PENG 103 - Introduction to Process Control and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

4 Credits: (2 lecture, 4 lab)

Course Description
This course provides an introductory overview of PLCs, instrumentation, and process control.  Integration of various controls will be addressed in the form of Distributed Control Systems (DCS).  Emphasis will be placed on lab activities - PLCs/Process Control Trainers.

Note Spring semester only.

Prerequisite INST 101 and PENG 102 or permission of instructor.

A. Identify components of a PLC and a control loop. 

B. Explain the function and identify symbols on a Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P & ID). 

C. Tune a Proportional Integral and Derivative loop control (PID) loop. 

D. Modify a PLC program. 

E. Troubleshoot PLC hardware. 

F. Explain the difference between open and closed loop control. 

G. Calibrate a 4-20mA transmitter. 

H. Identify and replace a bad component in a control loop. 

I. Describe the purpose of a DCS. 

Content
A. Introduction to programmable controllers 

B. Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P & ID) 

C. Loop controllers 

D. PLC systems troubleshooting 

E. Application development 

F. PLC system design 

G. Universal digital controllers 

H. PLC programming 

I. Digital electronics 

J. Transmitter operation and calibration 

K. Flow, pressure, level, and temperature transmitters 

L. Distributed Control Systems (DCS) 

Student Evaluation
Evaluation for the course will include: quizzes, projects, tests, assignments, and participation.