Design of Automatic Instrumentation
Automatic instrumentation is the use of electrical instruments to measure the parameters of any process, and the use of programmed logic control to control those processes. Instrumentation automation helps to reduce human error and improve the accuracy and reliability of system operations.
The design of an automatic instrumentation system involves selecting, positioning, calibrating and connecting the instruments to provide a reliable measure of the system parameters. The design process should be done in accordance with applicable industry standards and regulations, as well as local codes.
The design process for any automatic instrumentation system should typically include the following steps:
Determine the system parameters that need to be monitored and controlled. This includes identifying the process to be measured, such as temperature, pressure, volume, etc., as well as any measurements of flow, such as fluid, gas, liquid or solid flow.
Identify and select the appropriate instruments that can measure the desired parameters. Examples of instruments that can be used for instrumentation automation include transducers, electrical meters, strain gauges, temperature probes, flow sensors, pressure sensors, etc.
Perform a survey of the current process environment and identify all potential sources of interference, such as other machines or equipment, heat or vibration that may affect the accuracy of the measurements.
Position the selected instruments. Each instrument should be positioned in such a way as to ensure that it can reliably measure the desired parameter.
Calibrate each instrument. The calibration procedure should ensure that the instrument is accurately calibrated and that the readings taken from it can be trusted.
Wire and connect the instruments and any other necessary control equipment.
Program and install the control logic and software.
Test and debug the system to ensure the desired system parameters are achieved and the system is functioning as expected.
Perform regular maintenance on the system to ensure that the instruments are working properly and taking accurate readings.
The design of an efficient and reliable automatic instrumentation system requires careful planning, careful selection and installation of instruments, and adequate testing and debugging of the system. By following the steps outlined here and using the appropriate tools, an automatic instrumentation system can be designed to improve the accuracy and reliability of system operations.
