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Instrumentation and Process Control

Electronic Instrumentation and Control

Course #: Block B13
Duration: 63 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
What Students Learn: This nine lesson block presents the fundamentals of electronic instrumentation and control systems as used in industry, The block begins with two lessons on physical properties and their measurement. This foundation enables the trainee to apply these principles in subsequent lessons covering: measuring instruments and signal processing, transducers, introduction to control systems, controllers, control system methods, data logging, transmission, display and control applications, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Components: Physical Properties and Their Measurement, Part 1 (B1301); Physical Properties and Their Measurement, Part 2 (B1302); Measuring Instruments and Signal Processing (B1303); Transducers (B1304); Introduction to Control Systems (B1305); Controllers (B1306); Control System Methods (B1307); Data Logging, Transmission, and Display (B1308); Control Applications, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting (B1309); Progress Examination Booklet (B1320); Progress Examination (B1321); Progress Examination (B1322);

Physical Properties and Their Measurement, Part 1

Course #: B1301
Duration: 7 hours
Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
What Students Learn:

  • Determine the slope of a line and the direction of acceleration vectors.
  • Calculate centripetal force and angular acceleration.
  • Solve problems involving power, work, efficiency, and mechanical advantage.

    • Physical Properties and Their Measurement, Part 2

    Course #: B1302
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Describe how the properties of a liquid determine a liquid's viscosity.
  • Convert temperature readings from the English to the SI system.
  • Solve problems involving heat, light, and sound.

    • Measuring Instruments and Signal Processing

    Course #: B1303
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Given a particular schematic, identify the correct circuit function.
  • Identify the principle upon which a permanent-magnet meter movement works.
  • Distinguish between indicating, recording, and integrating instruments.
  • Correlate the proper logic gate with a typical logic statement.
  • Select certain working parts, given a particular meter movement construction.

    • Transducers

    Course #: B1304
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Identify basic types of transducers and similar sending devices.
  • Explain the operating principles of transducers.
  • Discuss the characteristics and applications of various types of transducers.
  • Select the proper type of transducer for any particular industrial application.

    • Introduction to Control Systems

    Course #: B1305
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Discuss the types and functions of the components in a closed-loop system.
  • Recognize the effect of deviation and duration on control response.
  • Explain the functions of the various types of synchro systems.
  • Calculate signal responses from scaling transducers.
  • Describe the function of the microprocessor parts.

    • Controllers

    Course #: B1306
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Relate the role of the controller in a process control system.
  • Identify the various terms and response characteristics of controller systems.
  • Recognize symbols and nomenclature used for controller circuits.
  • Select the correct module symbol for desired controller action.

    • Control System Methods

    Course #: B1307
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Describe how the various solid-state logic systems are used in industrial control applications.
  • Explain the role of memory units in a control system.
  • Discuss the various functions of a microprocessor as applied to control equipment.
  • Name the use of programmable controllers.

    • Data Logging, Transmission, and Display

    Course #: B1308
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Relate the nature and kinds of data required for instrumentation and control systems.
  • Distinguish between the various methods and types of data collection systems.
  • Explain the function of a master control center for industrial applications.
  • Discuss the various items of peripheral equipment used.

    • Control Applications, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting

    Course #: B1309
    Duration: 7 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Analog Circuit Measurement (Block A23); Basic Electronic Circuits (Block B24); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn:

  • Discuss maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.
  • Relate installation considerations for instrumentation and control systems.
  • Work with block diagrams in troubleshooting.

