
Closed
Posted
Paid on delivery
I need a control system to automate the backwashing and drain valve operation of a bead filter (6-position valve + 2-way ball valve) and a waterfall spillway filter (3-way and 2-way ball valves). The bead filter uses a 6-position valve. Normal operation is in the "filter" position. Backwashing is done by moving the 6-way valve from the "filter" position to the "backwash" position. There is a separate full-port 2-way ball valve on the bottom of the bead filter called a sludge drain. When the sludge drain valve is opened, sludge and debris that have settled to the bottom of the filter are washed into a drain pipe. The backwash cycle for the bead filter will be: pump off, change 6-way valve to backwash position, open the sludge drain, pump on for a set time interval, pump off, close sludge drain, pump on until water leaving the backwash discharge port runs (more or less) clear. The waterfall spillway filter is downstream of the bead filter. To backwash this filter, the pump is turned off, a full-port 2-way ball valve bottom drain is opened, a 3-way valve's position is changed from "waterfall" to "backwash", sufficient time is allowed for the spillway unit to drain completely, the pump is turned on and let run until the water leaving the spillway bottom drain runs (more or less) clear, the pump is turned off, the bottom drain valve is closed, the 3-way valve changes back to the "waterfall" position, and the pump is turned on again. The pump must be off whenever any of the valves are changing position. If the system has an error that doesn't resolve it should automatically return to the base state of: the 6-position valve in the "filter" position, the 3-way valve in the "waterfall" position, and both 2-way drain valves closed. If the base state cannot be achieved, the pump must shut off. If there is a power failure, the 6-way valve must fail in the "filter" position. The 6-way valve I have is made by Praher. I'm thinking of using the Praher Aquastar to control it, and the "safety pack" to move the valve to the "filter" position if there is a power failure. I basically need someone to set up a plc to control these various I/Os and help me choose/integrate some kind of controller or user interface. I am also completely open to other solutions. The only part that is already purchased is the 6-way valve, so nothing is set in stone. I am a contractor building a water feature in an outdoor habitat for red-footed tortoises. My client wants as much of the maintenance automated as possible. Key Requirements: - Use of PLC for automation - Position sensors to ensure pump is off during valve operation Ideal Skills and Experience: - Experience with PLC programming and setup - Familiarity with valve automation and control systems -Ability to set up user-friendly controls - Knowledge of integrating position sensors into automation systems - Background in fluid dynamics and pump systems would be advantageous Please provide relevant experience in your bids.
Project ID: 40723638
97 proposals
Remote project
Active 5 hours ago
Set your budget and timeframe
Get paid for your work
Outline your proposal
It's free to sign up and bid on jobs
97 freelancers are bidding on average $1,212 USD for this job

Hi, I am an embedded systems engineer with over 16 years of experience developing PLC-based automation, motor and valve controls, sensor interlocks, fault handling, and user-friendly operator interfaces for electromechanical systems. I can design the control architecture, select a suitable PLC/HMI and position sensors, and develop the operating sequences for both filters. The program will use verified valve feedback, pump-off interlocks during every valve movement, adjustable wash/drain timing, alarms, and a controlled recovery routine that attempts to restore the safe base state. I can also integrate the Praher Aquastar and safety pack or recommend a better-supported alternative after reviewing their interfaces. My experience includes safety-focused state-machine controls, actuator feedback, pump sequencing, manual/automatic modes, and taking embedded control products from concept through production. I can provide the PLC program, I/O schedule, wiring guidance, component recommendations, operating documentation, and remote commissioning support. Do you want turbidity/flow sensing to determine when discharge is clear, or should that step use an adjustable timer? What pump voltage/current and control interface are available? Please contact me to discuss details.
$1,450 USD in 14 days
7.6
7.6

