Compliance assures application portability, interoperability and efficient engineering & easy maintainability.

UniversalAutomation.Org (UAO)* has announced the first launches of UAO-compliant offers from Advantech, ESA S.P.A, Kongsberg Maritime, Flexbridge and R. Stahl.

At ARC Industry Forum 2022, UAO are showcased the latest solutions in a live demo. This provides potential members, from end-users to providers, with the first opportunity to see the technology in action and the benefits provided by the shared runtime.

Using the same UAO runtime based on the IEC 6199 standard for distributed information and control systems, the offers will allow customers to test the benefits of the technology, notably:

• Application portability – applications can be developed independently of the hardware, and then be seamlessly deployed and run on the different devices.
• Application interoperability – one application can be deployed to multiple devices that will then interoperate automatically at the application level to execute the distributed application.
• Efficient engineering & easy maintainability - using plug & produce, asset-centric software components.

Advantech
“Advantech looked at using IEC 61499 many years ago, developing a very advanced prototype with NxtControl GmbH”, said Marco Zampolli, Industrial IoT Product Sales Director at Advantech, “but we didn’t release the offer to market because we were alone. The creation of UniversalAUtomation.Org resolves this issue, creating an Ecosystem of IEC 61499 vendors and users that will drive innovation by creating portable reusable software components to solve common problems, particularly in IT/OT convergence and information orchestration. Advantech wants to play a leading role in this UAO Ecosystem with our Uno-430 data gateways.”

ESA. S.P.A
“We launched our first IEC 61499 offer at SPS Parma on 24th May,” said Cesare Colombo, Chief Marketing Officer at ESA. S.P.A. “ESA has been committed to innovation as a supplier of automation systems for machine builders for over 40 years. This latest offer using UniversalAutomation.Org shared-source runtime engine is further proof of that. We are fully committed to the digital transformation of our customers, and the asset-centric plug & produce approach of UniversalAutomation.Org addresses many of the pain-points of our customers”

Kongsberg Maritime
“As a supplier of control systems for ships and offshore platforms, we were looking for a solution to better orchestrate the different mechanical & electrical sub-systems,” said Sølve Raaen, Principal Architect at Kongsberg Maritime. “We had been considering IEC 61499 for several years because of its object-oriented event-driven architecture. The creation of UniversalAutomation.org was the turning point for us as we saw it as evidence that the technology was reaching maturity. We use the UniversalAutomation.Org runtime as an orchestration layer for our control systems.”

Flexbridge
“Flexbridge AB is an innovative startup from Sweden that develops provisions of flexibility in manufacturing and process technologies in a form of swarm intelligence” says Dmitrii Drozdov, CTO at Flexbridge. “We enable adaptivity and reconfigurability of production lines by embedding nanoPLCs called Iceblocks into their parts. Iceblocks master wireless communication including 5G and mesh network and are programmed in IEC 61499 enabled by the UAO runtime. This enables the key benefits of fully decentralised control and engineering of heterogeneous systems integrating the swarm with devices of other vendors.”

R. Stahl
“R. Stahl is one of the pioneers in remote I/O technology for hazardous locations. Our company philosophy is to bring products to the market that offer advantages to the end users by integrating latest available technology and make it usable for the explosion hazardous environments.” said André Fritz, Senior Product Manager at R. Stahl. “Embedding the UAO IEC 61499 runtime in our Remote IO, makes it very simple to integrate to any Universal Automation system – plug & produce! The cherry on the cake is the real-time/right-time capabilities of IEC 61499 will allow us to also implement IIoT functions directly in the IO devices, and this allows Stahl and our Ecosystem to provide added value to our customers. This is like a toolbox for digitalization in hazardous areas.”

“We are delighted to announce the launch of the first UniversalAutomation.Org-compliant offers and are sure it is the first wave of many.” said John Conway, President of UAO . ”Users can now test the UniversalAutomation.Org technology and experience the benefits for themselves”.

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* UAO enables vendors, end-users, OEMs, and academics to share a common automation runtime layer across their automation technology regardless of brand. The technological collaboration creates an entirely new category of industrial automation device where the decoupling of software from hardware drives the development of an ecosystem of portable, interoperable, “plug and produce” software components.

@Join_UAO @ARCWorldForum@teamlewisglobal #PAuto 

Light speed for hazardous areas.

