Programming PLC

Creating a ladder diagram for your PLC project is a practical way to implement the control logic you described to prevent PCB burnout in the reflow oven. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating a simple ladder diagram for your project. Please note that this example assumes that you have some familiarity with basic PLC programming concepts. If you’re completely new to PLC programming, consider seeking assistance from a professional or training resources specific to your PLC model.

Ladder Diagram for PCB Conveyor Control:

In this example, I’ll use generic symbols for relays, timers, and a proximity sensor. You should adapt these symbols to match your specific PLC software’s conventions.

1. Start of the Ladder Diagram (Power Rail):

   [L+] [L-] (These symbols represent the PLC’s power rails.)

2. Add a Rung for Proximity Sensor:

   [PS] [—–[ )—-[ ]

   • [PS] represents the proximity sensor.
   • The [—–[ )—-[ ] section represents a normally open contact of the proximity sensor.
3. Add a Timer for Delay:

   [TMR] [—–[ )—-[ ]

   • [TMR] represents a timer.
   • The [—–[ )—-[ ] section represents a normally open contact of the timer.
4. Add a Coil and Relay Contact:

   [CR] [—–[ )—-[ ]

   • [CR] represents the coil of the relay.
   • The [—–[ )—-[ ] section represents a normally open contact of the relay.
5. Add Conveyor Activation Coil and Contacts:

   [CV] [—–[ )—-[ ]

   • [CV] represents the coil to activate the conveyor in inspection mode.
   • The [—–[ )—-[ ] section represents a normally open contact of the conveyor activation coil.
6. End of the Ladder Diagram:

   [ ] [—-]

   • This represents the end of the ladder diagram.

Logic Explanation:

• When the proximity sensor detects a PCB at the end of the rail, the normally open contact of the sensor closes.
• The timer starts counting when the sensor’s contact closes. If the PCB is still present after the specified time (18 to 20 seconds), the timer’s normally open contact closes.
• The closed timer contact energizes the relay coil, causing its normally open contact to close.
• The closed relay contact activates the conveyor in inspection mode, preventing any PCB substrate from entering the reflow oven.

Please note that this is a simplified ladder diagram example. In a real-world application, you may need to consider safety interlocks, fault handling, and more complex control sequences. Additionally, the symbols and naming conventions may vary depending on your specific PLC programming software. It’s highly recommended to consult your PLC’s programming manual and, if possible, seek assistance from someone experienced with PLC programming to ensure safe and effective control of your reflow oven conveyor system.