High resolution flow calculator alarm.

Plants that have large fluctuations in flow demand, like potable water plants, often need large flow capacity measuring devices that don’t create large pressure reductions. Venturi tubes are good for these applications, but often if the flow span is large, consistent accuracy across the entire flow range is difficult to achieve. One way to alleviate this is to use double-stacked differential pressure transmitters where one DP transmitter is ranged for lower flow rates while the other handles higher flow rates. With this type of configuration, there needs to be some type of smart device involved to automatically switch between transmitters to achieve the best flow accuracy results.

The SLA Safety Logic Alarm from Moore Industries, provides this decision-making capability and the safety layer of protection needed to alert the plant when demand has reached very high levels. While safety PLCs can accomplish such tasks, there may be a number of reasons why it is not convenient: cost, remote locations, difficulty of programming, or simply that the PLC has no spare memory capacity. This figure shows the SLA installed as a high-resolution flow calculator and safety alarm.

This application includes two differential pressure transmitters connected to the pressure ports of a venturi tube, ranged 0-13 million gallons/day and 0-40 million gallons/day for low and high flow rates respectively. Each of the smart HART differential pressure transmitters is powered by the SLA and their HART signals are passed through to PLC input cards. The SLA primarily serves as a safety logic alarm to notify the PLC when extremely high-demand situations occur.

Key attributes of the SLA
• SIL 2/3 capable exida® approved to IEC 61508:2010 standard
• -40 to 85 degrees Celsisus ambient temperature operating range
• Simple to configure logic for flow range selection for high-resolution flow calculation
• HART pass-through of pressure transmitter diagnostics to PLC & SCADA system
• Standard MODBUS/TCP protocol sends all process and diagnostic data to PLC

Additionally, the PLC and SCADA system need to monitor accurate flow rates from the venturi tube. To ensure that the 4-20mA flow signal, and the MODBUS registers also representing the flow rate are as accurate as possible, the SLA is programmed to switch between the differential pressure transmitters, depending on current flow rates. The flow rates are calculated with a differential pressure flow equation via SLA’s advanced configuration settings. When flow reaches a rate of 12.9MGD, the SLA automatically switches to the higher-ranged DP transmitter and automatically switches back to the lower-ranged DP transmitter when flow falls below 12.9MGD. This assures maximum flow rate accuracy across the entire flow rate span.

The SLA also retransmits each of the DP transmitter signals back to the PLC and provides relay outputs when the flow rate exceeds 39MGD, the high-range DP transmitter is selected, or when there are system or input faults captured by the SLA. A digital contact input allows any latched alarms or relays to be cleared. The SCADA system and PLC receive all inputs, outputs, internal equations, variables, alarms, relay status and more via the MODBUS/TCP read-only signal.

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@MII_Worldwide #PAuto  #Water

Logic Solver and Alarm is non-incendive instrument.

Moore Industries’ SLA Multiloop and Multifunctional Safety Logic Solver and Alarm has earned Factory Mutual (FM) approval as a Non-Incendive instrument. This approval allows the SLA to be used in Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, and D Hazardous (Classified) locations in both the United States and Canada. The SLA Is a part of the Moore Industries FS FUNCTIONAL SAFETY SERIES and these new approvals mean that the SLA provides reliable alarming and safety shutdown capabilities in hazardous environments.

The SLA also carries exida certification for use in Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and is SIL 2/3 capable. With the new FM safety certification, the SLA can now be used in both General (safe) and Hazardous Locations. This means that the SLA can be used in situations where potentially explosive gases, vapors, dust or fibers may be present including:

•  Oil and natural gas refining, extraction, and transporting
•  Offshore rigs
•  Chemical and pharmaceutical plants

The SLA is designed to deliver optimal performance in safety loops in hazardous process conditions and bridges the gap between single-loop logic solvers and costly safety PLCs. With 16 alarms, advanced voting logic, intuitive configuration using drop-down menus, checkboxes, Excel-like math equations, and communication via MODBUS/TCP, MODBUS RTU, and HART pass-thru, the SLA ensures both safety and efficiency in your Safety Instrumented Functions (SIF).

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@MII_Worldwide #PAuto #Safety

Multiloop logic solver plus...

The SLA Multiloop and Multifunction Safety Logic Solver and Alarm has been announced. As part of the Moore Industries FS Functional Safety Series, the SLA is designed and built from the ground up to IEC 61508:2010 standards and is exida certified for use in Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) for systematic integrity up to SIL 3 and for random integrity up to SIL 2. This launch responds to the rapidly growing demand by process engineers for cost effective and compact logic solvers with built-in voting capability for plant-critical IEC 61508 Functional Safety applications

“The IEC 61508 certified SLA finally provides safety practitioners with a cost effective, powerful yet easy to employ multichannel safety logic solver that fills the large functionality gap between high-end Safety PLCs and the limited capabilities of Single Loop Logic Solvers within Safety Instrumented Systems,” said Scott Saunders, Moore Industries President and CEO.