In introducing their series 9721 unmanaged switches with ATEX and IECEx certifications, R. Stahl is presenting a networking product geared towards process plants with fast Ethernet infrastructure in hazardous areas.

Series 9721 switches feature four FX ports for optical fibre cables with 'op is' (inherently safe optical radiation) type of protection according to IEC EN 60079-28:2015, which is akin to electrical type 'i' intrinsic safety. Connected lines can be plugged in and out even in explosive atmospheres in zone 1 and 2 (hot plugging). With a shutdown no longer required, changes or extensions to an installation become more cost-effective. Optical fibre cables are the best and most reliable solution for fast data communication especially in plants with distributed systems, where considerable distances must be bridged or where strong interference may be an issue.

The switches themselves can be operated in zone 2, while their fast 100 Mbit/s optical ports connect field devices such as the Ethernet-enabled R. STAHL IS1+ remote I/O system in zone 1.

Depending on requirements, switch types are available for the connection of multi-mode lines that are up to 5 km long, or single-mode fibres up to 30 km long. There is also a mixed solution: one switch type provides one single-mode port to bridge a great distance, while three other devices can be locally connected more cost-efficiently via multi-mode cables. In addition, two electric TX ports with RJ45 jacks are available for connections in non-hazardous areas.

The unmanaged switch type 9721/13-42-x4 can withstand ambient temperatures in a wide range from -30 °C to +70 °C and tolerate the otherwise harsh conditions associated with such extremes. Redundant connection of 24 VDC auxiliary power supply is possible to increase the availability. In addition to IS1+ using Industrial Ethernet protocols such as PROFINET, EtherNet/IP or Modbus TCP, the switches are suitable for HMI devices from R. STAHL HMI Systems and IP cameras from R. STAHL Camera Systems, and obviously also for a diverse range of other field devices requiring type "op is" explosion-protected Ethernet connectivity via optical fibres.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

 #Stahl #Hazardous #Safety #PAuto

Servicing & maintenance in hazardous areas!

The IS1+ Remote I/O System from R. Stahl enables preventive maintenance implementations in zone 1 and 2 hazardous areas, where servicing systems and components is particularly challenging and expensive.

Preventing severe malfunctions and downtime via advance notifications and timely intervention not only helps reduce regular operating costs, but also and especially reduces the risk of incalculable losses due to unscheduled shutdowns. This is achieved through innovative IS1+ features: notably, intelligent self-diagnostics ensure an early identification of errors, so users can be alerted before malfunctions lead to serious problems. Such alerts can be triggered up to 12 months prior to an expected failure. The Remote I/O System continuously monitors all internal components such as the redundant integrated BusRail as well as operating parameters and external conditions. The latter include, for instance, ambient temperature, thermal shock, the electrical load of the I/O modules, or on/off switching. Based on such data, a smart algorithm calculates the remaining lifespan of components.

User alerts comply with the widely accepted NAMUR NE107 standard on "self-monitoring and diagnosis of field devices". On the one hand, a blue LED on the I/O module is used to show "Maintenance" requirement on location. A diagnostic message is also passed on to control and asset management systems. The blue maintenance message with the defined symbol and an explanatory text appears in the IS1+ DTM. In addition to maintenance notifications, IS1+ intelligent diagnostic functions provide a range of other information. For instance, signal errors are reported via red LEDs for specific channels as well as via error telegrams. Moreover, for IS1+ for PROFIBUS DP in particular, application creation in the control system is facilitated through a signal status bit – much like the status byte for systems such as PROFIBUS PA, it serves to supplement 'good' or 'bad' (for example, in case of line errors) status information that is cyclically transmitted for each process value.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

#PAuto #Safety @STAHL_UK

Touch enable operator panels.

R. STAHL HMI Systems provides a line-up of highly robust touch-enabled operating devices developed for efficient, direct operation and visualisation of applications in hazardous areas.

Certified for zones 1 and 21, the ET-208 Operator Interfaces with 7-inch widescreens and a hardened glass front feature front-side IP69 protection. This makes them cleanroom-suitable according to FDA requirements, because their operating front can be cleaned with a pressure washer. The HMIs come in a V2A stainless steel enclosure.

