Eight tips for process automation success

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COVER: Next-generation PLCs, like the AutomationDirect BRX Series, use OT and IT communication protocols and security features to enable seamless data integration. With the free programming software, users can configure the BRX (with or without classic I/O) to also act as a data gateway. Courtesy: AutomationDirect

INSIGHTS

6 | International: Manufacturing digital transformation may start with consulting

NEWS 8 | LED developed for direct integration into computer chips; Robots helping manufacture overflow healthcare, quarantine infrastructures; Headlines online 12 | Technology Update: Direct-drive vs. geared-rotary servomotor: A quantification of design advantage: Part 2 16 | Technology Update: How robots help additive manufacturers add precision 19 | Think Again: Hot topics in

Control Engineering for 2020

Vol. 68 Number 1

® JANUARY 2021

ANSWERS

20 | PLCs power industrial data integration 24 | Using IIoT for a more energy-efficiency pump environment

p.24

26 | How to keep machines operating during stoppages and power disruptions 29 | Five ways automation helps manufacturers during COVID-19 38 | How advanced digital twin technology narrows the industrial skills gap 41 | Industrial automation unites the best of OT and IT

INSIDE PROCESS

P1 | Eight tips for process automation success

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INNOVATIONS

NEW PRODUCTS FOR ENGINEERS

44 | Linear motor series; Servo drive and motor series; Passive distribution junction blocks; Industrial pressure transmitter; pH sensor for lab, critical applications; Industrial PC for rugged environments; Smart RFID reader; Multi-circuit power and energy meter; Raspberry Pi compute module; Built-in programmable controllers See more New Products for Engineers at www.controleng.com/NPE. BACK TO BASICS 47 | How digital twins can help process simulations Digital twins can help model-based technologies provide a basis for continuous process optimization and efficient plant operation.

NEWSLETTER: Information Control

• AMP upgrades to edge controllers • Best practices matter when designing control systems • HMI, IIoT and AR technologies: Parts of the

Industry 4.0 revolution • Migrating legacy PLC programs to modern PLC hardware • Optimizing materials design with minimal data Keep up with emerging trends: subscribe. www.controleng.com/newsletters.

Control Engineering eBook series: AI & Machine Learning eBook Winter Edition

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Global System Integrator Report

Supplement to December Control Engineering and Plant Engineering Advice from automation and control system integrators with System Integrator of the Year for 2021, System Integrator Giants and more. www.controleng.com/GSIR

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