As an expert in programming and installing process controls, Hellebrekers is intimately familiar with and supports various brands of PLC. We also program the HMIs required and supply PLCs equipped with Safety technology.
The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is an indispensable concept within the process and manufacturing industry. A PLC is specifically designed to control processes and machines. Like a PC, the PLC comprises a processor, memory, software and an ability to communicate, but differs from a PC in that it is designed to survive in a rugged industrial work environment. The PLC receives data from the sensors connected to it (input), processes this data and generates a specific output instruction or signal for production processes or machines based on pre-programmed parameters. For example, a PLC can not only monitor and register machine productivity or the production temperature, but also automatically start and stop processes or generate alarms when machine faults occur.
As an expert in programming and installing process controls, Hellebrekers is intimately familiar with and supports various brands of PLC. We also program the HMIs required and supply PLCs equipped with Safety technology.
Our PLC brands
Hellebrekers works with some of the best-known, most reliable brands; we develop the software and install it in the corresponding PLC. So we are completely familiar with the different qualities, specific features and applications that each PLC brand has. Together with the customer, we look for the most suitable control solution and determine which PLC brand is relevant. Once a choice has been made, we can integrate the control system with the higher-level automation layers in the automation pyramid (e.g. MES).
The PLC brands used by Hellebrekers for control systems are:
HMI
An HMI (Human Machine Interface) enables interaction between humans and machines. HMIs are similar to information displays with (touchscreen) controls. They translate complex process variables into real-time operational information in the form of graphics. Images are used to visualise aspects of the process, for example, the status of motors or valves and fluid or tank levels. Among other variants, Hellebrekers designs and installs automation systems in which a PLC control is integrally combined with an HMI. Based on the concrete information from the PLC that the HMI extracts and visualises, decisions can be made regarding the control and optimisation of the production processes. Then, through the HMI, any adjustments can be passed back to the PLC. This makes the HMI the primary tool for coordinating and controlling manufacturing processes or industrial equipment on the factory floor.
Safety PLC
In addition to standard PLCs, Hellebrekers also writes and installs programs for Safety PLCs for new and existing production lines or installations. Like a standard PLC, a Safety PLC can be used to automate and control industrial processes and machines. The Safety PLC, on the other hand, is specially designed for implementing safety functions within the production process or the installation. For example, the emergency stop functions and the person detection systems. So this type of PLC is a safety control system. If critical components fail, these functions bring the process or installation to a safe state. All Safety PLCs that we deliver to customers meet the relevant stringent international requirements.
