Page 20 - Bensons Panels - Case Studies

088-0202 Bensons Case Study Conica AMENDED.pdf 2 22/01/2024 16:29

CASE STUDY

C ONTR OL P ANELS

The Solution
To use an existing relationship with CBM-Logix to provide a successful integrated solution .

Bensons identified that specialist knowledge in the automation of production lines was required to
deliver the project successfully. The capability required was beyond that available in house at
Bensons. Bensons has an existing relationship with local experts in the development of PLC control
solutions for manufacturing automation, CBM-Logix. Bensons facilitated the development of an
integrated proposal with CBM-Logix which was agreed with CONICA
To minimise the risk of an extended commissioning phase, through a process of workshops CONICA,
Bensons and CBM-Logix developed, refined and agreed a Functional Design Systems (FDS) to clearly
document all operational requirements for the system.
Safety is a key consideration in any automation system, hence considerable attention was given to
the safety interlocks needed on the new steel processing line to eliminate the risk to people or
equipment during operation. Once the FDS was agreed, Bensons developed a control panel design,
collaborating with CBM-Logix to ensure alignment between hardware and software development to
ensure alignment between hardware and software development to achieve the requirements.
The system was controlled by a Mitsubishi PLC, remote access via a 4G modem. This 4g Modem was
designed with secure, end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication to protect the
connection. It was also used to provide the potential for cost effective software updates in the
future as required.
Once the control panel was built and tested, the software was loaded at Bensons site and the
integrated solution tested prior to delivery to the CONICA facility. This ensured that any system
bugs were identified and addressed before commissioning.

Bensons and CBM-Logix provided engineers on site to support CONICA with the testing and
commissioning of the system, ensuring that the new steel processing line would operate in line
with the requirements of CONICA.
Once the line was commissioned and operating, a small
number of minor changes to interlocks were identified.
By use of the 4G modem it was possible to implement
software up-grades without the need to send
engineers to site. This allowed the up-grades to
be implemented in a cost-effective and
timely manner.

The Result

Through a process of collaboration between
CONICA, Bensons and CBM-Logix, the detailed
operational requirements for CONICA’S new steel
processing line production facility were established,
documented and agreed.
A design for a control panel and associated PLC
control solution was developed, tested and
commissioned on site in a time efficient manner.

01924 894162 hello@bensonspanels.co.uk
Beckbridge Road, Normanton Ind Est, Normanton, West Yorkshire. WF6 1QS