Industrial Controls

Automation and industrial control systems are playing an increasingly significant role across a diverse set of industries. Our extensive range of industrial controls below has everything you need to complete an automation control system, featuring products from a range of leading brands in stock and ready to ship today.

You can read more about industrial automation controls below, including their benefits, industry applications, and common system types.

What are industrial controls?

‘Industrial controls’ is the broad term used to describe the control systems and instrumentation that are used for industrial process control.

These devices, systems, networks, and controls are used to operate and automate functions in industrial, infrastructure, and construction sectors in particular. Electronics automation is also redefining the manufacturing, automotive, and retail industries – and is predicted to impact many aspects of our daily lives too.

How do industrial control systems work?

There are several different types of industrial control systems. Each industry uses systems that function differently and are tailored for their processes. Systems can range in size from a small number of modular controllers to large control systems with thousands of field connections.

To control a process, variables are measured using remote sensors which compare data against an organization or individual’s desired setpoints. This comparison informs command functions sent to final control elements to make any necessary adjustments and ensure desired events occur. This feature is known as the control loop.

What is electronics automation used for?

As discussed, industrial control equipment can be used to perform a variety of tasks and processes dependent on its application. The overall goals of automation and electronics are typically similar however – to make operations more efficient and autonomous with minimal input from human workers.

This is done by using machinery and equipment to automatically control mechanical or repetitive processes that would have previously been done manually or perhaps even been impossible. The benefits of industrial process control are considerable when implemented correctly and include:

• Allowing teams to work faster and more efficiently
• Making operations more precise and increasing output quality
• Reducing labor costs while increasing productivity and profits
• Improving safety by removing human involvement in dangerous, repetitive, or difficult tasks

What are the different types of industrial automation systems?

The two primary system types are SCADA and DCS. Actual implementation of industrial controls may incorporate elements of both.

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems

SCADA systems provide centralized monitoring of field sites and control of inputs and outputs at a supervisory level. They’re made up of hardware devices that are distributed in multiple locations, with each used to collect and transmit valuable data. By integrating with a machine interface, this data can be used to automate tasks that would be time consuming for humans to perform – for example if they were required to travel long distances.

These localized tasks could include monitoring environmental conditions, opening and closing valves, and collecting data from sensors. SCADA industrial control systems are commonly used in industries involved in pipeline monitoring – such as oil and gas – as well as water treatment and electrical power distribution.

Distributed control system (DCS)

DCS are systems tasked with industrial process control of multiple production systems at a single location. A desired setpoint can be communicated to the system’s main controller to instruct other automation parts, such as valves, to operate in a way that meets and maintains that benchmark. Data can be gathered for quick process control or stored for future reference.

A centralized control loop is used to manage multiple local controllers in the overall production process. This means workers can quickly access operation data while reducing the impact of a single fault on the overall system. DCS are typically used in manufacturing, oil refinery, and electrical power industries.

What automation parts are available?

Components vary depending on the industrial environment they’re required for. RS is a leading provider of industrial controls and automation parts for both simple machines and complex process systems. Examples include:

• Cobots, easy-to-program robots that work safely with humans
• Ethernet switches, modems, routers, signal conditioners, I/Os and wireless communication devices to help internally process system information
• Solenoids, slip rings, contactors, and motor controllers to keep things moving
• Disconnect switches, machine guarding and machine safety parts that can keep you from harm
• Panel meters, timers, and counters, give you the real-time status of processes
• Enclosed power outlets and a vast selection of control stations and pendants round out our industrial controls offering

Why choose RS for your industrial controls?

We’re North America’s largest authorized distributor of industrial control equipment from leading manufacturers including Siemens, Phoenix Contact, Schneider Electric, Omron Automation, and Red Lion. Our range meets the highest industry standards of performance and safety to help you create a secure and efficient environment.

You can apply filters or conduct a quick search below to find the right items for you. Our world-class service and logistics capabilities make sure you receive exactly what you need, when you need it.

Feel free to get in touch with our team if you need assistance. You can also find advice and further reading on industrial controls in our expert content hub.