They are corrosion-proof, certified according to ISA-S71.04-1985, severity G3, according to EN 60068-2-6. Seawater presents no problem, either. Highly versatile for universal applications, they can be operated in ambient temperatures ranging from -40 °C to +65 °C. The luminous display and an antireflection coating ensure good readability outdoors in strong daylight.

The HMIs are equipped with interfaces for Industrial Ethernet and RS-422/RS-485, and optionally offer WiFi capability as well. A powerful Cortex A8 processor ensures fast data processing. In the standard configuration, the IP69 grade devices feature the Windows Embedded Compact 7 operating system. R. STAHL’s proprietary SPSPlusWIN software can be used to flexibly create and edit screens, process connections and messages for the HMIs.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

 #Stahl #HMI #Pauto

Firmware for Thin Clients.

Seeking to further enhance flexibility in process automation, R. Stahl HMI Systems is introducing more powerful new integrated software for series 500 Thin Clients for hazardous and industrial areas.

The new, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise-based firmware version 5.0 for Remote HMIs can be adapted to suit all display sizes featuring 1024 x 768 pixels or higher resolutions. At the same time, it increases user-friendliness and reliability of the Thin Clients for the remote operation of DCS installed on central servers or virtual machines. RDP 10 and RealVNC 5.3 and Emerson's DRDC, widely used in the process industry, are available as protocols for failsafe remote access. Integrated network diagnostics and the watchdog function for monitoring the data connection as well as the dual Ethernet support contribute to the high degree of transmission reliability. As protection against manipulation attempts, the software has modern USB and keyboard filters such as EWF lockdown, which reliably prevents registry or file system changes and restores the system's initial configuration after each reboot.

The user-friendly interface with improved touch operation and a clearly structured menu has received a modern make-over. All relevant information on the current connection status, such as IP address, transfer rate, user registration and system information is readily displayed on the dashboard. Multi-screen support is also available for improved visualisation of processes and menu structures. Network connections to all associated workstations can be easily established via the address book menu. Display brightness adjustment and a cleaning mode option can be touch-activated.

The hardware of R. Stahl's Thin Clients also feature superior performance compared to competing HMIs. Thanks to their Intel ATOM series quad-core processor clocked at 4x1.91 Ghz, their 64 bit architecture and 4 GB of RAM, the devices are four times as fast as their predecessors in the same R. Stahl HMI series. Intel VT hardware support of the processor makes them ideal for virtualisation environments. The integrated HD graphics chip supports DirectX 11.1 and ensures excellent display quality throughout, even with very dynamic process images.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#PAuto #Stahl

New business Development Manager.

Martin Hurley has recently joined Douglas Control & Automation as Business Development Manager.

Martin Hurley

He brings extensive industrial experience from the Gilroy Group where he worked for 15 Years. With 30 years’ experience in dealing with Pharmaceutical, Chemical, Food and Manufacturing industries, Martin will focus on further developing the Stahl range of Hazardous Area Equipment across Ireland.

Martin holds degrees in Computer Science and Chemical Engineering.

#DouglasCandA #PAuto #Ireland #Stahl

Ex Floodlights.

The new 6125 series (for zone 1) and 6525 series (for zone 2) floodlights from R. Stahl are designed for challenging environments such as chemical, food and oil and gas extraction. Offering a service life is of 50,000 hours, they feature high corrosion resistance supported by a robust IP66/67-rated enclosure.

Energy-efficient LED technology makes this new generation of flexible floodlights for hazardous areas shine. High-quality TIR lenses minimise scattered light and glare effects and enable light distribution focussed on angles of 10°, 40° or 120°. The devices are therefore not only suitable for spot and wide-angle lighting, but can even be installed as pendant lights. The new 6125 series (for zone 1) and 6525 series (for zone 2) floodlights achieve excellent luminous flux: 21,000 lm in versions with 210 W power consumption and 12,000 lm in 120 W models. With this luminaire efficiency of 100 lm/W, they are not only far more efficient than conventional HID lights, but also require significantly less maintenance.

The lens panel modules are equipped with hinges for easy installation, maintenance and repair of the removable components. Even under extreme conditions, the service life of these products is specified at 50,000 hours of operation at maximum ambient temperatures. Their superior durability fully enables them to sustain challenging environments e.g. in the chemical industry or in oil and gas extraction over the long term. Their high tolerance for ambient temperatures in a very broad range from -40 °C to + 60 °C is a stand-out feature in this product class. Featuring a corrosion-resistant body and comparably low weight, these floodlights are an especially good choice for onshore and offshore applications. Special designs with heat sinks made from sea-water-resistant aluminium are also available.

