Beckhoff accelerates automation with TwinCAT PLC++

By Staff Report February 26, 2025 12:03 pm IST

Beckhoff has introduced TwinCAT PLC++, a new development that accelerates automation technology performance. It integrates seamlessly into the existing TwinCAT ecosystem and is based on IEC 61131-3 languages.

Beckhoff is enabling a real leap in automation technology performance with TwinCAT PLC++. Both engineering and runtime can be accelerated, while the well-known TwinCAT advantages of consistent integration, compatibility, and openness continue to be delivered. In combination with easy switchover and the retention of existing TwinCAT functionality, this results in added value—the “plus plus” for the user.

TwinCAT PLC++ is a new development from Beckhoff that integrates seamlessly into the existing TwinCAT ecosystem. TwinCAT PLC++ is also based on the languages described in IEC 61131-3. Due to aspects such as the modern compiler technology and the new architecture used, a leap in engineering and runtime performance can be achieved. Familiar and proven features have been retained, while key components of the development environment—such as editors and compilers—have been redeveloped based on IT models. Beckhoff has placed particular emphasis on the possibility of using DevOps principles to implement continuous integration and continuous deployment, focusing particularly on the specific needs of users.

TwinCAT PLC++ offers performance advantages with regard to runtime. Compared to the previous TwinCAT PLC, the same control code can be executed up to a factor of 1.5 times as fast during runtime with TwinCAT PLC++. As a highlight, the new compiler makes it possible to further optimise this control code in terms of execution time. This option—already familiar from the IT world—leads to a further significant increase in execution speed. This means that an industrial PC with less computing power may be sufficient for the previous machine control system, thereby reducing hardware costs. If the hardware platform remains unchanged, the freed-up computer resources can be used to implement more control functionality or to increase the productivity of the machine by minimising cycle times.

From an engineering perspective, TwinCAT PLC++ achieves shorter throughput times all the way from control development and commissioning to the entire machine life cycle. This is achieved by reducing operating times with the help of shorter project loading times and an improved translation process. The minimised project lead times significantly reduce costs and also enable new machines and systems to be launched more quickly.