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Author Profile
Gregory K. McMillan
270 Results Found
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FeatureWhy Engineers Should Foster Relationships with Vendors
An engineer is as dependent on the vendors as they are dependent upon the engineer. -
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How to Determine the Health of an Industrial pH Reference Electrode
Use a smart transmitter & smart electrodes and do standardization and/or periodic buffer calibrations based on electrode life expectancy. -
FeatureWhy Is Instrumentation Critical for the Automation Professional?
A detailed understanding of instrumentation is critical for any automation professional. -
FeatureWhat Are the Benefits of Linear Reagent Demand Control in Managing pH?
For managing pH, use linear reagent demand control when going from a flatter part to a steeper part of a titration curve for tighter control and less wear and tear on the valves and the operators. -
FeatureWhy You Should Teach and Grow the Next Generation of Engineering Talent
Developing direct reports is a fundamental duty of the leader position. Teach and grow the next generation of engineering talent. -
FeatureUse Middle Signal Selection to Improve pH Measurement Reliability
Take three measurements for pH and for any other measurement that can be a probable cause of loss in process efficiency or capacity. -
FeatureThe Benefit of Outlines and Flow Charts for Industrial Project Development
Always take the time to map out a cohesive structure before starting any creative endeavor. -
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How to Use Output Tracking to Improve Setpoint and Abnormal Condition Response
Use output tracking to get the loop consistently started for the best setpoint response and recovery from an abnormal condition. -
FeatureThe Balance Between Risk Avoidance and Need for Change in Process Automation
Automation professionals are trained to avoid risk. However, that is not a reason to avoid making changes. -
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How to Optimize Batch End Points and Cycle Times
Use a feed analysis of predicted yield to create a production rate controller & use a batch profile slope for optimization of batch end point & cycle time. -
FeatureNever Underestimate the Power of Politics and Emotion in an Industrial Automation Career
In an industrial career, you can eliminate conflict by simply avoiding discussing topics which are certain to create conflict in the first place. -
FeatureWhat are the Benefits of Computing and Trending a Future Process Control Variable?
A future PV value can make setpoint response, reset & feedforward smarter and help operations understand consequences of the dynamics on current actions. -
FeatureButterfly and Ball Valves with Positioners Are Not Control Valves
Premature valve failure results from seat erosion under low flow/high pressure drop conditions or when the valve is cavitating or flashing. -
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How to Make Reset Time and Feedforward Action Smarter
Smart reset can reduce overshoot and faltering, and smart feedforward can provide a more complete and accurate feedforward action. -
FeatureAutomation Industry Career Tip: Admit Your Errors
In an automation career, you will be amazed how a quick admission of error can defuse a potentially bad scene. -
FeatureHow to Select the Best Type and Size of Actuator for Tight Control
Where possible, use a diaphragm actuator sized to meet at least 150% of the maximum thrust or torque requirement. -
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How to Build a Successful Project Team in the Automation Industry
Pick your team members wisely, lead by example, and always convey the highest expectations of performance. Your team will deliver. -
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Benefits of Using Sliding Stem Valves for Tighter Process Control
Use a sliding stem valve with diaphragm actuator and digital positioner whenever size and process conditions permit. -
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High Pay Is Great but Life Is Too Short to Stay in an Engineering Job You Dislike
A good paycheck is nice, but if you find yourself dreading the return to work each morning it may be time to consider job options elsewhere. -
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Why You Should Decrease PID Gain and Reset Time for Pipeline and Inline Control
Pipeline and inline control loops have no back mixing and hence no process time constant in the response of the outlet to changes in the inlet.