Thursday 31 December 2020

12 months of automation stories.

Most viewed stories in the past twelve months (2020) on the Read-out Signpost. 

Some of these are quite old but obviously they have been of considerable interest to our visitors throughout the year.  The first story attracted almost 1,700 visitors and the bottom over 200 during the twelve months. All stories published each month may be found in the box on the right.

Monday 28 December 2020

IIoT and terminal automation.

New market research on Terminal Automation Systems from ARC Advisory reveals that today’s terminal applications are expected to handle increased volume, higher flexibility, and greater capacity.  Terminal operations should streamline their business processes to stay competitive and retain profitability by leveraging the new technologies.

“In many cases, terminal operators have very little real-time visibility into what equipment is running without predictive activities. Industrial IoT solutions play a highly important role for digital transformation of tank farm management.  More modern terminal automation systems are being upgraded or reconfigured to support Industrial IoT-enabled connectivity and applications, including predictive maintenance,” according to Rex Sun, Analyst at ARC Advisory Group and key author of this report.

In addition to providing specific market data and industry trends, this market research also identifies and positions the leading suppliers to this market and provides and summarizes their relevant offering. 

This ARC research explores current and historical market performance and related technology and business trends, identifies leading technology suppliers, and provides five-year global forecasts for the terminal automation systems market.  This new research is based on ARC’s industry-leading market research database, extensive primary and secondary research, and proprietary economic modelling techniques.  The research includes competitive analysis, plus five-year market forecasts by primary business focus, revenue categories, sales channels, customers, and world region.

This new research is available in a variety of formats to meet the specific research and budgetary requirements of a wide variety of organizations. 

#Pauto @arc_advisory

Monday 21 December 2020

High-performance UPS enhances range.

Delta has recently added a new Ultron DPS model to its family of uninterruptible power supplies. This latest online UPS is rated at 300 kVA. With it, their Ultron DPS series offers capacities ranging from 300 to 600 kVA. Up to eight units can be run in parallel for megawatt-scale installations. This makes DPS 300 online UPS systems suitable for mission-critical applications that demand high performance.

Key features of the series 
 • Currently the highest power density and smallest footprint compared to competing products
 • Self-diagnosis with early warning system
 • Unity output power factor (> 0.99)
 • AC-AC efficiency of up to 96.5 %, 99 % in ECO mode
• Parallel configurations of up to 8 units
 • Designed with redundant key components
 • Li-ion-battery-ready
• 10-inch color touchscreen with graphical user interface
“The latest generation of our Ultron DPS series was developed especially for use in hyperscale data centers seeking to lower operating costs. Our conversations with colocation and cloud service providers revealed that, in addition to reliability and efficiency, other requirements have become extremely important, too. Megawatt-scale power capacity, a compact footprint, and ease of operation,” explained Rakesh Mukhija, Head of Mission Critical Infrastructure Solutions (MCIS) at Delta EMEA. “With the Ultron DPS series, we now cover the entire power range from 300 kVA to 600 kVA. Soon, we’ll be expanding the Ultron family again and launching the DPS 1000 kVA and the DPS 1200 kVA to offer megawatt capacities in a single unit. This way, our customers can choose the Ultron DPS UPS that is an exact fit for their needs.”

The DPS 300 kVA is a monoblock UPS system with the highest available power density and the smallest footprint on the market. By conserving space, it provides more room for revenue-generating IT racks. The new Ultron DPS achieves AC-AC efficiencies of up to 96.5% during normal operation and 99% in ECO mode, reducing energy costs considerably. In addition, it delivers the full rated power (output power factor > 0,99) for maximum availability without power loss. The ability to choose valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) or environmentally friendly lithium-ion batteries also offers a means of optimizing battery investments.

Dual CAN bus systems are one example of how redundant core components ensure the availability of this new Delta UPS system. The DPS series offers proactive intelligence to warn IT managers of impending failures before they occur. This reduces the risk of downtime as well as the time and expense that maintenance work involves. Advanced event analysis including up to 10,000 event logs and waveform capturing allow abnormalities to be identified, ensuring high availability.

The user-friendly 10-inch LCD screen of the UPS displays information on security, temperature, fire protection, and cooling as required to simplify local control. Optional battery management software also allows operators to view battery status information on the touch panel. IT managers can access all the components of the UPS from the front of the unit. This way, they can easily replace the modular components as needed, considerably reducing mean time to repair (MTTR). 

#PAuto 

Electrification and automation in sustainable underground mining.

Electrification and automation knowledge and solutions have been employed in a pioneering mine of the future project, which has ultimate ambitions to demonstrate zero carbon dioxide emissions and productivity increases of 50 percent.

Photo: LKAB and photographer Frederic Alm
ABB
has provided electrification, connected control and operations management systems, high-visualization and mobile operator workplaces as part of a global mining partnership to visualize a once-in-a-generation technology shift and reduce climate impact.

Devised by LKAB, the Sustainable Underground Mining (SUM) project has the goal of setting a new world standard for sustainable mining at great depths in partnership with ABB, Combitech, Epiroc and Sandvik. The framework outlines ambitions for zero carbon dioxide emissions, completely safe mines for humans, productivity increases of 50 per cent and deeper mining.

ABB will continue to contribute its deep knowledge in electrification, automation and workplaces together with other suppliers to the mining industry. The collaboration aims to find new methods and smarter solutions for mining operations in the future. Test work in LKAB’s Kiruna mine, northern Sweden, as well as a virtual test mine will study the best way to build a carbon dioxide free and autonomous production system.

