July 19, 2012 - Invensys Operations Management introduced EtherNet/IP communications to its Eurotherm Mini8 multi-loop PID Controller. The Mini8 controller is an ideal partner to a PLC in multi-loop PID applications such as plastics extrusion and multi-zone furnaces. Leveraging the Mini8 controller’s built-in loop control, the PLC can concentrate on providing faster, more effective logic control without the burden of running complex control algorithms. Part of the company’s open-communication InFusion Enterprise Control System, the Mini8 controller supports serial, fieldbus and Ethernet protocols, including EtherNet/IP, making it easy to interface to intelligent masters such as a programmable logic controllers.
A cost-effective alternative to designing and implementing accurate control loops in a PLC, the Mini8 controller not only provides better performance and easy configuration, it offers the same deterministic response and auto-tune feature as other Eurotherm panel-mount controllers from Invensys, and it can be easily integrated into the wider plant network, including other third-party systems.
Key capabilities:
- Easy integrates through use of EtherNet/IP, a widely used standard communication link between PLCs and other products from a variety of vendors;
- Reduces engineering costs through using a dedicated PID device that enables quick and easy set-up of multi-loop and complex control strategies using pre-defined function blocks;
- Improves control performance by removing the burden of running complex control algorithms within a PLC;
- Input accuracy is ±0.1% or better, this is significantly better than analog control in small or medium PLCs;
- Suitable for use in regulated industry applications, including aerospace metal heat treatment;
- Calibrates through pre-defined routines;
- Impressive minimal drift characteristics aid in the ease of use of the device in operation.
