What is EN 61131-1:2018

EN 61131-1:2018 is part of the IEC 61131 series, which consists of international standards for programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The PLCs are widely used in industrial automation systems to control and monitor machinery and processes. EN 61131-1:2018 defines the general concepts and principles for PLC programming languages, providing a common framework for all other parts of the series.

of EN 61131-1:2018

In this revision of the standard, EN 61131-1:2018 introduces several important updates and improvements. It focuses on enhancing the usability, maintainability, and portability of PLC programs. The standard now includes new data types and elements, expanded memory management guidelines, and improved naming conventions. These changes aim to make PLC programming more efficient and standardized across different vendors and platforms.

Benefits of EN 61131-1:2018

The adoption of EN 61131-1:2018 brings multiple benefits to both equipment manufacturers and end-users:

Improved interoperability: The standard ensures that PLC programs written in compliance with the guidelines can be easily shared and executed on different hardware platforms.

Ease of maintenance: The updated standard provides clear instructions and recommendations for organizing, documenting, and managing PLC program code, making it easier for engineers to troubleshoot and update the system.

Reduced development time: With standardized programming languages and improved coding practices, developers can create PLC applications more efficiently, resulting in shorter development cycles.

Enhanced reliability and safety: EN 61131-1:2018 encourages the use of structured programming techniques, reducing the risk of errors and improving the overall reliability and safety of industrial automation systems.

Conclusion

EN 61131-1:2018 plays a crucial role in promoting the widespread adoption and use of standard programming languages for PLCs. The new revision brings significant improvements to the usability, maintainability, and portability of PLC programs, ensuring better interoperability and driving efficiency in industrial automation systems. By adhering to EN 61131-1:2018, manufacturers and end-users can enjoy the benefits of reduced development time, improved reliability, and ease of maintenance in their industrial control applications.