Process Control
Process device diagnostics leverages NAMUR NE 107
December 7, 2020
The goal of NAMUR NE 107 diagnostics is to limit downtime and increase plant performance. An effective Process Device Diagnostics Object implementation can help improve process plant maintenance, and provide an expanded set of tools for service technicians, operators and application programmers.
Automated water management for fracking and water transfer
September 1, 2020
Automation reduces costs, improves safety for unconventional natural gas production in the Permian Basin. Increasingly, oil and gas companies are looking to automate, especially for water pumping and treatment, but automation for assets located over a broad area isn’t easy.
Palm oil tank farms ready for digitalization
July 27, 2019
Direct integration of Profibus PA field level into Ethernet control systems has created transparency and consistency for a provider of palm oil tank farms. An integrated platform handles reporting and offers real-time transparency for total inventory management of both raw materials and finished goods.
Mobile configuration of field devices in process industry
May 27, 2019
Digital, mobile, networked and standardized solutions are providing new connectivity for process control users to communicate via HART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus and Profibus PA. The result is that machine and field device data is more available to improve and rationalize processes for configuration and troubleshooting.
Industrial Ethernet: optimal for harsh oil and gas demands
May 27, 2019
A robust Industrial Ethernet network using environmentally hardened cabling, connectivity and active components is essential to long-term performance and reliability in the oil and gas industry. Open, standards-based Ethernet communications offers Internet and enterprise connectivity, anytime and anywhere.
Wireless mesh networks in today’s petrochemical industry
May 27, 2019
Scalable, high-bandwidth kinetic mesh networks are providing unmatched connectivity for upstream, midstream, and downstream applications in the petrochemical industry. IoT autonomy, advanced data analytics, and mobility are helping to significantly improve productivity and reduce operating costs.
Challenges in networking the smart oil field
May 27, 2019
The concept of a smart oil field is one that is generally much more efficient and safe than conventional systems that rely on serial communication and fieldbus connectivity. Industry leaders and wellhead operators are now asking how information can drive down production costs while increasing both safety and reliability.
Utility deploys SCADA solution for water management systems
March 28, 2019
Two older water utility systems had become increasingly difficult to maintain, and upgrade with connections to new PLCs. There wasn’t enough data or automation for the department to operate efficiently, so the utility looked to a new SCADA software platform to provide solutions for a wide variety of projects.
EtherNet/IP & FDI creating value for process automation
November 28, 2018
The optimization of process integration initiative (OPI) is continuing to develop. FDI device packages required for Field Device Integration (FDI) are emerging. The result is that the EtherNet/IP protocol and FDI Device Integration standard is going to play ongoing, emerging role in the process automation industries.
Increased flexibility and lower costs for water utilities
May 10, 2018
Two water utility companies improved their data visibility, reporting, energy usage and more. By venturing into new realms of energy and power management, Mountain Regional Water District saved $400,000 a year to provide ample system justification along with a wide range of SCADA improvements and upgrades.