Performance Evaluation of Electric Motor Control Practical Training using Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)

Abstract

This research is an experimental study conducted using the One-Shot Case Study design. the objectives of this research are threefold: (1) to develop a practical training set controlling electric motors using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), (2) to evaluate the effectiveness of the practical training set controlling electric motors using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), (3) to study students’ satisfaction with teaching and learning from the use of the practical training set controlling electric motors using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The study targeted 14 third-year undergraduate students enrolled in the Mechatronics Engineering program at the Faculty of Industrial Education and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, these participants were purposively selected from those registered in the Servo Motors and Drive Systems course during the first semester of the academic year 2024. The research employed the following instruments: (1) a practical training set for controlling electric motors using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). (2) training manual for the set. (3) a quality assessment form for the practical training set evaluated by experts. (4) a practical test and an evaluation form. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

The findings of the study revealed that: (1) The developed practical training set for electric motor control using a PLC featured a structure measuring 100 cm x 174 cm with four caster wheels and included components such as a 3-pole main circuit breaker, 1-pole circuit breaker, fuse, switching power supply, emergency stop with indicator light, time delay relay, pilot lamp, PLC, relay, magnetic contactor, and terminal blocks. It was also accompanied by a detailed manual. Received the highest quality rating, with a mean score of 4.60. (2) The effectiveness of the practical training set, measured at 87.43/85.12, meets the predefined standard criterion of 85/85. (3) The overall student satisfaction was highest, with a mean score of 4.58. In conclusion, the development of the training kit, along with detailed step-by-step procedures, effectively facilitated students' learning and skill development in three-phase AC motor control using PLCs, resulting in behavioral changes that aligned with the intended learning outcomes.