Automated control panels allow engineers to manage entire manufacturing processes from a single point of operation, ensuring their accuracy, productivity, and efficiency. Panels are responsible for controlling factory equipment and operations across a variety of sectors, ranging from automobile assembly and pharmaceutical production to food service. Their advanced control circuits contain devices designed to precisely control and monitor automated mechanical processes. Below are three components that help industrial control panels function.

Key Parts of Industrial Control Panels

1. Main Circuit Breaker

This component is responsible for delivering power to the entire control panel, supplying anywhere from 120-480 volts of electricity. While the topside of the circuit breaker remains powered at all times, the main circuit breaker typically has a disconnect feature located on the outside of the panel, allowing users to shut off the power easily.

2. Surge Arrester

Electrical surges can occur at any time and are commonly caused by lightning strikes or utility power surges. To prevent equipment damage caused by electrical power surges, surge arresters employ circuit breakers and ground terminals to insulate and absorb the high-voltage from power surges. This prevents system overloads and damage to machinery.

3. Programmable Logic Controller

The programmable logic controller (PLC) is essentially the brain of the entire system. It houses the central processing unit (CPU), where the system's logic program is stored, and features associated inputs and outputs that directly control and monitor the entire assembly line. Leveraging devices such as photo eyes, proximity switches, and sensors, assembly lines can send valuable feedback to the PLC for controlling operations.

For automation and control panel manufacturing, contact the professionals at Abcon Automation in Fairfield, OH. For over 30 years, their skilled and knowledgeable team has provided electrical contracting services, including control system designing, PLC automation programming, UL panel building, installation, and testing across a wide variety of industries. Call (513) 851-7572 to get started, or visit them online to learn more about their products and services.