PLCs, DCSs & Controllers


Largest Profibus FDT/DTM system in SA

May 2004 PLCs, DCSs & Controllers

Mondikraft's Richards Bay mill is to implement some of the latest control system technology to enhance the intelligence of field instruments used in its RB720 project, scheduled for commissioning in the first quarter of 2005.

Profibus PA - with the protocol standard FDT/DTM (field device type/device type manager) - will allow Mondi's planned new version of DCS (distributed control system) software to present diagnostic information about the instruments to the planned maintenance function of the mill. This leads to better quality maintenance, resulting in more reliable systems that are optimally maintained when needed. Additionally, the resulting information boost will assist in verifying the health of the measurements, leading to more reliable monitoring and control of the mill.

The completed system will include in excess of 1300 devices connected to the DCS, making this the largest installation of Profibus FDT/DTM in South Africa.

Having successfully secured the framework contract for the supply of the DCS and instruments for RB720, Endress + Hauser - in partnership with Metso - supplied the Profibus system. Conceptually, it consists of a single centralised computer system (DCS), with networks connecting to the instruments and valves.

The system requires less cabling and engineering than the previous analog/digital approach, but requires a new set of skills to manage and maintain, demanding from the technical support personnel a knowledge ranging from basic configuration to advanced network trouble shooting. Richards Bay Mill has expressed its enthusiasm with regard to putting this new technology to full use, as a measure to secure its performance leadership in pulp and paper production.

For more information contact Grant Joyce, Endress + Hauser, 011 262 8000, [email protected], www.za.endress.com



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Advanced DCSs preserve what must not change while enabling
Schneider Electric South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Next-generation DCSs, such as Schneider Electric’s Foxboro, are preserving the best of the old while introducing the new in a less disruptive manner.

Read more...
Transforming the process industry through digitalisation
Endress+Hauser South Africa IT in Manufacturing
By connecting field devices, systems and people, digitalisation creates new opportunities to optimise operations, enhance maintenance strategies and support continuous improvement. As a leading instrumentation provider and major source of process data, Endress+Hauser plays a key role in enabling this transformation.

Read more...
DCS for maximum plant efficiency and reliability
ABB South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
ABB has introduced SPR2025, the latest Symphony Plus DCS package release to enable modernisation and efficient performance for the process and power industries.

Read more...
Robust PLC for field applications
ifm - South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
ifm is a leading suppliers of robust control systems for mobile use. Its ecomat series comprises PLCs, I/O modules and sensors that can withstand the harsh environmental influences of mobile applications.

Read more...
ABB’s new flagship DCS
ABB South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
ABB has launched the latest version of its flagship distributed control system, to help industrial operators modernise without disruption and accelerate their path toward next generation automation.

Read more...
Adroit Technologies drives global SCADA for Iochpe-Maxion
Adroit Technologies PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Adroit Technologies has been appointed by Iochpe-Maxion, parent company of one of the world’s largest wheel manufacturers and producers of structural components in the Americas, as its global SCADA partner. The partnership will standardise operational visibility, reliability and control across 34 manufacturing facilities worldwide.

Read more...
Extended DCS enables industrial innovation with continuity
ABB South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
ABB has introduced its Automation Extended programme, a strategic evolution of its distributed control systems (DCS), designed to help industries modernise without disruption.

Read more...
Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze
Endress+Hauser South Africa Sensors & Transducers
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.

Read more...
Valmet’s automation powers world’s largest air-to-water heat pump
Valmet South Africa PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Valmet will supply an automation system for Helen’s Patola air-to-water heat pump plant and two electric boilers currently being built in Helsinki, Finland. When completed, the air-to-water heat pump plant will be the largest in the world with a full heating production capacity around 30 MW.

Read more...
Elevating analogue signal processing
Endress+Hauser South Africa Editor's Choice
The RN Series from Endress+Hauser is a powerful and relevant solution for analogue signal processing and conditioning.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved