Cotton Gin Modernization

Project Details

  • Dos Palos, CA
  • Agricultural
  • 2009
  • Dos Palos Co-op Gin

iCAD's complete retrofit of the machinery control system brought the gin into the 21st century. Encompassing 80 motors and 30 instruments, the advanced technology reduces electrical malfunctions and increases productivity.

Project Overview

Dos Palos Co-op turned to iCAD when needing to update and upgrade the Red Top Gin. Using modern state-of-the-art Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Human Machine Interface's (HMI)'s, Motor Control Center (MCC) and motors, iCAD, in conjunction with Lighthouse Electric, Inc., designed and installed the new and improved system.

From the initial survey of the existing building and sketching of the new machinery layout to the final installation and start-up, iCAD engineers and Lighthouse electricians were on hand for support and resolutions.

With motor and instrument lists and conduit pull schedules in order, Lighthouse ran new conduit and wire as required to connect the motors on machinery to the MCC. Meanwhile, iCAD designed and assembled the PLC and HMI panels; created and loaded the programs; and shop-tested the devices in house. Following the successful shop test, the PLC and HMI were also installed on site by Lighthouse. Working in unison, ICAD and Lighthouse Electrics provided reliable, operator-friendly control systems customized for this retrofit.

Benefits

Customized design, cutting-edge technologies, and detailed protocol ensured complete plant automation resulting in increased productivity due to early detection of equipment malfunctions leading to a decrease in equipment breakdowns and reduction of downtime.

Technologies Used