ENgiNE & gEN-sEt coNtroLs

vs

PLc or controller?
A guide to the right choice

LAND

PLc or controller?

comparative overview
What is the best way to manage a diesel or gas genset application? This comparative overview shows how PLC solutions compare to dedicated purpose controller based systems. Application expertise PLC Controller The PLCs weak point is its single processor as your production may come to a standstill should it fail. DEIF controllers utilise distributed processing: each genset, tie breaker and mains breaker has its own dedicated processors executing their own functions and monitoring the overall power plant. No single processor is in total control of the entire system. Optional redundant communications paths prevent single point failures from causing a blackout. This way, we ensure that your power plant remains fully operational at all times.

Flexibility PLC Flexibility is one of the PLCs biggest advantages but also a great Achilles heel. With flexibility comes the responsibility for the entire system operation. One small change in a given function can cause unforeseen problems later. Even the smallest change can result in significant re-testing. With Dedicated Purpose Controllers, the application software has been proven through thousands of running hours in multiple applications worldwide. Each application change is taken very seriously and tested thoroughly prior to release. The utility software allows the user to view and edit all parameters. The parameter files can be copied to share best practices between gensets and/or applications. In order to prevent tampering, the files can be password protected.

Controller

Design consistency PLC As PLCs are general purpose devices, they are often configured differently each time. Each system needs to be studied and learned from the ground up every time. Safety and reliability can be compromised when workers need to maintain or troubleshoot unfamiliar wiring and software. Dedicated Purpose Controllers like the AGC-200 have terminals with specific functions printed on large, easy to read, labels. This makes it safer and much easier for installation and service personnel to work on the system, reducing errors and preventing damage due to handling or wiring errors. Protective relay functions PLC PLCs are sequential processors. Both control and protection functions are scheduled and carried out in an explicit order. During the control process protection is inactive, causing undesirable delay to critical protective functions. Such delay may result in unnecessary damage to critical components. Speed is of the essence when protecting electrical systems. Delays in protective functions can lead to excessive equipment damage. Each circuit breaker (generator, tie, and mains) is monitored by an individual processor. Watch dog timers ensure protective functions are executed on a timely and efficient basis. Fast response means minimal damage and minimal system disturbance after a fault. DEIF utilises state-of-the-art automatic test equipment to thoroughly simulate all types of grid and system faults to ensure proper operation before each product release.

Controller

A DEIF controller after a climate chamber test below -40C.

Controller

PLc or controller?

Advanced power management PLC Each function needs to be programmed every time. The programmers personal preferences can result in inconsistencies between applications and new learning curves for each installation. The cost to add more functions can be disproportionately high. Controller Advanced power management functions, like load shed/load add, fuel optimisation, soft load/unload are already programmed, tested and proven. Adding functions can be done with minimal cost and known results.

Engine communications PLC Connecting PLCs to various engines can be very time consuming and difficult. Engine manufacturers interpret the J1939 standard differently. Even engines from the same manufacturer change over time. Pulling this data can be timely and require extensive programming, all of which may need to be re-done if the engine changes. Our dedicated engine communications team monitors leading engine manufacturers and continuously keeps DEIF controllers up-to-date with most electronic engines. This contributes to DEIF being the world expert within engine communications. Documentation, customer service and support PLC The documentation for a PLC is as custom as the PLC itself. Maintaining such custom documentation often falls to the end user. Features added later require the documentation to be updated, which is a time-consuming task. PLC vendors often rely on just a few key employees to do the programming, service and support for their customers. This can cause complications in the subsequent programming and further development of the system. After commissioning, only the PLC programmer will know the full details, potentially limiting the information and your service options to that person or team. Support can be delayed, expensive and maybe even impossible. All documentation for DEIF controllers is available on the website for free, often in multiple languages, with detailed explanations for each function. DEIF offers training, commissioning and free phone support by dedicated engineers in your local language and in your time zone. We are present in more than 30 countries, and with a large team of dedicated engineers, support is always competent and close by.

Controller

Controller

Test PLC Typically, a PLC ladder programme is made for a few projects only. Often, it is tested during start-up by the programmer, inevitably extending the start-up time or shortening the test. Often, a change in one area will result in a different problem in some other function. DEIF firmware is made by committed programmers working exclusively on power management. Extensive testing is done by dedicated technicians with widespread knowledge about how the system works. Thousands of systems are in use today worldwide. Hence, DEIF software is subject to ongoing strict, systematic and extensive testing under natural conditions. Our constant and intense focus on quality makes DEIF units suitable for any operating environment from the extreme heat of India to the bitter cold of Alaska or Siberia.

Controller

Power in Control is not just a saying. It defines the very essence of who we are and what we do for you.

Founded in 1933, DEIF has more than 75 years of experience. Today, we are active on the international markets for engine & gen-set controls, marine bridge instrumentation, switchboard instrumentation and renewable energy controls. It is our ambition to maintain and expand our position as one of the most trusted suppliers within our fields of operation. This goal will be reached by ensuring that DEIF continues to offer real competitive advantages to our customers by supplying superior product quality, the best and most flexible features and competitive pricing.

18.05.2011_A

DEIF A/S Frisenborgvej 33 DK-7800 Skive Tel.: +45 9614 9614 Fax: +45 9614 9615 info@deif.com www.deif.com