AUTOMATION CONTROLS SPECIALIST 59 AUTOMATION CONTROLS SPECIALIST 60 Some of the most common problems an ACS will face with PLCs include: • Module failure of the input/output (I/O) System • Electrical Noise Interference • Power Problem • Communication Issues Each of these problems poses challenges when trying to resolve the issue. However, automation control specialists generally follow the standard steps of troubleshooting which are: 1. Identify the problem 2. Gather 3. Analyze the data 4. Develop solutions 5. Implement the solution 6. Test the solution Additionally, ACSs may perform troubleshooting such as supporting a backup and disaster recovery plan for all plant Control and Automation systems. 4. Automation Control Specialists Have Degrees in Automation To become an Automation Controls Specialist in the food industry, candidates typically hold a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electrical/Controls Engineering or Electromechanical Engineering Technician. Alternatively, a relevant college diploma in Robotics Engineering or Automation can also be considered. While attending school, we encourage you to seek internships or co-op opportunities in food manufacturing facilities or automation companies. These experiences offer practical insights into the industry, enabling you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. 5. Automation Control Specialists Work with Outside Vendors Most of the equipment utilized in food processing facilities is made in outside facilities by companies whose primary function is to make processing equipment for different manufacturing companies. Therefore, when equipment runs into problems, automation control specialists must contact manufacturers to ensure everything is completed. Automation electrical engineers may contact vendors for technical support such as the installation, configuration and troubleshooting. Additionally, many automation engineers acquire and negotiate new manufacturing equipment. Their specialized knowledge of PLCs helps manufacturers ensure that the latest equipment and automation meet their needs. If it is a custom-made piece of equipment, they may even collaborate on the design and programming of such equipment. Once the facility approves and purchases the equipment, they will assist in its installation, ensuring it is installed correctly. During this time, they will work with the vendor to provide feedback on the product’s performance, reliability and suitability. 6. Automation Control Specialists Communicate Knowledge to Others Effective communication is essential for an automation electrical engineer. They need to convey technical information to colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. These pieces of information could take on writing technical reports, presenting project updates, and explaining complex concepts in a way that non-technical individuals easily understand. For example, as mentioned earlier, ACSs acquire new equipment. They need to consider the different alternatives for machinery, automation and layout, and they also need to know how to explain these differences to various stakeholders. 7. Automation Control Specialists Act as Technical Specialists The longer an ACS works their job, the more knowledge they will acquire and the more technical of a specialist they will become. This specialized knowledge allows them to work effectively with other maintenance personnel and helps them to troubleshoot equipment together. They also use this knowledge to train lower-level technicians and production staff who may need assistance learning how to operate manufacturing equipment. Automation control specialists will read and learn about new advances in their field to build up their technical skills. 8. Automation Control Specialists Are Adaptable, Organized and Have an Eye for Detail As with any occupation, there are certain sets of skills which will aid you better than others. For a automation control specialist, these skills include: • Adaptability: The automation field constantly evolves with new technologies and methodologies. Equipment in the food industry is becoming more equipped with sensors, cameras and the ability for deep learning. Automation electrical engineers must be adaptable, open to change and willing to learn and adapt to new technologies to improve their technical toolboxes! • Organization: Food facilities are fast-moving facilities with multiple projects simultaneously. To keep up with this pace automation controls specialists need to effectively manage their time and keep track of project documentation, schedules, and resources. Many automation technicians will be working on one project at a time and multiple ones simultaneously! • Attention to detail: Precision is paramount in automation as even minor errors can lead to incorrectly made products. If a PLC is programmed poorly, it could mean products being cooked too long or even the wrong shape! Controls pay close attention to the details and will triple-check their work before stamping approval. Victor Awad a Consultant Engineer for the Food and Beverage Industry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wBG_O-NCC4 Victor Awad has maybe the “dream job” of many! He is currently working in process design for a Consulting Engineering Firm. He gets to see most of the Engineering Design & Operation Steps! Learn more about Victor on the Chemical Engineering Guy(s) Podcast! Photo by cottonbro studio/pexels.com Hi! I’m Quinton, the FoodGrads Bot! For any questions please come visit me at FoodGrads.com!
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