MODULE DETAILS

Programmable Logic Controllers DIAPLC610

Nominal duration: 36 hours total time commitment

This time commitment includes the structured activities, preparation reading, and attendance at each webinar, completing exercises, practical assessments and proctored assessments.

It is also expected that students spend additional time on readings, personal study, independent research and learning, practicing on remote labs and required software and working on any projects and assignments.

This module covers the fundamental features of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), the principles of ladder logic and the IEC 61131-3 standard in programming, and applications of PLCs for advanced control.

MODULE PURPOSE

The purpose of the module is for participants to develop working knowledge of programmable logic controllers and be conversant with fundamental principles of application, selection, programming and installation.

MODIFICATION HISTORY

Original module approved in 2007 (51935); June 2011 (52403WA); 2014 (52708WA).  This version: V4.0

PREREQUISITE AND/OR CO‑REQUISITE MODULES

Modules that must be delivered and assessed before this module:

None

Modules that must be delivered concurrently with this module:

None

SUMMARY OF LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Outline the fundamental features of PLC hardware and software
2. Apply ladder logic to the development of PLC programs
3. Apply IEC 61131-3 to the development of PLC programs

4.    Explain the use of PLCs in advanced applications

LEARNING OUTCOMES

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Learning outcomes specify what students will be able to do as a result of the learning.

Assessment criteria provide the criteria by which achievement of the learning outcomes will be judged.

1

Outline the fundamental features of PLC hardware and software

1.1

Describe PLC hardware structure

1.2

Outline PLC I/O modules and their applications

1.3

Describe good installation practice for PLCs

1.4

Demonstrate methods of representing:

(a) Logic functions

(b) Boolean algebra

(c) Instruction code

1.5

Compare PLCs from different manufacturers in terms of:

(a) memory structure

(b) data representation

(c) instruction code

2

Apply ladder logic to the development of PLC programs

2.1

Interpret relay ladder diagrams

2.2

Develop simple PLC ladder logic programs incorporating:

(a) Contacts

(b) Relay coils

(c) Output coils

(d) Timer coils

2.3

Demonstrate good programming practice by maintaining accurate:

(a) I/O Lists

(b) Register Sheets

3

Apply IEC 61131-3 to the development of PLC programs

3.1

Outline the function and common elements of structured programming as embodied in IEC 61131-3

3.2

Develop a simple PLC program in one or more of the following programming languages:

(a) Structured text

(b) Function block diagram

(c) Instruction list

(d) Sequential function chart

4

Explain the use of PLCs in advanced applications

4.1

Outline advanced programming concepts including:

(a) Reusable blocks

(b) Drive logic

(c) Alarm handling

4.2

Explain issues related to using PLCs for closed loop (PID) control

4.3

Explain issues related to using PLCs for batch processes and sequential control

4.4

Explain issues related to using PLCs for safety programmable systems

DELIVERY MODE

Online and/or face-to-face

SPECIALISED RESOURCES

N/A

ASSESSMENT STRATEGY

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, structured assessments, samples and questioning. This will include short answer questions on the knowledge content, the use of remote and virtual labs, and writing tasks to apply the learning to academic tasks.

CONDITIONS OF ASSESSMENT

Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this module. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required.

The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Assessments may be open book assessment and may be completed off campus. Invigilation software will be used for some assessments to ensure authenticity of work completed.

Model answers must be provided for all knowledge-based assessments to ensure reliability of assessment judgements when marking is undertaken by different assessors.