For some applications such as general lighting in production and storage facilities in the food industry, they can be ordered with a scatter protection for the glass front panel. The robust enclosures provide IP66/67 ingress protection and a very high shock and impact resistance (IK10). They are available either in powder-coated steel sheet or stainless steel versions.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto 

Compact high-tech HMIs.

R. Stahl HMI Systems is introducing the new ET-438 and MT-438 Panel PCs. Based on the SHARK device platform, they have been specially optimised for onshore and offshore applications in the oil and gas industry.

The new 15" compact-class devices feature powerful processors, state-of-the-art display technology, and enhanced connectivity for high-speed and secure data communications. ATEX- and IECEx-certified, these new HMIs are ideally suitable for use in hazardous areas applications (Zone 1, 21 and 2, 22) such as managing and monitoring of drilling, purging, and directional drilling operations.

Both Panel PC types are available with either a standard AMD dual-core CPU or optionally with a top-of-the-range Intel Core i7 processor. Two junction boxes house multiple explosion-proof interfaces for increased flexibility and connection versatility. Secured data transfer is provided either by a second redundant Ethernet port, or an intrinsically safe Wi-Fi module. To enable VoIP video conferencing, the Panel PCs can also be configured with video camera and Bluetooth interfaces. To reduce irritating reflections and glare in outdoor applications or other strong ambient light conditions, the devices are also available with anti-reflective coated front glass upon request. This option ensures superior readability even in direct sunlight, with brightness levels of more than 1.200 cd/m2.

The capacitive multi-touch display, six freely configurable buttons, and two buttons for brightness adjustment make the HMIs very user-friendly. The Panel PCs are extremely rugged with an enhanced shock and vibration resistance; the powder-coated aluminium enclosures are IP66-rated and seawater-proof. This makes them perfect for tough applications even in the harshest environments. With optional integrated heating, they can be reliably operated at ambient temperatures from -40°C to +65°C (-40°F to +14°F).

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto #HMI

Clever signal integration solution for 4-wire transmitters in zone 1.

Hooking up a 4-wire transmitter to a 4-20 mA supply input is obviously problematic, since two power sources cannot usually be connected. For this scenario and other real-life challenges, R. Stahl has introduced the Ex i isolator series 9164.

Suitable for use in zone 1 hazardous areas and non-hazardous areas, this new generation of mA isolating repeaters enables a 4-wire transmitter connection via Ex i or Ex e signals. The devices boast a unique feature: their inputs and outputs act as passive current sinks and do not generate an active power signal of their own when converting an active into a passive 4... 20 mA signal. Notably, the isolating repeaters also allow for a bidirectional transmission of a superimposed HART communication signal.

Three versions are available. One version allows for galvanic isolation of two intrinsically safe circuits. With no Ex i output parameters and a relatively low voltage drop, it can be used for signal decoupling as well. That way, measured values can be passed on to other systems with ease.

A second version with an integrated fuse can be used to isolate an Ex e from an Ex i circuit. This type also enables users to connect an isolating repeater with increased safety type of protection to an Ex i input at a later stage, without the need for extra Ex e line installations.

The third type of module features identical functions for non-hazardous areas. The new isolating repeaters ensure extremely high accuracy and can be used in an ambient temperature range between -40 °C and +75 °C. While ATEX and IECEx certifications have already been procured, others for use all over the world as well as an assessment for use in functional safety applications (SIL) will follow soon.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland via Douglas Controls & Automation

#Stahl #PAuto #Ex

HMIs for on- and offshore applications.

Stahl HMI Systems presents the latest generation of Panel PCs, specially designed for applications in the oil and gas industry. ATEX- and IECEx- certified, the new, powerful ET-498 and MT-498 series Panel PCs can be used in Zone 1, 21 and 2, 22 hazardous areas.

The new units are ideally suited for operating and monitoring operations around the rig floor, such as mud logging, MWD/LWD, rig instrumentation, or well stimulation. Optimised for onshore and offshore applications, they are extremely rugged with enhanced shock and vibration resistance. The powder-coated aluminium enclosures are IP66-rated and seawater-proof. With integrated heating, the Panel PCs ensure reliable operation even at extreme temperatures of -40 °C / -40 °F.

