Industrial Automation Blog | Control Engineering & PLC Insights

Explore CBTC transit control systems challenges and strategies, plus communications-based train control automation levels and benefits.

Learn how automated people movers in airport control systems are designed and implemented to deliver reliable, automated passenger transportation.

Explore how communications-based train control is implemented across modern transit networks to improve capacity, reliability, and performance.

Explore PLC transit control and integration with transit electrical systems to automate operations and provide safer, more reliable transit service.

Learn how CBTC fallback systems maintain safety and service continuity when CBTC control systems experience disruptions in metropolitan transit networks.

Learn how control engineering and machine safety protect workers and optimize operations. Explore OSHA standards, risk assessments, and automation solutions.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Discover how manufacturing safety systems and industrial safety automation improve uptime, protect workers, and prevent downtime in automotive plants.

Explore the future of automotive manufacturing. Learn how automation, robotics, and smart assembly‐line solutions are transforming production efficiency and ROI.

Learn how material handling automation and automated material handling systems are driving efficiency, safety, and productivity in automotive manufacturing.

Discover how robotic assembly and assembly line robots are transforming automotive manufacturing, improving speed, precision, and production efficiency.

Discover how automated inspection systems are transforming quality control automation in automotive manufacturing, improving accuracy, speed, and traceability.

Explore aerospace manufacturing automation, from automation engineering, control system design, HMI systems, and system integration.

Explore how production line automation and manufacturing process control improve quality assurance in aerospace manufacturing.

As aircraft parts manufacturing incorporates ever-evolving aerospace automation, here’s what you need to know about engineering and control system integration.

Explore how control system integration enhances production optimization to improve efficiency, safety, and traceability in aerospace manufacturing.

Explore how machine safety and control panel design ensure mission-critical reliability in aerospace manufacturing operations.

Explore advanced control system architecture for ride control systems, SCADA theme park systems, and theme park automation to ensure safety and reliability.

Comprehensive guide to managing harmonics, transients, and electrical protection in theme park power distribution and water ride control systems.

Compare Industrial Ethernet and Fieldbus for entertainment venue electrical systems. Learn how protocol choice affects safety, rigging, and automation.

Explore SCADA theme park systems, ride safety control systems, and how engineers design roller coasters with safety at the core.

Explore SCADA theme park systems, ride safety control systems, and how engineers design roller coasters with safety at the core.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

The seamless integration of PLC and HMI systems is a baseline requirement in industrial operations. From process industries to discrete manufacturing, operators rely on finely

Industrial operations today are deploying PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems at scale. Combined, companies are forecast to spend more than $30 billion on industrial automation

Modern control system designers face increasingly complex trade-offs as equipment capabilities expand and operational requirements become more sophisticated. Each approach presents distinct implications for performance,

Modern automation systems are complex, especially when it comes to communication between PLC and HMI components. Enterprise-scale deployments routinely involve dozens of programmable logic controllers

Imagine this scenario. A chemical processing facility came online on schedule. Every subsystem passed individual acceptance testing. The distributed control system responded flawlessly to process

The landscape of industrial control systems has evolved dramatically over the past two decades, with UL 508A emerging as the definitive standard governing the design,

The wiring requirements for UL 508A panels extend beyond basic NEC compliance, addressing the unique needs of industrial control environments. Engineers must thoroughly understand electrical

The efficacy of predictive maintenance programs hinges on the quality and reliability of the underlying data acquisition infrastructure, with control panels serving as the critical

Enclosure design for UL 508A panels extends far beyond simple volume calculations and NEMA ratings. The standard’s systems-level approach to certification fundamentally alters how engineers

The distinction between UL 508 vs. UL 508A represents one of the most significant paradigm shifts in industrial control panel certification, yet many experienced engineers

The automation cost of forklifts varies based on system complexity and application requirements. Below is a breakdown of typical cost ranges for a single unit:

Let’s Build a Smarter Future Together Imagine a factory or warehouse where every process flows seamlessly, adapting to challenges in real time while boosting efficiency

The industrial automation landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift as automated forklifts evolve from basic guided vehicles to intelligent, adaptive material handling systems. For the

Industrial facilities across manufacturing, food & beverage, life sciences, entertainment, and transportation sectors are experiencing critical operational constraints: labor shortages, safety compliance pressures, and throughput

Modern warehouse operations face unprecedented challenges: labor shortages exceeding 430,000 positions industry-wide, safety compliance pressures under evolving OSHA standards, and throughput demands that traditional manual

AI and robotics are made for each other. Together, they are powering a dramatic shift in warehouse operations, with benefits that go beyond efficiency. Automated

Warehouse operations have evolved dramatically in recent years, driven largely by the increasing demands of e-commerce, supply chain challenges, and the pursuit of operational efficiency.

Learn the pros and cons of using in-house engineering resources vs. certified controls system integrators. Make the best decision for your industrial facility.

Industrial automation and control are key to optimizing your operations. However, selecting the right industrial automation equipment for your business can be quite complex.  Making

Warehouse margins these days are tighter than ever. Inventory costs continue to rise as do wages—if you can find qualified workers to staff your facility. 

Industrial facilities employ automation and control system solutions at scale, with spending forecast at $89.5 billion in 2025. Despite economic uncertainty, manufacturers and industrial facilities

Discover the five mission-critical ways that control systems integrators can ensure your SCADA control systems are secure and working at peak performance.

You can’t afford downtime when you’re implementing, upgrading, or switching over to a new control system integration. Get the planning and expertise you need.

Discover how control system integrators can make sure your SCADA control systems work at peak efficiency in a controlled, secure, and safe environment.

See how control system integrators can implement advanced automation with integrated control systems to make your operation more efficient and reliable.

Do I need machine safety specialists and machine safety services, or can I handle them on my own? Learn key factors you need to consider for your business.

What is machine guarding, and which type of machine guarding is right for my operation? We explore the advantages and disadvantages of each safety strategy.

Discover the top OSHA machine safety requirements and why you need to work with experienced machine control integrators for safe and reliable operations.

What are the OSHA rules for machine guarding; what types of machine guards are there, and how do you know if yours are operating properly? We have the answers.

Learn 5 signs your industrial control system is obsolete and find out when to upgrade control system components for better performance and security.

Streamline your SCADA systems and industrial control upgrades with this detailed checklist, covering everything from hiring to execution. Read more now.

Discover essential control system upgrades for 2025 and beyond. Learn how modern automation technologies can transform your manufacturing operations.

Discover effective legacy migration solutions for modernizing industrial control systems. Learn key strategies for successful system updates.

Discover when to engage professional legacy migration services for your control system modernization project. Make informed decisions for project success.

Develop a winning legacy migration strategy for your industrial control systems. Learn key steps to modernizing while minimizing operational disruptions.

Learn the essential questions to ask when selecting legacy migration services. Ensure a successful modernization project by choosing the right partner.

Discover crucial mistakes to avoid in legacy system migration strategy. Learn how to protect valuable data while modernizing your industrial control systems.

Boost production control with programmable logic controller (PLC) solutions. Learn expert tips to maximize efficiency and achieve manufacturing success.

Learn essential programming tips to maximize your PLC programmable logic controller investment and improve your automation efficiency today.

Master the art of PLC programming with expert tips from professional PLC programmers. Discover a complete checklist for efficient and reliable automation.

Discover how to select and hire the best controls engineering firm to enhance efficiency, ensure safety compliance, and optimize performance for your projects.

Discover what a PLC programmable logic controller is and how PLC software transforms concepts into efficient industrial automation systems for operations.

Learn the definition of a programmable logic controller and how PLCs transform manufacturing. Discover key components and applications of PLC technology.

Learn what to expect when hiring a PLC programmer for hire to optimize your programmable logic controllers (PLC). Boost efficiency and reduce downtime today!

Discover five signs it’s time to hire a PLC programmer to optimize your PLC programmable controller. Maximize efficiency and reduce downtime.

Discover how the right PLC programmable logic controller expert enhances efficiency and reduces manufacturing costs. Learn what to look for today.

Learn how control system engineers design effective machine safety programs with best practices for compliance and reducing risks in industrial environments.

Discover effective engineering controls examples for machine safety compliance. Learn how to meet machine safety rules and regulations with practical solutions.

See how advanced robotics and automatic control in electrical engineering can improve machine safety in the workplace. Prevent injuries and unneeded costs.

Learn about safety standards, testing, training, and ROI. Get your machine safety questions answered from controls engineering experts here.

