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Control technology is essential for automation in industry. At Klefinghaus, we use our extensive experience to develop customised control solutions. From pneumatic systems to programmable logic controllers (PLCs), we offer everything from a single source. We design, programme, test and deliver systems that you can use immediately. Our technologies not only improve the efficiency of your machines, but also make them smarter.
Do you need smart solutions to make your production lines more efficient? Klefinghaus has a wide range of control components to optimise your processes and increase productivity.
These powerful tools will equip you for future challenges and ensure the continuous optimisation of your production processes. Click on the relevant category icon to find out more and go directly to our product shop.
Make controlling your systems as simple and efficient as possible.
Precise and reliable - the essential elements of any automation system.
Secure the foundation of your automation infrastructure.
Simplify development and maintenance processes with our advanced software solutions
Control technology is the heart of every industrial plant. It comprises devices that control, monitor and regulate processes. Material and energy flows can be influenced via sensors and actuators. Essentially, it involves processing several signals in a control loop, which then control the system directly. This leads to the entire process being optimized via incoming information. Control technology is crucial to how efficient and safe a production process is. It coordinates processes and provides valuable data for continuous improvement.
Control technology is indispensable in almost all technical processes. It automates and optimizes complex processes so that machines and systems function efficiently and precisely. This technology is used in industry, energy and environmental technology, transportation technology and medical technology. It improves the use of resources, increases safety and boosts the performance of systems.
Industrial automation
Industrial automation is one of the main areas of application for control technology. It includes the automation of production processes, machines and systems in various industries such as manufacturing, food processing, packaging, automotive, chemical industry and many others. Control technology enables the automation of processes, the control of machines and robots, the regulation of process parameters and the optimization of production performance.
Energy and environmental technology
In energy and environmental technology, control technology is used to control and regulate energy generation plants, power grids, water and wastewater systems, recycling plants and other environmental technologies. Control technology optimizes the operation of systems, maximizes energy efficiency, minimizes environmental impact and contributes to sustainable development.
Traffic engineering
Control technology is used in traffic engineering to control and regulate traffic systems such as traffic lights, rail systems, airport operating facilities and intelligent transportation systems (ITS). Control technology optimizes the flow of traffic, improves traffic safety and contributes to the efficiency of the transport system.
Medical technology
In medical technology, control technology is used to control and regulate medical devices such as imaging procedures, patient monitoring systems, ventilators, infusion pumps and surgical robots. Control technology contributes to the precision, reliability and safety of medical devices and improves patient care.
Industrial automation is one of the main areas of application for control technology. It includes the automation of production processes, machines and systems in various industries such as manufacturing, food processing, packaging, automotive, chemical industry and many others. Control technology enables the automation of processes, the control of machines and robots, the regulation of process parameters and the optimization of production performance.
Compressed air is the medium for control technology in pneumatics. Without compressed air or electricity, there is no movement. It enables the precise and efficient control of machines and systems in many industries.
Compressors draw in ambient air and compress it to increase the pressure.
Removes impurities such as moisture, oil and dust.
Compressed air is stored in tanks or containers for later use.
Distribution of compressed air via lines to pneumatic components.
Control of machines and production systems.
Use of cylinders and vacuum grippers to move and transport materials.
Joining, processing and assembling components.
Control of packaging machines and filling systems.
Precise machining and shaping of workpieces.
Control of medical devices such as prostheses, ventilators and dialysis machines.
Convert the energy of compressed air into mechanical movement.
Generate rotating movements for opening and closing valves or turning workpieces.
Enable the swivel movement of components or tools around an axis.
Linear movement of components or tools along a straight path.
Hold, position or manipulate workpieces.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Control technology in pneumatics plays a central role in the efficient and precise use of compressed air. It ensures that the right amount of compressed air is available at the right place at the right time. This makes it possible to control complex processes automatically.
Compressed air generation
Compressors draw in air and compress it to increase the pressure. This air is prepared and stored for use in pneumatic systems.
Compressed air treatment
Filters and dryers clean the compressed air by removing moisture, oil and other impurities. The purity of the air is crucial to ensure the functionality and service life of the pneumatic components.
Compressed air storage
Storage tanks keep the conditioned compressed air under pressure. This ensures a constant supply to the pneumatic system.