Within the mine, the Konsuln orebody is used to demonstrate future workplaces in a decentralized environment with efficient use of an autonomous electrical mobile transport system in a mixed environment. Real time process information is available to all organizations involved. When combined with the wider efforts of the SUM partnership, this shows a way of bringing completely new technology solutions to market for safer, more sustainable and more efficient mining production processes.

“We are taking significant strides towards a vision of the future operator environment through smarter working and demonstrable results,” said Jan Nyqvist, Global Product Manager for Underground Mining Automation at ABB, and one of the leaders in the project. “Electrification and automation are two important factors for the mining industry to continue its rapid, but effective, modernization. Sharing of information and data is crucial to reach substantial end goals.

“It is becoming increasingly common for suppliers to create dedicated collaboration groups to reach the best possible solutions for their customers. Collective successes and progress and the meeting of key targets for SUM, are initial evidence of the mutual benefits of collaboration.”

ABB has a relatively large team committing time to the project, with experts in digitalization and research, as well as electrification and automation.

“ABB is integral to the next step, which is to build a demonstration workshop to connect electrical and automation systems that have so far been developed for this challenging project,” said  Nyqvist. “We will, through various developed scenarios, be able to show how the systems work together.”

By 2022, the ABB electrification and automation solutions will be fully installed, and the aim is that a new standard for mining production will be set globally by 2030.

@abbgroupnews #Pauto #Mining

Friday 18 December 2020

Cybersecurity board appointments.

The ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) has appointed a chairperson—Megan Samford, VP, Chief Product Security Officer for Energy Management at Schneider Electric—and vice chairperson—Sharul Rashid, Custodian Engineer and Group Technical Authority of Instrumentation and Control at PETRONAS—to its advisory board.
Megan Samford (left) and Sharul Rashid - ISAGCA Board

Megan Samford is VP, Chief Product Security Officer for Energy Management at Schneider Electric, is a security executive with focus on industrial control systems security, critical infrastructure protection, and risk analysis. In taking her role at Schneider Electric, Samford became the first female CPSO for a major industrial without first being a CISO, a significant milestone for women in industrial control systems security. She is currently leading a community driven effort under ISAGCA known as Incident Command System for Industrial Control Systems (ICS4ICS), which seeks to establish an operational incident response organization by Q1 2021. ICS4ICS includes a common language for responding to cyber incidents and provide avenues for mutual assistance between organizations.

“As the first Founding Member of the ISAGCA, Schneider Electric remains deeply committed to collaborating across industry to help our customers and all end users, regardless of segment and geography, secure and protect their people, assets and operations,” Samford said. “The ISA Standards Committee created the prevailing ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards by leveraging use cases from more than 20 different verticals. Our goal now is to build on that great work by expanding awareness, adoption, and application of the standard. I am excited to work with the diversity of ISAGCA membership to develop the programs and create the resources we need to meet our objectives. I am also excited to see community-identified needs and focused initiatives, like ICS4ICS, come to life through ISAGCA and its relationships with other non-profits and governments from around the world. Together, we will drive a standards-based, end-to-end approach—encompassing people, processes, and technology—to help safeguard global industry from sophisticated cyberattacks.”

The Advisory Board Vice Chairperson, Sharul Rashid, is Custodian Engineer and Group Technical Authority of Instrumentation and Control at PETRONAS, Malaysia's fully integrated oil and gas company. Sharul has more than 30 years of experience managing and leading teams and strategies covering a diverse range of instrumentation and control issues in refineries, gas liquefaction, petrochemicals, and gas pipeline transmission. PETRONAS, the world’s fourth-largest exporter of LNG, will intensify efforts towards reducing direct emissions from operations and the electricity used by the company and recently pledged to become a net zero emitter of greenhouse gases by 2050.

“I am honored to work with my colleagues around the world to advance critical cybersecurity initiatives,” Rashid said. “Together, we will work to increase awareness and expertise, developing best practice tools to help companies successfully navigate the lifecycle of cybersecurity protection.”

#PAuto #Cybersecurity 

Operational certainty in emergency shutdowns.

The ASCO™ 141 Series Advanced Redundant Control System (ARCS), from Emerson,  provides a redundant solution for a variety of emergency shutdown valve applications, such as those found in the chemical, power, oil and gas industries. Available globally, it includes various redundant solenoid configurations to enhance the reliability of the process and meet specific safety or reliability requirements in automation processes. The single inlet/single outlet design provides a streamlined installation process compared to traditional bypass systems, while almost eliminating potential failure points.

The system is designed for use as a component in safety instrumented systems. Utilizing 1oo2, 2oo2 or 2oo3 voting solenoids to enhance the reliability of the circuit, it functions as a redundant pneumatics tripping device to control the pilot air signal to a process valve actuator. The ARCS features either two or four electrically actuated solenoid valves, visual indicators and a manually controlled bypass or isolation valve. The unique control functionality allows for maintenance of the solenoid valves without having to shut down the process valve. In fact, the use of the maintenance bypass or isolation valve is not required for functional testing of the ARCS unit — a downtime-reducing feature not possible with common bypass functions.

“By addressing the concerns common with typical bypass systems — particularly those in critical or emergency shutdown applications — our ASCO 141 series ARCS provides a reliable, time-saving alternative,” said vice president of global marketing for Emerson’s industrial automation business, Erik VanLaningham. “Although the use of a common bypass is a typical solution, the end-user doesn’t know if they’ll be able to shut down on demand in the event of an emergency because their redundant system is in bypass mode. This is where our unique ARCS value proposition comes in. The ARCS individual valve isolation option provides increased safety and operational availability during online maintenance to help customers achieve their required SIL rating.”

With just a single part number, the ASCO 141 series ARCS features several advances that simplify specification, installation and operation. Supplied as a fully integrated, comprehensive solution using a manifold instead of individual valves, ARCS comes pre-tested from the factory and ready to install. The direct valve-to-valve design eliminates pipework and fittings between the solenoid valves and minimizes leak points for increased reliability and a lower total cost of ownership. A status indicator with feedback helps facilitate preventive maintenance while providing online fault detection. It provides digital input feedback (via pressure switches or Emerson-exclusive GO Switch options) to the control room. And for additional peace of mind, the ASCO™ 327 series 3/2-way direct acting solenoid valves included on the ARCS manifold are certified to SIL 3 capable (exida) standards.

A direct-acting platform with advanced diagnostic capability and online maintenance features, ARCS is suitable for a wide variety of valve piloting applications to meet both safety and operational availability requirements. 

#PAuto

IoT security & identity management.

Sectigo® has released multiple advancements to the company’s award-winning IoT Security & Identity Management Platform, making integration and management of secured connected devices even easier for OEMs and enterprises. The innovations include a PKI Client software development kit (SDK) for Sectigo IoT Manager and Secure Boot SDK, which eases development efforts and reduces time to market for manufacturers across industries.

Sectigo’s all-in-one IoT security platform simplifies securing and authenticating connected devices, so that enterprises can protect their infrastructure in a way that is scalable, cost-effective, and easy to manage.

“No other platform makes it as easy to ensure that connected devices are authenticated and to maintain reliable security from initial production on the assembly line, through installation and operation, until final decommissioning. The integrity of connected endpoints in healthcare, transportation, energy, financial services, and smart city sectors—our critical infrastructure—depend on it,” explained Alan Grau, VP of IoT/Embedded Solutions, Sectigo.

New IoT Manager Advancements
• Multi-vendor Ecosystem Support – IoT Manager now provides greater configurability and customization of certificate profiles, enabling support for the unique requirements of emerging IoT ecosystems.
• Sectigo PKI Client for IoT Manager SDK – Making it easier for Sectigo customers to programmatically issue certificates from the Sectigo IoT Manager platform using the REST API interface.
• Sectigo EST PKI Client – A new client using the Enrollment over Secure Transport (EST) cryptographic protocol for PKI enables automated use of EST for customers using Sectigo Certificate Manager.
The Sectigo IoT Security Platform delivers end-to-end security services for every class of connected device, from manufacture through its lifecycle, enabling OEMs to build secure devices that are compliant with security standards and new IoT security regulations. Best-practice features, myriad technology integrations, and single pane of glass management empower enterprises to protect their IoT infrastructure in a way that is scalable, cost-effective, and easy-to-manage. In addition, Sectigo’s IoT Identity platform leverages the infrastructure used for issuing public certificates, providing IoT OEMs with the same high levels of security as public roots are provided.

“Sectigo’s Secure Boot SDK delivers code signing and validation tools, ensuring the firmware on our devices is protected from hackers. The easy to use SDK enabled us to quickly and easily add secure boot to our device,” said Raghu Bala, CEO, NetObjex, providers of an Intelligent Automation Platform for tracking, tracing, and monitoring digital assets using AI, Blockchain, and IoT. “The growth of edge devices has increased the risk of devastating data breaches. Offering Sectigo’s embedded device hardening technologies and purpose-built third-party certificate issuance and management provides our customers with assurance that their important data and devices are protected.”

#PAuto #Cybersecurity

HART MUX.


ProComSol has released its new 4 Channel HART multiplexer with HART-IP.  This device allows the user to perform HART communications using the plant’s Ethernet network infrastructure.  

The Mux connect to the HART instruments anywhere in the control loop.  These loop connections are easily made in the marshaling cabinet so wiring effort is minimal; a plug and play product.  When the Mux is connected to the plant Ethernet network, the HART data becomes accessible wherever the network is available.

#PAuto #Communications 

Thursday 17 December 2020

Refinery methane analyser.

A refinery required a third-party certified SIL 1 solution to calculate the differential between two analyzers that measure the methane content on the inlet and outlet of a reactor, which breaks down the hydrocarbon levels in the process stream.  The methane level is always higher on the outlet side of the reactor; however, should the differential with the input exceed a predefined setpoint, these higher methane levels could reach flashpoint with a sharp trend that could lead to an explosion. 


After a Hazard and Operability Analysis (HAZOP) of the existing installation was performed, it was determined the refinery needed to mitigate the risk and install an independent SIL1 safety trip solution. Moore Industries designed a methane differential trip Safety Instrumented Function (SIF) and provided the client with an independent Safety Integrity Level (SIL) verification report.

The two independent methane analyzer measurements are sent to the SST Signal Splitters, where one output is used for the differential calculation and the other is transmitted to the Basic Process Control System (BPCS). 

The methane differential is calculated by the STZ Transmitter and sent to the STA Logic Solver, where a differential between inlet and outlet  analyzers exceeding 10% MOL will trip the safety setpoint. In addition, the STA Logic Solver retransmits the calculated methane differential to the Basic Process Control System.

#PAuto 

Simplifying marine vessel manouvers!

Emerson has modified its AVENTICS Marex 3D Joystick system for easy integration into existing vessels. Designed to enable single-handed operation of yachts, speedboats and pleasure craft, the joystick system provides the user with outstanding precision, for stress-free and safe maneuvers. Optional dynamic positioning features round off the convenience package.

AVENTICS™ Marex 3D provides intuitive control, dynamic positioning and easy installation

Docking vessels can be challenging, even for experienced skippers. In narrow spaces, the steering wheel, main and auxiliary drives must be operated at the same time while the ship is drifting off with wind and current. Marex 3D allows for performing such maneuvers via one control element only – the Marex 3D Joystick – and steering the vessel intuitively and precisely. The captain can give the maneuver his full attention while Marex 3D takes control of the drives - a plus in safety. An integrated vector control intelligently manages engines and thrusters to ensure the vessel imitates the movement of the joystick exactly. The heading can be kept by implementing the yaw angle into the calculation.

As an option, more comfort functions can be selected at the push of a button: “3D Hold’” keeps the ship at a defined spot, removing the need to steer manually while waiting at water gates or narrow port entries. Marex 3D intelligently controls the available drives in order to keep the ship’s heading and position. The virtual anchor mode allows the ship to drift around a defined point as if attached to an invisible anchor chain. The main engines will be operated economically in order to minimize fuel consumption and noise.

Marex 3D is a supplement to the AVENTICS ship controls Marex OS and Marex ECS by Emerson. It is suitable for use with most engines and thruster brands in conventional shaft line, fixed-pitch propeller applications in combination with ON/OFF and proportional thrusters. Marex 3D Joysticks can easily be retrofitted as the wiring effort is low if a Marex OS system is already on board. Compared to other offerings, the single-source solution of remote control and joystick system combined reduces installation and start-up time.

“With the easy-to-use Marex 3D, maneuvering is very simple,” explained Norbert Volkmer, director of global business development, marine at Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “Whether integrating into a new design or retrofitting to an existing vessel, the Marex 3D is quick and easy to install and provides vessel designers and owners a simple way of enhancing operational convenience and safety.”

#Marine #Recreation

Wednesday 16 December 2020

Industrial Ethernet switch.

The NT4008 is a new new 8-port Gigabit managed Industrial Ethernet switch series from Red Lion. The NT4008 series switches are certified to meet PROFINET PNIO v2.34 Conformance Class-B standards to ensure seamless integration into PROFINET networks using standard PLC configuration and management tools.

Red Lion’s NT4008 are UL Class 1, Division 2 and ATEX listed for use in hazardous and ordinary locations, ABS certified for shipboard applications and EN50155 certified for rail applications, ensuring reliable operation in nearly any environment. The IP-30 metal DIN-Rail enclosures, redundant 12–58 VDC power inputs, wide -40 to 75°C operating temperature ranges and up to 50G shock resistance handle even the most extreme industrial conditions.

"With copper and fiber options in both Fast Ethernet and Gigabit configurations, as well as advanced security and traffic control, the NT4008 combines the power of PROFINET real-time data exchange with the performance and trusted reliability only Red Lion can deliver." This helps to ensure the success of Industry 4.0 initiatives worldwide. 

• These products are marketed in Ireland is ATC Automation.

#Pauto #Communications 

Factory floors and buildings – connected.

New Intesis gateway makes communication between EtherNet/IP and BACnet easy
 
A new Intesis™ protocol translator that integrates between EtherNet/IP and BACnet IP/MSTP-based Building Management Systems has been announced by HMS Network. Thanks to its unique design, it is easy to bring data from a factory network to a BMS.

Many of the processes in a factory are depending on proper monitoring and control of the building where the factory equipment is installed. For example, temperature, humidity, and air quality can be monitored and controlled to ensure beneficial manufacturing and working conditions. In the same way, lighting in the building can be aligned with working hours to reduce energy waste or to improve the management of emergency situations.

When trying to connect all these factory and building installations, system integrators often struggle as not all systems communicate using the same protocol. BACnet is mostly used in Building Automation applications like HVAC, lighting controls and access control, while EtherNet/IP is used in PLCs and networks within industrial automation.

With the new Intesis protocol translator from HMS Networks, system integrators can easily integrate any Ethernet/IP-based PLCs, such as Rockwell™ Allen-Bradley™ PLCs models, with any BACnet BMS. The gateway offers bi-directional communication between EtherNet/IP PLCs and BACnet controllers. With a capacity of up to 1200 data points, the gateway is a BACnet IP/MSTP server/slave on one side and an EtherNet/IP adapter on the other, featuring independent Ethernet ports. The gateway has been BTL-certified for BACnet and carries the UL mark in order to guarantee the highest communication and quality standards. It is also ODVA pre-certified thanks to its inbuilt Anybus® CompactCom™ module.

The free Intesis MAPS configuration tool for all Intesis protocol translators offers a very intuitive configuration process for system integrators. With MAPS, integrators are helped further in their projects by providing valuable EDE files for the BACnet integration, as well as EDS files and configuration reports for usage in EtherNet/IP PLC configuration tools like Rockwell´s Studio 5000 software.

#BMS #Pauto 

Advanced steering valve.

The production launch of their SBX advanced steering valve, a fail-operational steer-by-wire valve for off-highway machinery, has been announced by Eaton. The compact, modular SBX valve increases machine flexibility and intelligence by enabling machine designers to tailor steering performance to the operator’s preferences and operating conditions.

The SBX advanced steering valve was designed for use in a fully electronically controlled steer-by-wire system. Fail-operational functionality is achieved by mounting the SBX valve to a secondary electrohydraulic valve or manifold. Because there’s no hydraulic connection to the cab, the valve can be remotely mounted, allowing for more flexible machine design and reduced cab noise. The valve can be paired with the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM’s) machine control system or with an Eaton controller, further increasing design flexibility.

“With our SBX advanced steering valve, we’re enabling OEMs to design and differentiate their vehicles in bold new ways,” said Jiri Foukner, EMEA product manager, Steering Systems at Eaton. “The valve’s modular design and fail-operational capability empower engineers to create unique cab environments while enhancing machine productivity and safety.”

The SBX advanced steering valve is SIL 2 and PLd capable, which enables OEMs to develop machinery that complies with international standards. Designed for equipment in the construction, agriculture, material handling and forestry industries, the valve is ideal for use with systems incorporating multiple steering wheels or alternative devices, such as a joystick or lever.

#Automotive #Transportation

Tuesday 15 December 2020

Digital Toolset for efficient maintenance planning and execution.

MyAssets delivers faster access to device-specific content for improved schedule compliance and first-time fix rate

Emerson is adding the MyAssets toolset to its MyEmerson personalised digital experience to help users execute their maintenance plan more effectively. As part of the MyEmerson digital tools portfolio launched last year to improve productivity and collaboration, MyAssets provides instant access to device documentation, replacements, spares, and walkdown reports to help plant personnel better maintain and manage the useful life of their Emerson devices.

“Our focus continues to be on connecting people and technology to make workers better at their jobs,” said Brad Budde, vice-president of digital customer experience for Emerson’s Automation Solutions business. “Digital tools are about making work processes simpler. With a MyEmerson account, maintenance teams can now more easily find relevant device-specific information to do their work an order of magnitude faster.”

For maintenance planners, MyAssets improves schedule compliance with a single location for device information, technical documentation, spare and replacement part details, and lifecycle status condition. Easy access to curated, relevant device content enables faster creation of work packets, reducing time from hours to minutes. Digital walkdown reports provide detailed analyses of a site’s device conditions – regardless of manufacturer – and prioritised recommendations for next steps, guiding faster and more predictable shutdowns, turnarounds and outages.

Up-to-date manufacturer information is connected to installed products by serial number, ensuring confidence in spare and replacement parts selection. At release, information for over 10 million Emerson products, covering five years of factory shipments, is already integrated with the MyAssets database. MyAssets is also connected to online engineering and procurement tools in MyEmerson, making it easy for maintenance planners to manage lead times and delivery of parts.

Field technicians can quickly and easily identify devices by scanning a QR code or RFID tag to verify the asset tag and serial number in MyAssets. Device-specific content is automatically connected to the tag, delivering installation instructions and technical documentation to technicians in the field and enabling them to more easily fix problems the first time, improving both safety and speed.

#Pauto 

Setting up a ProfiNet network.

This whiteboard animation video covers all you need to know about cables and PROFINET.

Many questions arise when setting up a PROFINET network. Since the installation and design steps are critical to building a reliable project, it is important to understand cabling requirements ahead of time. This video explains a crucial piece of infrastructure in PROFINET networks: the Cabling. Watch to learn about the cable options, their specifications, and some examples for special applications.

A PROFINET network is built on standard IEEE 802.3 Ethernet. While wireless access points are becoming more popular, the vast majority of today’s network connections are wired and require cabling. PROFINET cable manufacturers offer a range of cable types and classes for different applications, including those with special properties. These cables come in two flavours: copper and fibre optic.


#PAuto @profibus

Shut off valves.

The WIKA portfolio of shut-off valves has been suplemented with their model HPNV high-pressure needle valve.

The new valve is designed for four pressure ranges: up to 15,000 psi (1,034 bar), up to 20,000 psi (1,379 bar), up to 30,000 psi (2,068 bar) and up to 60,000 psi (4,136 bar). The sensitive components - spindle tip and sealing - are made of suitably resistant material. Furthermore, the model HPNV has the same characteristics as the other WIKA needle valves: low-wear operation due to the non-rotating spindle tip, smooth handling with low torque and leak tightness tested to BS6755/ISO 5208 leakage rate A.

The high-pressure valve is available in various configurations and materials. WIKA also offers a customer-specific assembly of valve and measuring instrument. Such an instument hook-up is delivered ready-to-install and leak tested.

#PAuto @WIKA

Oil & Gas flowmeters.

Flow Research has nearly completed a new study on flowmeters used in the Oil & Gas industry. One purpose of the study is to provide data on flowmeters sold into the Oil & Gas industry worldwide and by region.  This includes all types of flowmeters, whether new-technology or conventional.  The data given is in both units and dollars.

"Our flowmeter data comes from interviewing suppliers about industries theysell into.  We've also talked to end-users, distributors, and OEMs.  Because we have studied every flowmeter type, we have a wealth of data to draw from. Even though the oil & gas industry has had its ups and downs, it plays a major role in the sales of many flowmeter types.  This especially includes Coriolis, ultrasonic, differential pressure, and turbine flowmeters.  We have received many requests to do industry-based studies, and this is our first one," says Jesse Yoder of Flow Research.

It also provides data on natural gas and oil production in defined regions, including by country.  Understanding where natural gas and oil is being produced is helpful in developing a strategy for selling into these regions.  Gas and oil production numbers are discussed in specific countries that stand out in terms of oil and gas activity.  A discussion is included of some of the major natural gas and oil companies that are operating in these regions.  Examples include Gazprom, BP, Exxon/Mobil, CNOOC, ADNOC, Qatargas, and many others.

This new study is called Flowmeters in the Oil & Gas Industry, and it will be published in January 2021.  

#PAuto #Oil @flowresearch

Friday 11 December 2020

Multi-function calibrator.


The new model CPH8000 multi-function calibrator, from WIKA, makes on-site calibration even more efficient. The portable instrument measures pressure, temperature, current, voltage, frequency, pulse signal and the ambient conditions. It is available as a hand-held or in a case version with integrated pressure pump.

With the HART®-compatible CPH8000, users can calibrate, amongst others, pressure sensors, resistance thermometers and thermocouples as well as multimeters. The instrument has a modular design, with its performance capabilities able to be tailored to the respective application range.

The CPH8000 is easy to operate via a large touchscreen. Its display shows up to four test procedures simultaneously. In keeping with its multi-functionality, it has a powerful data logger and a very large memory capacity. 

The calibrator is also available in an ATEX-approved version.

• WIKA products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@WIKANews #Pauto #ITL #TandM

Irish food and agribusinesses prepare for BREXIT & COVID-19.

Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness professional services firm, and Reliance Automation have joined forces to support Irish food businesses considering automation.

David Leydon, Head of Food and Agribusiness at ifac; Peter Creighton, Managing Director of Reliance Automation; Robert Troy T.D., and Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation and a Cobot.

Recent advances in technology mean robotic automation is now more accessible, cost-effective and safe, and less complicated than in the past. The automation opportunities that now exist can enhance businesses of all sizes; cobots (collaborative robots) can now take on a wide range of repeatable production tasks from the end of production line inspections and packaging to tray handling and loading products onto pallets.

Automation can also help to address a wide range of manufacturing challenges including increasing productivity, improving efficiencies and product quality, and redeploying teams to higher-value work. By addressing these challenges, businesses can achieve higher margins, improve competitiveness, manage staffing shortages, enhance their health and safety management, and mitigate the impacts of Covid-19 and Brexit.

Ifac and Reliance Automation have partnered to produce a practical guide for business owners and CEOs to help them manage the funding process from start to finish. The publication covers planning and implementing automation projects, return on investment, funding your investment in automation, and business process automation.

Speaking at a photocall to launch the publication, Robert Troy T.D., and Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation dclared “I am very pleased to see positive momentum in Ireland to assist businesses to adapt to new digital technologies and embrace digitalisation. As we navigate the road ahead, we must ensure our SMEs are able to adapt to new innovations and reap the benefits of digital transformation."

He continued, “My Department recognises that investment in Advanced Manufacturing and Digitalisation are vital to ensuring that Irish companies remain competitive. Specific financial and advisory supports are available to the food sector through its agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, for the advancement of technologies in the area of robotics, cobotics, automation and industry 4.0.

“We are committed to supporting companies to mitigate the challenges presented by both COVID-19 and Brexit, and now, more than ever, it is important to look at ways to improve both business and manufacturing processes, to make your business more resilient and competitive.”

David Leydon, Head of Food & Agribusiness at IFAC said “Business transformation makes up a big part of the work we do at ifac and now we’re seeing businesses move faster towards automation than ever before. You don’t have to be a big business to put in industrial robots - cobots are now available to any SME and the cost is coming down all the time.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Peter and the Reliance Team on this guide. There are things in the guide that some businesses aren’t fully aware of so we hope it will be of some assistance. At ifac, we will work with business owners every step of the way on their automation journey to help them future-proof their businesses.”

“There is no doubt that we are seeing a rise in the number of automation enquiries. Smart automation solutions are now easier, faster, and more cost-effective to employ in all types of industry. Jobs that are not suitable for people to do, repetitive or dangerous processes are very suited to both collaborative and industrial robots. Implementing sensible automation solutions frees up experienced employees to be redeployed to do more rewarding and productive work." said Peter Creighton, Managing Director of Reliance Automation  

“This approach also enables manufacturers to grow and achieve important economies of scale, very cost-effectively. Reliance Automation is delighted to be partnering with David and his team at ifac to help manufacturers make sensible decisions about intelligent automation solutions that will help their businesses realise their true ambitions," he concluded.

• In September, ifac published its 2020 Food and AgriBusiness Report – its third annual sentiment survey of Irish food and agribusiness small and medium-sized enterprises conducted during June and July. The findings revealed that one in four respondents believe increased investment in new technology and automation will be one of the long-term impacts on their businesses from Covid-19.

@ifac_ireland @RelianceAutoma1 @RobertTroyTD @DeptEnterprise #Pauto #Robotics #Agribusiness #Food 

#coróinvíreas #COVID19 #coronavirus #Breatimeacht #Brexit 🇪🇺/🇬🇧

Thursday 10 December 2020

Automation leader provides the best possible user experience in accessing portfolio.

More and more measurement instruments are being ordered online from Endress+Hauser. In the first five months of 2020, incoming orders via endress.com nearly doubled. With the introduction of the new FLEX product segmentation structure, integration of the global E-direct portal into the website and further optimization of the e-commerce area on endress.com, finding and ordering the right products online will be even faster and easier for customers.

“By merging both shops and introducing several innovations on endress.com, we are making it even easier for customers to do business with us digitally,” says Nikolaus Krüger, Chief Sales Officer at the Endress+Hauser Group. While the global E-direct portal was designed for simple products that serve basic measurement needs, endress.com offers the entire portfolio. With the migration on course to be completed by the end of the year, everything will be available at a glance and from a single source online, thus eliminating the need to switch shops and accounts.

To do that the FLEX product segmentation was introduced on endress.com. This new feature supplements the existing selection options and divides the Endress+Hauser measurement instrument portfolio into four areas according to the needs of the customer. The ‘Fundamental’ segment contains basic products that are easy to select, install and operate. ‘Lean’ features reliable and robust instruments designed for the efficient management of core processes. ‘Extended’ shows all innovative process optimization technologies, while the ‘Xpert’ segment combines specialized products for demanding applications. “FLEX makes it even easier for our customers to locate the right product for their individual needs,” says Nikolaus Krüger. 

Newly revamped e-commerce section to provide the best possible user experience 
In addition, the endress.com e-commerce area was expanded with useful functions to improve the user experience. After signing in, customers can now use their ‘My Endress+Hauser’ account to more easily manage all of their activities, such as product offers and orders. The account structure, shopping cart and checkout have been optimized as well. Enhanced order tracking provides full transparency, which now gives customers the ability to call up the status of their orders at any time and from any device.

@Endress_Hauser @Endress_UK #PAuto 

Component flexibility for mechanical engineering.

Baumüller certifies converters for PROFINET IRT and clears the way for greater productivity, better system availability and maximum flexibility.

Communication is everything. This is the case whether in the sphere of human relations or in the interaction of individual components in production systems. With the open Ethernet standard PROFINET, Baumüller is building on a flexible, secure and continuous communication topology. This year Baumüller certified its b maXX 5000 servo drives under the most current standard for PROFINET IRT.

PROFINET the open Industrial Ethernet Standard enables flexible design capabilities in connectivity and machine topology. Applications that require fast communication via Ethernet and industrial IT functions especially benefit from maximum precision and reliability with the fieldbus.

The IRT (Isochronous Real-Time) protocol in drive technology allows clock-synchronous data exchange with cycle times under 1 ms for high-precision motion control in drive technology.

Along with the real time-capable EtherCAT fieldbus, Baumüller offers different bus systems for the servo system b maXX 5500 such as CANopen, VARAN, Modbus TCP, PROFINET IRT, EtherNET / IP or Powerlink. This makes Baumüller drive technology particularly flexible and enables combination with system components from different manufacturers.

The b maXX 5000 family from Baumüller includes both stackable devices and powerful mono units. The compact feed, feedback and axis units can be quickly and easily combined using an integrated drive-connect system and are available in air, water and oil cooling methods. With optional safety packs, all devices in this series can be easily adapted to meet your individual safety needs.

@be_in_motion @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Drives

IS multi purpose indicator.

The D490 is a Multi-Purpose Indicator from Fluidwell. It can display the actual process value, range and current loops. In addition to flow rate, level, temperature and pressure applications, the D490 can also work with other measuring units, such as %, mA, RPM and more. Therefore, the D490 is a versatile indicator that suits many applications.

Hazardous area information
The D490 is certified according ATEX, IECEx and CSA for use in Intrinsically Safe applications with an ambient temperature of -30°C to +70°C (-22°F to +158°F).
The ATEX markings are: Gas: II 1 G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga
Dust: II 1 D Ex ia IIIC T100°C Da
The IECEx markings are: Gas: Ex ia IIC T4 Ga
Dust: Ex ia IIIC T100°C Da
The CSA c-us markings are: IS Class I/II/III, Division 1, Groups A to G.
Ex ia IIC / Class 1 Zone 0 AEx ia IIC T4.
The D490 is a unique intrinsically safe product within the D-Series. The input circuit has a low voltage drop < 1V DC and is isolated from the backlight circuit. It is classified with the highest protection level Ga/Da (Zone 0) and won’t influence the intrinsically safe circuit to which it is connected.

The loop powered D490 accepts 4 - 20mA input signals from a wide range of process instruments, including flow (linear or square root), level, pressure and temperature transmitters. All these process parameters can be displayed in their own engineering units. 
An outstanding advantage of this DIN panel mount indicator is its unique waterproof qualities. The robust IP66, IP67 and Type 4X enclosure withstands extreme weather conditions and powerful water jets! It will save time and cost.  it is perfect for marine, cleaning and wash-down applications without worrying about water damage.

The configuration of the unit is done via a simple, logical and menu-driven structure (instead of complex hardware changes or actions). The alphanumerical descriptions enhance the easy understanding of the system and its settings, in contrast with regularly seen confusing abbreviations and complex codes. 

The D490 is, like all Fluidwell products, designed according the ‘Know one, know them all’ – principle. Once familiar with a Fluidwell product, users can program ALL models in ALL series without the need for a manual.

@fluidwell #PAuto #Safety

Manufacture of automation of continuous and/or fast processes joins open standard group.

GP Systems GmbH has joined FDT Group as a corporate member. Based in Kassel (D), with representation in India, Eastern Europe, the Balkans, North and South America, GP Systems specializes in development of hardware and software for automation of continuous and/or fast processes supporting optimal control technologies.

GP Systems assists the power, oil and gas, petrochemical, metallurgical, and utilities industries, providing a complete product line for process automation. This includes systems meeting requirement for fast response of the control action, distributed architectures, and systems with a large number of input/output (I/O) channels requiring fast response and redundancy.

FDT technology is recognized as the global de-facto device and network integration standard seamlessly deployed independent of platform, system, device, or network. FDT-enabled applications are widely serviced by tens of thousands of FDT-enabled systems and millions of FDT Device Type Managers™ (FDT/DTMs™) delivering a single, uniform, data-centric asset management approach to simplify operations.

“We see an increasing demand for FDT-enabled solutions providing transparent configuration and monitoring of field devices. To improve the satisfaction of the clients using Regul controllers in their projects, we decided to develop a software gateway DTM for FDT-based hosting environments such as, for example, PACTware,” stated Kirill Gorbushin, managing director of GP Systems GmbH. “This will bring a convenient configuration, operation and maintenance of the field equipment through a standardized user interface and regardless of the manufacturer, device type or communication protocol.”

FDT Group Managing Director Glenn Schulz welcomed GP Systems as the organization’s newest member. “GP-Systems GmbH’s corporate membership status and immediate interest in development and deployment of FDT-compliant solutions demonstrates FDT’s strength to meet industry-driven demands for advancement in open standard automation initiatives.”

• FDT Group’s mission is 100 percent driven by a membership-elected Board of Directors supported by industry feedback. Over the years, the FDT standard has evolved from a single-user desktop solution (FDT 1.2) to a client/server architecture with OPC UA (FDT 2.0), and it now offers a FDT Server distributed platform (FDT 3.0) natively integrated with an OPC UA Server and Web Server standardizing client and mobile access within the IIoT ecosystem. The vision to deliver a standardized, FDT IIoT data-centric platform is now innovating the way automation architectures connect and communicate in process, hybrid and discrete manufacturing, including motion control applications.
FDT Group membership offers unique business benefits enabled by the innovative FDT IIoT ecosystem, to support development and service offerings delivered and utilized by the entire industrial automation industry, including end users, suppliers/developers, service providers, universities, and individuals.
 

@FDTGroup @GPSystemsGmbH #PAuto #Automation

RTU range expanded.

Red Lion Controls has expanded its SixTRAK line of industrial RTUs with the launch of ST-IPm-8460 powered by the Red Lion Workbench, which uses an IEC61131-3 compliant editor and runtime engine. Designed for applications that need increased processing and communication speed and storage, the new RTU provides the flexibility and reliability that customers require and expect from Red Lion to monitor and control equipment. 

The ability of the ST-IPm-8460 to operate in harsh and hazardous locations is achieved through UL Class I, Div 2 certification, an ABS listing, and an operating temperature range of -40°C to 70°C.

The combination of ST-IPm-8460 and Red Lion Workbench can easily support large, complex projects across multiple devices. The Red Lion Workbench provides customized control, standard language support, powerful debugging/monitoring tools, project automation, and controller redundancy.

Whether your application monitors a few data points or thousands, the ST-IPm-8460 can be easily configured to meet your needs using Red Lion’s EtherTRAK-2 I/O modules. Available for private labeling, the ST-IPm-8460 also offers dual power inputs and support for redundant Ethernet networks for increased uptime, while a multitude of communication ports and supported protocols enable connectivity to a variety of field devices.

• Red Lion products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@redlioncontrols #PAuto 

Modernising a power plant for reliable, clean energy.

 Digital transformation technologies and expertise from Emerson to support TVA’s goal of ensuring long-term, responsive power delivery from its fleet.


The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has selected Emerson to modernise and optimise its Magnolia power plant that delivers reliable, cleaner electricity to customers. The Magnolia project is part of TVA’s five-year, $110 million (€91m) investment to install digital technologies across its power generating fleet. Emerson’s software and technologies will support TVA’s efforts to digitally transform the Mississippi plant through advanced operations, enhanced cybersecurity and digital twin-enabled training.

TVA is the United States’ largest public power provider, supplying electricity to companies that serve 10 million people in the seven-state Tennessee Valley region. The 980-megawatt Magnolia plant, in operation since 2003, uses combined cycle technology, generating up to 50% more electricity from natural gas while producing less emissions than other sources.

Reliable, responsible operations are critical to meet the region’s growing power needs, and legacy technologies – which are more expensive and difficult to maintain – present a challenge. Emerson will replace existing systems at the combined-cycle plant with its Ovation automation system and software. Digital twin technologies will provide advanced training to operators, enabling them to respond quickly and safely to power generation demands. Robust cybersecurity technologies are integral to Emerson’s comprehensive solution that is designed to enhance and secure operations at the Magnolia facility.

“These upgrades are part of a larger long-term asset strategy to maintain our existing fleet in such a way that we can depend on their operation for years to come,” said Allen Clare, TVA vice-president for gas & hydro operations.

Emerson and TVA are using virtual technologies in place of face-to-face interaction to keep the project moving forward during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“TVA is committed to digitally transforming its fleet so it can provide more reliable and cleaner electricity to its customers,” said Bob Yeager, president of Emerson’s power and water business. “Our technologies have allowed us to keep this critical project on schedule and prioritise the safety of communities and operations.”

The Magnolia project is expected to be completed in 2022. TVA provides power to most of Tennessee and portions of the states, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia.

Emerson has been ranked the leading distributed control systems provider for the global power generation industry, according to Omdia*.

*Results are not an endorsement of Emerson. Any reliance on these results is at the third-party’s own risk.

@EMR_Automation @Emerson_News @TVAnews @OmdiaHQ @HHC_Lewis #Power #PAuto