Unlocking Efficiency: New Modular PLC Programming Solutions

In today's fast-paced industrial landscape, efficiency is key. Companies are constantly seeking ways to streamline operations and reduce costs. One area that has seen significant advancements is programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These devices are essential for automating machinery and processes. With the rise of modular PLC programming solutions, businesses can now unlock new levels of efficiency.

Modular programmed PLCs are easy to maintain and machines can be expanded without a lot of efford, allowing companies to adapt to changing needs. This blog post will explore the benefits of these new solutions, how they work, and why they are becoming increasingly popular in various industries.

What is Modular PLC Programming?

Modular PLC programming refers to a method where PLCs are programmed in a modular fashion. This means that they are programmed according the S88 standard, whereby we distinguish between control modules and equipment modules.

Control modules are the smallest building blocks of the program. For example, we use buttons, valves and motors. Each of these devices is called a control module. Sometimes it is a good idea to construct a control module for a device of a manufacturer that is choosen for the machine. Especially if it needs parameters.

Equipment modules are used to build parts of the machine that perform a certain task, for instance grinding or transporting. We use the control mudules to program them, along with standard functions from the library. These equipment modules should not contain hundreds of lines of code.

Benefits of Modular programming

1. Flexibility

One of the key advantages of modular programming is flexibility. You can choose the specific modules you need for the program. This means you can expand the program and your machine as needed.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

Modularly programmed PLCs can be more cost-effective than traditional systems. Because modular programming is used, the software is easier to modify, and unnecessary consultant fees can be avoided.

Furthermore, breakdowns can be resolved more quickly if the software is more user-friendly. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs.

5. Future-Proofing

Since it is common practice to program the control modules with structured text, most of the code can be easilly exported and reused. Future libraries are mostly downward compatible, but in rare cases updating some functions is usually less work then rewriting whole projects.