Process Control
The RS offer an extensive range of process control equipment for managing complex processes and automation environments. Our industrial process control solutions include everything from temperature control technologies and panel metres to timers, ensuring efficient and reliable process management across various applications.
What is Process Control?
Process control in modern industrial operations involves sophisticated automated systems that adjust and maintain various process parameters with minimal human intervention. This automation is essential, as the continuous and interactive nature of industrial processes makes manual control both impractical and unreliable. Additionally, most industrial processes and generating systems require a consistent and reliable operation, which is only made possible by instruments. To maintain a process at the desired state, process control devices are used to monitor, record, and control different elements in the process.
Whenever a process is being controlled, measurement is the first step. The parameters which need measurement are:
- Fluid pressure
- Fluid flow rate
- Objects' temperatures
- Fluid-filled vessel volume
- Chemical concentrations
- A machine's position
- Motion or acceleration
- Dimensions of an object
- Inventory count
- Electrical voltage
- Resistance or current
What Type of Process Control Equipment is Needed?
Whether in manufacturing or engineering, there are certain process control equipment categories that are widely used. Any commercial or production environment will benefit from
Temperature Controllers
Temperature controllers are essential for controlled storage conditions, and sensors and temperature monitoring equipment ensure the safe, reliable running of mobile and static temperature-sensitive storage areas.
Panel Meters
Panel metres are vital for maintaining visible control and measurement of process systems and are available in digital and analogue formats. They are essential in power measurement in electrical systems.
Timers & Counters
Timers and electric counters are important components in the automation and control of electrical machinery and systems, allowing pre-set responses where mechanical precision is required.
Current Transformers
Current Transformers (CTs) are used to measure the current flowing through another circuit. High-voltage lines are monitored with CTs in power grids nationwide. In a CT, the primary current is measured in the primary winding, and then an alternating current is produced in the secondary winding.
Energy Meter
Energy metres measure the amount of electricity being consumed, which allows for an estimate of energy usage over time.
Typical Final Process Control Devices
Typical final process control devices play a critical role in the hierarchy of manufacturing processes, directly interacting with and impacting the operation at various levels. These devices include:
- Throttle valve (for controlling a fluid's flow rate)
- An electric motor
- Electric heaters
These devices are part of Level 0 in the process control hierarchy. This level houses the field devices that provide process value readings (PV) and final control elements (FCE), such as control valves. The effectiveness of Level 0 devices directly influences the functionality of the higher levels in the process control hierarchy, as the data collected from Level 0 devices is crucial for enabling accurate control and feedback loops at the next level, Level 1.
Subsequently, at Level 2, supervisory computers collate and process data from Level 1, providing operators with vital information and control interfaces that are essential for efficient process management. From there, Level 3 focuses on monitoring and managing production outcomes against set targets. The data and control insights refined through Level 2 play a crucial role in enabling Level 3 to make strategic adjustments that optimise production efficiency and meet business objectives.
In turn, the performance data and outcomes from Level 3 feed into Level 4, where production scheduling and long-term planning are adjusted according to the insights gained from ongoing operations, ensuring that the scheduling aligns with actual production capacities and market demands.
Industry Applications
Industrial process control equipment enhances efficiency, safety, and reliability in sectors such as:
- Discrete manufacturing: In discrete manufacturing, process control devices manage and monitor the assembly of components. For example, they control robotic arms and machinery to ensure precise component placement and assembly speeds, which is crucial for maintaining production consistency and quality.
- Process manufacturing: Process control devices are fundamental in process manufacturing for maintaining precise control over chemical reactions and blends. They regulate temperatures, pressures, and flow rates to ensure consistent product quality. A common use is in the pharmaceutical industry, where maintaining specific conditions is critical for drug safety and efficacy.
- Energy & utilities: In the energy and utilities sector, industrial process control equipment is used to monitor and manage the distribution of electricity, gas, and water. For instance, they control water flow in treatment plants to ensure safe and efficient water supply.
- Facilities intralogistics: Industrial process control equipment in facilities intralogistics manages automated storage and retrieval systems. They ensure accurate tracking and handling of materials within warehouses, which is essential for order fulfilment accuracy and inventory management. An example is the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) controlled through process systems.
Your Trusted Process Control Equipment Supplier & Manufacturer
RS is a globally recognised leader and your reliable partner as a supplier, distributor, and manufacturer of industrial process control equipment. Our commitment to excellence makes us a premier choice in the process control equipment market.
Whether you are seeking advanced process control equipment to enhance your operational workflows or ensure product quality, trust RS for unparalleled reliability and quality assurance. For additional information on our delivery services and fees, please visit our Delivery Page.
