AUTOMATION
SEÁN LYNAM, AP HASLAM’S INDUSTRIAL IOT SOLUTIONS ENGINEER, DISCUSSES HOW TO GET THE BEST FROM AN AUTOMATION PROJECT... Automation advice fromSeán Lynam
A s Industrial IoT Solutions Engineer for AP Haslam, Seán Lynam, is the person to talk to when embarking on any new automation project. With a background as an Electrical Engineer, Seán has worked with some of the world’s largest technology companies on a wide range of innovative automated systems. “Over many years the key lesson I have learned is that the quality of your components is critical to the long-term success of any automation and process improvement project,” explained Sean. “The core of any automation project is the Controller, historically the ‘PLC’, but for today’s automation builder, new options with Weidmüller’s award- winning Automation Controller (AC), you can offer localised machine control whilst providing ease of connection to on-site IT systems or indeed the Cloud via Node Red.” Commenting on the rise of smart phone apps and ‘open source’ programming, Seán said, “The IT programming landscape for industrial controllers has changed radically with the trend being towards more ‘open source’ web- based type controllers offering greater interoperability over different platforms.” On use of industrial PCs, and in particular the use of Industrial Panel PC’s (IPPC), Seán added, “With an integrated touch screen, IPPCs are an excellent choice for certain machine and process applications where you want to integrate the machine control with the existing factory IT system. “Our industrial PC comes with the option of a Windows 10 licence, which not all manufacturers include, and integrating an industrial-grade touch screen in your control panel or remote station provides protection, ease of control and visualisation.” While finding ways to improve efficiency has been a business objective for companies since the time of the
industrial revolution, the sheer amount of data which businesses are now required to process has soared in recent years and is a major factor in why so many are now embracing the benefits of automation, both in IT and OT. However, while it is true that automated products and systems operate at optimal levels, Seán is clear that research is an important first step in any automation project. “Whilst many associated technologies used widely today are impressive – and offer considerable benefits – you should research and understand what’s in the market before deploying them as part of your customer offering. Technologies like IO Link offer a smart way to get more data directly from the field sensor. “No matter what industry you are in, robust and reliable architecture is essential for the collection, transmission and storage of data – whether on-site or in the Cloud. “AP Haslam’s partnership with Weidmüller means not only can we provide the best control and connection hardware needed for your machine or automation project, but we also offer the analytics platform to both visualise and action your data.” For more information or advice on Industrial Automation Components, contact Seán Lynam via the contact details below.
T: +353 (0)1 453 2522 E: sean.lynam@aphaslam.ie M: +353 (0)87 7599 257 www.aphaslam.ie
Seán Lynam, Industrial IoT Solutions Engineer, AP Haslam.
“AP Haslam’s partnership with Weidmüller means not only can we provide the best control and connection hardware needed for your machine or automation project, but we also offer the analytics platform to both visualise and action your data.”
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