Setting Up PID Control for PowerFlex 40-E with 22-Comm-E: PLC Tag Configuration Challenge

Question:

I have successfully configured a PowerFlex 525 using Embedded EtherNet/IP for PID Loop control with my CompactLogix. Now, I am attempting to set up a PowerFlex 40-E using 22-Comm-E. I have configured the PID Reference Select and PID Feedback Select to Comm Port, but I am unable to locate the I/O reference tag in the PLC to transmit the data. Is it not feasible to do this with a PowerFlex 40, and only with a PowerFlex 525 model?

Top Replies

Are you utilizing the drive's integrated PID controls to adjust the speed and transmitting the PID setpoint through Ethernet/IP? If that's the case, you may need to establish datalinks in the drive configuration menu within Studio 5000. The default settings may not include this feature (especially for the 525 model.)

rupej mentioned that setting the speed using the drive's built-in PID controls and transmitting the PID setpoint via Ethernet/IP is the approach being used. To achieve this, configuring the datalinks in the drive settings within Studio 5000 is necessary. Default settings may not support this feature, similar to the PF40 drive where data links are not assignable like the 525 drive.

Following a consultation with Rockwell Tech Support, I learned that I must send an MSG command to establish the PID setpoint/reference (137) since Datalink is unavailable. The PID Feedback for both PF40 and PF525 can be configured using the FreqCommand I/O tag, with a scaling of 0-100% equaling 0-60 HZ Freq. For more information, refer to Rockwell Knowledge Base article 627551 regarding sending PID setpoint and feedback through Ethernet/IP. The PID feedback can be written using the drive name:O.Frequency_Command tag name, with a scaling of 0-3600 where 3600 corresponds to Parameter P044 [Maximum Freq]. Remember not to use Datalink for Parameter A460 [PID 1 Fdback Sel]. It seems like I will have to revisit and rectify my 525 application.

I'm glad to hear you figured it out. I'm curious though, what is the reasoning behind using a PID in the drive instead of utilizing a PLC, which is typically more common in this type of setup. This arrangement is new to me and I'm interested to learn more about it.

In response, user 'rupej' expressed satisfaction with resolving the issue and raised a question about the decision to use PID in the drive despite having a PLC. This unconventional setup raised curiosity. The user noted that CompactLogix and ControlLogix may not have efficient PID functionality compared to MicroLogix. The user also mentioned that since the drive already handles the PID control effectively, there is no need to duplicate the effort in the PLC. After tuning the drives at one site, the user plans to replicate the process at another location, eliminating the need for PID logic in the PLC.

Actually, it is very possible to configure your PowerFlex 40-E as you're trying to. However, it’s a bit trickier than the PowerFlex 525. As you've found, there is no direct I/O reference tag. Instead, you need to use an explicit messaging instruction (like MSG in Ladder Logic) in your CompactLogix to send and receive the PID set points and feedback to and from your PowerFlex 40-E through the 22-Comm-E card. You can read up in the PowerFlex Ethernet/IP Adapter User Manual for the detailed instructions and Object definitions. Remember that consistency of this data communication will largely depend on your network traffic management and your PLC execution time.

Yes, you can definitely achieve PID control with your PowerFlex 40-E using 22-Comm-E ethernet module. However, the setup might be a bit different compared to your PowerFlex 525 configuration. In terms of I/O reference tag, try looking for it under the drive parameters in RSLogix, specifically check in the input and output assemblies related to the EtherNet/IP communication. There could be an issue with how the I/O assembly instances are set up or maybe the order of parameters is just a bit different than you're used to. Remember, the best way always is to verify the settings with the help of your device manuals.

While PowerFlex 40 is a versatile drive, it does have its limitations when compared to the PowerFlex 525 model, especially concerning configuration over Ethernet/IP for PID Loop Control. So, indeed, there might be some features you can't directly emulate from your PF525 setup. However, it doesn't mean the situation is hopeless. Have you looked into the Drive Object section? I would recommend you check out Class 1 parameters, where you may find your I/O Reference Tag. If that doesn't work, you might consider applying an alternate method, such as an analogue input. Just keep in mind that PowerFlex 40-E has its quirks when it comes to setup and configuration.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: FAQs:

Answer: 1. Can I set up PID control for a PowerFlex 40-E using 22-Comm-E similar to PowerFlex 525 with Embedded EtherNet/IP? - While PID control can be configured for both PowerFlex 40-E and PowerFlex 525, the process may differ based on the communication protocol and model specifications.

FAQ: 2. How do I configure the PID Reference Select and PID Feedback Select for a PowerFlex 40-E with 22-Comm-E?

Answer: - To set up PID control for a PowerFlex 40-E using 22-Comm-E, ensure the PID Reference Select and PID Feedback Select are correctly configured to Comm Port. Refer to the specific model's user manual for detailed instructions.

FAQ: 3. Why am I unable to locate the I/O reference tag in the PLC for transmitting data with a PowerFlex 40-E?

Answer: - The availability of I/O reference tags in the PLC for data transmission may vary based on the model and communication setup. Check the PLC configuration and ensure compatibility with the PowerFlex 40-E and 22-Comm-E setup.

FAQ: 4. Is PID loop control limited to certain PowerFlex models like the PowerFlex 525?

Answer: - PID loop control can be implemented on various PowerFlex models, including the PowerFlex 40-E. However, the specific configuration steps and compatibility with communication modules like 22-Comm-E may differ. Refer to the documentation for your specific equipment for guidance.

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