Machine safety engineers are vital in preventing machine hazards. Learn how they design and implement controls to protect workers and minimize risks.

Discover how machine safety design in control engineering enhances workplace safety, boosts operational efficiency, and reduces long-term costs.

Discover how control engineering has evolved when it comes to the importance of machine safety. Get expert advice from Pacific Blue Engineering.

Discover the key roles controls engineers and machine safety engineers play, and how they work together to produce robust and safe machine controls.

Discover top safety challenges in automated industrial solutions and learn why machine safety is important for protecting workers and improving efficiency.

Discover how integrating process automation and engineering solutions into machine and equipment safety protocols can boost your bottom line and safety.

See how robotics, AI, and IoT revolutionize machine safety programs, enhancing workplace safety and efficiency through engineering automation solutions.

Discover how automation solutions engineers transform machine safety design from concept to reality, enhancing workplace safety and productivity.

Learn how automation engineering solutions improve machine safety, boost productivity, and ensure compliance in industrial automation systems.

Discover essential solutions for plant managers in industrial automation to integrate safety seamlessly, boosting productivity and worker protection.

Discover how machine safety software revolutionizes industrial automation & panel solutions, enhancing worker safety and boosting productivity in manufacturing.

Unlock the potential of building automation and smart industry solutions by prioritizing machine safety. Discover how safety drives innovation and success.

See how machine safety engineers create innovative automation engineering solutions that improve throughput safely to reduce overall risk.

Explore comprehensive Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley PLC solutions, including uses, applications, and future trends in industrial automation.

Discover how Rockwell Allen-Bradley PLCs drive operational excellence. Enhance safety, boost productivity, and prepare for the future of automation.

Boost your manufacturing efficiency with expert Rockwell PLC programming. Learn how to optimize OEE and drive unprecedented productivity gains.

Upgrade your automation: Learn how to migrate from Rockwell automation PLC-5 to next-gen Allen-Bradley PLCs. Boost performance and future-proof your systems.

Master PLC Rockwell programming for high-risk environments. Learn advanced techniques to ensure safety and reliability in critical industrial applications.

Protect your ControlLogix PLC environment from cyber threats. Learn how to leverage Studio 5000 features for enhanced industrial automation security.

Explore cutting-edge technology, network with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights into industrial automation at the automation fair by Rockwell.

Discover how Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley PLCs can revolutionize your production processes, boosting efficiency and driving innovation in manufacturing.

Discover key events and learning opportunities at the Rockwell Automation Fair 2024 this November. Stay ahead with insights from industry experts.

Discover how a machine safety consultant helps facilities stay compliant and safe with expert machine safety assessments and tailored safety solutions.

Discover essential examples of machine guarding and the importance of machine guarding safety training to protect workers from industrial machinery hazards.

Discover essential risk assessment techniques to enhance industrial machine safety. Learn to identify hazards and comply with safety standards.

Protect your workers and boost productivity with our comprehensive guide to ensuring compliance, implementation, and training for machine shop safety.

Uncover the risks of partnering with the wrong control panel shop. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and ensure successful automation projects.

Discover how machine safety training transforms workplace culture. Learn to create a proactive safety environment that goes beyond compliance.

Master OSHA machine safety standards with our comprehensive checklist. Ensure compliance, protect workers, and boost operational efficiency.

Discover essential machine guarding safety tips to enhance and optimize your facility’s operations. Learn how to protect workers and improve efficiency.

Explore cutting-edge advancements in equipment and machine safety. Learn how new technology is revolutionizing workplace protection and efficiency.

Understand industrial control panel types, certification processes, and why choosing a certified UL508a panel shop matters in your next project.

What is 508A Certification? 508A certification is a standard set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for industrial control panels. This certification ensures that panels meet rigorous

Learn the advantages of partnering with a certified UL508a panel shop near you. Enhance safety, quality, and efficiency in your automation projects.

See how partnering with a UL-listed panel shop ensures safety and compliance in industrial automation to ensure quality and minimize downtime.

See why choosing a control panel shop near you ensures quality, personalized service, and efficient project management for your automation needs.

Uncover the risks of partnering with the wrong control panel shop. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and ensure successful automation projects.

Learn expert tips for finding top-quality UL 508 panel shops near you. Learn how to evaluate and select the best partner for your automation projects.

