Top 10 Control Engineering articles, September 8 to October 8: Leaders Under 40, common VFD myths, industrial control panel standards, more

Articles about the the Leaders Under 40, common VFD myths, industrial control panel standards, ladder logic, and system integration project management tips were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from September 8 to October 8. Miss something? You can catch up here. Also see what ranked 6-10.

By Chris Vavra October 9, 2015

The top 5 most read articles online, for Sep. 8 to Oct. 8 for Control Engineering covered the Leaders Under 40, common VFD myths, industrial control panel standards, ladder logic, and system integration project management tips. Link to each article below. Also see what ranked 6-10 over the past month. 

1. 2015 Engineering Leaders Under 40

The 2015 Engineering Leaders Under 40 are a dedicated group of engineers that give hope to the future of manufacturing.

2. The truth about five common VFD myths

Knowing the truth about VFD operation can simplify the selection process for choose a variable frequency drive.

3. Standard for industrial control panel builders changing

UL 508 is being phased out and replaced by UL 60947-4, which is designed to harmonize international standards by UL, the Canadian Standards Association, and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in Europe. 

4. Ladder logic 304: Timer application

A sample timer application written in ladder logic provides examples of various programming tips, such as ensuring the programmer knows what the customer wants. 

5. Project management tips for system integration

Practical advice about project management can help your next system integration project. Project management for control system integration differs from project management in other areas.

More popular stories on Control Engineering

As an online-only feature, we’re featuring the stories that finished 6-10 over the past month.

6. Security for wireless instrumentation

Protocols for wireless instrumentation and other field devices use encryption as a key security element. Is it enough?

7. Changes in automation software licenses, upgrades

Industrial software users should take advantage of new features and innovations without subscribing to costly annual software maintenance contracts or paying for each individual software version release. With less expense and hassle, software manufacturers can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty and nurture innovation.

8. How to update an HMI

Upgrading human-machine interface (HMI) hardware, software, and applications can be an efficient process with limited required development time if these recommendations are followed. See before and after HMI photos.

9. Mechatronics simplifies machine design

Mechatronics reduces inefficiency, errors, and unnecessary expense by breaking down traditional engineering silos.

10. Current motor starting methods: Advantages and disadvantages

Starting and stopping “industrial-standard motors” and other operations present great challenges for many companies. Companies can handle these challenges depending on specific conditions.

The list was developed using CFE Media’s web analytics for stories viewed on controleng.com, September 8 to October 8, for articles published within the last two months.  

– Chris Vavra, production editor, CFE Media, cvavra@cfemedia.com.

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Author Bio: Chris Vavra is web content manager for CFE Media and Technology.