For outdoor applications, the 21.5" capacitive multi-touch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels (Full HD) is also available with a special anti-reflective coating. As an option, both HMIs types can be powered by top-of-the-range Intel Core i7 processors. The two junction boxes house multiple explosion-proof ports for increased flexibility and connection versatility. A second redundant Ethernet port, or an intrinsically safe Wi-Fi module certified according to the wireless LAN standards 802.11a/b/g/n are optionally available. To enable VoIP video conferencing, the Panel PCs can be configured with video camera and Bluetooth interfaces. Barcode scanner or RFID card reader interfaces are available for secure user authentication. A variety of mounting solutions for fixed or mobile applications on rig floors, in control rooms or containers complete the product offering.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#PAuto #Stahl #HMI #Oil

Ethernet connectivity in Zones 1 & 2.

The IS1+ remote I/O system from Stahl is for use in zone 1 and 2 hazardous areas. It gives users versatile options to embed field devices into sophisticated automation structures via standard Ethernet technologies.

This is achieved with various I/O modules for transmitting intrinsically safe and non-intrinsically safe signals, and even pneumatic signals by means of a solenoid valve module. In addition to Modbus TCP, the system supports EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and even Fieldbus foundation FF HSE, providing a pathway to reliable, high-performance system solutions for data transfer in hazardous areas that are quickly becoming a necessity as Industry 4.0 and the "Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)" become increasingly more prevalent.

At present, a number of task force groups are working on feasible solutions and requirements for Ethernet in process applications. The fast IS1+ Ethernet connection via fibre optics cables with 100 Mbit/sec. bridges very large distances of up to 30 km while providing excellent interference-free data transfer. The "optically inherently safe" (op is) type of protection according to IEC/EN 60079-28:2015 ensures explosion protection and hot-swap capability in zone 1. An integrated web server provides assistance for commissioning the system and checking the network status.

Integration into a plant asset management system is handled by means of a powerful DTM that is used to parameterise and diagnose the IS1+ systems and connected HART field devices. Even "HART via Ethernet" can be very easily implemented with IS1+. Familiar user benefits of IS1+ such as multifunctional I/O modules and preventive maintenance messages according to NE107 remain available in Ethernet environments as well. R. STAHL offers a standard warranty extension for three years free of charge on all IS1+ modules.

Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

 #Stahl #PAuto #EX

Ex illumination.

R.Stahl now offers energy-efficient LED linear luminaires for zone 1 in hazardous areas with gases and vapours of all types – even in environments with highly combustible substances of gas group IIC.

The latest generation EXLUX 6002 luminaires protect the LED component from an ingress of the ambient atmosphere through a particularly reliable encapsulation, without compromising its high luminosity. The new devices produce a luminous flux on par with two conventional 36 W fluorescent tubes, but using 30% less power. Their optimised electronics also offers a wide-range input, which allows users to operate them with various supply voltages around the world. In addition to the IEC Ex certification, local certifications for Russia, India and Brazil have been obtained. All electronic components are mounted on the reflector plate, which can be very quickly replaced for maintenance if required.

This enables a compact design that ensures a highly robust product: the slim, low-profile GRP housings are impact-resistant according to IK10 and feature IP66/67 ingress protection. Furthermore, with a weight of less than 6.6 kg, an EXLUX 6002 is at least one third lighter than comparable competitive products of the same class. These LED lighting products are also suitable for retrofitting conventional linear luminaires with fluorescent tubes.

The new series is fully compatible with the EXLUX 6001 and its mounting accessories. The next-generation EXLUX 6002 is available in two performance classes and can be used at environmental temperatures ranging from -30 °C to +60 °C. In addition to ceiling installation, the lights are suitable for use as pendant lights or for pole mounting within buildings as well as outside. As a standard, the lamps come with five-wire through-wiring and a 5 x 4 mm² terminal block to enable easy connection with commonly available installation cables.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

 #Stahl #PAuto 

WirelessHART Gateway made to fit.

Introducing an explosion-protection WirelessHART gateway series, R. Stahl now provides even more versatile solutions for over-the-air communication in the process industry. The new product complements the existing line-up to give users a complete package of interface options for signal transmission via 4... 20 mA with line-based HART or FF H1 fieldbus.

