5 Control Systems That Help Ag Retailers Manage In-Plant Operations

Murray Equipment ICS ControlPro is a software tool designed to bridge the gap between a user’s office(s) and the plant. It can operate as a stand-alone unit or in conjunction with multiple third-party software. ICS ControlPro can be programmed to accommodate a wide variety of complex operational scenarios.

Kahler Automation The Grain Flow Control features include source / destination control for on-the-go gate blending via touchscreen from anywhere on the network; bin-level monitoring, which allows users to set high-level marks or use sensors for continuous level displays; fan and temperature control, which can be set manually via the touchscreen or set for timed start/stops; truck traffic control, which allows for control site access, vehicle management, and traffic flow with a single integrated system; and hazard monitoring for conveyor bearing and belt travel rub temperatures, plugs, and slack chains.

AGI Junge Control The Command Center offers the ability to control blending and measuring processes from one location, eliminates all hand-operated controls, and helps minimize employee exposure to product, the company says. Command Center panels operate all mechanical plant functions remotely (with fully automated, semi-automatic, or manual controls) and come with manual overrides and long-lasting indicator lights for all functions. Products are legally monitored and recorded — based on weighed or metered systems. All three control-level options feature optional electric-over-air solenoid boxes and lockable lids for added security.

Kahler Automation The 24/7 Self-Service bulk-liquid fertilizer or chemical system is a secured system that uses an intuitive touchscreen interface. This guides drivers through the process of loading bulk liquid fertilizer or chemical into their trucks by asking them a few programmed questions. Since the 24/7 Self-Service bulk liquid fertilizer or chemical facility may be remote from the main office, the system is managed using a web application, which may be accessed through a wide area network or through the Internet (with the proper equipment and services in place). Orders may be entered and edited, receipts reviewed, drivers managed, and products/recipes managed through a standard Web browser. Although order information may be entered through the web application, there are also options to have orders entered through third-party software.

Murray Equipment The ICS 240c User-Configurable, Touchscreen Control Panel automates bulk chemical dispensing, fertilizer load-out, and repackaging. Users can control up to 48 materials (chemicals/fertilizers). To operate, users need to simply define the amounts and press start, and the products will be sent to one of up to four load-out points or the tote repackaging area. The ICS 240 can be operated stand-alone, integrated with ICS ControlPro for more complex scenarios, and/or fully integrated with a third-party agronomy software.