cpp – Process technology for the chemical industry 02.2020

Picture: Phoenix Contact
Picture: Phoenix Contact
With the NOA concept, field device data can be read out securely and impact-free, and
forwarded to a cloud, for example
The I/O modules of the Axioline F product
family with IP 20 degree of protection are
also available for use in Ex i zones
signals, other types of data can be read via
Hart communication as a superimposed signal
from field devices – irrespective of
whether they are sensors or actuators. Typically,
Hart functions are only used for replacing
devices in the field or workbench
calibration – comparable to measuring
pulse and blood pressure, which is only
done during a visit to the doctor. But today
there are smartwatches that continuously
log this type of information and can graphically
present it for an entire day. This capability
is also desirable in industrial applications.
Easily integrated
Using special Hart I/O cards that can be integrated
into process control engineering
(PCE) or the distributed control system
(DCS) for the purpose of using the Hart
data generates additional costs. Since the
data are only of interest to maintenance personnel
for device monitoring, Phoenix Contact
has developed two solutions for Hart
transmission that are used in the framework
of a side channel. Both products can be integrated
into existing and new process
plants, and are continuously further developed
to meet the requirements of users and
official bodies.
The first approach is the modular Ethernet
Hart multiplexer GW PL… bus. It provides
the option of configuring and monitoring
Hart devices via Ethernet. Hart devices can
be integrated into almost any host system
via industrial Ethernet systems such as
Profinet, Modbus TCP, Hart IP, Emerson
AMS, and OPC UA. The analogue control
system remains fully operational and does
not even need to be shut down for installation.
An Ethernet Hart multiplexer consists
of a head station and up to five four- or
eight-channel Hart extension modules, so
that a maximum of 40 Hart devices can be
connected to the head station and supplied
with current from it. The modular design
provides a scalable solution for modern distributed
control systems and phased rollouts.
For four years, the Ethernet Hart
multiplexer has been proving itself worldwide
in smaller applications. It is ideal for
installation involving intrinsically safe applications
and in combination with additional
signal isolators on the Hart devices for Ex
zone 2 applications.
Adapted to harsh environments
The second solution that was introduced at
the Namur general meeting in November
2019 is an extension to the proven Axioline
F I/O system with IP 20 degree of protection.
Axioline F features rapid signal acquisition.
The robust mechanical system
can withstand the harshest ambient conditions
due to its excellent shock and vibration
resistance. In addition, the extended
temperature range from -40 to
70 °C also contributes to an increase in system
availability. And installation time is reduced,
thanks to fast wiring without tools
and easy handling. The I/O system has
been extended to include analogue and
digital input and output modules for Ex i
applications. Now Axioline F can be used
in both hybrid and continuous applications.
It makes sense to install it where
intrinsic safety is required but hot-swap capability
is not necessary.
The I/O modules can be coupled with the
industrial controllers and bus couplers in
the Axioline product family. Users benefit
from a solution that is less expensive than
PCE/DCS, although the latter satisfies more
rigorous requirements and offers PID control
capability. However, Axioline F provides
a reliable platform for maintaining
process field devices that can flexibly adapt
to specific general conditions and is subject
to ongoing further development. Alongside
the standard I/O modules for Hart communication,
the intrinsically safe variants
open up new opportunities for use in the
field. Hart-compatible flow meters deliver
additional selectable data, including device
runtime, total flow rate, pressure and temperature.
As a result, users can implement
needs-based maintenance measures and
optimise the relevant process. Since the
cost of the sensors installed in the process
environment have become lower, Namur
sensors can be monitored directly through
the side channel as discrete signals.
www.cpp-net.com
Online search: Phoenix Contact
AUTHOR:
ARNOLD OFFNER
Strategic Marketing Manager
Automation Infrastructure,
Phoenix Contact USA
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