RAMCO Automation

The automation is controlled with a PLC. The controller is located within a pedestal mounted operator control station that is positioned for convenience and ease of operation. Controls include run and debug sections, manual and automatic mode selection, interrupt mode and E-stop.

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RamTough Automation

RamTough Automation is the first retrofittable system for immersion parts washers. This patented system allows a manual line to be upgraded to full automation at a later date without any modification to the basic tank line. Automation Ready cable receptacles are installed in the control panel(s). Internally all transfer functions are wired to the cable ready receptacle(s). When you want to automate the articulating walking arm assembly is bolted on and the mating cable connector(s) plugged in. All transfer functions are now controlled by the automation PLC. Itâs as simple as that! Automation Ready is the safest most cost effective way to invest in a system. It gives you the flexibility of grooving in and tailoring your operation before locking into automation.

The photo sequence below shows a three tank, 1000 pound capacity, RAMCO immersion washing system consisting of wash, rinse and rust inhibit stations. The tanks are mounted onto a fabricated I beam base. Roller conveyor platforms and load/unload conveyors are added to facilitate transfer between stations. The next photo show the basic walking beam assembly mounted on the tanks. The final photo show the completed system with guard and transfer arms installed, basket and remote operators control pedestal (in the rear at the far end).

RamNet Automation

RamNet is an upgrade to RamTough using a state-of-the-art network of microprocessors. Each stage has its own microprocessor installed and internally wired to all local devices to power-up and run that stage. The microprocessor is the ãmini-brainä at each stage. The microprocessor controls the timing, sequencing and all solenoids relating to covers, elevators, pumps, ultrasonic generators and heat on/off (temperature can be control locally via digital temperature controllers or through the PLC). Each microprocessor is connected with a twisted pair (much like a telephone jack connection) to the adjacent electrical box on the adjacent stage. The entire system, all stages, is ãdaisy-chainedä together. In this way all microprocessors are connected with one another. The main CPU is located in an Operators Control Station. The microprocessors are all linked via the ãdaisy-chainä to the CPU and are integrated so that they talk to each other. In this way the system coordinates much like the way that the human body works (i.e. a central nervous system controlled by a brain). A touch screen, main disconnect switch and cable modem for Internet hook-up are all provided in the operators control station.

The advantages of RamNet are quickly realized:

• By using computer technology the programming variations and overall flexibility of the system is almost limitless.
• The operation, sequencing and integration of each stage are independently controlled from a single source. Only those stages that are in use for processing the basket(s) are sequentially activated.
• Multiple baskets can be run side by side with different programs. Baskets are recognized (by manual selection or bar coding) on loading. The overall program sequences the individual steps and times for each basket at each stage independent of the stage(s) before or after.
• The elimination of multiple timers, counters, relays, cables, connectors, switches, pilot lights, disconnects and related internal wiring results in a more compact and cleaner looking system.
• By installing a cable modem we can hook-up to the system over the internet to help the customer with programming changes, debug and monitoring.