PPL donates equipment to MSU-Billings

After upgrading equipment at the Colstrip power plant, PPL Montana found a smart way to recycle the old simulator and the programmable logic controllers. The equipment was donated to Montana State University-Billings for the College of Technology’s process plant technology program.

“The equipment may be outdated to us, but it’s a wonderful learning tool for the students in the process plant technology program,” said Lisa Perry, PPL Montana's Community Affairs manager. “The students get hands-on practice and a realistic view of what it is like to work in the control room of a power plant.”

The donated equipment includes a PPL simulator and 12 programmable logic controllers, complete with chassis, power supplies, processor and input/output modules, which will provide students with experience in plant start-up, operation and shutdown procedures and even will simulate abnormal plant conditions and events that require timely and accurate response.

The equipment was transported to the college and installed and made ready for student use by PPL employees, who have donated their time to the project.

“PPL Montana will continue to provide support for this valuable program through the volunteer efforts of employees,” said Perry.

The power plant equipment was available for public viewing July 8 at the College of Technology, 3803 Central Ave., Billings.