Programmable Logic Controllers at IRE

Students at Iron Range Engineering are now learning process controls with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs.) A PLC is a computer used in industry to control pumps, motors, lighting, sensors, and essentially anything electromechanical. Currently, students now have the opportunity to apply the theories and concepts learned in courses such as digital logic and circuits to the control the systems used in industries such as mining, manufacturing or processing. The addition of PLCs to Iron Range Engineering’s laboratory equipment will become an integral part of further design projects and experiments.

As shown in the picture below, iron range engineering student Luke Bounds is wiring and programing the PLC to control the water level, temperature, and flow rate of a 2 tank water system. In the process Luke learned the fundamentals of relays, ladder logic, sensors, motor controls, and PLC troubleshooting.