The SLA performs as a multiloop logic solver with built-in voting and enhanced math capability typically found in costly and complex safety PLCs. This allows the SLA to handle everything from simple alarming to more complex schemes that include 1oo2, 2oo3 or even 5oo8 voting architectures, enabling it to act on potentially hazardous process conditions; warn of unwanted process conditions; provide emergency shutdown; or provide on/off control in Safety Instrumented Systems and traditional alarm trip applications.

The 4-wire (line/mains powered) SLA accepts up to four discrete and six analog inputs from a wide array of devices and sensors. HART data from connected field devices is passed through the SLA to its analog outputs enabling connected hosts and asset managers bi-directional communication for continuous monitoring and programming. Its four relay outputs and up to four discrete contact closure outputs can be driven by any of 16 internally configured alarms, where individual or multiple alarms can be assigned to each relay or discrete output. Relay and discrete outputs can also be triggered by any input or internal diagnostic fault. Three optional analog outputs allow transmission of any input or internally calculated equation or variable. The SLA is easily programmable with any FDT compliant host utilizing the SLA’s DTM with simple drop-down menus and checkboxes; no custom or licensed software is required. This ease-of-use functionality includes a powerful equation editor that the user can employ to create monitoring, alarming, and control schemes involving simple to complex equations using timers, running min/max functions, prebuilt analog and discrete logic functions and more.

The SLA is made for today’s industrial networks, featuring secure programming and communications with security jumpers that can be set to prevent unauthorized reprogramming and ensure read-only communications through the Ethernet and MODBUS ports. It supports MODBUS/TCP and MODBUS RTU industrial protocols and has an embedded read-only web server that allows all inputs, outputs, internal variables and various other parameters to be read with a simple web browser.

The SLA is exida certified to IEC 61508:2010 for systematic integrity up to SIL 3 and for random integrity up to SIL 2. This means the SLA is approved for single use in safety applications up to SIL 2 and in a redundant architecture (1oo2, 2oo3, etc.) up to SIL 3. FMEDA certified safety data is available upon request allowing a functional safety practitioner to access the FMEDA data on the SLA to determine the SLA’s applicability in specific safety-related applications.

The Moore Industries SLA Multiloop and Multifunction Safety Logic Solver and Alarm is designed and built to expand the capabilities of our existing line of Safety Trip Alarm products and provide a very cost-effective solution for single and multi-loop alarming scenarios. Any process engineer or knowledgeable technician can program the SLA – no especially skilled programmer is required to take full advantage of its powerful application capabilities for Safety Instrumented Systems and process loops.

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@MII_Worldwide #PAuto

Motor or pump vibration trips.

Excessive vibration in a motor/pump is symptomatic of a problem that can cause further damage or deterioration. If ignored, the results are higher maintenance and downtime. In some situations, it could also lead to safety concerns.

Vibration sensors or accelerometers can be installed to detect abnormal vibration levels. Alarm trips can monitor the vibration sensors and provide a local trip source for the motor. These pumps can be installed in many different environments so Class I, Div 2/Zone 2 certification and wide ambient temperature specs for these alarm trips are key characteristics.

If necessary, the vibration levels can also be retransmitted back to the control system using the Analog Output signals from the alarm trips.

The Moore STA Functional Safety Limit Alarm Trip logic solver is shown in the diagram which is IEC61508 certified. If the loop isn’t part of a safety instrumented system (SIS) where a standard alarm trip will do, then their SPA2 Programmable Limit Alarm Trip would be a great alarm trip choice.

@MII_Worldwide #Automation #Pumps

Checking back!

Playing it safe in the event of a fault: The LCAM 308 IP camera from Leuze monitors hidden areas on stacker cranes and conveyor lines. This allows operators of logistics centres to trace back events reliably and rectify faults quickly and efficiently

Even in modern logistics centers, it is not always possible to fully rule out faults. However, system operators can take steps to guard against this: The new LCAM 308 IP camera from Leuze records the 60 seconds prior to a fault in full HD. This enables events to be easily traced back. This is important if you want to rectify a malfunction quickly and efficiently. The camera is flexible in use and is suitable for visually monitoring hidden areas on stacker cranes and conveyor lines.

Diverse functions.
Thanks to the comprehensive range of functions, system operators are equipped for every situation: For example, a live stream in HD resolution can be called up if required. Furthermore, the snapshot mode allows individual images to be captured, e.g. content of a box. This feature can be used during order picking to document whether the goods in the box were complete. Practical: Standard browsers or standard streaming tools are all that's needed for transmission of the 60-second recording or the live stream. No additional software is required. Operators are also spared having to deal with a flood of data: The LCAM 308 IP camera has a ring memory so that only the period before and after an event remains saved.

With its robust metal housing, the LCAM 308 industrial IP camera has an IP65 protection rating. Dust cannot get inside and the device is water-jet proof. The advantage for mounting: Dovetail, threaded holes and a wide range of mounting accessories enable universal installation.

@TheSensorPeople @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Manufacturing 

Concentrator system with multipoint analog alarm.

