In today’s competitive technical landscape, proficiency in automation and control systems is essential for operational efficiency. Recognising this, Qabas delivered a flagship technical training programme in Programmable Logic Control (PLC) to enhance digital control capabilities within the Libyan Trucks and Buses Company (IVECO). The course – delivered at Qabas headquarters – was designed to bridge the gap between traditional electro-mechanical control and modern digital systems, empowering technical teams with the skills required for both basic and advanced PLC applications.
The Situation
As automation becomes increasingly integral to industrial operations, many organisations face the challenge of updating legacy control systems. The Truck and Bus Company, which has long relied on established control methods, encountered difficulties adapting to a rapidly evolving digital environment. Outdated systems and limited understanding of modern PLC architectures were constraining operational efficiency and limiting the potential for automation upgrades. The need to clearly differentiate between various control systems – from electro-mechanical and mechanical to logical and programmable – became evident. In addition, as control systems grew more complex, the absence of a formal training programme meant that technical staff lacked the practical expertise needed to integrate digital control solutions into everyday operations. These challenges underscored the importance of a comprehensive training initiative that could provide both foundational knowledge and advanced technical skills in PLC logic control.
Our Approach
Qabas developed a dual-track training programme designed to address these challenges comprehensively. The programme was divided into two modules: PLC Logic Control – Beginner (T 197) and PLC Logic Control – Advanced (T 197A). The beginner module was designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of control systems. In this module, trainees learned to define and contrast electro-mechanical, programmable logic, mechanical and logical control systems. Emphasis was placed on understanding the physical aspects underpinning system design – including the role of input and output units – and examining the overall structure of a PLC, such as its processing unit, memory module and console. The training also provided an in-depth look at fundamental components like holding, timer and counter units, and explored practical applications in DC/AC drives, fluid systems and compressed air installations.
Building on this foundation, the advanced module delved deeper into digital systems and logic control. Participants engaged with advanced topics such as number systems, TTL gates and logical functions, developing a detailed understanding of digital control architectures. The course examined both external and internal installations of PLCs, with technical sessions covering the hardware components – including input/output units, processing and storage modules, feeding units and indicator systems – and software aspects such as PLC language, ladder logic, block diagram techniques and executive commands. The inclusion of comprehensive case studies and troubleshooting methodologies ensured that participants not only absorbed theoretical concepts but also applied them in real-world scenarios.
The training sessions were delivered in a fully equipped lecture hall at the Qabas’ Training centre, where participants had access to state-of-the-art scientific materials, stationery and daily hospitality – including meals with coffee and tea. The programme was conducted over six days per week, with four-hour sessions designed to balance theoretical instruction and practical application. Each participant received a certificate and an individual performance report, ensuring that progress was measurable and that the training outcomes could be validated.
Supporting the programme was a consolidated team of expert trainers. Engineer Hussein Mohammed Al Kashriu – with a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering and extensive experience in automatic control and PLC systems – designed and delivered both the beginner and advanced modules. His practical expertise, honed over years of teaching courses such as Electrical Circuits, Signals, and PLCs, provided participants with a clear and technically rigorous learning experience. Complementing his work, Professor Amhamed Ahmed Al Dardar, a seasoned expert with a background in Electrical Engineering from Gharyan, Budapest Technical University and the University of Belgrade, contributed his extensive knowledge of automatic control and digital systems. His experience with pneumatic, hydraulic and sensor systems enriched the advanced module, ensuring that participants gained a well-rounded perspective on digital control applications.
Results
Upon completion of the training programme, the Truck and Bus Company experienced a significant boost in its technical capabilities. The hands-on approach and comprehensive curriculum enabled participants to transition from basic to advanced PLC programming, equipping them with the practical skills needed to design, install and troubleshoot modern control systems. Improved understanding of system architectures, component functionalities and programming techniques resulted in streamlined operations and a smoother integration of digital control solutions across the company’s operations. The success of the programme not only elevated technical proficiency within the company but also paved the way for further automation initiatives, ultimately contributing to greater operational efficiency and long-term competitive advantage in a rapidly changing industry.