Your water-feature automation requires a safety-first PLC sequence that coordinates the Praher 6-position valve, waterfall valves, pump interlocks, drain timing, and recovery behavior. I can structure the control logic around a defined base state: 6-way valve in filter, 3-way valve in waterfall, both drains closed, and pump off whenever valve movement is detected. Position sensors and permissives can prevent pump operation during transitions, while timeout and fault routines attempt automatic recovery. If the base state cannot be confirmed, the pump will remain disabled; power-failure behavior can also be designed around the Aquastar and safety-pack approach, subject to confirming the available fail-safe contacts and actuator interfaces. The operator interface can provide clearly labeled manual controls, automatic backwash cycles, timers, status feedback, alarms, and maintenance diagnostics. I will help assess whether a compact PLC, remote I/O, or another controller is the best fit before finalizing the hardware, with outdoor electrical protection and serviceability considered for the tortoise habitat installation. Which exact Praher Aquastar model, valve actuator feedback signals, pump specifications, and available power/control voltage will the installation use? The result will be documented with an I/O list, sequence description, interlock matrix, fault handling, and commissioning guidance so the system is practical to install and maintain.
$1,500 USD in 16 days
7.0
7.0

I can design the PLC-based control system to fully automate both filter backwash and drain sequences with reliable safety interlocks. I have experience with PLC automation, industrial control systems, sensors, relays, and electrical control design. I will develop the complete I/O mapping, PLC logic, valve sequencing, and pump interlocks. Position feedback will ensure the pump remains OFF whenever any valve is moving or not in the required position. The system will include fault detection, timeouts, alarms, and automatic return to the defined safe/base state. I can also integrate the Praher Aquastar and Safety Pack, or recommend an alternative if technically more suitable. An HMI/user interface can be provided for automatic cycles, manual control, timing adjustments, and status monitoring. I will design the system with outdoor installation and reliable fail-safe operation in mind. Please share the Praher valve/Aquastar model, pump specifications, and available actuator datasheets. Regards Engr Muhammad Usman
$1,125 USD in 5 days
6.8
6.8

This is a strong fit, and I’d start with the highest-risk workflow first. For a PLC-Based Valve Automation for Filter System, the hard part is balancing sensor scanning accuracy, battery life, Bluetooth/SIM fallback, and OTA-ready embedded reliability. My approach would be to validate the sensor matrix and power budget first, then design the acquisition PCB, embedded firmware, connectivity fallback, and OTA/admin controls in staged prototypes. Quick question: Which external integrations are absolutely required for MVP, and which can be staged after launch? Also, what is already available for PLC-Based Valve Automation for Filter System: a working codebase, designs, data, or only the brief? Best, Dr. Syafiq
$1,125 USD in 21 days
6.2
6.2

As an experienced Systems Architect with a vast knowledge in Electronics and Embedded Systems, I am your go-to professional for your PLC-based valve automation project for the filter system. Throughout my 27 years' career, I've implemented numerous control systems from simple to complex ones like yours, including military submarine systems, combat rovers, drone frames with anti-jamming and much more. My solid background perfectly fits your requirements; from utilizing my PLC programming and setup proficiency to integrating position sensors into automation systems.I'd love to share that I have also designed Aircraft Communication Equipment for Mountain RF using similar fluid dynamics and pump systems. The user interface is another vital element of successful automation. My know-how in SCADA system implementation will ensure an intuitive, user-friendly control interface to make the maintenance process seamlessly automated as your client desires. Rest assured, unlike many programmers, I understand the gravity of accurate implementation and provide consistent 'Ground Truth' ensuring measurable benchmarks. The success of this project is undoubtedly guaranteed with me on board!
$1,125 USD in 7 days
6.5
6.5

