Recommend a PLC for a WELDER/PLASMA CUTTER

[ichudov]

I am messing with my welding machine -- former 3 phase Hobart CyberTig
-- by changing it to use a PCTI SCR firing controller. Without tiring
you guys with details, it will also have a switchable voltage range,
0-90VDC and 0-300VDC (the latter for plasma cutting).

I have gotten to the point where basic stick welding works fine.

Now I am facing a task of making a real control system for it. I could
do it with relays, but that is cumbersome and hard to reconfigure.

I am now considering some programmable control, since it makes making
changes considerably easier. I am a computer programmer, so I know
the basics of programming. I had some suggestions in the past that I
shoudl consider the microcontroller route, and now I agree.

It would be good to get something that could handle maybe a dozen
inputs, have a dozen or so outputs, and is programmable via serial
port.

Not sure what exactly I need, PLC or microcontroller or whatever, but
it needs to have relay outputs and discrete and non discrete inputs
and outputs.

I would greatly prefer something that can be i nterfaced to through
Linux, since that's what I have, but I could use Windows software
also.

I have 12VDC and 120 VAC power inside the welder.

Any suggestions? Used stuff is fine with me. I saw some Omron Sysmacs
sold on ebay for not too much, anyone knows if they are any good?

thank you!!!

 

[rsdoran]

Automation Direct has the DL06 with 20 inputs and 16 outputs which can work with 12vdc or 120vac. http://web4.automationdirect.com/adc/Shopping/Catalog/PLC_Hardware/DirectLogic_06/PLC_Units

It may be possible to use their free downloadable software for this project: http://web4.automationdirect.com/adc/Shopping/Catalog/PLC_Hardware/DirectLogic_06/Programming_SW_-a-_Cables/PC-DS100

You will have to use Windows but you can make a cable, the information for that is also on the site.

SINCE you stated you are a computer programmer I will assume you are familiar with C programming and want the ability to work in Linux then you may want to look at Rabbit microcontroller kits:
http://www.rabbitsemiconductor.com/products/kits/

I may be wrong about the C software running in Linux because I do not see a reference that states it now but I could have sworn it was an option.