Alternator Performance Testing Using PLC and SCADA

Abstract: Alternator is an electromechanical device when it is driven at high speed it generates an electromotive force. In order to test the alternator in bulk amount, it is impossible manually. To overcome the above disadvantage, the testing machine is automated using Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA). PLC controls the entire process in the testing machine and SIEMENS WINCC SCADA is used for data monitoring. PLC used in this work is SIEMENS with 24 inputs and 16 outputs. Alternator is picked from the conveyor and placed on the test bench using cylinders. Alternator is driven at a particular speed by Servo motor. The advantage of servo motor is accuracy in positioning. The output current from the alternator is given to the PLC, where the desired output for the given input is already programmed. The programming of PLC depends on analyzing the performance characteristics between speed Vs torque and voltage Vs current. The parameters such as repeatability and linearity are checked for improved efficiency. If the component matches the desired performance then it is unloaded to the conveyor else it is send to the rejection chamber.

Keywords: PLC, SCADA, Alternator, servo motor, Performance Testing.