Dolphin Centrifuge has developed its line of Industrial Centrifuge Control Systems. We design, program, and test custom PLC/HMI control panels for disc stack and decanter centrifuge systems rated up to 480V 3-phase. Packages range from basic start/stop panels to fully automated systems with VFD starters, vibration protection, data logging, and SCADA integration. Over 40 years of centrifuge automation experience from Warren, Michigan.
Modern Controls for Industrial Centrifuges
A centrifuge is only as reliable as the controls that run it. Many older centrifuge installations rely on outdated relay-based panels, obsolete PLCs, or manual start/stop procedures that leave performance on the table and expose operators to unnecessary risk. Dolphin Centrifuge replaces these legacy systems with modern, fully programmable control panels that automate the entire centrifuge operation from startup through shutdown.
Every Dolphin control panel is designed, wired, programmed, and tested in our Warren, Michigan facility by engineers with 40+ years of centrifuge automation experience. We build panels for our own turnkey centrifuge systems and also supply retrofit control upgrades for existing installations running any brand of industrial centrifuge. These controls are specific for Alfa Laval Disc Stack and Decanter Centrifuges.
Our control panels incorporate the latest technologies available. Ease of use and built-in troubleshooting features are highlights of our control systems. They can be customized to provide unique functionalities and application-specific features including process data storage, DCS interface, and remote operator functionality.
Centrifuge Controls Benefits
Dolphin's centrifuge control systems use a PLC for process control & HMI (Touchscreen) as a user interface. Key benefits include a detailed graphical display with live on-screen parameter monitoring, fully automatic operation with elaborate manual controls, and primary alarm functions pre-configured. All panels accept inputs for Pressure, Flow, Temperature, and Vibration sensors.
Auto Start / Stop
One-button startup sequencing: motor start, bowl acceleration, operating water, feed valve, and discharge timing — all automated with proper interlocks and delays.
Discharge Timing
Programmable solids discharge intervals and durations for self-cleaning centrifuges. Adjustable from the HMI to optimize for varying feed conditions without rewiring.
Temperature Monitoring
RTD sensors on feed, discharge, and bearing locations with high-temperature alarms and auto-shutdown protection. Critical for heated oil applications.
Vibration Monitoring
Accelerometer-based vibration sensing on the centrifuge frame with alarm and trip setpoints. Detects imbalance, bearing wear, or bowl issues before damage occurs.
Touch Screen HMI
Color touch screen operator interface displaying live process data, alarm history, trending graphs, and system status. Intuitive navigation for operators of all skill levels.
Data Logging
Continuous recording of temperatures, vibration levels, motor amps, discharge events, and alarm history. Data can be exported via USB or accessed remotely.
Advanced Troubleshooting Guides
Advanced Trouble Shooting Guides with System Fault Data Logging and Alarm Functions with Alarm History Log. Administrator Setting with Password Protection for secure access.
PID Loop Control
PID Loop Control for VFD Feed Pumps & Level Sensors. Built with hi-quality, off-the-shelf components for quick field serviceability and easy spare parts sourcing.
Need a Custom Control Panel for Your Centrifuge?
Dolphin Centrifuge builds PLC/HMI panels for new installations and retrofit upgrades. Tell us about your application and we will design the right control solution.
PLC & HMI Platforms
Dolphin Centrifuge builds control panels on industry-standard PLC and HMI platforms. Our standard platform uses AutomationDirect CLICK/CLICK PLUS PLCs paired with Maple Systems HMI touchscreens. For plants that require Allen-Bradley or Siemens hardware, we also build panels on those platforms to match existing plant standards:
AutomationDirect CLICK / CLICK PLUS PLCs
Dolphin Standard PLC Platform
Compact, expandable control with stackable I/O modules. The CLICK PLUS platform provides built-in data logging, PID control, and broad protocol support ideal for centrifuge automation.
- • Ethernet/serial communication
- • Modbus, EtherNet/IP, MQTT protocols
- • Built-in data logging
- • Stackable I/O for flexible configuration
Maple Systems HMIs
Dolphin Standard Operator Interface
Industrial touchscreen HMIs with alarm/event screens, data logging, and remote access capability. Broad PLC protocol support connects to virtually any controller platform.