Hi, I can design and implement the PLC-based control system for your bead filter and waterfall spillway, including safe valve sequencing, pump interlocks, position feedback, fault recovery, and a simple operator interface. I have hands-on experience with PLC/industrial automation, pumps, sensors, relays, motorized valves, and safety interlocks. I have also developed control logic for beer tank systems using solenoid valves, where reliable valve sequencing, timing, sensor feedback, and safe pump/flow control were important parts of the automation. My proposed approach would include: * PLC selection and complete I/O planning * Praher Aquastar integration, including fail-to-filter safety operation * Position/limit sensors for all motorized valves * Pump interlock so it cannot run while any valve is moving * Automated bead-filter and spillway backwash sequences * Adjustable timers for drain, flushing, and backwash stages * Fault detection, timeout handling, and automatic safe-state recovery * Pump shutdown if the required safe state cannot be confirmed * Manual/Auto control through a user-friendly HMI * Electrical schematic, PLC program, I/O list, and commissioning documentation I can also review alternative actuator/control options if there is a more reliable or cost-effective approach than the Aquastar. Best Regards, Bachana
$1,250 USD in 7 days
6.1
6.1

Hi, I can develop the PLC control system for your bead filter and waterfall filter automation. The main focus will be making sure the pump only runs when the valves are in the correct position and the position has been confirmed. If a valve is moving, in the wrong position, or a fault occurs, the pump will stay off. The system will include: * Bead filter backwash sequence * Waterfall filter backwash and drain sequence * Valve position checking before starting the pump * Automatic return to the normal filter position after a fault * Pump shutdown if the valves cannot reach the safe position * Power-failure handling for the 6-way valve * Adjustable timers and backwash settings * Manual controls, alarms, and status indication I can also review the Praher Aquastar and safety pack to make sure the valve feedback and control signals work correctly with the PLC. Work steps: 1. Review the valves, pumps, and available I/O 2. Create the control and safety logic 3. Program the PLC and HMI 4. Test normal and fault conditions 5. Provide commissioning support and the editable PLC/source documentation Please send me the exact Praher/Aquastar models, pump control method, available valve feedback, and preferred PLC brand if you have one. I can then prepare the I/O list and control architecture. Best
$1,125 USD in 7 days
5.8
5.8

As an experienced engineer with a strong background in electronics, control systems, and PLC programming, I couldn't be more ready to take on your project. My focus on practical and efficient designs is an ideal match for this automation endeavor, where your need for a reliable control system aligns perfectly with my skills. In the past, I have worked on automating complex systems using PLCs, and these systems bear some similarities to what we’re looking at with your water filter. I’m familiar with valve operation and sensor integration, key features for completing this task effectively. Additionally, I have a solid understanding of fluid dynamics pivotal for a successful design of the pump system which is central to the entire operation. Having designed hardware with high power efficiency in the past, I can develop a system that best fits within your energy-saving mandate. With a user-centric approach and leanings towards efficiency, my UI designs will allow for seamless navigation through valve operations making it easy and intuitive for you or anyone responsible to operate the system.
$800 USD in 7 days
5.8
5.8

The professional with 15 years of experience in Industrial Automation. ^^Development,Commissioning of PLC Control System, HMI and SCADA^^ ◾ PLC- Siemens [S7-1500F/H, S7-400, S7-400F/H/R, S7-300, S7-1200, S7-200, S5, TI PLC, LOGO!] Rockwell [(Allen Bradley)- SLC500,MicroLogix,CompactLogix.] Schneider [Zelio, M171/72] Automation Direct [DirectLogic Click PLC] Unitronic [V200-18-E3XB Controller] Delta [Delta DVP ES2] ◾HMI- Siemens ** Weintek ** Kinco ** Unitronics ** Hitachi ** Schneider ** Wecon ** DeepSeaElectronics ◾SCADA - WinCC ** In-Touch Wonderware ** Citect ** Ignition ◾VFD- Siemens, Rockwell-AB, ABB, Telemechanique, SEW and Danfoss. ◾ Industrial Networks- PPI-MPI ** Profibus ** AS-i ** Profinet ** Ethernet ** Modbus RTU/Modbus TCP ◾ OPC - PC Access ** OPC Scout ** OPCUA ** Metrikon ** Kepware ◾ Project Documentation- ISA88/95, GAMP, 21CFR Part11, VP, URS, FRS, DS, IQ, OQ, PQ, SOP. ◾ Programming Languages - C# ** VBA ** VB.net ** Javascript ◾ Arduino Uno ** RS485 ** Ethernet shield ** Data Logging ◾ Raspberry pi ** Raspi Camera ◾ Networking Devices - Siemens ** Teltonika **NO OFFSITE COMMUNICATIONS**
$925 USD in 7 days
5.9
5.9

