Distributed heater control

Challenge

In drying, firing and metallization processes, an optimized temperature profile with fast ramp-up and cool down is required. When the system is not in use it should be switched off to save energy and when starting up, the temperature profile has to become optimized rapidly. Furthermore a stable and uniform temperature profile has to be maintained with optimized heater layout and power. Once a problem in a furnace arises, it should be detected as soon as possible to prevent defective products. Moreover, it is important for quality control that the temperature can be traced.

Solution

Multiple heaters can be controlled with one loop and the optimized power distributed proportionately, while giving freedom of design with regard to heater power distribution.

The cycle controller can communicate with a programmable process controller or modular temperature controller, saving costs and space.

The programmable process controller allows quick change-overs and improves the whole line management, while enabling process data to be logged with one controller.

Benefit

With an optimized temperature profile, the quality is improved and energy can be saved when the system is not in use.

Logging process data with one controller means easy data traceability to improve quality management.