Latest Forest Products Technical Articles

Categories

Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship between DH and Ethernet networks.


Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.


Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.


Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Ladder diagrams, or ladder logic, is a popular programming language used for PLCs. Programmers can utilize boolean logic as a base for their ladder diagrams. Learn the basics and structures for boolean logic.


Developing a Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Servo Motor Using Mathworks Simulink

Developing a Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Servo Motor Using Mathworks Simulink

Servo motors are widely utilized in industry for numerous applications. How do you use fuzzy logic to control a servo motor?


Introduction to Smart Sensors

Introduction to Smart Sensors

Smart sensors differ from traditional sensors in that they offer benefits such as self-diagnostics, simplified wiring and communication, and more efficient remote monitoring.


Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Learn the similarities and differences between GUIs and HMIs in the industrial sector. Can they be used together?


Protecting Control Systems with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

Protecting Control Systems with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

Safety is of utmost importance in the day-to-day operations of any system, especially a system where humans and machines work together. Learn all about Safety Instrumented Systems and what it takes to keep workers safe, and the system running smoothly!


How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

Struggling to find the best ways to utilize real-time production data? This article reviews six steps to achieve better manufacturing results.


Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Sensing objects is a tricky business because of the many variables in light, surface texture, distance, color, and other factors. Learn how a photo sensor works!


How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

This article reviews how to implement the data science lifecycle CRISP-DM model phases into industrial computer vision.


Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Motors drive all sorts of processes in a facility. Depending on the application, which motor starter is best suited for your needs?


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.


Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids and linear actuators provide similar movements in industrial applications. What are the main similarities and differences, and how are they each used?


Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Different conveyance systems have different ways to calculate speed. Let’s dive into these systems, their speed, and some determining factors.


How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

Let’s take a closer look at retrofitting T-cart control with newer technology, such as using laser distance sensors versus limit switches.


What Makes a Smart Conveyor System “Smart”?

What Makes a Smart Conveyor System “Smart”?

With the adoption of digital transformation and industry 4.0, conveyors are becoming smarter. This article examines smart conveyor systems and what makes them “smart.”


Conveyor Belt Maintenance Strategies

Conveyor Belt Maintenance Strategies

When the conveyor belt goes down, what do you do? Follow a few of these preventive maintenance strategies to help get production back on track.


Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Who created the first conveyor system, what are some common types of conveyor systems used in industrial automation, and what are the types of controls involved?


Combining Machine Vision and Neural Networks in IIoT

Combining Machine Vision and Neural Networks in IIoT

As IIoT and Industry 4.0 continue to grow, so do its technologies. Machine vision is becoming more widely used in the industry, and IIoT pushes it to become more and advanced as time progresses.