Control Engineering hot topics, July 2022

Control Engineering's most clicked articles in July 2022 included stories on PLC programming, digital transformation, direct-drive servos, IIoT optimization and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra August 2, 2022
Courtesy: Applied Manufacturing Technologies

Hot topics in Control Engineering, for July 2022, for stories posted in the last three months, included PLC programming, digital transformation, direct-drive servos, IIoT optimization and more. Links to each article below.

1. PLC programming: What you need to know

While the programmable logic controller (PLC) is very important, the programming inside the controller is just as critical and can be overlooked.

2. 7 tips every PLC programmer should know

A good programmable logic controller (PLC) programmer should keep the end user in mind when writing code and implement it that is best for the situation.

3. A look at digital transformation using the cloud

Cloud architecture, when examined in its entirety, can be very complex. Focusing on its interface with operations technology makes matters clearer and more manageable.

4. Direct-drive servo tutorial, application update

Solving low speed rotary servo applications with direct-drive motors avoids hidden initial costs, while saving money over the life of the machine. Example shows $73,000 annual savings on a widget-making machine.

5. Leveraging IIoT for process optimization, modernization

Industrial facilities need combined production and maintenance strategies using the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and digital twin tools to minimize unscheduled shutdowns and optimize product quality while cost-effectively using existing operations, maintenance and engineering resources.

6. Ode to an induction motor

Recite this induction motor tutorial and savor it; even if poetry really isn’t your favorite.

7. Instrumentation calibration best practices, benefits

Instrumentation calibration is critical for process facilities to meet stringent calibration verifications and certifications. Four best practices and three benefits are highlighted.

8. Control Engineering Career and Salary Survey, 2022

Solve the workforce challenge: Automate, innovate, hire and retain great workers. Lack of skilled workers, materials and the economy are biggest threats to manufacturing. Lack of available skilled workers jumped from 37% in 2021 to 57% in 2022.

9. Choosing between open or proprietary IIoT solutions

Open and proprietary Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions have different emphases on data management and collection and benefits differ, depending on user goals.

10. Lithium-ion battery market expected to grow

The global Lithium-ion battery market is moving into surge mode with an increase of more than 70% in 2021.

On Mondays, see the top 5 articles of the prior week.

Chris Vavra, web content manager, Control Engineering, CFE Media and Technology, cvavra@cfemedia.com.


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