Moore Industries' NCS MAAThe NET Concentrator System® (NCS) has a new versatile Multipoint Analog Alarm (–MAA) option that allows users to quickly set up simple or dynamic alarming schemes. The -MAA option utilizes a built-in ISaGRAF program providing a flexible alarm configuration that is accessed via easy to use web pages through the on-board web server.

The NCS with the -MAA option allows users to configure up to 32 alarms. Each alarm can be freely assigned to any of the eight relay outputs on the Relay Output Module (ROM). This enables each relay output to be driven by one input/alarm or multiple inputs/alarms. Each alarm can be configured as high or low with its own deadband setting and can optionally include alarming on any NCS system faults.

MAA window Designed specifically for demanding industrial applications, the modular and reliable NCS remote I/O system provides a real-time signal gateway between the field or factory floor and your control strategy and handles a wide-range of signal inputs and outputs including current, voltage, relay, RTD, discrete, thermocouple, resistance or potentiometer.

The rugged NCS features robust RFI/EMI protection, Peer-to-Host and Peer-to-Peer operation, full channel-to-channel isolation, data logging capabilities, superior 20-bit input and 18-bit output resolution, and installs in harsh ambient temperature conditions. The NCS is the ideal solution when you need to network new and existing legacy process sensors, instruments, and final control elements with monitoring and control systems.

@MII_Worldwide #PAuto 

Water softner alarm.

If hard water is produced at the output of the softener instead of soft water expected, this may be due to the water softener tank. The concentration of salt or water may be too low or there may be other defects in the tank. A direct message may be monitored indicating that maintenance is required on the salt/brine tank of the softener.

The WLAN-enabled sensor SALIS, developed by Online Fluid Sensoric GmbH (OFS), enables alarms to be received by e-mail. The early identification of the problem allows quick measures to avoid unnecessary hard water damage. To get soft water for more security and at the same time to minimize the effort for controls and maintenance to the bare minimum.

Provided that a WLAN network is available at the location of the water softener and the salt / brine storage tank must be serviced. The operator then receives an e-mail message from the SALIS system, ideally directly on his smartphone. A reminder function can be activated, with which the evaluation unit of the sensor sends an e-mail as a reminder every 24 hours.

If there is no WLAN available at the location, a potential-free contact is available to forward the sensor's alarm by wire. Two LEDs on the device also indicate the status and any alarms on site. This means that you can always be sure of knowing when the maintenance of the water softener tank has to be carried out.

The sensor can be quickly installed in any salt / brine storage tank of the softener. The compact control is space-saving and easy to assemble. The high level of accuracy, quick responsiveness and stability help to quickly identify problems with the softener and to inform the operator.

It is optionally possible to connect and signal another external alarm of the softener. If there is a problem with the control of the water softener, the alarm is forwarded by e-mail or potential-free contact. If necessary, the alarm output time can be parameterized for the sensor and the external device.

SALIS can be used to identify problems with the water softener tank. The water in the tank dissolves part of the salt over a few hours, turning the water into brine. When the softener is exhausted, this brine is required to regenerate the softener. With each regeneration, the salt supply decreases. The humidity in the storage tank causes the salt to incrust and can clog the water pipe in the tank or block the salt in the upper part of the tank. Every water softener therefore requires continuous monitoring of the brine-salt storage system.

SALIS takes on this task of constantly checking the tank. This permanent control prevents water damage and reduces maintenance work to a necessary minimum.

@PresseBox #OFS #PAuto #WLAN #Water

Alarm with Dual Relays and Process Transmitter Output in a Single Unit.

Acromag  has added new limit alarm and transmitter solutions for their line of microBlox® signal conditioners. The microBlox signal conditioning modules, available for a wide range of sensor inputs, plug into the new uBTA Transmitter Alarm Carriers to provide threshold value switch and process signal output capabilities.

Single and dual-channel models support a wide variety of input, output, alarm, and relay types. Models with mechanical relays feature two SPDT switches rated for 5A at 250V AC, 30V DC. Solid-state relay models have two SPST switches rated for 1A at 200Vpk AC/DC. Acromag’s free AgilityTM app simplifies setting custom I/O ranges and alarm setpoints using a smartphone or tablet. Bluetooth® wireless technology provides a fast an easy connection to AndroidTM or iOS® mobile devices.

The microBlox system’s modular approach, combining an assortment of plug-in input modules with output carriers, offers great flexibility to meet a broad range of alarm and signal interfacing applications. uBTA Carriers are offered in a thin 12.5mm housing or as an economical panel. Both formats mount on DIN rails. “The combination of alarm trips plus voltage and current output in one unit is a very cost-effective solution. And with easy software setup of I/O ranges and limits, it is even more attractive,” stated Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s marketing & sales director.

Well-suited for use in harsh industrial environments, microBlox alarms have high immunity to the unwanted effects of noise, surges, shock, and vibration. They also offer dependable, high accuracy operation in extreme temperatures from -40 to 75°C with low drift and great stability. Hazardous location UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 ABCD and ATEX Zone 2 certifications are pending.

