SCADA or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition is a software and hardware system which is now increasingly used in the construction industry. It allows the users to control their industrial operations both locally as well as in remote locations.
The advantage is its ability to monitor and gather data in real-time and process it for industrial usage. It can also record industrial information into log files for future reference. Its design allows for integration with construction equipment and machinery involving valves, motors, pumps, and sensors.
Better Communication With SCADA
SCADA is helping in compartmentalizing information for industrial usage. It uses better data processing, leading to smarter decisions. Better communication results in fewer glitches, decreasing the time spent on the project, and reducing costs in the long run.
How Does It Work?
SCADA makes use of PLCs as well as remote terminal units. These are microcomputers which will interact with the machines on the construction site or with machinery in other sectors.
It makes use of sensors in the devices, and the information is redirected from them to the SCADA computers. There it is processed and made ready for data analysis by the operators on the field, helping them decide the next course of action. It will also immediately notify experts about any error in the system and will try to pinpoint the cause of the glitch.
Benefits of Installing SCADA
Any issue in the construction industry can quickly escalate into a problem costing the company millions. The promptness of SCADA makes it possible to avoid loss of product, preventing the loss of precious revenue from the construction industry.
Any industrial organization can use SCADA but it is revolutionizing the construction industry in a big way by reducing downtime on projects. Problems that took days to solve can be handled in a few hours. This is thanks to the enhanced problem-solving matrix of the system.
Many organizations have embraced it due to its ability to work with large and complex installations in the industry. Apart from construction, other industries like waste, recycling, energy, food and beverage, transportation, and many more are using it.
Integration of SCADA With Other Systems
Modern SCADA Systems can transmit data from the plant floor to anywhere in the world, enabling people to make data-driven decisions. SCADA designer applications are also making use of RAD (rapid application development), even without extensive knowledge of software development.
Many organizations are also using their unique industrial automation software platform along with SCADA for better results.
With the use of SCADA, the construction industry has indeed become safer and more efficient. Glitches are minimal and accurate information has resulted in avoiding serious errors of judgment. Multinational construction companies are investing in such system updates in a big way.