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Umbilical reeler · PLC + VFD control
VFD REELER.
Control, under tension.
A PLC, HMI and VFD control system engineered for precise umbilical deployment and recovery from local or remote control.
Explore the system
01 · The challenge
Move the line.
Hold the load.
An advanced umbilical reeler needs coordinated control of the main drum and level wind while the operator keeps speed, tension and alignment in view.
Monitor Systems partnered with an Aberdeenshire hydraulics company to develop the PLC control package, bringing accurate variable-speed operation and practical operator control into one system.
02 · The control system
Precise motion.
Clear control.
Variable-frequency drives regulate the main drum motor while the HMI gives the operator real-time information and direct control of the level-wind alignment.
- Local control and remote radio operation
- Real-time speed, tension and alignment on the HMI
- Level-wind override for alignment correction
- Dynamic braking to hold the umbilical at full tension
03 · Built and integrated
From panel build.
To operator view.
The control package was developed from workshop build through to a clear HMI interface for deployment, recovery and level-wind control.
04 · Engineering delivery
Controlled locally.
Operated remotely.
At maximum drum speed, the reeler delivers approximately 14 metres per minute at the drum core. The motor operates at approximately 1443.6 rpm, with VFD control translating that speed into accurate line movement.
- Variable-speed controlVFDs provide precise control of the main drum motor.
- Local and remote operationThe reeler can be operated at the machine or through the radio remote.
- Operator visibilitySpeed, tension and alignment are presented together on the HMI.
- Load holdingDynamic braking holds the umbilical safely at full tension.
Marine case study