New machine sub-control system guarantees correct operations

The new ECS sub-control system raises machine control to a higher level of performance. Bringing some of the power and features of the ECS/ControlCenter to bear on individual machines, the ECS sub-control system keeps plant machinery and its associated equipment operating smoothly. The system, which replaces conventional control panels, is also capable of controlling minor plant departments.

The new ECS sub-control system from FLSmidth Automation ensures the smooth operation of plant machinery. Based on the proven technology of the ECS/ControlCenter, the ECS sub-control system takes control of all aspects of a specific machine. From operating and lubrication settings to hydraulic and machine protection, the sub-control system can also be extended to control equipment associated with each machine such as conveyors and feeders. It can also be expanded to control minor plant departments.

Available to cement and minerals customers, the first ECS sub-control system was supplied with the FLSmidth Raptor range of cone crushers from FLSmidth Excel. Originally, Raptor cone crushers had their own dedicated control panel, but like most local machine control panels, these did not include the additional features of the ECS sub-control panel. The ECS sub-control system is pre-programmed by specialists from FLSmidth Automation, drawing on in-house process knowledge, and eliminating the risks associated with third party programming. And a built-in device simulation feature enables the system to be tested before it goes onsite, so there’s little need for trouble-shooting at start-up.

The first ECS sub-controlled Raptor cone crushers were successfully commissioned in 2008 at the iron ore Cloudbreak Mine in Australia. ECS sub-control systems are now available to control the full FLSmidth Minerals product line, from grinding mills, and material handling through to filtration equipment.

Flexible and easy to operate
The ECS sub-control system is housed in a small cabinet. Programmable logic controllers and input/output communication modules are operated from an intuitive touchscreen interface. Placed in close proximity to the machine, the sub-control system can operate as a stand alone unit, or it can be connected to a workstation in a central control room. From there, operators in charge of plant control and operations can control and monitor the machinery via the flexible human/machine interface (HMI). A remote connection capability means the system can be serviced remotely, which reduces operating costs because operators can discuss strategies and incorporate program changes with the specialists at FLSmidth Automation without the need to have specialists onsite – a great help for sites that are off the beaten track.

Other system features include:

• Simple to use advanced trending
• Alarm management
• Data logging
• Hardware flexibility.

For greenfield applications, sub-control systems save time onsite. Even if the control room is not yet up and running, a piece of machinery can still be commissioned, speeding up the overall process for quick production start-up.

The ECS sub-control system is designed with flexibility in mind and is available as an independent unit, or can be supplied together with machinery. And because it is not dependent on the ECS/ControlCenter, it can be easily integrated into most other control systems.

Related links:
Go to FLSmidth Automation