Acromag, a multimillion dollar international corporation, has been developing and manufacturing measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O systems, and communication devices.

@Acromag #PAuto 

Fault monitoring alarm system.

Mantracourt has launched a significant upgrade to its Load Cell Integrity Box and Fault Monitoring Alarm – the LCI. This innovative product has been designed to continuously monitor the condition of individual load cells and activates an alarm when faults in the system detected. The latest version now supports both 5V and 10V operation, the main advantage of which is that the new 5V operation requires less power consumption from the connected instruments and simplifies barrier selection.

The LCI is ideal for multi-load installations such as silos, tanks and other systems where the failure of an individual load cell can have serious consequences. Its fault monitoring capabilities provide an assured working system by continuous sampling of load cell channels, with an alarm being activated if any failure conditions are detected. All this results in a reduction of downtime via immediate alarm and fault diagnosis, resulting in cost and time savings.

Used in conjunction with host intelligent weighing instruments such as Mantracourt’s ADW15, LCA20, SMW, LCD20 or other third-party products, the LCI can be used to detect system failures such as material shortage, overflow or incorrect batching.

 “With the increased operating voltage range of 4-12V now supported, this opens the LCI up to a wider range of instruments and is a great addition to the Mantracourt product range” says Jonathan Purdue, Sales Manager at Mantracourt.

@mantracourt  #PAuto 

ISA standards for effective decision support

The Ireland Section of the ISA has landed a big hitter for their May technical talk.

Dr Maurice Wilkins is Yokogawa's Head of Global Strategic Marketing on the 29th May 2013. Putative attendees should not the this meeting is scheduled for the afternoon at 15.30.

Dr Maurice Wilkins

The presentation is on "The Integration of ISA Standards for Effective Decision Support" is scheduled for Rochestown Park Hotel in Cork (IRL). Dr Wilkins will highlight and incorportate the followimng ISA standards:-

• Alarm Management (ISA-18.2)
• HMI Management (ISA101)
• Procedure Management (ISA106 & ISA-88 - Batch Control)


Dr. Wilkins has made many significant contributions to automation and control. He has been dedicated to the establishment of a procedural automation standard for the continuous process industries to improve safety and efficiency at manufacturing sites and to capture the knowledge of the aging workforce.

He was responsible for proposing the ISA106 (A standard framework for automating operating procedures in continuous processes) standard defined by the International Society of Automation (ISA) and is now managing director of the ISA106 committee.

From 2004 to 2009, he was chairman of the World Batch Forum (WBF), an association of users and manufacturers that helps with understanding and implementing standards for manufacturing automation. In this role, he demonstrated strong leadership and commitment, and contributed to the progress of the association even during the global economic downturn.

He was selected in 2011 for the Control Magazine's Process Automation Hall of Fame.

He is known for strong expertise and experience in leadership and team building, strategic consulting, batch control, procedural automation, APC, human factors, process analysis and has worked for Exxon Chemical, Honeywell, KBC, Breakthrough Process Consulting, Millennium Specialty Chemicals, Lyondell, ARC  as well as Yokogawa.).

Attendance is free of charge however they would like pre-registration if possible here!

Smart light!

The new IO-Link Smart Light from Balluff is equipped with all features for fundamentally revolutionizing the signal light sector. It is the first light that can be flexibly adapted to nearly every requirement without complex configuration via hardware. The otherwise typical costly combination of different-colored modules to form a light is no longer needed as this device can also be adapted to its new task ad hoc on-the fly via the controller. Even solutions that can be set by means of DIP switches are not much of an alternative as they cannot be changed during running operation.

The Balluff Smart Light is a true multi-talent, as it can do much more than signal the system operator certain predefined operating states with just three colors. Even tendencies, developments and trends of physical values can be represented. Temperature states, fill levels of systems or even the position of a carriage via a position sensor system can be visualized on the column, which may be up to 20 LEDs tall.

For connection and installation, just one simple, unshielded, three-wire sensor cable – as is typical for IO-Link – is needed, and already the LED signal column offers maximum functionality and previously unimagined possibilities with its three operating modes "Stacklight", "Level" and "Run".

Caravan alarm!

LPRS is supplying their Duet wireless Keyfob and RX3 AM receiver module control to state-of-the-art alarm systems for caravan manufacturers and owners.

Manufactured by Keen Electronics the PROTECTOR TWO caravan alarm and light controller is an updated version of the original PROTECTOR alarm now fitted to thousands of Lunar Caravans. The LPRS keyfob offers users the ability to turn the alarm system on and off and also an external awning light for additional security. The keyfob also features a panic alarm function in response to requests from caravan owners who travel abroad.

The alarm system is very simple to use as the keyfob buttons are clearly marked for their specific functions; ALARM and LIGHT, removing the need for ambiguous pictograms. Simplicity of use is a key feature of both Keen Electronics and LPRS products.

