PLC Application and System: Smart Automation for Marine Operations

Modern ships are floating factories, relying heavily on automation to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations. At the core of this automation lies the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)—a robust industrial computer that controls critical systems throughout the vessel.

At Serden Ship Supply Marine Electric & Electronics Ltd., we provide custom PLC-based automation solutions for new shipbuilding projects, system retrofits, and vessel modernization. Our team designs, programs, installs, and maintains marine-grade PLC systems to automate everything from engine room operations to cargo handling, safety systems, power management, and beyond.

 What is a PLC System?

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a ruggedized computer used for real-time control of machinery and processes. In maritime environments, PLCs manage:

• Machinery operations (pumps, fans, motors, valves)

• Alarm monitoring and response

• Cargo loading/unloading sequences

• Ballast water transfer and treatment

• Power generation and distribution

• Fire detection and suppression systems

• HVAC and ventilation

• Tank level control and more

PLC systems replace outdated relay-based panels and manual operations with automated logic, improving performance, safety, and diagnostics.

 Our PLC System Services Include:

1. Project Analysis & Engineering

• Process mapping and control requirement definition

• Signal list preparation and I/O (input/output) planning

• PLC and HMI hardware selection

• Panel design with schematics

• Compliance with class requirements and marine standards

2. PLC Programming & HMI Development

• Ladder Logic / FBD / Structured Text programming

• Interlocks, fail-safes, and redundancy

• Human Machine Interface (HMI) design

• Alarm and trend history programming

• User access levels and password protection

• Multi-language support (EN/TR etc.)

3. Panel Manufacturing & FAT

• Control panel production in our certified facility

• Marine-grade components and cabinet designs

• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) with client witness

• Class witness (BV, DNV, LR, etc.) if required

• Shipping with complete documentation

4. Onboard Installation & Commissioning

• Field cabling and signal verification

• Communication testing (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet, CANBus, etc.)

• Integration with existing vessel systems

• System simulation and commissioning tests

• Sea trial support and fine-tuning

• Crew training on HMI and diagnostics

 PLC Retrofit Services

Have an outdated system?

We offer turnkey retrofit solutions to upgrade your vessel's automation without full rewiring. This includes:

• Replacing old relay or outdated PLC units

• Retrofitting HMI panels with modern touchscreens

• Improving alarm logic and data logging

• Enhancing system response time and stability

• Remote access and monitoring enablement

We retrofit systems during drydock, afloat, or voyage conditions with minimal operational interruption.

 Typical PLC Applications Onboard

•  Main and emergency engine automation

•  Generator load sharing and synchronization

•  Fire detection and sprinkler control

•  Ballast Water Treatment automation

•  Oil Mist Detection and Fuel Purification

•  Crane and winch control systems

•  Sewage and waste water treatment systems

•  HVAC and air pressure balancing

•  Alarm Monitoring and Safety Interlocks

•  Fuel tank and bilge control

 Supported PLC Brands & Platforms

We work with world-renowned automation manufacturers:

• Siemens (S7-1200, S7-1500, Logo!)

• Schneider Electric (Modicon M340, M580)

• Allen-Bradley (MicroLogix, CompactLogix)

• Mitsubishi Electric

• Omron

• ABB

• Delta

• Phoenix Contact

• Beckhoff (on demand)

 Communication Protocols

Our PLC systems support all major industrial communication standards:

• Modbus RTU / Modbus TCP

• Profibus DP

• CANOpen

• Profinet

• Ethernet/IP

• RS-485 / RS-232

• OPC UA for SCADA integration

 System Features

• Real-time control with intelligent logic

• HMI touchscreen interface with live data

• User access control and password levels

• Integrated alarms and safety interlocks

• Historical trend logging

• Remote access and diagnostics (optional)

• Integration with AMS, IAS, PMS, SCADA

• Sensor failure detection and redundancy

 Class & Compliance

All PLC systems installed by Serden comply with:

• IMO and SOLAS automation rules

• IEC 61131-3 programming standard

• Classification society requirements (ABS, BV, DNV, LR, ClassNK, RINA)

• Type approval for components used

• CE, UL, and Marine Certificate of Conformity

 Training & Support

We provide complete crew training, including:

• System overview and operation

• Alarm diagnostics and troubleshooting

• Maintenance and calibration

• Manual override instructions

• Remote support access

• Periodic health checks and backup services

 Global Delivery & 24/7 Support

From initial design to onboard commissioning, Serden delivers PLC automation systems across the globe with fast-response engineering support. Our systems are designed for harsh marine environments, with IP-rated enclosures and shock-proof architecture.

 Why Choose Serden?

•  30+ years of experience in marine automation

•  Expert PLC programmers and electrical engineers

•  Custom panel production and software design

•  Seamless integration with other marine systems

•  Remote access and long-term support

•  Class-compliant, scalable, and future-proof automation

 Automate Your Vessel with PLC Systems by Serden

Reduce human error, improve system performance, and gain real-time control of your ship’s operations with Serden’s custom PLC systems. Contact us today to discuss your vessel’s automation needs.