-volume, clean, sterile liquidsEmerson Process Management's Baumann 85000 eliminates the inefficiencies and poor control given by manually-operated pinch valves typically used in these high value applications. » more
Inside process: Industrial gas producer upgrades controlAirgas Madison plant runs sold out, so downtime is very costly. Upgrading its DCS helped maximize production and maintain operational data. » more
Inside process: Instrumentation challenges of walnut processingWalnut meat kernels have to be dried to optimum moisture content quickly and efficiently. How do you measure that? » more
Cover story: Giving your plant a cyber health checkupCreating a strong cyber security health regimen so you can defend against threats, external and internal. » more
Cover Story - Wireless Applications: Less Cost, More Productivity, ComplianceWhat does industrial wireless do for you? There’s up to 90% installed cost savings. Look for productivity, security, and regulatory compliance advantages. » more
Product Exclusive: Large, color PLC+HMI touchscreenUnitronics new Vision1210 is an industrial programmable logic controller integrated with a 12.1-in. color human-machine interface with touchscreen. » more
Product Exclusive: 3D physical modeling simulation softwareMaplesoft MapleSim 5 release opens new avenues for 3D model development, faster feedback and resolution, and code exports for other systems. » more
Adding Ethernet protocol optionsIf your device has to be able to communicate using more than one industrial Ethernet protocol, the number of options is growing. » more
Beyond the PV: Advancing instrumentationHow sophisticated signal processing and advanced applications are expanding the measurement palette. » more
Optimizing your HMITaking time to reevaluate workstations and interfaces can uncover countless ways to increase performance, optimize efficiency, and boost profitability. » more
Cover story: Control loop monitors help optimize controller performanceVendors of control loop performance monitoring and optimization software describe what it does and how users benefit. See graphics, related links. » more
Product Exclusive: Wireless gatewayB&B Electronics Zlinx Wireless Gateway provides an alternative to expensive field calls or manual monitoring processes. This is a May 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Product Exclusive: Single airflow sensorFesto SFAM 90 Flow Sensor reduces energy costs and improves productivity and quality. This is a May 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Batch operations benefit from process analytical technologyA successful application of batch analytics for online operation, resulting in a solution validated for a specialty chemicals batch process. The discussion illustrates basics of batch analytics... » more
Decreasing the Cost of ControlOne of the most basic ways to reduce the cost of control is to reduce the number of variables. Using advanced process control (APC) can cut down the number of loops required to run a given process,... » more
Belden’s GarrettCom purchase expands smart grid offeringsAcquisition of GarrettCom strengthens Belden's wireless offerings with technologies for the smart grid, including grade switches, routers and security software. » more
Product Exclusive: United Electric Controls TX200H, HART 7 smart pressure transmitterDesigned for upstream oil and gas applications, the TX200H simplifies field adjustments and communicates asset management data via the latest HART 7 specification. This is an April 2011 Control... » more
Distillery retains tradition, but upgrades control systemWhile making bourbon is steeped in traditional practices, Four Roses likes to keep its automation up to date. » more
Overcoming Barriers to Wireless Adoption Wireless is flexible, versatile, and can be cost effective; however, concerns with security, reliability, and capacity of wireless continue to prevent conservative end users from reaping its... » more
Product Exclusive: Multiaxis drive for motion control Galil AMP-43540 4-axis Sinusoidal Drive integrates with Ethernet DMC-41x3 and DMC-40x0 motion controllers, saving cost, space, wiring. This is a March 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Product Exclusive: Software exports info from electric-pneumatic distributed I/OFesto CPX-FMT software exports configuration assembly data from the electric/pneumatic Distributed I/O system, Festo CPX, into RSLogix5000 software from Rockwell Automation. CPX supports Ethernet/IP... » more
Product Exclusive: Panel wiring system saves time, spaceEaton transforms panel wiring, lowering total cost of ownership, improving system reliability for original equipment manufacturers. This is a March 2011 Control Engineering Product Exclusive. » more
Portable 4-channel oscilloscopes for harsh environmentsFluke ScopeMeter 190 Series II are a family of hand-held portable oscilloscopes designed for harsh industrial use and are safety rated for CAT III 1,000 V / CAT IV 600 V environments. The... » more
Process engineer job satisfaction surveyProcess engineers are stable and generally happy people who say they enjoy their work. The pay's not bad, too. » more
Cyber security vulnerability assessmentThe first step in creating an effective defense is figuring out where the vulnerabilities are in the system. This is a difficult but necessary process, and it never ends. » more
Honorable mentions for 2011 Engineers' Choice Awards
HONORABLE MENTIONS - click on the link for each product to learn more. » more
HONORABLE MENTIONS - click on the link for each product to learn more. » more
2011 Engineers’ Choice Awards - Spotlight on InnovationCover story: Best automation, control, and instrumentation products in 30 categories. » more
Product Exclusive: Ethernet 2.0 controller; SD card adds 8 GBGet up to 1000 instructions in 235μ for industrial Ethernet applications in the Wago Corp. 750-880 Ethernet 2.0 Programmable Fieldbus Controller, with 1 MB data memory and an SD port allowing up to 8... » more
Engineers: Improve your writing
Think Again: 7 quick tips can help engineers improve writing and editing. Use this advice on your next piece. » more
Think Again: 7 quick tips can help engineers improve writing and editing. Use this advice on your next piece. » more
PLC performs high-speed sequencing, interlocking operations, extends larger control platformsHoneywell's Master Logic programmable logic controllers bring power and robustness to very high-speed logic, interlock and sequencing applications. » more
Cataloging loop drawings, tags in a spreadsheetHow a refinery used Excel to document its automation infrastructure during a DCS upgrade. Some simple tools can keep it all in order. » more
Technologies cooperate to control critical mixing operationIs sophisticated batch control rocket science? Mixing ablative coating for space shuttle rocket boosters requires very high levels of precision and repeatability. » more
Unfolding Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)!An OSHA/legal definition of de minimis and a clearer understanding of – What do employees need to know? will certainly help all companies unfold LOTO for full compliance. » more
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