Finding the right process controller just got easier, according to ABB, with the launch of its ControlMaster range.
Building on the Commander family, it offers a wider range of control and indicator functions in just four versions – the CM15 indicator and the CM10, CM30 and CM50 controllers.
All feature colour TFT displays, covering status and key data, and all can be customised by the operator to match requirements, while a chart display provides trending information.
As for configuration, menus come in clear text, with no codes or abbreviations, and there are built-in application templates. The device also automatically configures its I/O, display and control strategy, although that work can be done via DTM-based PC software.
Looking at the main functions, as well as cascade, ratio, feedforward and dual loop control, there are predictive control algorithms (including dead time compensation, covering, for example, pH dosing) and adaptive control, which allows ControlMaster to automatically adjust its learned response.
Beyond these, there are auto tuner, maths, logic, gain scheduling, totaliser, custom lineariser and delay timer functions.
Finally, on communications options include Ethernet, Modbus and Profibus, with the latter two enabling access to real-time data on process values and device status.