Discover why choosing a UL508A panel shop is crucial for your automation projects to ensure safety, quality, and compliance in industrial control panels.

Discover expert tips for choosing a reliable electrical panel shop to ensure quality, compliance, and optimal performance for your automation projects.

Discover how a skilled PLC programmer can optimize your production line and drive continuous improvement through expert control system programming.

Unlock the power of PLC programming to solve inventory management challenges, optimize stock levels, streamline material flow, and drive operational efficiency.

Discover how programmable PLCs empower real-time monitoring, automated control, predictive maintenance, and system integration to improve production.

Explore PLCs, their components, applications, and integration challenges. Learn why partnering with programmers is crucial for successful automation projects.

Unlock maximum equipment performance with professional PLC programmers. Use these experts in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to optimize operations.

Discover expert tips for finding reliable PLC programmers near you. Unlock the full potential of your PLC programmable controllers with skilled professionals.

Discover why hiring experienced programmable logic controllers (PLC) programmers is crucial for optimized industrial automation and long-term success.

Discover the advantages and implementation strategies in this comprehensive guide for manufacturers seeking to leverage programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Unlock the power of automation in manufacturing with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and software. Discover what to look for when hiring PLCs.

Discover how partnering with an experienced industrial control system integrator can help prevent costly downtime and ensure smooth, uninterrupted operations.

Discover how partnering with control engineering integrators can maximize your ROI and minimize risks in complex industrial automation projects.

Discover the top 5 challenges faced in process control system integration and learn proven strategies from experts to overcome them seamlessly.

Unlock the benefits of working with a CSIA system integrator for your automation project. Explore 5 reasons that ensure success and peace of mind.

Explore the future of smart buildings through the lens of leading building automation integrators, unveiling insights on cutting-edge technologies and trends.

Deciding between a controls integrator or in-house integration for your business? Explore the pros and cons of each approach to make the best decision.

Learn how you can streamline operations and drive efficiency with integration control systems. Discover the benefits driving the Industry 4.0 revolution.

Choosing the right control system integrator is crucial for seamless automation. Here’s what you need to look for to make the best choice for your business.

See how experienced control system integrators can unlock operational efficiency with integrated control systems to automate and control industrial facilities.

As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve and embrace new technology, see how FactoryTalk Optix manufacturing software can harness the power.

Explore the future of HMI with emerging trends and technology in HMI software and HMI programming, including FactoryTalk Optix, with Pacific Blue Engineering.

Discover how manufacturing execution software solves top challenges like quality, productivity, waste reduction, traceability, and agile manufacturing.

Learn how you can overcome labor shortages with manufacturing production scheduling software and manufacturing operations management software.

Discover how the best manufacturing software can streamline operations, reduce downtime, and drive efficiency across your entire manufacturing process.

Discover how the best HMI programming software enhances user access controls, prevents errors, and improves safety in critical industrial operations.

Discover how FactoryTalk Optix, a SaaS manufacturing software, empowers better decision-making through valuable insights for manufacturing companies.

Discover the transformative benefits of today’s cutting-edge cloud-based manufacturing management software and manufacturing inventory software.

Discover the ways that FactoryTalk Optix from Rockwell Automation is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry with MES manufacturing software.

Learn the key concepts behind industrial automation solutions, the types and systems used, and how to find the best industrial automation solution provider.

Learn about the four automation categories and what’s important to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety in your industrial operation.

Are you searching for industrial automated solutions? Discover the industry secrets to ultimate efficiency using industrial automation solutions. (146)Keywords: industrial automation solutions, industrial automated solutions

Industrial automation continues its rapid advancement, introducing robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and big data platforms into facilities. Now, artificial intelligence promises the next

You need reliable, efficient industrial automation. Find high-quality, experienced industrial automation companies near you that put safety first.

Discover how cutting-edge automation solution provider can optimize your engineer systems for automated growth: important information for 2024 and beyond. (155)Keywords: industrial automation solution provider, industrial automation solution providers

Learn how to find the right industrial automation solution provider for your needs. Here are the things you want to know before making your selection.

Discover the different ways companies are leveraging industrial automation solutions to innovate and adopt Industry 4.0 methodologies in 2024. (142)Keywords: industrial automation solution, solutions for industrial automation

See how industrial automation solutions can significantly improve your workflow, safety, processes, and your bottom line for industrial facilities.

