Azbil Launches High-precision Single Loop Controller With High-speed Response – Reduces Burden on Personnel, From Installation to Maintenance –

TOKYO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#automation–Azbil Corporation (TOKYO:6845) has started sales of the model C1A single loop controller, which features high accuracy and fast response and reduces the burden on personnel, from installation through to maintenance.

Despite its compact 48x48mm front panel size, the C1A achieves a high accuracy of ±0.1% of the reading (for thermocouple or Pt100 RTD) and high-speed response with a sampling cycle of 25ms, and it is equipped with various labor-saving functions for manufacturing sites.

Single loop controllers compare signals from sensors with set values, execute PID control^*1 according to the deviation amount, and output control signals to actuators for keeping the control targets (temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc.) at correct levels. Controllers are essential devices for efficient operation at factories and plants. Azbil provides single loop controllers with a variety of functions that are required for applications in the factory automation market.

As typified by semiconductor manufacturing facilities, compact and high-performance equipment is needed for maximizing productivity in limited factory space. For devices like single loop controllers, which are built into other equipment, demand is growing for smaller size and higher performance. Additionally, it is important while equipment is running to reduce downtime by maintaining a constant understanding of the state of processes to prevent problems. Also, to cope with problems like a decrease in skilled workers and labor shortages, the manufacturing industry has turned to more intuitive and simpler methods of PID adjustment rather than methods that rely on experienced workers.

Despite its compact size, the C1A achieves high accuracy and high-speed response. Its multi-status indicator allows onsite personnel to grasp the controlled process status at a glance. Also, communication with a programmable logic controller (PLC) can be set up easily without the need for special programs. This makes it easy to create a system for remote process monitoring, for example, using a host system, touch panels, and other external devices.

A major application of controllers is controlling temperature using electric heaters, which are known to deteriorate and have a limited service life. An effective method of diagnosing deterioration is to monitor the resistance of the heater. The C1A calculates the voltage, current, and resistance of the heater using voltage transformer (VT) and current transformer (CT) inputs. These values can be monitored on the C1A’s front panel or be used to output alarms if the preset threshold is exceeded. By monitoring the resistance and the controlled temperature, the condition of a heater can be easily understood and unexpected heater burnout can be prevented.

Additionally, the C1A’s Smart Loader Package includes a PID simulator based on proprietary Azbil simulation technology as a standard feature. The PID simulator uses operating data to create mathematical models that reproduce characteristics of the object of control, allowing users to simulate PID control on the PC and reduce adjustment time.

Features

• High accuracy of ±0.1% of the reading (for thermocouple or Pt100 RTD), high-speed response with a sampling cycle of 25ms
• 4.5-digit numerical display showing values from ?19999 to 19999 in units of 0.01°C, enabling more detailed checking of process conditions
• Multi-status indicator. In addition to settings and sensor input values, a bar graph of MV output % and other operational information can be displayed, making it easy to understand the status of control.
• PLC link communication function for communication with a PLC without the need for programming
• Front panel monitoring or alarm output of heater resistance calculated from CT/VT inputs, for understanding the condition of the heater
• Smart Loader Package with PID simulation function as a standard feature, allowing improved controllability through intuitive operation from a PC

For details, please visit the following website.

https://www.azbil.com/products/factory/factory-product/controller-recorder-communication-gateway/controller/c1a/index.html

Guided by the azbil Group’s philosophy of “human-centered automation,” Azbil aims to make contributions “in series” to a sustainable society and secure its own sustainable growth. It provides solutions for problems at production sites that meet customer needs.

^*1 Feedback control that operates on the basis of sensor measurements in order to keep the temperature, pressure, and other variables inside of manufacturing or processing equipment at the desired levels. PID refers to proportional, integral, and derivative action.

About Azbil Corporation

Azbil Corporation, formerly known as Yamatake Corporation, is a leading company in building and industrial automation, using its measurement and control technologies to provide customers with high value-added solutions to make their operations more efficient and sustainable. Founded in 1906, Azbil serves customers across the globe in a broad range of industries and aims to contribute to people’s safety, comfort and fulfilment, and global environmental preservation. At the end of March 2022, Azbil employed over 10,000 people worldwide and generated ¥256 billion in revenue.

For more information, please visit https://www.azbil.com/.

Contacts

Azbil Corporation

Public Relations Section

Robert Jones

Phone: +81-3-6810-1006

r.jones.j7@azbil.com