Hello sir I'm PLC programmer with 10 years of experience in the automation field I have good experience with different types of PLC Siemens Alen Bradley, Schneider, omron,abb,bekoff, automation direct Please contact me for more detailes I ask have good experience with valve operation I hope we can work together I am available for work from now Best regards
$1,125 USD in 7 days
5.6
5.6

As a seasoned automation expert, I find your project incredibly interesting and well within my wheelhouse. For years now, I have successfully executed projects similar to yours, leveraging my expert skills in PLC programming, including proficiency with top platforms like Mitsubishi, Rockwell, Siemens among others - a skill that I believe is crucial for the project at hand. I also bring along fluency in designing electrical drawings using Eplan P8 and AutoCAD as well as performing problem-solving tasks in the field. With safety being a paramount concern for you and your client, I can assure you that with my experience, knowledge of integrating position sensors into automation systems, and penchant for precise execution; the need to keep the pump off during valve operation will be meticulously met. Beyond merely focusing on the technical aspect of this project, I intend to bring my creativity and innovative thinking to make your maintenance system better than ever. Creating a user-friendly interface that caters to all of your needs is also something I excel at; thanks to my experience with SCADA and HMI design with the likes of Factory Talk. My success story in commissioning automation systems speaks volumes about my commitment to delivering flawless projects just like you envision in the water feature system for the red-footed tortoises habitat.
$1,125 USD in 7 days
5.7
5.7

With over 13 years of expertise, I can confidently say that I am the perfect fit for your PLC-based valve automation project. My profile primarily focuses on tailored automation solutions, including Python and C-based projects, much like what you require. Not only have I mastered PLC programming and setup, but I also boast comprehensive knowledge in fluid dynamics and pump systems—essential to ensuring a smooth-running filter system in your project. Considering everything you've mentioned so far, including the purchased Praher 6-way valve as a starting point, let's collaborate to select other complementary components. I'm open to exploring alternative integrated solutions that accentuate system reliability and effortless operation. Choose me as your freelancer, and together we'll automate your water feature maintenance to the highest standard possible! Contact me now!
$888 USD in 8 days
5.6
5.6

Hi, I have experience designing industrial control hardware and automation architectures involving pumps, relays, interlocks, protected I/O, position feedback, and multi-state sequencing with 10+ monitored/control channels. I have also worked on fault-tolerant systems where outputs must default to a defined safe state after power loss, sensor disagreement, or actuator failure. Approach ✅ I will define the complete I/O map, valve/pump interlocks, position sensing, timeout logic, and safe-state sequence before selecting the PLC and HMI. ✅ I will implement separate bead-filter and waterfall backwash state machines with pump-off-before-motion enforcement, valve-position verification, configurable timers, alarms, and manual/service modes. ✅ I will integrate the Praher 6-way valve/Aquastar or propose an alternative, then define the 2-way/3-way actuators, sensors, fail-safe power arrangement, and operator interface. Questions ✅ Which exact Praher 6-way valve model and Aquastar/safety-pack version do you already have or plan to use? ✅ What pump voltage/current, valve actuator voltages, and available mains/control power are present at the installation? ✅ Do you want automatic scheduling only, or also manual HMI control and remote monitoring/alerts? Best, Yaroslav
$1,125 USD in 7 days
5.4
5.4

