Easy-add temperature control modules
January 1st 2006

PCL and PC-based automation solutions specialist, VIPA, has launched a new range of temperature control modules for demanding processing applications. For direct use with Siemens S7-300 PLC's or with VIPA's own System 300V, the 4 and 8 channel modules have been developed in conjunction with German measurement and control company, Gossen Metrawatt.

The new FM355/R355 range is easily added to the S7-300 or VIPA System 300V via the standard backplane bus. Parameter set-up and configuration is by means of the 355Config software tool which enables programming from the main CPU with SIMATIC Manager or with VIPA's WinPLC7.

Configuration is also possible using the built-in RS232 interface from a PC. Parameter storage is held in the main CPU allowing ease of field replacement and system scalability, according to VIPA.

With a sampling rate for all 4 or 8 channels within 100 ms, the "dead-beat" PDPI control algorithm used on the new range has been developed by Gossen Metrawatt and has been field-proven for critical temperature control applications. Control loop set-up is optimised using an auto-tuning feature and control parameters can be freely adjusted in-situ.