Our Products & Solutions

 

Factory Automation and Integration:

  • ACT has many years of experience building new and upgrading old control panels
  • We specialize in using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Square-D, ProFace, Wago, Puls, Schmersal, etc.
  • Electrical engineering support for both end users and OEM’s
  • Industrial Control Panel Design
  • PLC Programming (Allen Bradley, Siemens, ProFace, Wago etc.)
  • Application and engineering expertise with AC Drive Systems
  • Start Up Services
  • ACAD drawings for electrical schematics
  • All control panels are UL 508A Listed

 

Application Software Experience

  • Rockwell Software
    • Studio 5000
    • FactoryTalk View Studio
    • RSLogix 500
  • Proface
    • GP-Pro EX
  • Siemens
    • TIA Portal

 

Some FAQs:

What components make up a control panel?

Control panels, also known as control boards or operator panels, are interface devices used to monitor, control, and manage various machines, equipment, or systems in industrial, commercial, and residential settings. They provide a centralized platform for operators and users to interact with the controlled processes and make necessary adjustments.

Control panels typically consist of several components, including:

  1. Human-Machine Interface (HMI): The HMI is the visual display part of the control panel that presents information to the operator in a user-friendly format. It often includes a touchscreen, buttons, and indicators, allowing users to input commands and receive feedback.
  2. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC): The PLC is a computerized control device that executes the control logic programmed by the user. It interprets input signals from sensors and other devices, processes the information, and triggers appropriate actions through output modules.
  3. Input/Output Modules: These modules connect the control panel to the external devices and sensors. Input modules receive signals from sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, pressure sensors), while output modules control actuators and devices (e.g., motors, valves).
  4. Communication Ports: Many modern control panels are equipped with communication ports to enable connectivity with other systems or allow remote access for monitoring and control purposes.
  5. Control Relays: Control relays are electromechanical devices used to switch electrical circuits on or off, providing control over various components in the controlled system.

What is UL508A Listed?

UL 508A is a specific safety standard established by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for industrial control panels. When a control panel is UL 508A listed, it means that it has been evaluated and certified by UL as compliant with the safety requirements outlined in the UL 508A standard.

The UL 508A standard covers the construction, performance, and safety aspects of industrial control panels, ensuring that they are designed and manufactured to meet specific safety criteria. This includes requirements for electrical components, wiring methods, grounding, overcurrent protection, short-circuit ratings, and other safety considerations.

To obtain UL 508A listing, a control panel manufacturer must submit the panel for evaluation by UL. During the evaluation process, UL inspectors review the design, construction, and documentation of the control panel to verify compliance with the standard’s requirements.

How do you update an existing control panel?

Updating existing control panels is a vital step in modernizing industrial processes and ensuring their optimal performance. As technology evolves, older control panels may become outdated, lacking the efficiency, features, and safety standards of newer systems. By updating these panels, industries can unlock numerous benefits, such as improved process control, reduced downtime, enhanced data visualization, and increased energy efficiency. Upgrades often involve integrating the latest programmable logic controllers (PLCs), advanced human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and state-of-the-art sensors to enable real-time monitoring and precise automation.

Furthermore, updates can facilitate remote access and connectivity, enabling operators to make informed decisions from anywhere, enhancing flexibility and responsiveness. Additionally, software upgrades and cybersecurity enhancements bolster the security of the control systems, safeguarding against potential threats and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Overall, updating existing control panels empowers industries to remain competitive, boost productivity, and streamline operations in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

What was the first industrial control panel?

One of the earliest forms of industrial control panels can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when control panels were manually operated using mechanical switches and relays. These early control panels were used in various industries, including manufacturing and transportation.

In the 1920s, the development of electrical control systems led to the creation of more sophisticated control panels, incorporating relays, timers, and other electrical components. These panels allowed for more automation and control over industrial processes.

The real breakthrough in control panel technology occurred with the invention of the first Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) in the late 1960s. The PLC, created by engineer Richard Morley, revolutionized industrial automation by providing a digital, programmable solution to control various processes in an industrial setting. PLCs allowed for more complex and versatile control panels, marking a significant milestone in the history of industrial automation.

Since then, control panel technology has continued to evolve, incorporating digital interfaces, advanced software, networking capabilities, and cloud connectivity, enabling even more sophisticated and efficient control and monitoring of industrial processes.

 

 

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