Severstal: OPPLK (Open Software Programmable Logic Controllers)

The main articles are:

• Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
• APCS - typical structure

2025: Presentation of Open Software Programmable Logic Controller

On June 3, 2025, Severstal presented a prototype of its own open software programmable logic controller (OPPLK).

A software or virtual PLC is one of the key nodes of an open APCS. The software controller allows you to process signals from sensors and control the production process. Severstal experts are developing the OPPLK and the development environment for it as part of a list formed by the participants of the intersectoral working group on the creation of an open PCS. The solution has open source code that will be available to manufacturers for free. To test the prototype, ready-made hardware platforms developed by domestic vendors are used, as well as Severstal's own platform. The controller also uses a board from a Russian company.

In addition, as part of the import substitution of the Siemens controller, Severstal developed a prototype Profibus communication module on the Amur microcontroller. This will allow enterprises to replace Siemens PLC and switch to equipment control using the Severstal communication module, which will reduce costs and time when switching to domestic software and hardware complexes.

Pilot implementation of OPPLK at the company's own sites will begin in 2026. The development was made possible thanks to close cooperation with the members of the working group: after discussing the requirements for the components, we create a full-fledged product that fully meets the request of the industry. We strive to make an open platform and are ready to cooperate with other vendors to test our controller on their platforms. We are also exploring the possibility of releasing a hardware platform or boxed solutions for both internal use and external sales in the future, "commented Evgeny Maslov, head of the Industrial Processes cluster.