The new LPRS Duet wireless Keyfob features recessed buttons to reduce the risk of accidental operation and a rolling code KeeLoq system encryption for improved security. Operating frequency is 433.92MHz with a transmit power of <+4dBm. Power is provided by a +12V lithium cell with an on-board low battery indicator. The keyfob has a plastic case and buttons, measures just 50x38x13mm and has LED light signalling when operated.

The LPRS RX3 AM receiver module features standard software supporting a total of 4 channels of independent control, RSSI output for measuring transmitter signal strength, two fully configurable control channels 1 and 2. (channels 3 and 4 non-configurable), rolling code KeeLoq encryption rates 200 and 400uS/bit and 4 configuration modes: Key fob registration, bistable, monostable and time registration monostable mode.

Other applications for LPRS keyfob wireless controllers and receivers include; security gates and bollards, vehicles, intruder alarms, light switching and domestic appliances.

Russian refinery upgrade

Russian refinery improves process efficiency and safety

Honeywell has been selected by OOO Kirishinefteorgsintez,  part of OAO Surgutneftegaz holding, to supply its Experion^® Process Knowledge System (PKS) and Advanced Alarm Manager system at the company’s refinery in Kirishi, in the Leningrad region of Russia.

OOO Kirishinefteorgsintez chose to install Experion PKS as part of the upgrade process to its gas fractionating unit’s compressor block and the crude distillation unit. Experion PKS will help to optimize production processes by providing the tight integration of production subsystems as well as safety, industrial security and advanced control systems, enabling plant operators to work more effectively and make more informed decisions.

Honeywell will also deploy its suite of Advanced Alarm Management products to improve plant uptime and safety by reducing losses through a more effective warning and alarm system, helping to prevent accidents at the plant which could lead to financial or environmental losses.

“When choosing to upgrade the facilities at our plant, we saw it as essential that we benefit from a full-range of solutions including anti-surge control, compressor equipment protection and process safety monitoring. Honeywell’s Experion PKS solution enabled us to realize the benefits of these solutions and ensure we were able to rise to the challenge of automating our process units.” said Vadim Somov, General Director, OOO Kirishinefteorgsintez.

“Implementing high-performing control systems helps to significantly increase production efficiency. When developing Experion PKS, we considered every possible objective our partners would want to achieve by deploying this platform. These include boosting financial and operational indicators, improving the safety of operators as well as enhancing the overall process controllability. We believe Experion PKS delivers the most effective solution to answering these challenges.” said Leonid Sorkin, general manager, Honeywell Russia.

Alarm switching unit

Status Instruments has launched the SEM1633, a unit that provides an accurate alarm/switching function when used with RTD or slidewire sensors.

The SEM1633’s flexible design allows the use of any resistive sensor within the range of (10 to 10000) Ω, including Pt100, 500, 1000, Ni or Cu sensors as well as slidewire sensors up to 100KΩ. Other sensor characteristics or the user’s own 24 point linearisation characteristic (for slidewire or linear resistance) can be downloaded into the product enabling it to be adapted to the exact application required.

Trip outputs are independently configured for six actions: normal High/Low/Deviation and inverted High/Low/Deviation as well as set point and dead band.

For ease of use, a high efficiency switch mode power supply is fitted as standard and does not require any adjustment between ac or dc applications. Operating voltages are (10 to 48) V dc and (10 to 32) V ac

Status’ USB interface is fitted for quick and easy configuration of the SEM1633 using a standard USB cable between the SEM1633 and the user’s PC. Using Status’ free configuration software, the PC will automatically upload the existing configuration data and guide the user through any changes that hey wish to make. To further help save time, the SEM1633 does not need to be wired to a power supply during the configuration process either, it is powered via the USB interface from the PC.

Status Instruments are markted by P J Boner & Company in Ireland.

Power alert for enhanced NFPA70E, OSHA compliance

The Diversified Electronics division of Marsh Bellofram Corporation has announced the global market introduction of the UPA-130S series. This newest addition to the popular Marsh Bellofram UPA-130 series, the “S” model, is designed to provide solid-on LED lighting and alert capabilities for those monitoring applications requiring enhanced NFPA70E and OSHA safety compliance, instead of the flashing LED’s found on the standard model.

The UPA-130S series is designed to reduce the risk of electric arc flash by pre-verifying the electrical isolation from outside of a control panel before its re-verification with a meter. The series operates over a standard range of 40 to 750 VAC (30 to 1000 VDC) line-to-line or ground-to-ground, is phase insensitive and offers high surge immunity protection. When hardwired to the load side of a circuit breaker or main disconnects, the UPA-130S series detects stored hazardous AC and DC voltage in any individual phase. After disconnecting power to an enclosure, electricians can pre-verify voltage isolation while an enclosure door is still safely closed.  The compact, UPA-130S series offers a potted construction with six-foot leads and is designed to fit a 30mm knockout. Its design includes redundant circuitry and the incorporation of long-life display panel LEDs for extended use, with components housed in NEMA 4X, 12 and 13 electrical enclosures.

