Mastering the Machine with Frank Lamb | Strategies for Automation, Technology and Entrepreneurship
In today’s age of rapid technological advancement, many find themselves navigating the complex world of automation and control systems, often feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the ever-changing landscape. Here’s the truth: You’re not alone.
Join host Frank Lamb, an automation expert, and the author of “PLC Hardware and Programming - Multi-Platform”, “Maintenance and Troubleshooting in Industrial Automation”and ”Industrial Automation: Hands On” (just to mention just a few). Frank will break down the multifaceted world of industrial automation and empower you to master the technology of tomorrow.
Each episode of "Mastering the Machine with Frank Lamb" offers engaging discussions filled with expertise, innovation, and inspiration. Together, we'll dive into the essential components of Industrial Control Systems, Machine Automation, and the development of cutting-edge Automation Skills. Explore the dynamic roles of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Controls Engineers, and Technicians as they shape the future of Machine Design and Control Engineering.
Whether you're tackling the intricacies of modern Manufacturing processes or honing your skills in Instrumentation, we provide an informative platform tailored to Automation Enthusiasts eager to bridge the skills gap. Our conversations with industry leaders and specialists will provide clarity and direction on advancing your career and optimizing industrial systems.
Tune in for insightful answers to top industry questions, including:
- How can Industrial Control Systems transform my operations?
- What are the latest trends in Machine Automation I should be aware of?
- How do I leverage PLCs for enhanced process control?
- What skills should a Controls Engineer prioritize for future growth?
- How can I integrate Machine Design with Control Engineering effectively?
Join us weekly as we dissect the complexities of automation and share strategies for success. With each episode, you'll gain invaluable insights, feel more connected to the automation community, and be reminded that navigating technology's evolution is a shared journey. Let’s embark on this path of innovation and mastery—because the future of automation is here, and it's waiting for you to lead it.
Mastering the Machine with Frank Lamb | Strategies for Automation, Technology and Entrepreneurship
#14: Drop Into the Deep End: Navigating Unfamiliar Processes with Familiar Tools
How does a typical subcontracting job work in system integration? You have a scope of work and you are about to visit a plant for the first time, not knowing what to expect. Join me as I walk you through a trip to a fresh application.
TAKEAWAYS
Subcontracting to Patrick Bunn and BAC (01:00 – 3:20)
Patrick is a familiar face from a previous podcast. The Scope of Work (SOW) and an overview of the application.
Communications and other items on the SOW (3:20 – 6:00)
Fixing a communications issue and how previous experience with unknown applications at ABD helped provide confidence.
More on the process. How important is it to understand it? (6:00 – 12:10)
The hydrogen process and layout of the facility, reformers and the control systems. The purpose of the visit. Changes to the code, and information on the SCADA systems.
Mapping and documentation (12:10 – 13:20)
Why mapping and written documentation is important for both the customer and future integrators.
Leveraging what you know (15:00 – 20:00)
Where to start? The discovery process and organizing a plan. When you aren’t familiar with a plant, procedures and where things are, it’s important to start with what you already know. Some of the things that you need to know in system integration jobs, drawing on previous experiences.
You will not understand everything immediately! (20:00 – 26:30)
Learning on the fly. Again, documentation. Who to talk to and ask questions? Lesson learned on toggling pushbuttons. More on how to approach unfamiliar applications. Starting with the basics can lead to more complex design jobs.
Building trust, interfacing with customers. (26:30 – 30:15)
Some advice on working with new customers, making things reversible, asking questions.
Links mentioned in this episode
Automation Consulting, LLC, www.automationllc.com, https://www.bunnautomation.com/
CONNECT WITH FRANK
Website: https://www.automationllc.com
Facebook: @AutomationConsultingLlc/
LinkedIn: @company/automation-consulting-llc
YouTube: @automationllc
