Why 24V DC used in PLC?
These are the reasons why 24V DC is applied in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
1**. Safety**
Low Voltage: 24V DC is low voltage and hence does not present a lethal threat to the life or health of the equipment owner. This reduces the risks of electric shock compared to higher voltages such as 120V or 240V AC.
Low Current: The current is low in the event of a short circuit or fault, reducing the likelihood of damage or injury.
- Supportive of Industrial Device Compatibility:
Standardization: The industrial and control automation industry standards have determined the implementation of 24V DC as a standard for compatibility with a huge amount of sensors, actuators, and other field devices.
Reliability: Many industrial devices are built to work on 24 VDC, which ensures a reliable way of operation with reduced complexity in power supply systems.
- Noise Immunity
Reduced Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): DC power is not receptive to noise levels compared to AC power. This is very important if the environment contains sensitive electronic equipment and the noise can result in malfunction.
- Battery Backup:
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Batteries can be easily supported in 24V DC systems for use when there is a power failure, thereby ensuring that important PLC functions do not fail.
- Efficient Power Distribution
Voltage Drop Considerations: Since it allows for 24V DC, more useful and effective distribution of power over larger distances is put to use effectively in the case of voltage drop scenarios. The condition arises at major industrial establishments.
- Energy Efficiency:
Lower power consumption: 24V DC devices operate on lower amperage than other types of power supplies, which results in overall energy savings in the system.
- Global Standards and Availability:
Widespread Use: 24V DC is universally accepted and readily available in most industrial settings, making it easier to source components and spare parts. This makes 24V DC a reliable and workable source of power for PLCs and their accompanying control systems in industrial automation