Control Stations
Control stations provide the centralized interfaces for the operation of machinery and equipment. They are the centralized point where a human operator can power the performance of an industrial process to either run or stop. They serve as the command and control centers for a range of applications. From the use of pushbuttons and pilot lights to perform start and stop functions, to interfaces that offer hundreds, if not thousands, of commands and responses; control stations are the backbone of industrial command and control.
These types of control devices are situated at numerous operator stations that may also include such operator devices as pushbuttons, toggle switches, and indicator lights—devices that enable users to efficiently and effectively control and monitor a wide array of equipment. They may be modular in design, allowing for a custom operator station that meets the distinct requirements of the user's desired control and monitoring tasks. Some advanced operator stations communicate with sophisticated automation systems, serving as an integral hub in a deeply interconnected, fully integrated operation.
More Information about Control Stations
The availability of accessories and mounting options further broadens the usability of control stations, ensuring that they can be installed and maintained with the utmost ease. They are smartly designed, even in their simplest forms, to be unambiguous and intuitive. This is crucial, given where a control station can end up in an operation’s workflow. Many models are available immediately from stock, providing assurance that replacement control stations won’t cause any significant downtime at an industrial site.
FAQs
Is there a cover an operator can choose that won't interfere with the connection of the control station to the equipment?
Yes, operators can choose control station covers designed to protect the station without interfering with its connection to the equipment.
Maintaining NEMA 4 Rating When Making Enclosure Penetrations
Cutouts are very common when modifying enclosures for push buttons, indication lights, conduit entries or mounting hardware. Cutting into an enclosure runs the risk of eliminating the protective nature of the NEMA rated attributes. Proper steps must be followed in order to preserve the NEMA rating of an enclosure.
Devices mounted to the enclosure must have the same NEMA rating as the enclosure.
This means that if the devices are installed to the manufacturer's specifications, they will be able to maintain the NEMA rating of the enclosure.
Water tight conduit hubs must be used when running wire through a cutout in an enclosure.
There are many different types of conduit hubs that are used to secure conduit to an enclosure. However, only certain conduit hubs are rated for a watertight seal. By using water tight hubs, the NEMA rating of the enclosure is maintained.
Bonded washers are necessary when mounting hardware to an enclosure.
If standard mounting hardware is used, the NEMA rating of the enclosure will no longer be maintained. Bonded washers have rubber gaskets that make a watertight seal around the drilled hole. It is also important to make sure the material used for the bonded washer matches the material of the enclosure. Stainless steel enclosures require stainless steel bonded washers.