If it ain't broke don't fix it?
Recently, a PLC controlled heating system failed, product went over temperature resulting in substantial consequential losses.
An engineer dispatched to deal with the problem found that the CPU was not reading inputs, and replaced the input module to no effect....
Posted by Peter Jackson on 02 November 2018
Management of legacy controls and automation
In his first post for us, Peter lays out why you should actively manage legacy control and automation systems. We so often see systems which have not been updated to reflect the current plant configuration, hindering efficient operation. Targeted small, low-cost actions can bring significant improvements.
Posted by Peter Jackson on 08 June 2018
IIoT and Industry 4.0 Explained
Recently, I spoke to the Food and Drink Engineering & Processing Summit, at Ricoh Arena, Coventry. I wanted to explain in simple language the meaning of these terms, and suggest an approach to projects which intend to leverage the technologies. Below is the gist of what I said....
Posted by Richard on 03 December 2017
Op-tec's main office has moved to Stockport
We've moved! Things were getting a little tight where we were, and with customers throughout the UK locating ourselves more centrally makes sense as we continue to grow. Our new home is Broadstone Mill in Reddish, Stockport. More specifically, the Stockport Business & Innovation Centre (SBIC), located on the 3rd floor of this imposing landmark....
Posted by Richard on 06 October 2017
Collaboration with Robosoft
Op-tec has, and always will be, an independent service supplier. Meaning we will always select the most appropriate technology based on your criteria for success, be that: cost, performance, reliability, or ease of integration. In the course of working with suppliers, we endevour to develop strong, lasting relationships. This benefits our customers....
Posted by Projects on 06 September 2017
Different control system types
We often get asked the difference between DCS and PLC/SCADA-based systems, and where PACs come in to it. So here's an attempt to clear things up.
Posted by Projects on 01 August 2017
Op-tec achieves ISO 9001:2015 certification
After many years of operating with a compliant Quality Management System, we have now committed to regular external audits against the latest standard. This gives our customers and partners further reassurance that when they work with Op-tec they work with a company focused on delivering excellence through continuous improvement....
Posted by Projects on 02 June 2017
Time to upgrade?
We all have a favourite t-shirt, sweater, pair of jeans or trainers that have stood the test of time - in our own eyes at least. Comfortable, dependable and reliable, we only feel compelled to replace these items when they finally fall apart in the wash, or someone close to us takes drastic action and disposes of them on our behalf....
Posted by Richard on 12 April 2017