Enhanced software and hardware allow a high degree of user configurability. It is particularly in combined Heat-Cool control applications where the advanced algorithms come into play, allowing an extremely narrow band between heating and cooling without causing overlap.

The Gefran 600 is a microprocessor controller, format 48x48 (1/16 DIN) manufactured using SMT. It provides a complete operator interface protected by a Lexan membrane that ensures level IP65 faceplate protection.

This PID controller has 4 keys, two green LED displays, each with 4 digits, 4 red signal LED's for the 4 logic or relay outputs, and 3 other programmable LED's to signal the various operational states of the instrument.

The main input for process variable is universal, and many types of signals can be connected: thermocouples, resistance thermometers, thermistors, normalized linear inputs, all with possibility of custom linearization using the faceplate keys.

The type of input is selected from the faceplate keys; no external shunts are required.
A second auxiliary analog input from the current transformer is also available.

With the isolated digital input you can select: one of the two presettable setpoints, select Manual-Automatic mode, reset the alarms memory, or enable the hold function.

The instrument can have up to 4 outputs: relay (3A, 250V) or logic (12Vdc, 20mA). An analog output in voltage or current is also available. The function of each output is freely configurable from the faceplate keys.

In addition to control and alarm outputs, you can have outputs that repeat the state of the digital or retransmission input by process variable, setpoint, drift, alarm limits and values acquired from serial line. Another isolated output (at 10 or 24Vdc, 30mA max.) is available to power external transmitters.

The serial communication option (available in RS485 standard) allows connection to supervision systems and PLCs with two protocols: GEFRAN CENCAL and MODBUS RTU.
Instrument programming is facilitated by grouping parameters in functional blocks (CFG for control parameters, Inp for inputs, Out for outputs, etc.).

The instrument can also select display parameters based on hardware configuration, automatically masking irrelevant parameters. The instrument is supplied with an "EASY" configuration with just a few parameters (only those for the model ordered and essential for controller operation). In this way, you just have to set the setpoint and alarm, and launch selftuning from the button. The 600 does all the rest.

A PC programming kit is available for even simpler configuration, composed of a cable and a guided program for Windows environment.

Features of Gefran 600 Controllers

• Choose from a wide range of software-selectable inputs, including 0-10V and 4-20mA.. Universal input configurable from faceplate
• Self-tuning, Auto-tuning, Soft-start, bumpless Man/Auto function: Obtain perfect control by activating autotuning via button on faceplate, making commissioning very easy
• Accuracy better than 0.2% f.s. under nominal conditions
• Control output: relay, logic, Triac or continuous
• Hot/cold function with selection of cooling fluid
• 3 alarms with completely configurable function: Know what the controller is doing : LEDs will flash when softstart or autotuning are in progress or when a sensor fault occurs. Trigger pre-configured control functions (alarm reset, Auto Manual mode…) via remote switch.
• Analog retransmission output
• Isolated digital input with configurable function
• Auxiliary input for CT (TA) (50mAac)
• Heater break or probe short-circuit alarm
• Double set, set ramp, timed output function:
  Switch between two setpoints (e.g. “Run” and “standby”) via remote button or via button on instrument faceplate.
• Optically isolated RS485 serial line.
  Protocol: GEFRAN CENCAL or MODBUS RTU
• Self-diagnosis
• Rapid configuration from PC with Winstrum packet

PID Temperature Control Loop: Heat-Cool Control

Application example: Plastic Blow Moulding Machine

The purpose of a temperature control loop is to maintain the process temperature accurately at a determined level.

A control loop typically consists of Heating Elements Temperature Sensors Controllers and a Switching Device/ Solid State Relay to feed power to the element. All parts in the control loop are essential and need to be selected, installed and set up correctly.  It is particularly in combined heat-cool control applications where the advanced algorithms come into play, allowing an extremely narrow band between heating and cooling without causing overlap. By tuning the three parameters in the PID controller algorithm, the controller can provide control action designed for specific process requirements. For more information and to get a quote for the components illustrated in this control loop, please follow the links on top of the product images.

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