The UPA-130S series is a reliable safety tool for pre-verification of the presence or absence of residual electrical power or charges, or as a zero energy indicator, both before or during mechanical lock out/tag out (LOTO) procedures.  It is particularly ideal for use in government project applications, which are typically characterized by more stringent requirements for solid LED lighting, to avoid triggering certain medical conditions that can result from visual exposure to rapidly flashing lights. The UPA-130S series is also ideal for use in applications such as circuit breaker disconnects, as well as with NFPA 70e Category III and IV high energy panels; or as an added electrical safety tool on other types of frequently accessed electrical panels.

In addition to its hazardous area certifications, the UPA-130 is also compliant to CATIII and CATIV standards, and is CE marked and UL-approved in both the US and Canada.

Trend the process on your mobile device

ExperTune’s PlantTriage now provides real-time trending of process variables on your mobile phone.  Live data from a control system is relayed to your cell phone’s browser.  This feature allows users to have immediate access to control-room data, even when working remotely out in the plant.

Proven in hundreds of plants worldwide, the PlantTriage control performance monitoring system automatically diagnoses and prioritizes process, control, and instrumentation problems, 24 hours a day.  Integrated analysis and tuning tools improve plant results by focusing effort on the most critical issues. 

“Once you detect a physical problem with an instrument or a valve, you may have to walk 15 minutes to repair it.  Once it is repaired, you need to see if you truly fixed the problem.  Rather than walk back to the control room, now you can simply check your phone.” says George Buckbee, ExperTune’s Vice President of Product Development.

The trending tools provide immediate trends of process variables, setpoints, and controller outputs.  Users can zoom, span and scale the trends to see details. Other features of the PlantTriage Control Performance Monitor are also available directly via a cell phone browser.  For example, users can browse through reports and dashboards that pinpoint instrument issues, valve issues, and tuning problems. 

John Gerry, President of ExperTune, adds, “These mobile tools add a new level of efficiency for plant engineers and technicians.  By eliminating wasted time, plants can focus more effort in the right place.”

The new tools are included in the version 10 release of ExperTune’s PlantTriage software. 

Iconics at #ISAwk 2010

Game Changing Software Solutions for Plant Operations
64-bit HMI/SCADA and Plant Historian Suites Level the Playing Field
Iconics announced a team of 64-bit automation suites that are truly game changers for industrial automation. GENESIS64™ and Hyper Historian™ are gaining market share and changing the way that plants operate.

Newly released GENESIS64 V10.5 is designed from the ground up to utilise OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA) and 64-bit multi-core hardware platforms. The GENESIS64 suite includes several modular solutions that simplify connectivity from the plant floor to corporate business systems. Compatible with Microsoft Windows® 7 and certified for Windows Server® 2008, it allows plant operators, IT professionals and facility managers to integrate real-time manufacturing and business information into a common, Web-enabled visualization dashboard. The GENESIS64 suite is comprised of GraphWorX™64, TrendWorX™64, AlarmWorX™64, EarthWorX™ and the Workbench Web-based development, deployment and operations products.

The new Hyper Historian V10.5 is an extremely high speed, reliable and robust industrial data historian solution. It takes full advantage of the latest 64-bit .NET-based computing technologies and numerous performance features. Hyper Historian is certified for Windows Server 2008, compatible with the Windows 7 operating system and leverages the new OPC Unified Architecture Standard.
“GENESIS64 and Hyper Historian are the first 64-bit OPC UA compliant product suites on a Microsoft platform that are robust, scalable, high-performance and enterprise-wide for industrial automation applications,” said Russ Agrusa, President and CEO of ICONICS speaking at the Automation Week conference. “Both products have been designed to handle the most mission critical applications that demand the highest level of availability and deliver unparalleled performance with very efficient use of computing resources.”
“The latest releases from ICONICS demonstrate their commitment to developing and delivering the highest quality products based on the OPC technology,” said Tom Burke, President and Executive Director of the OPC Foundation.

Hyper Historian delivers unparalleled performance with very efficient use of computer resources. This is the first plant historian to be compatible with Microsoft Windows® 7 and certified for Microsoft Windows Server 2008® and includes tight integration with SQL Server® 2008. This technology makes the Hyper Historian from ICONICS, the best-in-class, real-time plant historian for any Microsoft 64-bit operating system.

“Manufacturers are deploying the latest Microsoft operating systems and technologies in part to address their requirements for 3D visualization and data archiving of both their manufacturing and business processes”, according to Craig Resnick, Research Director at ARC Advisory Group. “Windows 7, running on computers with new 64-bit processors, and leveraging features such as Multi-touch and Silverlight, will further enhance the real-time visualization and data archiving capabilities of software tools such as ICONICS’ GENESIS64 and Hyper Historian.”

Support for Windows Phone 7
MobileHMI to Support Microsoft’s New Windows Phone 7 for Mobile Applications

MobileHMI software solution from Iconics will support the soon to be released Microsoft Windows Phone 7 platform.