    • Pneumatic Instrumentation for the Technician

    Course #: 286M01
    Duration: 35 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
    What Students Learn: Lesson 1 - Pneumatic Instrumentation for Industry:

  • Instrument Systems; How Fluid Power Works; Pneumatic Instruments; Link Mechanisms: Components and Adjustments; Calibration Standards, Procedures and Programs.
    Lesson 2 - Pressure and Liquid Level Measuring Instruments:
  • Principles of Pressure; Sensing Pressure; Bourbon Elements; Compensation and Calibration; Liquid-Level Instruments; Differential Pressure Instruments: Manometers, Bellows and Diaphragm Instruments, Displaces.
    Lesson 3 - Flow-Measuring Instruments:
  • Principles of Operation; Orifice Flow; Meter Types and Mechanisms; The Square-Root Problem; Integrators.
    Lesson 4 - System Components, Part 1:
  • Self-Balancing Instruments; Error Detectors; Pilot Valves; Relay Functions and Variations; Moment-Balance Pressure, Temperature and Differential-Pressure Transmitters; Moment Balance Positioners.
    Lesson 5 - System Components, Part 2:
  • True Force-Balance Instruments, Transmitters and Positioners; Motion-Balance Principle and Applications; Angle Motion-Balance Positioners; Linear Motion-Balance Instruments.
    Lesson 6 - Pneumatic System Control, Part 1:
  • Control Valve Maintenance; Control Theory and Fundamental Controllers; Gain, Feedback and Response.
    Lesson 7 - Pneumatic System Control, Part 2:
  • Controller Functions, Types and Components; Range and Gain Mechanisms; Foxboro, Honeywell, Taylor, and Fisher and Porter Controllers; Universal Controllers; Process Control.

    Special Notes: This course consists of a textbook and supplemental study guide.

    • Control Technology for Technicians

    Course #: 286M04
    Duration: 45 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
    What Students Learn: This course introduces the fundamentals of control system components and operation. Students will learn how a control system works and how its operating characteristics can be interpreted from schematics and ladder logic diagrams. The course will explain how mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic components used in control systems measure parameters. These measurements are then converted into useful data or the appropriate control system response. The course discusses the use of feedback loops and their applications in real-world control systems. The student will understand how electronic systems are combined to deliver their acceptable data "signals" to computers. In conclusion, the student will learn how PLCs are used throughout industry to control complex systems.

    Part 1 (286076) . Lesson 1 - Introduction to Control Systems

  • Represent a control system with a block diagram.
  • Recognize various control system types including open loop, closed loop, analog, and digital.
  • Describe how servomechanisms work.
    Lesson 2 - Op Amps and Signal Conditioning
  • Explain how microprocessors are integrated into, and interface with, control systems.
  • Evaluate and design op-amp and related signal conditioning circuits to be used in control systems.
    Lesson 3 - Control System Switching Devices
  • Describe the operating principles of, and applications for, relays, transistors, rectifiers, triacs and other switching devices.
    Lesson 4 - Mechanical Control Systems
  • Explain how mechanical components are designed into, and operate within, control systems.
    Lesson 5 - Control System Sensors
  • Evaluate the function of sensors in a given control system.
  • Understand how sensors work to provide data in control systems.

    Part 2 (286077). Lesson 6 - DC and Stepper Motors in Control Systems
  • Explain how DC motors operate.
  • Select a motor based on mechanical and performance requirements.
  • Describe how DC motor control systems work.
  • Understand how stepper motors and their driver circuits work.
    Lesson 7 - AC Motors in Control Systems
  • Explain how AC motors operate.
  • Select a motor based on mechanical and performance requirements.
  • Describe how AC motor control systems work.
    Lesson 8 - Control System Actuators and Feedback Principles
  • Recognize the applications for, and operating characteristics of, electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic linear actuators.
  • Describe the operating principles of control valves and other components in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
  • Differentiate between proportional, integral, differential, and fuzzy logic control systems.
    Lesson 9 - Relay Logic and PLCs
  • Explain how to tune a process control system.
  • Understand how analog and digital control circuits work.
  • Explain the operation of relays, counters, and sequencers.
  • Understand how PLCs work.
  • Interpret ladder logic diagrams.

    Special Notes: This course consists of a textbook and two supplemental study guides. We recommend the course be purchased in its entirety. However, if needed due to targeted training, study guides (Parts 1 & 2) can be purchased separately, with or without the textbook. Note that the textbook is required for the Part 1 study guide. Call Customer Service for pricing and ordering information.

    • Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments

    Course #: 6305A-B
    Duration: 20 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Heat, Part 1 (686001); Heat, Part 2 (686002); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: PART 1 (6305A). Automation; Nature of Control Systems; Control Action; Self-Powered Controllers; Powered Controllers.
    PART 2 (6305B). Powered Controllers; Controller Settings; Failure of Automatic Control Systems; Cascade Control Systems; Glossary.

    Temperature Measuring and Control Instruments

    Course #: 6306A-B
    Duration: 20 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments (6305A-B); Heat, Part 1 (686001); Heat, Part 2 (686002); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: PART 1 (6306A). Basic Concepts; Thermocouple Circuits and Connections; Thermocouple Materials and Construction, Thermocouple Measuring Instruments; Electric Interference.
    PART 2 (6306B). Types of Filled Thermal Systems; Bourdon Element; Temperature Compensation; Resistance Temperature Detectors; Radiation Pyrometry; Types of Radiation Pyrometers; Methods of Temperature Control.

    Automatic Process Control Valves

    Course #: 6307
    Duration: 10 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments (6305A-B); Heat, Part 1 (686001); Heat, Part 2 (686002); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: Importance of Control Valves; Types and Construction Features of Various Control Valves; Types of Valve Motors; Application of Valve Motors and Control Valves; Basic Function of Valve Positioner; Applications of Valve Positioners; Definition of Control Valve Rangeability and Valve Coefficient; Sizing of Control Valves for Liquid, Gas, and Steam.

    Fluid Flow Measuring and Control Instruments

    Course #: 6308A-B
    Duration: 20 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Automatic Process Control Valves (6307); Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments (6305A-B); Heat, Part 1 (686001); Heat, Part 2 (686002); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: PART 1 (6308A). Introduction to Fluid Flow; Standard Primary Elements; Additional Primary Elements; Measurements; Selection of Primary Elements; Proper Application of Primary Elements; Locating Primary Elements; Use of Straightening Vanes.
    PART 2 (6308B). Mechanical Flowmeters; Bellows- and Diaphragm-Actuated Manometers; Other Types of Meters; Flow Measurement.

    Process Pressure Measuring and Control Instruments

    Course #: 6309A-B
    Duration: 20 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments (6305A-B); Heat, Part 1 (686001); Heat, Part 2 (686002); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: PART 1 (6309A). Pressure Measuring Considerations; Pressure Measuring Devices, such as Manometers, Draft Gages, Inverted Belts, Differential Elements, Bellows, and Diaphragm Devices; Bourdon Tube; Spiral and Helical Pressure Meters; Chemical Pressure Gages; Pressure Indicators and Recorders.
    PART 2 (6309B). Calibration Standards and Methods, including Details of Dead Weight Tester, Test Gages, and Gage Errors; Pressure Measuring and Control Instruments and Equipment; Process Pressure Application Considerations; Automatic Control of Process Pressure; Selection of Pressure Instruments for Process Pressure Applications.

    Liquid Level Measuring and Control Instruments

    Course #: 6338A-B
    Duration: 20 hours
    Course Prerequisites: Control Technology for Technicians (286M04); Electricity (4210A-C); Automatic Process Control Valves (6307); Principles of Automatic Process Control Instruments (6305A-B); Introduction to Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry (Block X02);
    What Students Learn: PART 1 (6338A). Visual Indicators such as Sight Gages; Buoyancy Level Controllers, both of the Moving Float and Displacement Type; Static- and Differential-Pressure Level Controllers; Gamma Radiation Level Controllers.
    PART 2 (6338B). Temperature Sensitive Level Controllers and the Electrical Conductivity Type of Level Controller; Explanations of the Special Requirements of Liquid Level Control with Emphasis on Control of Hazardous Types of Liquids and Selection of Level Controls for Various Types of Process Applications.

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