Hello, I reviewed your project and like the clearly defined valve sequences and safety requirements. I can develop the PLC-based control system for the Praher 6-position bead-filter valve, waterfall filter valves, pump control, position feedback, and automatic fault recovery. I have 15+ years of experience in embedded systems, PLC/HMI systems, industrial automation, HVAC controls, sensors, relays, actuators, RS485/Modbus, and custom control systems. For your system, I would implement safety interlocks ensuring the pump is OFF before any valve changes position, verify valve position through feedback sensors before starting the pump, monitor valve movement and sequence timeouts, and automatically return the system to the defined base state after a fault. If the base state cannot be safely achieved, the pump will remain OFF. I can also evaluate the Praher Aquastar and Safety Pack solution for the required power-failure return to FILTER, and determine whether it is the best approach or if another actuator/control solution would be more practical. I can provide the PLC I/O architecture, control logic, HMI/user interface, safety interlocks, wiring requirements, and commissioning support. Relevant experience includes PLC/HMI systems, pump and valve control, industrial automation, HVAC controllers, sensor integration, RS485/Modbus, and custom electronic control products. Best regards, Hamza
$750 USD in 4 days
5.4
5.4

Hi, how are you doing? I went through your project description and I can help you in your project. your project requirements perfectly match my expertise. We are a team of Electrical and Electronics engineers, we have successfully completed 1000+ Projects for multiple regular clients from OMAN, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Lebanon and many other countries. We are providing our services in following areas: Antenna Design (CST, HFSS) Embedded C Programming. VHDL/Verilog, Quartus/Vivado, LabVIEW/ Multisim/PSPICE/VLSI MATLAB/SIMULINK Network Simulator NS2/NS3 Microcontroller like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, FPGA, AVR, PIC, STM32 and ESP32. IDEs like Keil MDK V5, ATmel studio and MPLab XC8. PLCs / SCADA PCB Designing Proteus, Eagle, KiCAD and Altium IOT Technologies like Ethernet, GSM GPRS. HTTP Restful APIs connection for IOT Communications. Also, we have good command over report writing, I can show you many samples of our previous reports. Kindly consider us for your project and text me so that we can further discuss specifically about your project's main goals and requirements.
$1,125 USD in 7 days
5.9
5.9

As a Senior Electronics Engineer with extensive expertise in circuit design, power electronics and system integration, I believe I could offer an optimal solution to your PLC-based valve automation project. My 8 years of industry experience, specifically in RF engineering and embedded systems, have endowed me with a deep knowledge of automation systems and the ability to design real-time controls that work reliably under varying conditions. In addition to my proficiency in PLC programming and setup, I also possess substantial skill in integrating different valves, such as your Praher 6-way valve, into effective automation systems. My familiarity with fluid dynamics and pump systems has been crucial to my success in similar projects, equipping me with the capacity to implement mechanisms such as position sensors that ensure safe pump operation during valve changes. Furthermore, my clients repeatedly commend me for my ability to deliver user-friendly controls that ensure intuitive system operation. This will be particularly beneficial to your project, given your requirement for a water-feature maintenance system that can function without frequent intervention. My approach revolves around comprehensively understanding client needs and developing tailored solutions within the specified timeframe. I am confident that my expertise matches your project’s requirements closely and I am excited about potential collaboration on this innovative endeavor.
$1,000 USD in 7 days
4.4
4.4

Hello, I am an Electronic Engineer with 10 years of experience, providing PLC automation, industrial control systems, valve sequencing, sensors, pump control, HMI integration, and fault-safe automation. In my opinion, the system should be designed as a state-based control sequence with safety interlocks rather than simple timed valve commands. I would monitor valve positions and pump status continuously, enforce pump-off conditions during every valve movement, and implement automatic recovery to the defined base state with a fail-safe shutdown if recovery is not possible. This project is very similar to my previous works. I have worked on industrial automation systems involving pumps, actuators, position feedback, sequencing, alarms, and PLC-based control. I also have experience integrating operator interfaces and designing fault handling for systems that must safely return to a known state. The most important skill here is reliable PLC sequencing and safety interlocking. I would use confirmed valve-position feedback before enabling the pump and include timeout, sensor-failure, power-loss, and emergency shutdown handling. So, I will divide your project into three major steps. 1️⃣ Define the I/O architecture, PLC/controller, valve feedback, safety interlocks, and HMI. 2️⃣ Develop the PLC sequence for normal operation, backwash, drain, faults, and recovery. 3️⃣ Test and document the complete system, including fail-safe and power-failure behavior. Best regards. Maksym
$1,125 USD in 7 days
4.1
4.1