Learn the key components of Rockwell Automation and Allen-Bradley automation systems, and how to choose the best Rockwell Automation system integrators.

Discover how Allen-Bradley by Rockwell Automation can improve operations, safety, and support in manufacturing and industrial environments.

Learn the six key reasons it may be time for a PLC upgrade and how an experienced Rockwell Automation integrator can provide safe and reliable solutions.

Finding the right Rockwell Automation systems integrators for your project is crucial. Here’s what you need to ask to find the best fit.

Plantwide visibility is crucial in manufacturing for optimal operations and safety. See how Rockwell Automation’s Integrated Architecture works.

Here’s why you need a Rockwell Automation recognized system integrator to get the customized, secure connectivity you need for your company.

Learn about the benefits of tight integration between Rockwell Automation SCADA and Rockwell’s Automation Integrated Architecture Builder.

See how improved data analytics using Allen-Bradley by Rockwell Automation improves operational efficiency, safety, and yield in manufacturing.

Learn how Rockwell automation and experienced controls systems engineers like Pacific Blue Engineering can improve safety and reduce errors.

Is it time to upgrade or modernize your PLCs? Learn the warning signs and risks, plus the answer to “Where can I find expert PLC programmers near me?”

When evaluating a PLC programmer for hire, here are the key mistakes you must avoid to ensure you make the right decision and get the results you need.

Learn the 5 things you should research when looking to hire PLC programmers near you and the warning signs to avoid making a costly mistake.

Discover 10 common warning signs that it’s time to upgrade your programmable logic controllers (PLCs). If they’re familiar, contact trusted experts today.

Discover the key to enhancing manufacturing operations with the five ways PLC programmers improve manufacturing speed, efficiency, integration, and more.

Learn about the hardware and software components of SCADA systems and how custom integration can provide secure, robust monitoring and control.

Learn how ICS and SCADA systems work collaboratively to provide secure monitoring and control in industrial applications. Read more here.

Threat attackers and state-sponsored terrorists are increasing attacks on SCADA solutions. Is your SCADA cyber security ready? Here are steps you must take now.

Looking for SCADA engineers for your ICS project? Read more and discover the 6 things you need to do before hiring the right SCADA integrator.

Learn about the components of ICS SCADA systems, how they work together in a secure command and control environment, and how to select SCADA integrators.

Managing your capital expenditures (CapEx) in manufacturing is crucial to remain competitive and grow your business. Learn how to determine ROI.

You can modernize your controls systems, operational expenditures vs capital expenditures, and improve worker safety. See this case study to learn how.

Discover the ways a controls engineering partner can help you design and optimize your manufacturing CapEx budget to optimize operations and ROI.

See the many ways experienced control system integrators can help design tailored solutions to optimize manufacturing CapEx planning and finances.

Pacific Blue Engineering is pleased to announce their office expansion to Orlando, Florida! Learn more about our office and engineering consulting services.

Today’s systems are significantly more complex than just a few years ago. Managing the data, information and artifacts across system lifecycles has become more challenging

Keeping your control system and automation project on budget is crucial. Learn the seven keys to controlling project budgets.

The right project control engineer is crucial to implementing reliable and safe automation. Here are the key things you need to consider.

Designing, analyzing and optimizing control systems is complex. See how control engineering overcomes complexity to provide safe and reliable control systems.

From a remote location via his VPN connection, Pacific Blue Engineering’s (PBE) Rain Swan carefully observes a calibration process on his client’s newly delivered press. 

Aerospace manufacturing and testing are complicated for many reasons, not the least of which includes heavy amounts of data collection and endurance testing.  Sample and

Building complex equipment is a carefully orchestrated process. Various teams work on their subassemblies in parallel so that the final product comes together on time

Today’s modern high-speed beverage bottling lines are made of collections of intricate machinery operating in harmony to take beverage raw materials through to fill, sterilize,

Electrical & Controls design, build, installation, commissioning and run-time support.

Pacific Blue Engineering was hired by a large Parks and Resorts client to assist with the test and adjust phase of a new resort and

A large nutraceutical company hired Pacific Blue Engineering to separate control systems for the encapsulator dryer line. In nutraceutical pill formulation medicine containing an omega

A client designed a welding work cell to manufacture components for their product. This workcell comprised of two…