Compressed air distribution
A network of pipes and valves ensures that the compressed air is fed efficiently to the points of use. The valves precisely control the air flow to drive the various pneumatic actuators
Pneumatic actuators
Compressed air reaches pneumatic actuators such as cylinders or rotary drives, which convert it into mechanical movement. These movements carry out the actual work tasks. This ranges from simple linear movements to complex rotational processes.
Control system
Modern sensors and control units receive and process information about the system status and regulate the activity of the actuators. This enables precise control of the compressed air.
Feedback and monitoring
Continuous monitoring and feedback allow faults to be detected and rectified at an early stage. This ensures that the system always functions reliably and downtimes are minimized.
Compressors draw in air and compress it to increase the pressure. This air is prepared and stored for use in pneumatic systems.
Control of machines and production systems.
Use of cylinders and vacuum grippers to move and transport materials.
Joining, processing and assembling components.
Control of packaging machines and filling systems.
Precise machining and shaping of workpieces.
Control of medical devices such as prostheses, ventilators and dialysis machines.
Control technology offers a wide range of approaches and solutions that vary depending on the area of application and requirements.
Pneumatic control technology
In pneumatic control technology, compressed air and pneumatic actuators such as cylinders and valves are used to perform mechanical movements and actions. Pneumatic control systems have a simple design, are robust and are often used in industrial applications that require fast and simple movements.
Electrical control technology
Electrical control technology uses electrical signals and electrical actuators such as motors and switches to control machines and systems. This technology provides precise control and regulation of movements and actions and is used in a wide range of applications, from simple circuits to complex CNC machines.
Hydraulic control technology
Hydraulic control technology uses hydraulic oil and hydraulic actuators such as cylinders and motors to generate mechanical movements and forces. Hydraulic controls offer high performance and power transmission and are often used in applications that require high load capacity and pressure resistance.
Process control technology
Process control technology involves the control and regulation of industrial processes such as chemical reactions, temperature control, level measurement and flow control. These techniques use sensors, actuators and control systems to monitor and adjust process parameters and ensure that processes operate within specified limits.
Programmable control technology (PLC)
Programmable control technology uses programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to perform automated control tasks. PLCs are capable of implementing complex control logic and can be used in a variety of applications, from manufacturing plants to building automation systems.
Computer-aided control technology
Computer-aided control technology uses computers and software to control and monitor machines and processes. These techniques enable highly flexible and customizable control and are often used in complex industrial plants and robotic systems.
Programmable logic controller (SPS)
A programmable logic controller (SPS) is an electronic system that is widely used in automation technology. It is used to control and monitor machines and systems. The PLC processes digital and analog signals to control sequences and processes in real time. The control logic is stored in a central control unit and can be flexibly programmed and adapted using special programming languages. This enables precise and efficient control of complex processes in various industrial applications.
In pneumatic control technology, compressed air and pneumatic actuators such as cylinders and valves are used to perform mechanical movements and actions. Pneumatic control systems have a simple design, are robust and are often used in industrial applications that require fast and simple movements.
The terms control engineering and closed-loop control engineering are often used interchangeably, although they encompass different concepts and areas of application. While control engineering is aimed at the direct control and actuation of system components, closed-loop control engineering is concerned with the continuous monitoring and adjustment of processes in order to achieve and maintain a desired setpoint. This section highlights the differences between these two techniques, their modes of operation, areas of application and advantages.
Function:
Direct control and activation of actuators and valves to perform mechanical movements or actions. Includes defining switching states, activating motors, opening and closing valves.
Continuous monitoring and adjustment of system parameters to achieve a desired setpoint or a specific target value. Use of feedback mechanisms, control algorithms and sensors to monitor and adjust system performance.
Application:
Use in manufacturing equipment, machine automation, building automation and robotics.
Used in applications that require precise control of process parameters such as temperature control, pressure control, flow control, position control and speed control.
Advantages:
Speed: Enables fast response times when activating actuators and valves.
Simplicity: Often simple in design and easy to implement.
Flexibility: Offers a high degree of flexibility in the adaptation and configuration of control tasks.
Precision: Enables precise control and stabilization of process parameters.
Stability: Ensures stable and reliable system performance through continuous adaptation.
Adaptability: Can adapt to changing operating and environmental conditions.
