Machine Builders Need Replacement Parts Too
Submitted by Ray Marquiss, Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
Discover why replacement parts are crucial for machine builders in this insightful article. Learn how ensuring access to quality parts enhances efficiency and reduces downtime.
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PLC Selection: Beyond IEC 61131 Magic Bullet Claims
Submitted by Ray Marquiss, Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
Avoid the allure of one-size-fits-all solutions and consider standardization, support and future-proofing for programmable logic controllers.
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Deciphering the Puzzle of PLCs, PACs, PC-based Controllers and Motion Controllers
Submitted by Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
There is plenty of discussion in the industry regarding the pros and cons surrounding programmable logic controllers (PLCs) vs. programmable automation controllers (PACs) vs. PC-based controllers.
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The UL 508A Certification: Why It Is Important
Submitted by Jason Gaines || Valin Corporation
The certification exists for a reason to ensure that the control panels being built meet the very highest safety standards available.
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Absolute Encoders — Facts and Misconceptions
Submitted by Ray Marquiss || Valin Corporation
A little knowledge goes a long way knowing and understanding the advantages and limits of encoders and limit switches can ensure the best possible motion system design.
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Sensors in Condition Monitoring: Making Optimal Decisions
Submitted by Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
The key to making the proper decisions on condition monitoring is to understand what kind of information is required, how often that information is needed and what kind of budget is in play.
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Condition Monitoring: What Are We Measuring?
Submitted by Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
The concepts of preventive maintenance and condition monitoring are not always characterized in a way that is entirely accurate. They sometimes seem to be treated as a one-size-fits-all service that many operators believe they need. However, these concepts can mean very different things depending on the application.
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Networked I/O vs. Remote I/O
Submitted by Ray Marquiss || Valin Corporation
As technology continues to evolve, some terms meant to represent one thing have come to mean something a bit different. A technology that once had restrictions can evolve to the point where, not only is that restriction gone, but the name of the technology doesnt even necessarily apply anymore.
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Cybersecurity: Understanding IT Needs from the OT Perspective
Submitted by Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
Current data on cyber ransom is alarming. Most companies do not report their attacks because they do not want it to be advertised. This article discusses ways that IT and OT personnel can work together to make your company more secure.
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How to Monitor Assets Remotely Today
Submitted by Corey Foster || Valin Corporation
As long as products have had ethernet ports, people have been asking for remote access to them. They believed they could just plug the devices into the internet, and it would all work. As more software tools became available and internet speeds increased, capable users found ways to give themselves access, however, there was a catch.
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Pulse Control Basics for Motion Control
Submitted by Ray Marquiss || Valin Corporation
For automating machines that require only two to three axes of electric actuators, pulse outputs may be the simplest way to go.
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Which Motors Are the Best: Servos or Steppers?
Submitted by John Brokaw || Valin Corporation
Closed-loop stepper motors may be the best choice for tasks typically done by servos because traditional steppers couldn't handle them.
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Profitable Linear-Motion Design
Submitted by John Brokaw and Kent Martins || Valin Corp.
Engineers building linear-motion systems can use ground-up DIY approaches or purchase complete turnkey solutions. Here we explain where each tactic is most profitable.
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Five Types of Industrial Robots And How To Choose The Best Fit
Submitted by Ray Marquiss || Valin Corporation
Robotics can be narrowed down to five types: Cartesian, Cylindrical, SCARA, 6-Axis, and Delta. Each has specific elements (speed, size, workspace) making them ideal for certain applications. Knowledge of each type can help machine designers choose the best robot for their process. Learn more.
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Software Innovations In Connectivity, Coding & Ease of Use
Submitted by Corey Foster & Ray Marquiss || Valin Corporation
Process automation is most used when talking about computer technology paired with software engineered to help industrial plants or factories operate more efficiently and safely. Before process automation, individuals would have to physically monitor the components and outputs of a plant or factory.
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How to Pick and Install the Correct Pneumatic Actuator
Submitted by Bill Nevills
Contemplating an actuator for your pneumatic linear-motion system? Here are some tips on how to select the best one for the job.
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Workplace Safety Still Needs a Human Component
Workplace safety is—or should be—a primary focus of every organization, regardless of whether we're talking about a classroom, an office, a manufacturing facility, or an oil rig. Employees deserve a workspace that is as safe and secure as it can possibly be.
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Multi-Megawatt Electric Heating System Solutions | PROCESSWest
Submitted by Jamie Zachary | PROCESSWest
Tasked with increased demand for high power output, many operators in North American sectors such as power generation, oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical have been challenged by low-voltage solutions and their associated logistical challenges.
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Noise from Cavitation: Bad for Control Valves and Equipment
Submitted by Jon Monsen and Peter Jessee // Valve Magazine
Certain frequencies of sound can play havoc on industrial equipment. When control valves are not selected appropriately, there is an increased risk for cavitation, which causes high noise and vibration levels, resulting in very rapid damage to the valve's internals and/or the downstream piping.
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Best Practices in CONTROL
Submitted by Jon Irvine
Considering the number of variables, gaining precise control of a process heating application can be a difficult task. In industries with a high demand for consistent quality, controlling the temperature of a substance from the start to the finish of a process is an absolute necessity. Learn more.
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Heat Trace: Importance of Temperature Sensor Placement
Submitted by Jon Irvine, Featured in Automation.com Magazine
A temperature sensor is a key component of any process heating application as it provides temperature feedback about the process, which can be used to monitor or control the process.
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