- • Touchscreen operation with intuitive navigation
- • Alarm and event history screens
- • Built-in data logging and trending
- • Remote access for off-site monitoring
- • Free EBPro configuration software
Allen-Bradley / Rockwell
Available when a customer plant standard requires Rockwell hardware. Dolphin panels use CompactLogix or MicroLogix controllers with PanelView Plus HMIs.
- • CompactLogix L1/L2/L3 controllers
- • PanelView Plus 7″ or 10″ HMI
- • EtherNet/IP connectivity
- • Standard in oil & gas, refining, chemical
Siemens
Available when a customer plant standard requires Siemens hardware. Dolphin panels use S7-1200 or S7-1500 controllers with Comfort Panel HMIs.
- • S7-1200 / S7-1500 controllers
- • KTP700 or TP900 Comfort HMI
- • PROFINET connectivity
- • Common in food, pharma, water treatment
Decanter Centrifuge Controls
Dolphin Centrifuge builds dedicated control panels for decanter centrifuge systems with features specific to decanter operation. Decanter control panels offer:
- VFD Starters for Main and Back-drive Motors
- Motor Sequence Logic with Automatic Shut-down Sequence
- Braking Resistors for Quick Ramp-down
- Vibration Sensors with Feed Pump Interlock
- Bowl Speed Control
- Conveyor Torque Monitoring
- Bearing Temperature Monitoring and High-Temperature Alarm
Explosion-Proof Centrifuge Controls
Dolphin Centrifuge has designed and assembled Explosion Proof Centrifuge Control System packages for all types of centrifuge applications. We build NEC Class 1 Div 1 and Class 1 Div 2 control systems to meet the most demanding hazardous-area requirements. Read more about our explosion-proof centrifuges.
- NEMA4X or NEMA7 enclosures
- UL or IEC / ATEX classifications
- Zone 1 & 2 categories
- Field instrumentation compatibility
- Nitrogen-purged enclosures
- DCS control options
New Controls for Your Old Centrifuge
Do you have old industrial centrifuges with outdated controls? We can retrofit our state-of-the-art centrifuge controls on your existing centrifuge systems. The customer can expect improved efficiency and lesser downtime with many extra functions. Contact Dolphin today to discuss the possibilities.
Dolphin Centrifuge can design and supply a drop-in replacement control panel. Retrofit panels are built to match the existing field wiring, motor specifications, and sensor inputs, minimizing installation time and cost. Benefits of a retrofit upgrade include:
- Automated operation replacing manual start/stop procedures
- Modern vibration and temperature protection preventing costly failures
- Touch screen HMI replacing push-button panels and analog gauges
- Data logging for process optimization and regulatory compliance
- Remote monitoring capability via Ethernet or cellular modem
- Reduced operator labor and training requirements
Not sure which centrifuge model you need before specifying controls? Our centrifuge selection guide walks through capacity, separation requirements, and application matching. For process validation, Dolphin also offers sample testing to verify separation performance before you commit to a full system.
Turnkey System Integration
For new centrifuge installations, Dolphin Centrifuge designs the control panel as an integral part of the complete system. The panel manages not just the centrifuge but also the feed pump, heater, valves, and any auxiliary equipment on the skid. All systems are fully wired, programmed, and factory-tested before shipment so installation is limited to connecting utilities and process piping. For EPC centrifuge packages that require controls documentation, I/O lists, hazardous-area basis, FAT records, GA drawings, and P&IDs, see our EPC industrial centrifuge systems page.
Turnkey control panels are available in NEMA 4, NEMA 4X (stainless), NEMA 7/9 (explosion proof), and NEMA 12 enclosure ratings to suit any installation environment.
Panel Specifications
| Specification | Standard | Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Power Supply | 480V 3-phase, 60Hz | 208V, 380V, 575V, 50Hz |
| Enclosure | NEMA 4 painted steel | NEMA 4X SS, NEMA 7/9 XP |
| Motor Starter | Across-the-line or soft starter | VFD (variable frequency drive) |
| PLC | AutomationDirect CLICK PLUS | Allen-Bradley, Siemens |
| HMI | Maple Systems touchscreen | PanelView Plus, Siemens Comfort |
| Communication | Ethernet (local HMI) | Modbus, EtherNet/IP, MQTT, cellular |
| I/O Expansion | Spare I/O for future sensors | Remote I/O racks, SCADA integration |