All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(35396 products available)
The global PLC market is projected to reach a value of US$ 16.9 billion by 2028. One of the primary growth drivers is the touch screen HMI with PLC systems, which provide machine operators with a more intuitive interface and enhanced system control.
The HMIs and PLCs industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with the rising adoption of Industry 4.0 initiatives and the Internet of Things (IoT) accelerating automation advancements. Integrating touch screen technology into Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) improves operators' working efficiency and productivity. In addition, leveraging cloud computing and the IoT enhances system connectivity and data management. As a result, the four global trends in the growth of the PLC and HMI industry are the following:
The supply chain in the touch screen HMI market, including the PLC industry, comprises component suppliers, HMI manufacturers, system integrators, and end-users. The vendors and technology partners in the industry have formed strategic partnerships to share expertise and develop advanced touch screen HMI technologies.
Based on screen type, the global Human Machine Interface market touches upon various types, such as Jiangsu Jiejie, JNJ, Getac Technology, and Xinde Company, that offer different types of HMIs. HMIs with a 7-inch screen size are used in various industries, including transportation and logistics devices, medical devices, and industrial applications. PLCs can connect with various transducers through several I/O modules to control process machines. By offering a user-friendly interface and integrating PLC into HMIs, industries can utilize a robust tool for automating processes.
Based on screen size, there are many available sizes, such as 3-4 inches, 4-7 inches, 7-10 inches, 10-15 inches, 15-20 inches, and over 20 inches.
Various functions and a wide range of features enable HMIs with PLC to meet industrial automation needs efficiently. The following are some of the common functions and features.
Advanced Data Monitoring
Data monitoring and tracking functions aid ineffective analysis and evaluation of operational processes. Real-time data monitoring tracks critical metrics like pressure, flow, level, and other operational parameters. It provides consistent data and performance status for different processes. The trend analysis function evaluates the trend of specific parameters over a given period. It helps in determining the efficiency and reliability of the system. The data logging function saves data in external memory or databases for historical analysis.
Alarm Management
The alarm management function detects and informs about potential risks and dangerous situations. Alarm management helps to ensure safe and risk-free operations. The alarm system warns and alerts operators about abnormal conditions. Operators can take the necessary steps to avoid accidents. The critical alarm display function marks the most dangerous situations and critical alarm situations for quick response. Alarm logging saves the alarm history for reference in external storage. It can be used for future analysis to improve safety and reliability.
Plant Production Control
Production control functions, such as batch control and process automation, help in effective production management. Process automation eliminates the need for manual intervention. It performs operations like mixing, filling, and packaging, improving efficiency and consistency. Batch control executes batch production operations in different manufacturing industries. Precision control and automation enhance product quality and reduce scrap.
Maintenance Functions
Maintenance functions ensure the proper functioning of HMI systems. The maintenance functions notify users about the system's status. Users can monitor and oversee the system continuously. The scheduled maintenance function allows operators to plan maintenance activities to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Maintenance logs record previous maintenance activities for compliance and review.
User Management
User management functions provide system security. These functions prevent unauthorized access and keep the system safe and secure. These functions include user access control, authentication, and role assignment. User access control specifies the level of access the user requires to perform certain functions. It restricts access to critical functions that can result in dangerous situations. The authentication function verifies the identity of the users requesting access. It uses passwords, biometric scans, or other verification techniques to validate users. Role assignment assigns roles and responsibilities to different users based on their position.
Connectivity
Connectivity options, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, connect HMIs with other devices and PLCs. They facilitate data exchange between various components of the automation system. Ethernet enables wired connectivity over long distances with high speed and reliability. Wi-Fi allows HMIs to connect to the Internet for cloud storage and remote access. Bluetooth is suitable for short-range connectivity between devices.
Touch screen HMIs are essential for various industries, as they increase productivity and efficiency by enabling operators to monitor and control industrial processes from a single interface. The following are the key applications of a touch screen HMI with PLC:
Manufacturing Operations
The system can be used to monitor operations in manufacturing plants. Operators can view data on machine operations, such as speed, temperature, and pressure. They can also detect faults and alarms in machines. In addition to this, many manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, have PLCs integrated with HMIs to control parameters and ensure consistent product quality.
Energy Management
Utility companies and other energy management systems use HMIs with PLCs to control energy production and distribution. For instance, PLC-based HMI systems are deployed in renewable energy facilities like solar farms to optimize energy production. Operators can control processes through the user-friendly interface of an HMI, resulting in efficient energy management.
Building Automation
A PLC touch screen HMI can be used to automate building processes like lighting control, access control, fire alarms, and HVAC systems. HMIs enable building managers and facility operators to monitor and manage all of these crucial building systems from a single organized interface, enhancing occupant comfort while also using energy more effectively.
Water Treatment
In water and wastewater treatment facilities, a touch screen HMI with a PLC can be used to control and monitor important processes like chemical dosing, filtration, and disinfection. Real-time data visualization helps operators ensure compliance with regulations by closely monitoring water quality parameters, turbidity, and PH levels.
Transportation
Applications of the PLC HMI touch screen include traffic management systems with HMIs to monitor and control traffic signals. Additionally, the system can be deployed in railways to monitor train operations and control systems such as braking and signal systems.
Marine Applications
The system is used in shipbuilding and other large marine manufacturing industries. Touch screen HMIs provide a user interface for controlling and monitoring engine parameters, navigation systems, and other vital equipment on the ship. Offshore platforms also use PLC-based touch screens for all operations.
System performance, application requirements, and user preferences should be considered when selecting a touch screen HMI with a PLC that best meets specific needs.
Different industries use touch screen HMIs with PLCs for various applications. Therefore, this will help narrow down specific models that can be applied in a specific industry. Applications can be based on environmental conditions such as temperature measurement and control, level control, flow pressure control, etc.
Scalable systems can be developed since multiple HMIs can be connected using a communication network. Make sure to check the communication protocols supported by the HMI and PLC devices. Some of the protocols may include Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, DeviceNet, among others. These protocols will enable integration with devices like sensors, actuators, motors, etc.
The PLC has an easy-to-use programming interface with tools like ladder diagrams, function block diagrams, and structured text programming languages. Ladder logic programming simulates relay logic circuitry and makes it easier to understand and implement. Programming can be based on selecting a PLC to match the programming languages accepted by the regulatory bodies.
This makes it easy to expand the existing integrated system by adding more devices, HMIs, and PLCs. This allows adaptation to evolving needs without major overhauls or replacements. Ensure the selected devices support protocols such as Modbus so that communication can be established between the HMI and PLC.
Consideration should be given to the initial and life cycle costs when selecting the HMI and PLC. These costs will include maintenance, upgrade costs, and training costs for staff operating and programming them. Long-term savings should also be kept in mind when choosing between proprietary and open technologies.
Make sure the HMI and PLC comply with regulations and standards relevant to the industry. The regulations could be related to safety and environmental standards, which could be in the form of certifications which may include CE, FCC, ATEX, UL, or RoHS.
Q1: What is the difference between a PLC and an HMI?
A1: The HMI touch screen displays information, while the PLC is the controller. HMIs may use the same programming software as PLCs in some cases.
Q2: Can PLCs be connected to the Internet?
A2: Internet connectivity is possible, but it depends on the PLC type. Some manufacturers provide added features to allow remote access and monitoring.
Q3: What are the benefits of HMIs?
A3: HMIs simplify machine operations and improve worker safety. They also promote efficient troubleshooting and faster response times.
Q4: How do HMIs communicate with PLCs?
A4: HMIs use communication protocols such as Modbus, Ethernet/IP, and OPC UA.
