We Have several types of lapping machines I maintain that all work basically the same, I am thinking a PLC may be a good choice. Here is how basically every piece of equipment works:
1. Operator sets an old resettable mechanical Timer to desired cycle time from 10 seconds to 30mins or more.
2. Press Start
3. Slurry Pump comes on Table starts to rotate (Motor is VSD controlled mostly Yaskawa V1000's)
4. during run, they squirt lamp oil as a lube as motor current raises.
5. cycle stops, they raise the air cylinders and pull their product.
6. they reset to beginning of cycle

what they want to do:
1. is automate the lube application based on motor current.
2. automate cycle duration based on table temperature

What I would like to do:
1. Use a PLC with a touch screen to replace the Timers and buttons.
2. use current sensors and infrared sensors to control pumps with specific setpoints.

What PLC mfg is reasonably priced and fairly easy to set up?
"I am stuck on Band-Aid brand, 'cause they are stuck on me" Small Bio