Project:      Control system retrofit for automated Gasket Press

Client:      Valley Products Co., Inc .

Project description:

An existing, manually-operated gasket pressing machine was retrofitted with an automated control system for setting up and cutting custom parts. The system was a duplicate of five existing similar machines. The control system utilized a Cutler-Hammer D500 PLC with encoder feedback to implement material feed, precision cutting and hydraulic pressing.  An operator interface panel was provided to allow for setup to accommodate various product sizes.

C&E Design Services scope:

• Purchased all controls / electrical components used, including: PLC equipment, pushbutton / thumbwheel station, motor controls, power transformers, conduit and wire
• Complete fabrication of the PLC / terminal panel and cabinet, pushbutton station, power distribution panel and motor control panel
• Installation of the controls equipment, conduit and wiring on the machine
• Downloading of the ladder programming from an existing PLC into the new system
• Start-up and debugging of the control system