A HMI panel (Human-Machine Interface), is an interface or dashboard that controls a machine. They are a user-friendly way for humans to control systems within the manufacturing environment. A typical HMI consists of a display screen, input devices, audio alerts and feedback devices. Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) are simple to use. By utilizing familiar software and processes, engineers can tailor these for optimal performance. 

Common uses for HMI’s 

Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) are utilized for showcasing information graphics, automating processes, and generating reports. Playing a critical role in monitoring and controlling various systems in different industries. 

Depending on the industry will depend on the application of the HMI. Lets take a look how the panels are used in different industries:

HMI’s within the Food Industry  

In the Food and Beverage industry, there are regulations to follow to ensure food safety throughout production. IP66 rating is essential for the HMI when located in food production environments.  

The IP66 rating ensures that the interface can handle extreme temperatures and high-pressure jet washes during cleaning. Due to the regular cleaning required, water contact can cause damage to the screen and electronic connections. 

HMI’s within the Automotive Industry 

Within the automotive industry HMI’s are used to provide valuable data in relation to quality control and operator safety. This is crucial within the production line, to provide a constant high quality when manufacturing vehicles. HMI’s assist operators with fault diagnosis when breakdowns occur, this helps identify the fault and repair it efficiently to restart production.   

Where are HMI Panels used? 

HMIs are utilized across various sectors such as Food Manufacturing, Industrial Automation, Medical Manufacturing, and Transportation. They are commonly employed to regulate the equipment involved in the production process. 

HMI’s most commonly need replacing after 10 years. Overworking the HMI, irregular maintenance and unrepaired physical damage can reduce the lifespan of the HMI. 

Obsolete HMI Repairs 

Many major manufacturing brands produce HMI’s, including Schneider Electric, Allen Bradley, Siemens and Mitsubishi. Technological developments will increase obsolete HMI’s within the industry, Neutronic can repair the majority of obsolete HMI’s from all major manufacturers. 

Neutronic strive in finding solutions for our customers, we have the in-house capabilities to repair obsolete parts in our workshop. Including Mitsubishi E1020 HMI screens, these HMI’s are obsolete and are expensive to replace. You can expect to pay over £1000 for a replacement E1020. Neutronic are one of the very few industrial repair services that can repair the Mitsubishi E1020 screens. 

Neutronic offers a 24/7 service to all customers with repairs. Offerings a 12-month warranty for all HMI’s when they leave our workshop, allowing you to be confident in our repair service. 

5 Common Faults with a HMI Panel

HMI’s are attached to control machinery, and regular use means faults occur more often, common faults which are found with HMI’s are: 

Screen Freezing: The screen may become unresponsive or blank, which limits the use of the screen to control the machinery. 

Touch Screen Malfunction: The screen may fail to respond to touch points for users. 

Compatibility Issues: If you change or update your software and hardware, you may have compatibility issues going forward with your HMI. 

Power Issues: The screen may fail to start up due to a power supply to the HMI. If unexpected issues do occur power supply could be the first point of call to check over. 

Connection Issues: The connection between the HMI panel and the machinery, is important to work to deliver a usable HMI. 

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