Wireless communication is an easy way to lay the groundwork for sophisticated automation concepts that are deployed to upgrade an extensive base of existing field devices e.g. in the chemical, pharmaceutical, or oil and gas industry. Advanced Industrial Internet implementations all but depend on such solutions. A series 7145 gateway connects up to 100 wireless field devices via Ethernet with the DCS or asset management system. The gateway is easy to install and can be comfortably parameterised via web server.

A robust stainless steel enclosure provides mechanical resistance and protection according to IP65. ATEX and IECEx certified for use in zones 2 and 22, the devices withstand temperatures in a range between -20 °C and +60 °C. Thanks to the flexible housing concept, the gateway can be combined with other components and optionally equipped with an intrinsically safe antenna interface (Ex ia) as well an Ethernet interface with Ex op type of protection.

Drawing on a wealth of expertise and engineering experience, R. Stahl offers to assist plant designers and system integrators to devise their custom network. For instance, special solutions for use in zone 1 and 21 can also be supplied if needed. Other customised components such as splice boxes for fibre-optic cables, media converters or terminals for Ethernet copper cables can be integrated as well.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto #WirelessHart

4 times greater processing power for particularly smooth operation of machines and systems.

R. STAHL HMI Systems’ new Panel PCs of the Eagle and Manta device platforms represent a major leap forward in development.

The superior performance compared to their predecessors and to competitors' products is due to their state-of-the-art main processors, Intel's quad core CPU Atom E3845 with a clock rate of 4 x 1.91 GHz. In addition, the new HMIs are equipped with 4 GB RAM. They are available with display sizes from 10" up to widescreen format. Thanks to the high resolution up to Full HD they also meet the requirements of modern distributed control systems for the automation of complex systems in, for example, pharmaceutical production, fine chemicals or the food industry. Even in the case of highly dynamic process images, these fast HMIs always ensure optimum visualisation. All models are suitable for panel mounting. They are available as touchscreens but can also be fitted with machine-specific function keys.

The wide product range covers zones 1, 21, 2 and 22 as well as non-hazardous applications and includes compact operator interfaces with a proprietary operating system as well as classic Panel PCs and Thin Clients. Models with a dual Ethernet interface will shortly be available to enable fully redundant connections to control systems. Manufactured with 22 nanometre technology, the 64-bit processors of all new Eagle and Manta HMIs are extremely energy-efficient, with heat dissipation of a mere 10 W TDP. Of particular robust design for industrial application, the devices are specified for temperatures from -40 °C to +85 °C at the PCB and -40 °C to +110 °C in the processor cores. The other system components are also low-wear and long-life – as usual, R. STAHL has not used any rotating parts.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto

Keeping better track of complex processes.

The new MANTA widescreens from R. STAHL HMI Systems visualise even complex production systems in process plants in a clear, concise and comprehensive manner. The 22", 24" and 24" WU displays with high resolutions up to 1920 x 1200 pixels are exceptionally bright and rich in contrast, which is rare for industrial applications. They are available in various enclosure versions with an analogue-resistive membrane or as a glass touchscreen.

The cleanroom-compatible design of these HMIs meets all requirements according to FDA and GAMP, making the widescreens ideally suitable for operation in the food, pharmaceutical and fine chemicals industries. R. STAHL supplies industrial-grade types for non-hazardous areas as well as explosion-protected widescreen HMIs for zones 1, 21 and 2, 22. They are available as KVM systems, Thin Clients or Panel PCs for very variable integration into many different system architectures.

As an option, the devices can be fitted with a range of country-specific keyboard layouts and equipped with an additional input device such as a joystick, mouse, trackball or pointer touchpad. Barcode and RFID readers can be integrated as well. On request, R. STAHL HMI Systems will also design special solutions tailored to fit specific customer requirements.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto #HMI

Future-proof and cost-effective I/O system.

The IS1+ Remote I/O system makes it easy to achieve considerable savings in planning, installation, commissioning, and operating costs    

For greenfield projects and plant retrofits, the market-leading IS1+ Remote I/O system from R. STAHL is a future-proof and most cost-effective solution for data transmission in hazardous areas (zone 1 and 2). Compared to conventional point-to-point wiring, the system greatly reduces the wiring effort. Even for a limited number of signals and a control system installed only a short distance away, installations become quicker and cheaper. However, the system offers the most significant savings potential in the engineering and commissioning stages – depending on plant size, typically 40 % cost savings compared to conventional installations can be achieved.
The integrated predictive maintenance and diagnostics features of IS1+ according to NAMUR NE 107 also ensure maximum process availability and low operating expenses. The fully intrinsically safe structure with an intrinsically safe fieldbus based on PROFIBUS DP or industrial Ethernet Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP or PROFINET facilitates a simple and easy expansion or modification of the system in hazardous areas: modules can be hot-worked or hot-swapped at any time.

