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10 questions to ask your automation supplier

Dec. 23, 2024

10 questions to ask your automation supplier

Instead of asking how many PLCs or servos the vendor sells, ask how many thousands of packaging machines their servos equip annu

With competitive price and timely delivery, qunfeng sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Previously we asked the rhetorical question What&#;s under the hood of your automation system? More and more control vendors are adopting the IEC -3 programming language standard but that doesn&#;t make them all equally capable. That makes it important to thoroughly evaluate a control platform before committing to it on your packaging machine.

In this article we provide Functional specification text for PLC and servo capabilities that packagers and machine builders can download and paste into their corporate or site control specification documents.

Before you get to the RFQ stage however here are ten pre-qualifying questions to ask prospective automation suppliers.

1. How do you integrate motion and logic? Is all control done within the same processor or do you still employ a rack-based system?

To be truly integrated motion and logic control should be performed within a single IEC -3 conforming program and on a single processor. Backplanes and multi-card solutions simply slow things down too much.

2. Do you support and conform to all the IEC -3 programming languages?

It&#;s important to conform to all the languages in the standard and to follow Best Practices in programming using each of the languages to its best advantage. The resulting control architecture will then be modular and clear instead of monolithic and cryptic.

3. What do you provide to help machine builders develop world-class machines as quickly as possible? How many packaging machine functions do you provide?

Not only should a completely open programming environment be mandatory it needs to be supported by a software library containing literally hundreds of pre-tested software objects (IEC Function Blocks) along with routines and programming templates designed specifically for packaging machines.

4. How many servo motors can you control with one system? What is the motion network update rate? How many virtual axes?

The current state of the art is 99 axes per controller with an overall update rate of 1 2 or 4 milliseconds maximum for the entire network not cumulative per axis. An unlimited number of virtual axes should be supported.

5. Are required components such as Ethernet Sercos field buses etc. supplied as additional option cards or as standard equipment? What do I need to access all parameters and other data in the system?

All these features should be standard equipment. Standard methods for interfaces should also include OPC server Web server data/message logger digital oscilloscope and other tools to give you complete control over the data flowing into and out of your machines.

6. What solutions do you have for rotating capping/filling/labeling machines?

Integral motor/drives are key to upgrading rotary machines in some cases doubling throughputs. These motor/drives can be mounted right on a rotating table providing precise control of capping head torque bottle plates and dosing systems.

7. How do you handle electronic camming? Do you still use x-y tables and simple 3rd degree polynomials? Can you change any segment of the cam on the fly?

Insist on 5th degree polynomial cam profiles and the ability to change cams on the fly. Cam tables should never be downloaded to a servo drive this is a last-generation practice before Pentiums that distributed processing tasks at the expense of speed. Cams should be generated mathematically by the controller during operation.

8. What software costs can we expect for our entire group of engineers? How many software components do I have to buy for each engineer?

Hidden software costs can add up quickly but not if you require that the vendor&#;s software development environment be provided as a site license . . . so all of your engineers can access the tools libraries and templates they need for a fixed cost.

9. What are you doing to reduce the amount of cabinet space on machines?

Do your machine cabinets seem to be getting as big as your packaging machines?

Space-saving controllers and drives can reduce cabinet size by as much as 50% compared to conventional PLCs motion controllers and drives.

10. How many thousands of packaging machines did you equip with servosystems in the last year?

This is a pivotal question. When it comes to domain expertise it&#;s not how many thousands of PLCs or even servos the company sells it&#;s how many thousands of packaging machines their servos equip every year.

Guide to Choosing Automatic Waste Sorting Machines

Oct. 30,

Waste management has become a pressing concern in today's world. As environmental consciousness grows, many businesses and municipalities are seeking efficient and eco-friendly ways to manage waste. Automatic waste sorting machines have emerged as a solution to this challenge. These machines use advanced technology to sort, recycle, and process waste materials. If you're considering investing in one, this guide will help you make an informed decision.


Understanding Automatic Waste Sorting Machines

Before delving into the selection process, it's essential to understand what automatic waste sorting machines are and how they work. These machines use sensors, conveyor belts, and robotics to segregate different types of waste. They can sort materials like paper, plastics, metals, and organic waste efficiently.


Factors to Consider When Choosing a Waste Sorting Machine

When selecting the right automatic waste sorting machine for your needs, several crucial factors come into play:


Budget and Cost Considerations

Your budget is a significant factor. Automatic waste sorting machines come in a range of sizes and complexities, with corresponding price tags. Consider your budget and financing options before making a decision.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Automated Waste Sorting Equipment Supplier. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.


Waste Sorting System for Municipal and Household Waste

Capacity and Throughput

The capacity of the machine should align with your waste processing requirements. Consider the volume of waste your facility generates daily and choose a machine that can handle that load efficiently.


Types of Waste to Be Sorted

Identify the specific types of waste you need to sort. Different machines are designed to handle various waste materials. Whether it's municipal solid waste (MSW), construction debris, or industrial waste, choose a machine suited to your needs.


Technology and Features

Automatic waste sorting machines come with various technological features. Some have advanced AI systems for improved sorting accuracy, while others focus on durability and ease of maintenance. Evaluate the technology and features that matter most to your operation.


Environmental Impact

Consider the environmental impact of the machine. Look for options that are energy-efficient, produce minimal emissions, and promote recycling. Sustainability is a growing concern in waste management.


Space and Installation Requirements

Assess the available space for installing the machine. Different machines have varying footprints. Make sure it fits comfortably in your facility and meets installation requirements.

 Recyclable Waste Sorting Center Treatment System

Maintenance and Support

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your machine running smoothly. Check for the availability of spare parts, technical support, and maintenance services from the manufacturer.


Regulatory Compliance

Ensure that the waste sorting machine complies with local and international regulations. Compliance is crucial to avoid legal issues and fines.


Warranty and After-Sales Service

Investigate the warranty offered by the manufacturer and inquire about after-sales service. A reliable warranty and good customer support can save you time and money in the long run.

Now that you have a better understanding of the factors to consider, let's address some common questions about automatic waste sorting machines.


FAQs About Automatic Waste Sorting Machines

1. How do automatic waste sorting machines work?

Automatic waste sorting machines use sensors and robotics to identify and separate different types of waste materials. Conveyor belts transport the waste to the sorting area, where sensors detect and direct materials to their respective containers.


2. What types of waste can be sorted with these machines?

Automatic waste sorting machines can sort a wide range of materials, including paper, plastics, metals, glass, and organic waste. The specific types of waste depend on the machine's design and capabilities.


3. Are automatic waste sorting machines environmentally friendly?

Many automatic waste sorting machines are designed to be environmentally friendly. They promote recycling, reduce landfill waste, and some are energy-efficient, contributing to a greener waste management process.


4. What is the maintenance schedule for these machines?

Maintenance schedules vary depending on the machine and its usage. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and sensor calibration are common maintenance tasks. Manufacturers typically provide guidelines for upkeep.


5. How can I ensure the machine's compliance with regulations?

Before purchasing, verify that the waste sorting machine complies with local and international waste management regulations. Manufacturers should provide documentation and certifications to support their compliance claims.


By considering these questions and the factors outlined above, you can make an informed decision when choosing an automatic waste sorting machine for your waste management needs. These machines are a valuable investment in a more sustainable and efficient future.


Remember to conduct thorough research, request quotes from multiple manufacturers, and consult with experts in waste management to ensure you make the right choice for your specific requirements.


If you want to learn more, please visit our website Automated Waste Sorting Equipment Wholesale.

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