Discover your next big idea at PACK EXPO Las Vegas this September
Experience a breakthrough in packaging & processing and transform your business with solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE

PC control grows up (sidebar)

Industrial network saves time

Changing out a sensor or other device is as easy as plugging it into the Profibus bus expansion module
Changing out a sensor or other device is as easy as plugging it into the Profibus bus expansion module

Aside from the PC control, one of the other unique control aspects of Beverage Capital's filling equipment is that all the sensors, drives and other components on the machine communicate with the PC via a device-level network on the machine. The network, in this case Profibus, simply connects one device to another, daisy-chain style. The benefit for Beverage Capital: If a component on the machine fails, it can be replaced more quickly, as was the case recently with a sensor. "You simply unplug it and plug in a new one," says Frank Hyatt, maintenance supervisor. The Profibus cables and bus expansion modules, supplied by Turck (Minneapolis, MN), are easier to work with than installing expansion cards and wiring new I/O points on a PLC, according to Hyatt.

Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics
What's in store for CPGs in 2025 and beyond? <i>Packaging World</i> editors explore the survey responses from 118 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG <i>Packaging World</i> readers for its new Annual Outlook Report.
Download
Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce