Expectations in the process industry for the new physical layer are enormous. Now, Ethernet-APL has shown that it can meet these expectations. Endress+Hauser successfully conducted two load tests of a realistic Ethernet-APL setup with components from various manufacturers. The results confirm the new technology’s reputation as a game-changer in industrial communication.
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| Easy data access thanks to Ethernet-APL |
The load tests were designed according to customer specifications to prove that components from different manufacturers can be combined to create a reliable and robust system based on Ethernet-APL. The global chemical company BASF defined the requirements from the customers’ point of view. On the hardware suppliers’ side, Endress+Hauser stood next to Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB. Their components were confirmed to work together in harmony.
Successful load tests prove market readiness of Ethernet-APL.
The first test was set up with nearly 240 Endress+Hauser measuring devices, including flow, pressure, temperature and level sensors. They were integrated into a system with Pepperl+Fuchs’ field switches and a Honeywell control system, all using Ethernet-APL and PROFINET. For the second test ABB provided the control system and was tested along with the previous field switches and measuring devices.
The test results were conclusive: Ethernet-APL can be used under realistic circumstances. The test cases were carried out with maximum network layout, and the scalability and fault tolerance were successfully verified. All relevant requirements like total netload or redundancy switch-over times were met or exceeded.
Open Integration partner program enabled and supported tests.
The Endress+Hauser Open Integration partner program unites more than a dozen manufacturers that want to ensure the streamlined interaction of their complementary products. The partners test and document the integration of their offerings and how digitalization may be fully utilized within typical process automation applications.
According to Jörg Reinkensmeier, head of the Open Integration partner program at Endress+Hauser, “The load tests proved that Ethernet-APL can be used for real. The components from various manufacturers work together smoothly, and the systems run reliably. We are proud that the close cooperation with our Open Integration partners made it possible to validate this technology. We have reached a milestone of bringing Ethernet to the field level of process automation.”
Ethernet-APL opens new possibilites for data use.
Ethernet-APL enables the use of Ethernet at the field level of process plants. The 2-wire technology with power and communication over the same wire pair meets the requirements of even harsh process environments. Fast and digital data transmission with high bandwidth is now possible over long distances and in explosive atmospheres. Easy access to data from field instruments can lift process automation to a new level of efficiency and professionalism.
With the success of the load test, BASF, Endress+Hauser, Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB have taken a significant step towards a technological infrastructure that is open, future-proof and ready for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This will enable customers to create more flexible, efficient and cost-effective industrial systems and more benefits for the industry.
* Ethernet-APL is the ruggedized, two-wire, loop-powered Ethernet physical layer that uses 10BASE-T1L plus extensions for installation within the demanding operating conditions and hazardous areas of process plants.
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