IS1+ includes a range of multifunctional modules, such as an eight-channel module for analog inputs and outputs with HART, a 16-channel module for digital inputs and outputs, or an eight-channel temperature module for 26 different temperature sensors. The signals can be configured individually for each channel. In addition, for almost all intrinsically safe and non-intrinsically safe solenoids, R. STAHL supplies digital output modules which offer eight integrated pilot valves. Thanks to the innovative low-power technology, IS1+ system modules feature a long service life of up to 15 years. They are suitable for use in an expanded temperature range between -40 °C and +75 °C even in extreme ambient conditions. For installations in zone 2, the series also includes cost-optimised input and output modules that are functionally identical.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation

#Stahl #PAuto #Safety

Safe disconnect in accordance with IEC 62626-1.

Two safety switches (load disconnect switches) from R. Stahl, Sers 8146/5-V37 and 8150/5-V37,  give users a wide range of products that comply with IEC/EN 62626-1, class 1.

Specifically applying to the forced electrical disconnection of safety switches, this standard has come into effect in December 2014. It stipulates requirements for encapsulated load disconnect switches up to 1,000 V AC that are used to disconnect electrical equipment, such as machines and equipment, for the purpose of maintenance and cleaning. The new requirements go far beyond those in IEC/EN 60947-3. The IEC/EN 62626-1 distinguishes between switching devices for general use (class 0) and those for rough, heavy-duty conditions (class 1).

It is advisable to use class 1 switching devices in hazardous areas. Series 8146/5-V37 and 8150/5-V37 switches are built into robust and corrosion-resistant enclosures made of GRP or stainless steel. They come with flameproof-enclosed 3- or 6-pole switch contacts and are certified for use in zones 1 and 2, 21 and 22. The product range includes switchgear for rated operational currents between 10 A and 180 A and an operating voltage between 230 V and 690 V. Their motor switching capacity is equivalent to AC 3 and AC 23 according to IEC/EN 60947-3.

A 20 ms leading auxiliary contact ensures a motor switch-off even when used with frequency converters. The integration of the auxiliary contact into the load switch allows for operating only one rotary actuator, resulting in improved usability. The load disconnect switches provide IP66 ingress protection and are designed for a temperature range of -40 °C to +70 °C.

In addition to the forced opening of the main contacts, easy handling and a special safety mechanism ensure maximum operating safety: the cover is locked in "off" position, the switch handle can be locked with three padlocks. Machine drives in hazardous areas can therefore be stopped quickly and safely to facilitate cleaning a plant, repair operations or other service work, without needing a trained electrician.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

 #PAuto #Stahl 

Fieldbus power supply with integrated FF H1 diagnostics.

ISbus fieldbus power supplies from the 9412 range from R Stahl, provide flexible diagnostic capabilities for the Foundation Fieldbus H1 as a standard feature: they continuously monitor physical layer parameters such as voltage and current, signal level, noise, jitter and shield shorts (unbalance).

Such helpful information is not readily available otherwise – though modern fieldbus-capable sensors and actuators are able to provide a variety of diagnostics, components such as fieldbus power supplies, cables, device couplers and terminators usually lack this capability. Thanks to the integrated advanced diagnostic functionality of ISbus 9412, it is possible to avoid the installation and maintenance costs and effort special systems and software packages for such diagnostics would incur. The easiest way to access measured values of a fieldbus power supply is to use the free ISbusDiag app on an Android smartphone or tablet, which merely requires a simple cable connection of the mobile device and ISbus 9412 module. Without the need for any further settings, the app then displays physical layer data of the segment, the bus address of the fieldbus device with the worst values and, in the event of a fault, a plain text message. By keeping diagnostics off the fieldbus itself, the fieldbus power supply completely rules out potential negative effects like bouncing or short circuits that can otherwise be caused by connecting handheld devices on the bus.

