Siemens has launched version 4.0 of its SiMATIC PCS neo control system, which promises to accelerate digital transformation and optimise plant processing efficiencies.
The system is designed to prepare plants for the future, helping to alleviate shared industry challenges like collaboration, modular automation, scalability, interoperability, integration, and lifecycle management.
Rowan Dickason, vice president of the Process Automation Business Unit at Siemens says, “This state-of-the-art control system is more sustainable and embraces globalisation with its fully fledged web-based platform. The new control system is the way to re-think process automation technology and embrace digitalisation, interoperability, collaboration and agility. It integrates seamlessly with existing systems and allows multiple processes to happen simultaneously. It’s the future of process automation and we believe it will be a game-changer.”
The system supports all parts of the Module Type Package (MTP) standard, allowing for easy integration that can be achieved independently of the manufacturer, hence supporting a ‘plug and produce’ methodology. It also offers workflow improvements to further reduce engineering efforts.
Efficiency is core to all Siemens’ designs. The new Simatic S7-4100 automation system defines a new generation of controllers for the process industry, with the first release available exclusively for the Simatic PCS neo. The new controller is 30% smaller, with extended communication capabilities. It also reduces energy consumption by up to 50%. Importantly, in the South African context, it is robust and maintenance-free, and no batteries are required to buffer system data in the event of a power failure. “The controller is the brain of the process plant. Our Simatic S7-4100 controller takes this to a whole new level of performance,” adds Dickason.
In addition to the SIMATIC PCS neo v4.0, Siemens is releasing its fully integrated SIMATIC CN 4100 communication gateway. This facilitates a simple and secure data exchange, with SIMATIC PCS neo playing the role of a convenient data switch. This means data from the plant can simultaneously be fed from the plant to the controller and process control system. Supported protocols include the Modbus TCP and OPC UA, with more planned. “We designed these systems to relieve process control, simplify engineering and increase security,” concludes Dickason.
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Fuel your competitive edge with tech that transforms
News
The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition 2025, taking place from 22 to 24 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre, offers a vibrant, solution-focused platform tailored to the unique needs of KwaZulu-Natal’s industrial, manufacturing, engineering, maritime, agricultural and mining sectors.
Read more...Driving digital transformation in the truck industry Siemens South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
Tatra Trucks, a leading truck manufacturer in Czechia, has adopted the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software including Teamcenter software for product lifecycle management and the Mendix low code platform to help increase production volume and strengthen its ability to manufacture vehicles that meet specific customer requirements.
Read more...Enhancing cyber security for industrial drives Siemens South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
The growing connection between production networks and office networks as part of IT/OT integration and the utilisation of IoT have many benefits for industrial companies. At the same time, they also increase the risk of cyber threats. Siemens ensures that your know-how and plants are protected at all times.
Read more...Schneider Electric launches first registered Innovation Hub in Africa Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has officially launched its first registered Innovation Hub in Africa. This provides an interactive environment where visitors can explore the company’s integrated solutions across key segments and businesses such as energy, buildings, data centres, industrial, and power and grid.
Read more...A strategic milestone for Conical Technologies Conical Technologies
News
Conical Technologies has been appointed as the sole distributor in southern Africa for Mibbo, manufacturers of a vast array of products for the automation industry.
printer friendly version