MobileHMI from ICONICS delivers real-time rich visualization and KPI alerts directly to wireless devices. With support for over 400 wireless devices MobileHMI is the most versatile software platform for staying in touch with your building and manufacturing operations. Now with the added support for Microsoft Windows Phone 7, the MobileHMI application can deliver real-time alerts, trends, and events.

“ICONICS was recently awarded the Microsoft Windows 7 Partner of the Year Award at the 2010 Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference,” said Melissa Topp, Product Marketing Manager at ICONICS. “Adding support for Windows Phone 7 to our MobileHMI product offering is part of our strategy to deliver solutions that leverage the latest Microsoft platforms.”

The following key Windows Phone 7 features will be supported by MobileHMI:

• Support for Silverlight
• Metro UI look and feel• Real-time visualization
• Push notifications for alarms and events
• MultiTouch support
• Application bar integration
• Supports “Tombstoning” - suspends the application when the user navigates away
• Panorama and pivot controls for intuitive navigation
• Automatic portrait and landscape mode

“Mobility solutions are one of the fastest growing areas of demand for manufacturers and processors,” according to Craig Resnick, Research Director at ARC Advisory Group. “Windows Phone 7 support for MobileHMI is designed to help address that demand, providing a tool that can increase productivity while maintaining connectivity of mobile devices. This tool is another example of the close relationship between Microsoft and ICONICS, which leads to a continued stream of products that leverage the latest Microsoft products and technologies”.


AlarmWorX64 Multimedia
Multimedia OPC Alarm Management Software for 32 and 64-bit Servers

Iconics also announced the release of AlarmWorX™64 Multimedia, an OPC alarm management software solution for 32 and 64-bit servers. With 11 configurable robust agents, AlarmWorX64 MMX is the most comprehensive OPC alarm management solution in the marketplace.
The new AlarmWorX64 MMX is an optional enhancement to the award winning GENESIS64™ HMI/SCADA suite and is designed to interface to any OPC Alarm and Event compliant server. AlarmWorX64 MMX is easily and conveniently configurable using standard internet browsers.

“AlarmWorX64 MMX is based on ICONICS ‘OPC to the Core’ standard,” said Russ Agrusa, President and CEO of ICONICS. “AlarmWorX64 MMX delivers specific alerts and messages to anyone, anytime, anywhere quickly and immediately via numerous media services including: voice, telephone, e-mail, instant messenger and more.”

The following Agents are offered with AlarmWorX64 MMX:

• Telephony Agent: Calls a defined number & gives a message with options to respond.
• Pager Agent: Delivers alarms to numeric, alphanumeric and two-way pagers.
• Video Agent: Plays a pre-recorded video or a video captured at the time of an alarm.
• E-mail Agent: Receive and acknowledge alarms using text and e-mail messages.
• Skype Messaging Agent: Delivers instant text messages to any Skype™ account.
• Marquee Agent: Sends alarm & event messages to software and hardware marquees.
• Sound / Text-to-Speech Agent: Plays pre-recorded sound bites on an alarm condition.
• Fax Agent: Sends alarm notifications via fax.
• Popup Agent: Launches any application to provide alarm massages.
• Task Tray Agent: Delivers a pop-up message to the Windows taskbar notification area.
• Custom Agent: Allows users to create their own Multimedia agent.

“With the increased adoption of 64-bit runtime platforms and software on the plant floor, the demand for 64-bit applications is on the rise as plant operations seek to best maximize the value and KPI’s of production,” according to Craig Resnick, Research Director at ARC Advisory Group. “ICONICS latest 64-bit software offering, AlarmWorX64 Multimedia, is a solution that leverages the benefits of a true 64-bit software application and helps its customer address their demand for higher performance.”

Process information whenever, wherever!

Control See Ltd has released its U.C.ME-OPC™ software product version 2010. This new version introduces scheduling functionality to the existing functionality – Alarm notification (via SMS, Pager, Email, Voice and Fax), Remote control (via SMS and Phone) and Alarm analysis.

Using the U.C.ME-OPC™ Scheduler, customers will be able to schedule events and tasks and make their maintenance activities easier than before. No need to use external tools or PLC programming for scheduling. All solutions in one product!

Scheduled events are based on time, date or day-of-week. Event information can be sent to any phone recipient (as a text or voice message), Email recipient, Pager or Fax recipient. The event's email can also contain an attached file.

Tasks can be used to:

• Change field values and set-points
• Run Windows® programs
• Suspend/resume alarm notification
• Restart the computer
• Send a predefined text or voice message to any recipient
• And more…

Few examples for scheduled events:

1. Every day at 08:00 AM U.C.ME-OPC™ can send the message "U.C.ME test message" to notify system administrators on their system availability.
2. Every morning at 9:00 AM U.C.ME-OPC™ will turn on an air-condition unit.
3. Every evening at 6:00 PM U.C.ME-OPC™ will turn off an air-condition unit.
4. On Sunday, September 12^th U.C.ME-OPC™ will run an external utility that will load a process recipe.

U.C.ME-OPC™ is alarm notification software that can connect to any SCADA application, DCS system or OPC server using OPC connectivity. Based on the information retrieved from these systems, alarms can be sent to any phone via SMS or Voice, Pager, Email or Fax. See video!

