Programmable Logic Controller Training

ESS offers various practical PLC-based training courses designed to improve automation and control skills across industries. These courses cover topics like PID control strategies, analog automation, human-machine interfaces, Modbus communications, motion control systems and more. Each course is delivered with a hands-on approach using Siemens PLCs and real-world scenarios, ensuring participants gain the skills needed to troubleshoot, optimise and implement automation systems in their respective fields.

Please see a brief overview of each course below and reach out if you would like more information

• Deploying Control Strategies from Bang Bang to PID on PLC Systems
• PLC Based Analog Automation
• PLC Based Automation of Industry using Simulation
• PLC Based Automation and Human Machine Interfaces
• PLC Based Communications via Modbus
• PLC Based Communications with HART
• PLC Based Communications with Profibus DP
• PLC Based Discrete and Digital Automation
• PLC Based Kinematic Systems

Deploying Control Strategies from Bang Bang to PID on PLC Systems

This 2-day hands-on course focuses on implementing and optimising both discontinuous (Bang Bang) and continuous (PID) control strategies using PLCs. Participants will learn to minimise production errors by understanding controller parameters and system responses, utilising Siemens TIA and 1500 PLCs with integrated HMIs.​

PLC Based Analog Automation

This 2-day interactive course (10% theory, 90% practical exercises) delves into analog automation using PLCs. Participants will learn about PLC operation, analog signal processing, communication via Siemens TIA, ladder logic programming for analog inputs/outputs, signal scaling, comparison logic, timers, continuous control, data types, tagging philosophies, and fault finding. The course utilises Siemens 1500 PLCs with integrated HMIs and includes tailored exercises based on real-life industry scenarios.

PLC Based Automation of Industry using Simulation

This 2-day course teaches participants to develop core competencies in using PLC simulators to design and program process and manufacturing systems. Key topics include setting up and deploying automation systems in a simulated environment, integrating virtual components such as conveyors, pumps, and motors, troubleshooting and resolving faults in virtual systems, and optimising system performance for process control applications. The course utilises the Siemens S7-PLCSIM simulator as part of the TIA platform to simulate industrial process control tasks.

PLC Based Automation and Human Machine Interfaces

This course explores the integration of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) with Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), focusing on designing user-friendly interfaces for effective monitoring and control of industrial processes. Participants will gain hands-on experience in developing and implementing HMI systems that enhance operator interaction with automated machinery, ensuring efficient and intuitive process control.

PLC Based Communications via Modbus

This 2-day course focuses on the Modbus communication protocol, widely used for industrial automation. Participants will learn how to configure and implement Modbus communication between PLCs, sensors, actuators, and HMIs. The course covers Modbus RTU, ASCII, and TCP, along with master/slave configuration, addressing, diagnostics, and practical integration in industrial systems. Hands-on exercises will help participants optimize data exchange and troubleshoot communication issues.

PLC Based Communications with HART

This 2-day course focuses on the HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer) communication protocol, widely used in industrial automation for process control and field devices. Participants will learn to set up and configure HART communication networks, interface with HART devices via modems and PLCs, and troubleshoot common issues. The course includes practical exercises tailored to real-life scenarios.

PLC Based Communications with Profibus DP

Over 2 days this course delves into the PROFIBUS DP (Decentralized Peripherals) communication protocol, essential for high-speed data exchange between PLCs and field devices. Topics include setting up PROFIBUS DP networks, integrating with PLCs, troubleshooting, and optimising network performance. Practical exercises ensure participants can apply their knowledge effectively.

PLC Based Discrete and Digital Automation

This 2-day interactive course covers the principles of PLC-based discrete and digital automation. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises involving PLC operation, digital signal processing, communication via Siemens TIA, ladder logic programming (including latches, interlocks, timers, counters, set/reset, on-off control, and sequential control), data types, tagging philosophies, and fault finding. The course utilises Siemens 1500 PLCs with integrated HMIs and real-life industry scenarios.

PLC Based Kinematic Systems

This 2-day, hands-on course teaches how to control motion systems using PLCs. It covers the integration of motors, actuators, sensors, and feedback devices to optimise production processes in industries like robotics and manufacturing. Participants will develop programming skills for controlling kinematic systems (e.g., robotic arms, conveyors), troubleshoot motion-related issues, and optimise performance. Practical exercises using Siemens TIA and PLC hardware ensure real-world application.