In addition to displaying data on a tablet or smartphone, ISbus fieldbus power supplies also allow for pro-active monitoring of the physical layer with an adjustable warning limit and signalling via three colour LEDs (traffic light function) and a relay contact (9412 / *-320-* modules). An extra device, the 9415 DCM (diagnosis communication module), can also be deployed in order to create a powerful online diagnostics system. A DCM transmits all physical layer data from up to eight segments through a freely selectable H1 segment to the control system and higher-level plant asset management. Evaluation and alarm management takes place via an EDD or a DTM. Detailed information about scalable ISbus diagnostics solutions is available in the playlist "R. Stahl scalable fieldbus solution" featured on the R. Stahl YouTube channel.

 • Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.
#Stahl #PAuto  @FOUNDATIONField 

Flexible and reliable DCS access with Thin Client terminals.

Series 500 Remote HMIs from R. Stahl HMI Systems are an ideal software and hardware package for operating current control systems in the process industry. Designed for safe and comfortable access to Emerson, Siemens, Yokogawa, Honeywell, Allen Bradley, ABB, Rockwell or Schneider control solutions, the Thin Clients are suitable for interoperation with both classic workstations as well as the ever more popular Virtual Machines (VMs).

VMs are increasingly used as host environments for control systems – especially in process plants with divergent control solutions, as they radically simplify the operation and maintenance of different systems and system generations. For one, a VM is not subject to any hardware defects, which in the case of dedicated computers may lead to problems with repairs and spare parts supply. Instead, an identically replicated system running in another VM can take over in the case of a fault. Secondly, IT capacities can be more fully exploited with virtualisation, instead of remaining underused in individual workstations.

Resource efficiency is also a guiding principle for Series 500 components in their own right: in contrast to standard PCs, these Thin Clients are limited to the features required for their intended use. The Remote HMIs are available both as touchscreen models and with keyboards, and come with displays sizes ranging from 15" to 24" (WUXGA), with resolutions from 1024 x 768 to 1920 x 1200 pixels. They have an energy-efficient LED backlight, and their extremely robust design makes them suitable for operation in temperatures from -30 °C to +55 °C (+50 °C in permanent operation). As well as in rough environments, they can also and especially be operated in clean rooms. In addition to versions for standard industrial operation, models certified according to ATEX and IECEx for operation in zone 1, 21 and 2, 22 are also available.

• Stahl products are available in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

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Remote I/O modules for Ex i solenoid valves supplant valve islands.

The DOMV solenoid valve block for integration into the Zone 1 IS1+ Remote I/O system saves space, reduces costs and enhances availability

R. Stahl's 8-channel intrinsically safe discrete output module for valves (DOMV) combines electronic and pneumatic control technology to form a compact unit. Thanks to its optimised design, eight pilot valves fit onto one 9478 series DOMV with the same dimensions as any standard I/O module for IS1+.

Unlike conventional solenoid valves or valve islands, no field wiring is necessary, and no additional enclosures requiring extra space must be accommodated. Greatly simplified engineering, faster commissioning and less extensive documentation work also contribute to overall cost savings in excess of typically 20% compared to conventional solutions. The Ex i components give users great flexibility by allowing for hot swaps in Zone 1 hazardous areas at any time.

As a component of the IS1+ remote I/O system, the DOMV can be combined with any other I/O modules for analogue and discrete signals. Since no separate field wiring is necessary for the DOMV, and since IS1+ features extensive diagnostic functions, the overall plant availability is enhanced as well. Approved for functional safety applications up to SIL 2, the module comes with a separate shutdown input that can be triggered via an intrinsically safe input with a pushbutton or switch. This ensures a safe deactivation of all eight solenoid valves.

The integrated 3/2-way solenoid valves are suitable for switching at pressures from 2.5 to 7 bar at a Qn value of 300 l/ min and approximately 1000 switching c.p.m. Thanks to its full integration into the IS1+ remote I/O, the DOMV 9478 can be operated in networks with almost all kinds of control systems via PROFIBUS DP, MODBUS RTU, Modbus TCP, PROFINET or EtherNet/IP. Field enclosures for operation in Zone 1 or Division 1, including accessories such as valve restrictions or push-in bulkhead fittings, are fully fitted and assembled at R. Stahl's Automation Competence Centre.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland by Douglas Controls & Automation.

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