An evaluation copy of U.C.ME-OPC version 2010 is available from their website and click on Download Software

Voltage alert in hazardous areas

The Diversified Electronics division of Marsh Bellofram Corporation has announced that it has achieved hazardous area certifications (Class 1, Division 2, HAZ LOC, Groups A, B, C, D) for its UPA-130 series Universal Voltage Alert.

The Voltage Alert is designed to reduce the risk of electric arc flash by pre-verifying the electrical isolation from outside of a control panel before it is re-verified with a meter. It operates over a standard range of 40 to 750 VAC (30 to 1000 VDC) line-to-line or ground-to-ground, is phase insensitive and offers high surge immunity protection. When hardwired to the load side of a circuit breaker or main disconnects, the UPA-130 series flashes upon detection of hazardous AC and DC voltage in any individual phase. After disconnecting power to an enclosure, electricians can pre-verify voltage isolation while an enclosure door is still safely closed. The compact, eight-detector UPA-130 series offers a potted construction with six-foot leads and is designed to fit a 30mm knockout. Its design includes redundant circuitry and the incorporation of long-life display panel LED’s for extended use, with components housed in NEMA 4X, 12 and 13 electrical enclosures.

The UPA-130 series Universal Voltage Alert is a reliable safety tool for pre-verification of the presence or absence of residual electrical power or charges, or as a zero energy indicator, both before or during mechanical lock out/tag out (LOTO) procedures. It can also be used to enhance NFPA 70E and OSHA regulatory compliance standards. This series is also ideal for use in applications such as circuit breaker disconnects, as well as with NFPA 70e Category III and IV high energy panels; or as an added electrical safety tool on other types of frequently accessed electrical panels. In addition to its hazardous area certifications, it is also compliant to CATIII and CATIV standards, and is CE marked and UL-approved in both the US and Canada.

New benchmark in flow sensor measurement

Servomex has delivered a benchmark improvement to gas flow measurement and safety with the launch of Flowcube, a brand new sensor technology which integrates into its acclaimed analyser range.

Developed to address the current limitations in gas flow measurement, Flowcube is an advanced sensor which for the first time enables multiple system diagnostics and data trending to be ascertained from the flow measurement. While gas flow has traditionally been measured separately within a sample system, compromises with this technique has meant plant operators have to rely on basic “flow or no flow” status information which can only shut down a process when a potential error is detected. Flowcube is the innovative and cost-effective solution to this industry problem: a sophisticated and highly sensitive transducer design, placed in-situ of a Servomex analyser, which enables both accurate trending of the overall sample system and the implementation of preventive rather than reactionary maintenance for minimum disruption to processes.

These highly accurate measurements mean the basic “flow or no flow” status information is now superseded by a sophisticated two-stage alarm capability that introduces a ‘maintenance required’ trigger stage alongside the standard critical fault signal. Not only does this allow sample system issues to be dealt with before they cause intermittent, slower or inaccurate measurements, but it offers operators new flexibility in diagnosing problems early, scheduling maintenance and avoiding unnecessary, unexpected and costly downtime. In addition, Flowcube’s ability to deliver accurate measurements means trending data is reported via an instrument’s digital communications, enabling users to monitor sample system performance over time to reduce the risk of system failure.

Unlike thermal conductivity technologies and rotameters, which can be greatly affected by thermal conductivity changes in the sample gas and density and viscosity changes respectively, Flowcube technology measures the bulk cooling characteristic of the gas. The result is a stable measurement that does not respond predominately to one physical gas characteristic and is more immune to changes in the sample gas mixture. Positioned at the outlet of the measurement cell to guarantee a representative sample is present at all times, the Flowcube sensor ensures maximum measurement certainty and optimum safety to enable users to set user-defined alarm levels with confidence.

Flowcube technology therefore enables operators to implement a preventative rather than reactive agenda for analyser flow control, avoiding costly plant downtime by allowing the scheduling of routine safety checks and sample system maintenance – a particularly useful function where operations are being run with minimum personnel on-site. With no consumable parts, an almost indefinite field service life and no special gases or setup required, Flowcube delivers low cost-of-ownership with just a simple calibration procedure required at a minimum of twelve months. Flowcube is certified intrinsically safe (EEx ia) for use in hazardous areas and with continually flammable gases, and it forms part of the SERVOTOUGH Oxy SIL 2 assessment for use in Safety Integrated Systems.

“Flowcube is a prime example of how Servomex applies our technical and analytical expertise to solving real customer issues,” says Chris Cottrell, Managing Director, Servomex.
“Not only does it address a fundamental customer problem with the previously inflexible flow measurement techniques offered by our industry, but the improved alarm system and system trending measurements offer new and immediate benefits to customer operations.”

Flowcube will be available immediately as an option for the SERVOPRO MultiExact multigas analyser and award-winning SERVOTOUGH Oxy oxygen analyser, with compatibility for other Servomex analysers to follow.