Powerscreen takes control with new system
Powerscreen continuously looks for opportunities to integrate new technology within its new product development. The latest advancement within Powerscreen® crushing and screening equipment is in automation and control systems, simplifying the interaction between operator and machine.
Initially launched in 2011, Powerscreen began implementing a wide ranging upgrade to its plant control system to coincide with the redesign of its machines to be compliant with Tier 4i/Stage IIIB emissions legislation. The upgrade transformed the user interface into a more streamlined and integrated solution. In earlier iterations within the mobile cone crusher range, the system had a multiple controller setup with different interfaces for engine, cone setting, choke control and machine power. With the latest generation system, all engine and machine functions are controlled and operated on a single, intuitive and graphically driven Human Machine Interface (HMI) colour display.
The menu interface and display are designed to provide the operator with a balanced amount of process detail for any given task; from tracking the machine to crusher setting to full plant operation. An operator can access more detailed information through a secondary menu within the setup, diagnostics and alarm settings menu, which can help an operator or service technician identify and resolve faults. Within the screening range, the new colour HMI display provides improved diagnostic capabilities, such as fault log history, electronic engine information and fault code support, while retaining the industry-standard fault icons for shutdown and derate warnings. A small PLC (Programmable Logic Control) inside the display panel houses the main operational software.
The aligned rollout of these systems with Tier 4i/Stage IIIB-compliant Powerscreen machines mean that the 1000 Maxtrak, 1000SR and 1300 Maxtrak cone crushers, as well as some Warrior and H-Range screens, that are already dispatched and in operation include the new plant control with HMI display. The same models with Tier 3/Stage IIIA engines are planned to be upgraded soon.
In the USA, Ian Williamson represents a local distributor, Powerscreen Mid-Atlantic, and he is certain of the benefits of the system improvements. “The control system advancements have made life much easier for our customers and service department. Our team is able to promptly help customers by resolving any breakdowns in the quickest of times. This system on the newest models is operator-friendly and the screen is incredible, even in direct sunlight the graphics are really clear.”
Next year will see the release of more new Powerscreen models. These machines will be launched with the “next generation” of our plant automation advances as standard. The system has already been developed and results of initial testing are promising, more information will be available in 2013.