PEMCO Belgium, one of our Dear Old Customers, called on our expertise to remanufacture a synoptic board and control panel for pneumatic conveying, weighing and mixing.
The automation system was outdated and the lack of spare parts was causing problems. Thanks to reverse engineering of the old S5 software, which had seen a lot of modifications over the years, we were able to completely rebuild the system.
We replaced the synoptic board and control panel with a large Wöhrle screen (touch screen). This screen works with WinCC SCADA on a virtual server and is easy to use for the operators. We also upgraded the PLCs: 3 boards with 3 racks of type S5-115U were exchanged for new S7-1500 TIA PLCs.
The new unit was fully integrated into the existing central WinCC environment and into Pemco’s central database. This provides the ability to log data into the central database, perform analysis and apply process improvements.
By replacing the old software, the life cycle of the machine has been significantly extended. The customer can keep its initial investment and, after remanufacturing, has a machine that meets Industry 4.0 standards.
BEFORE
AFTER
Advantages for the customer
- More financially attractive than a completely new machine
- Short conversion time
- User-friendly for operators
- Improved communication possibilities with other applications
- Reduce spare parts costs by using standard components
- The redundant, old systems can be sold to companies who refurbish
- Positive impact on the circular economy
