The aim of this subject is to develop an understanding and provide practical experience of fluid power and PLC control systems as used in industrial environments. This subject forms the basis for student project work and further study in third year.
Subject Overview: Overview of industrial automation applications & safety issues
Fluid Power theory: Pascal theorem, flow rate, speeds, pressure, forces
Provision of compressed air: Receivers, air treatment, pressure regulation, safety valves, service units
Compressors: Piston, screw, rotary and dynamic types
Pneumatic actuators: Pneumatic actuators, linear actuators, rotary actuators, sealing and controls
Pneumatic valves: Poppet, spool & rotary types, pilot-operated, directional control, check valves
Flow & pressure control: Relief, reduction, throttle and flow control valves meter-in & out
Manual Pneumatic circuits: Single and multiple cylinder sequences, trapped signals, cascade circuit
Electro-pneumatic components: Electro-pneumatic components and sensors, e.g. relays, proximity switches, timers
Electro-pneumatic circuits: Electro-pneumatic circuits continuous sequence, latch circuits, pressure switch and timer circuits
Hydraulic pumps: Hydraulic pumps, fixed & variable displacement, gear, vane and piston types, pump controls
Hydraulic valves & actuators: Hydraulic valves & actuators, relief, reduction, pressure compensated flow control, cylinders and cushioning
Hydraulic Circuits: Hydraulic Circuits, sequence, counterbalance, pilot operated check valve circuit, regenerative
Logic Functions: Review Boolean expressions, AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, truth tables, ladder logic
PLC's: Programming of basic logic functions, operation and programming of timers and counters
Component Sizing: Sizing of actuators and pumps, force/pressure/area, time/flowrate/volume
Maintenance: Maintenance, installation & faultfinding of fluid power systems
