Proper maintenance of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) is crucial to ensuring they continue to function efficiently and reliably. Routine PLC maintenance involves tasks such as checking for wear and tear, replacing defective components, and consistently updating the software. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of PLCs but also helps in avoiding unexpected downtimes and costly repairs. Additionally, maintaining PLCs plays a key role in predictive maintenance, leveraging data and analytics to foresee potential equipment failures and schedule timely interventions. By adhering to a consistent maintenance routine, industries can enhance their operational efficiency and safeguard their investments in automation technology.
PLCs (programmable logic controllers) are such an integral part of the automation world, and in turn a major contributor to the industrial market. Downtime can be incredibly costly, and finding parts for legacy units can be difficult and time consuming. (MRO Electric sells many legacy and discontinued automation components, from top brands) Therefore, properly maintaining your PLC can avoid unnecessary headaches and get the most life out of your units.
Before starting preventative maintenance on your PLC, make sure to do the following:
This is a good guidebook to use when performing preventive PLC maintenance:
As many of us know, PLCs (programmable logic controllers) are staples in the factory automation world. In order to have them running optimally and as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is imperative. Generally, manufacturers produce PLCs to endure strenuous, unsterilized environments. By adhering to an adequate maintenance schedule, PLCs operating timeframe can be lengthened.
Always be on the lookout for corrosive and conductive contaminants that have the potential to become a detriment to a PLCs’ components. By completing visual inspections for black dust and blowing airborne particles from the PLC’s vicinity, you are lowering the likelihood of contamination.
A PLC will not operate correctly without adequate power. To avoid any operation bugs, remain vigilant of any surges or shorts.
Always refer to the preventative maintenance schedule for any analog input device. Analog inputs need to be cleaned regularly and calibrated as accurately as possible.
EMI (electromagnetic interference) is known to cause horrible issues for PLCs without clearly indicating what the specific issue is or how to go about fixing it. To remain ahead of the game, many perform an audit of the local wiring to pinpoint potential EMI sources before they interfere with the operation of your PLC. Lower-level components and high-current wires often interfere with each other, which wiring designs must take into consideration.
By creating a PLC maintenance checklist and adhering to it strictly, operating errors can likely be avoided. The space between the PLC and the machine it’s controlling should be minimal.
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