ABB PLC programming in Kenya: AC500 and AC500-eCo

ABB AC500 PLCs are used in water, energy and machine applications. We program AC500 controllers in Automation Builder in IEC 61131-3 languages.

ABB PLCs we work on

• AC500: modular PLCs for process and infrastructure
• AC500-eCo: compact PLCs for machines

Software: Automation Builder (CODESYS-based). Networks: Modbus RTU and TCP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, CANopen.

ABB PLC services

• New AC500 programs for pumping and process control
• Integration with ABB drives over fieldbus
• Fault finding and program changes

Signs your PLC system needs attention

• The machine stops with faults nobody can explain, or the only person who understood the program has left
• There is no current backup of the program, or the backup does not match what is running
• Spare CPUs and I/O cards are discontinued, expensive or months away
• Operators work around the sequence by hand because the logic no longer matches the process
• You want production data, remote access or new functions that the old program cannot provide

How we approach a PLC job

1. Upload and back up the running program and hardware configuration before any change.
2. Document the I/O and the sequence with your operators, so everyone agrees what the machine must do.
3. Write or modify the logic offline, structured and commented, and test it with simulation where possible.
4. Commission on site: test every input, output, interlock and alarm, then run under real production load.
5. Hand over the final program, I/O list and drawings, and train your technicians on fault finding.

Tips from our engineers

Use IEC 61131-3 structure

Automation Builder supports structured text, ladder and function blocks. A structured, commented program is far easier to maintain.

Combine with ABB drives

AC500 and ABB ACS drives work well together over Modbus or PROFINET, giving full drive data in the PLC.

Related guides

See also ABB PLC, HMI and drive services overview, ABB HMI programming, ABB VFD programming and commissioning, our PLC service page.