Control technology and automation technology work closely together, but they have different tasks. Control technology ensures that individual parts of a machine, such as actuators and valves, do exactly what they are supposed to do. It controls direct movements and actions. Automation technology ensures that all parts of a system work together perfectly. This includes control systems, sensors and actuators. In this way, processes are designed automatically and efficiently.
Drive technology and control technology work hand in hand to ensure precise movements and optimum performance. With a variety of motors - electric, hydraulic and pneumatic - drive technology fulfils a wide range of control requirements. The control technology adapts flexibly and utilises systems such as PLCs, PC-based controllers or embedded systems. This collaboration is indispensable in many industries, from manufacturing and robotics to logistics and automotive, and forms the backbone of modern industrial applications.
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Control technology and closed-loop control technology are central elements in automation. But what makes them different? Control engineering deals with the direct command to machines to perform certain movements or start actions, such as opening valves or starting motors. These commands are based on defined parameters in order to achieve precise results. Control technology, on the other hand, constantly monitors and fine-tunes machine performance. It uses feedback from sensors to dynamically adapt the system and keep it stable even under changing conditions. This ensures that the machines not only work correctly, but also fulfil their tasks efficiently and safely. Both technologies complement each other to operate systems precisely and effectively.
A programmable logic controller (SPS) is the technical brain of many machines and systems. It stores programmes that specify exactly how devices are to be controlled. These devices can be motors, valves and other industrial components. The SPS programs are written in specialised languages. These make it possible to plan processes precisely and adapt them flexibly. In this way, the SPS contributes to efficient automation in many areas, from production to building technology.
Control technology is indispensable in numerous industries:
Industrial production lines: Control systems regulate machines and robots. They ensure precise and efficient production.
Automated warehousing systems: In logistics centres, these systems control everything from storage to shipping. They increase efficiency and accuracy.
Water treatment plants: Systems control pumps and filters to ensure water quality. They also control the supply of chemicals.
Automotive production: Automated systems control assembly lines and painting machines. They optimise the production process and improve quality.
The fundamental difference between drive and control technology lies in their functions: Drive technology generates mechanical movements, while control technology precisely controls and regulates these movements.
Drive technology:
Aim: To generate motion by converting energy into mechanical force.
Components: Motors that provide energy; gears that adjust torque and speed; actuators that convert motion; and clutches and brakes that start or stop motion.
Control technology:
Objective: to control and regulate the movements generated by drive technology.
Components: Control systems such as SPS and microcontrollers that execute control commands; sensors that measure and forward physical data; actuators that act in accordance with control signals; and communication interfaces that ensure the networking of the systems.
PC-based control uses standard PCs to control automated systems. In contrast to specialised SPS systems, these PCs use commercially available hardware. They offer versatile functions for process control. This enables flexible and cost-effective handling of complex industrial applications.
Control technology includes various components that work together to control and monitor machines and processes. In addition to the control system itself, this also includes sensors, so-called actuators and feedback loops.
Control systems: These electronic devices or computers, such as SPS, microcontrollers and PCs, execute the control logic.
Sensors: They record physical values such as temperature or pressure and convert them into electrical signals that are used by the control systems.
Actuators: These mechanisms react to control signals in order to carry out desired actions such as movements or the opening of valves.
Communication interfaces: Interfaces such as Ethernet or CAN bus enable the connection between control components.
Programming devices and software: These tools allow the control systems to be programmed and configured.
Feedback loops: They provide feedback on the system status and thus enable precise customisation of the control system.
Power supply and cabling: A stable power supply and correct cabling are essential for the functionality of all components.
These elements form the foundation of modern control technology, which is used in numerous industrial and commercial applications.
Control technology is central to automation. It utilises systems such as programmable logic controllers (SPS). These SPS systems are robust and serve as control units in industry. They work with programming languages such as Ladder Logic.
PC-based systems use normal PCs as control units. These systems offer flexibility and are easy to integrate with other IT systems. Embedded controllers are available for special applications. These are permanently installed in devices and carry out specific tasks.
Simple logic controllers use relays for basic tasks. Pneumatic systems, important in hazardous environments, work with compressed air. Hydraulic controls, used for heavy loads, utilise hydraulic fluid.
Control technology continuously monitors systems. It adjusts parameters to guarantee precise results. It is often combined with other technologies to solve complex tasks.
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