Hello, I'm a Senior Software Developer with 8+ years of experience working with PLC & SCADA and Embedded Software. I understand you need a PLC‑controlled system to automate the bead filter’s 6‑position valve, two drain valves and the spillway filter sequence, without breaking pump‑off safety rules or the base‑state failover you described. The real challenge is coordinating valve changes with pump interlocks and sensor feedback. A common issue: unclear position sensing causes pumps to restart before valves are fully seated. My approach: first, map each valve’s I/O and define the backwash logic for both filters. Then, program pump‑off interlocks, position‑sensor checks and error‑return‑to‑base routines. Finally, integrate a simple UI so you can trigger cycles and adjust timings. I've worked with PLC & SCADA and Process Automation on similar multi‑valve systems, so I watch for race conditions when sensors lag during valve movement. A few questions to better understand the scope: Q1 - Do you prefer a compact PLC like MicroLogix or Siemens LOGO? It shapes I/O count and UI options. Q2 - Are valve position sensors already installed? It affects how I build safety interlocks. Q3 - Should the UI expose cycle timing adjustments? It guides how flexible the interface becomes. Happy to go over the details here in chat and suggest the best approach. Looking forward to hearing from you.
$1,100 USD in 5 days
4.1
4.1

I am interested in working on your PLC-Based Valve Automation for Filter System project. I can design and implement a reliable PLC control solution for automating the filter system, with a focus on accurate valve sequencing, safe operation, and straightforward system monitoring. I will first review the process requirements, valve configuration, sensors, actuators, and existing control equipment to develop an appropriate automation strategy. The control logic can include automatic valve sequencing, filtration and backwash cycles, timers, interlocks, alarms, manual/automatic operating modes, and fault handling as required. I can also structure the PLC program for clear operation and easy troubleshooting, while considering appropriate fail-safe behavior and coordination between valves, pumps, level/pressure signals, and other field devices. I am committed to delivering a well-organized and thoroughly tested automation solution within the agreed timeframe. I will provide clear documentation, maintain communication throughout the project, and incorporate feedback during commissioning or testing. I would be happy to review your P&ID, PLC make/model, I/O list, valve details, and required operating sequence to develop the control logic specifically for your filter system.
$750 USD in 7 days
4.1
4.1

Hi there! The trickiest part here isn't the valve sequencing itself - it's handling the manual backwash cycles safely when you can't see the water clarity remotely. You've got operators making judgment calls ("runs clear") while the pump is running, which means your PLC needs to enforce hard stops and timeouts so a delayed decision doesn't damage equipment or run indefinitely. I'd build this around a compact PLC with clear local controls - physical buttons for each filter's backwash cycle, position feedback from each valve, and pump interlocks that won't budge until sensors confirm the previous move completed. The Praher safety pack handles your fail-safe requirement cleanly. Rather than over-automating clarity detection, I'd give operators manual pump-off buttons during the rinse phase with visual feedback on how long it's been running. Worth a conversation about whether you want any remote monitoring or if local controls suit your site better? Corné
$750 USD in 7 days
3.9
3.9

Los Alamitos, United States
Member since Sep 20, 2026
$250-750 USD
min $100000 USD
₹100-400 INR / hour
₹1500-12500 INR
$10-30 USD
$10-30 USD
₹12500-37500 INR
$750-1500 USD
₹600-1500 INR
$10-30 USD
₹1500-12500 INR
$30-250 USD
$10-30 CAD
₹600-1500 INR
£10-15 GBP / hour
$250-750 CAD
$250-750 USD
₹1500-12500 INR
$750-1500 USD
$10-30 USD