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3 templates · Sequential function chart

Sequential Control SFC Diagram Examples

Sequential Function Charts (SFC) are the IEC 61131-3 language for sequential processes — steps define what to do, transitions define when to move on, and the visual structure mirrors the physical machine cycle.

Standard IEC 61131-3:2013 §6.5Engine schematex-sfcExport SVG · PNG · PDF
3 templates
Sequential function chart Sequential Control SFC
Bake & cool concurrent batch (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartBake & cool concurrent batch (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartSequential Control SFCUse template →Order routing — express vs standard shipping (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartOrder routing — express vs standard shipping (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartSequential Control SFCUse template →Bottle filling sequence (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartBottle filling sequence (SFC) — Sequential Function ChartSequential Control SFCUse template →

Nothing close enough? Start from a blank sequential function chart → Describe it in one paragraph.

How to

How to use a sequential function chart template.

  1. 01Define the steps

    Name each phase of the process cycle (Initialize, Fill, Mix, Drain, Rinse) — these become the rectangular step blocks.

  2. 02Add transitions

    Describe the condition that must be true to move from one step to the next — these become the horizontal transition bars.

  3. 03Model divergence and convergence (optional)

    Add parallel branches (AND divergence) or alternative paths (OR divergence) for processes with concurrent or conditional steps.

  4. 04Export for machine documentation

    SFC diagrams are standard in IEC-compliant control system documentation — export as PNG/SVG or share for PLC programming review.

FAQ

Questions about sequential function chart templates

What is a Sequential Function Chart?

An IEC 61131-3 PLC programming language that represents a sequential process as a graph of steps (phases) connected by transitions (conditions). It is the standard language for batch control and machine sequencing.

How is SFC different from a state diagram?

Both show states and transitions. SFC is an executable PLC language with specific IEC 61131-3 semantics (step actions, transition conditions, parallel sequences). A state diagram (UML) is a documentation notation without execution semantics.

What is the difference between AND divergence and OR divergence in SFC?

AND divergence (double horizontal lines) starts multiple parallel sequences simultaneously. OR divergence (single horizontal lines with conditions) follows one of several alternative paths based on which transition fires first.