Module Overview

Automation

The aim of this subject is to develop an understanding and provide practical experience of fluidpower and PLC control systems as used in industrial environments. This subject forms the basis for student project work and further study in third year.

Module Code

AUTO H2003

ECTS Credits

5

*Curricular information is subject to change

Subject Overview

Over view of industrial automation applications & safety issues

Fluidpower theory:

Pascal theorem, flow rate, speeds, pressure, forces

Provision of compressed air:

Receivers, air treatment, pressure regulation, safety valves, service units

Compressors:

Piston, screw, rotary and dynamic types

Pneumatic actuators

Pneumatic actuators, linear actuators, rotary actuators, sealing and controls

Pneumatic valves:

Poppet, spool & rotary types, pilot-operated, directional control, check valves

Flow & pressure control:

Relief, reduction, throttle and flow control valves meter-in & out

Manual Pneumatic circuits:

Single and multiple cylinder sequences, trapped signals, cascade circuit

Electropneumatic components

Electropneumatic components and sensors, e.g. relays, proximity switches, timers

Electro-pneumatic circuits

Electro-pneumatic circuits continuous sequence, latch circuits, pressure switch and timer circuits

Hydraulic pumps

Hydraulic pumps, fixed & variable displacement, gear, vane and piston types, pump controls

Hydraulic valves & actuators

Hydraulic valves & actuators, relief, reduction, pressure compensated flow control, cylinders and cushioning

Hydraulic Circuits

Hydraulic Circuits, sequence, counterbalance, pilot operated check valve circuit, regenerative

Logic Functions:

Review Boolean expressions, AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, truth tables, ladder logic

PLCs:

Programming of basic logic functions, operation and programming of timers and counters

Component Sizing

of actuators and pumps, force/pressure/area, time/flowrate/volume

Maintenance

Maintenance, installation & faultfinding of fluid power systems

Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown %
Other Assessment(s)50
Formal Examination50