Ethernet-APL enables a new dimension in field communication: complete asset integration for field devices, regardless of device type, manufacturer and communication technology (ie, via Ethernet-APL or Profibus PA). Both technologies can be operated simultaneously on the same network infrastructure.
In addition, FDI (Field Device Integration) technology ensures uniform visualisation and operation of field devices. Integration tools for this include the likes of PACTware, a free framework for device management. FDI technology from various manufacturers is now being integrated into products, which makes it realistic and easy for operators to use.
A practical benefit is, for example, that complete diagnostic data enables software-based, proactive maintenance procedures that reduce cost, effort and risk. Asset management can back up the complete configuration data of the instrumentation fleet, e.g. for documentation and configuration procedures during instrument replacement.
The infrastructure that implements the connection from the control level to the field devices is based on the Ethernet-APL field switch from FieldConnex. The switch enables the parallel operation of Ethernet-APL and Profibus PA with a single infrastructure, even for hazardous areas up to Zone 0 with intrinsically safe connections per Ex ia IIC (division certification will follow as soon as the relevant standards are available). Accessories such as surge protection modules for DIN-rail mounting or in a robust IP67 housing round off the portfolio.
Comprehensive solutions for the food and beverage sector RS South Africa
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
RS South Africa is reinforcing its commitment to the country’s dynamic food and beverage sector, backed by a comprehensive portfolio of over 800 000 products, extensive technical expertise and end-to-end service capabilities.
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A large petrochemical refinery asked me to perform an audit on several critical base layer control loops. This article deals with a problem found on a valve controlling the flow of fuel to a heat exchanger.
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Critical alarm and event management technology supplier, Omniflex has worked with the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation to upgrade equipment providing digital and analogue signals for its safety critical fire and gas alarm systems.
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On a farm in the USA, valuable ammonia is extracted from slurry and processed into ammonium sulphate. NSI Byosis has transformed this complex process into a flexible modular system. This modular approach requires an automation solution with flexible scalability in both hardware and software, which this Dutch company has found in PC-based control from Beckhoff.
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I was giving a course at a remote mine in the middle of the Namibian desert. We were discussing tuning responses, and as I always do on my courses, I mentioned that in my opinion ¼ amplitude damped tuning is not desirable, and is in fact not good.
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In safety-critical industries like nuclear, petrochemical and oil and gas, installing a new industrial cable network is an extremely complicated task. Gary Bradshaw, a director of industrial network specialist, Omniflex explains why this is often unnecessary as plants are likely to have existing cabling capable of being used to create new industrial networks.
Read more...Control and monitoring with only one device Pepperl+Fuchs
IS & Ex
Pepperl+Fuchs has expanded its portfolio of K-System isolated barriers for DIN rail mounting (power rail) with the KCD2-SCS interface module. As the first 2-channel AI/AO intrinsic safety barrier with dual function, the module can be configured individually for analogue input or output control signals.
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Profitek provides cutting-edge industrial networking, automation and IoT solutions for harsh environments.
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The GW-101-LORA-4AO is the ultimate industrial LoRaWAN gateway, combining advanced IoT connectivity with expandable I/O.
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The ML-NET-INJECT series sets the standard for industrial PoE, featuring IP68-rated RJ45 connectors and military-grade components for extreme reliability.