Readout 98.01 December1997/ January 1998

Basic details of most of these companies may be found in the Internet Directory of Instrumentation and Control, as well as in the Directory of Instrumentation in Ireland available from Readout.

Jobs are advertised in this issue for C.S.L.

Where Numbers (to be entered on the card) are given please e-mail me with this information together with your name, address and contact details (Phone & Fax) remembering that most of these companies will not have the benefit of e-mail as yet. We are set up to relay this type of request for information.

Remember to quote the particular number.

This issue included a survey of companies involved in Service and Maintenance.

Product News Sharing Information Fast becoming an essential ingredient of the modern plant Choosing a PC-based SCADA and MMI software system has traditionally involved the consideration of operating system, functionality, ease of use and the history of what has been used previously on that site or by that company. Now that Windows NT 4.0ª is the de facto operating system and all the software sys-tems available have achieved minimum required standards, the parameters for choosing, or switching, your SCADA software supplier are becoming fewer. Hardware connectivity, the availability and quality of support as well as ease of use are prime consider-ations. However, an increasingly important issue is the way data cre-ated by the production process is stored for use elsewhere within the manufacturing organisation. WonderwareÕs Industrial SQL Server, for example (part of itÕs FactorySuite offering), is a new open relational database that acquires and stores plant data at full resolution and integrates real time and historic plant datawith event, summary and production data. It has the power, openness and flexibility of Microsoft SQL Server with the added reliability and performance required for real time applications. In short, it is a real-time plant database with all the functionality of a plant information management system. IndustrialSQL is typically attached to two indepen-dent networks - the Òprocess control networkÓ (PCN), and the Òbusiness networkÓ (LAN). The PCN links the database to various control computers from which it acquires data in real-time; these include PLCs (vendor independent), InTouch nodes, and other devices. The LAN meanwhile links it to various users within the organisation. Access to plant data is provided via SQL at any workstation on the network, allowing users to obtain plant data from their workstation using off-the-shelf or custom client software. Importantly, this approach ensures that the different networks remain physically separate (as NT Server supports multiple network cards), thus protecting the PCN from users sitting on the company LAN. IndustrialSQL Server enables plant data to be made immedi-ately available across the enterprise for visualisation, analysis, ad-hoc queries, reporting and so on, providing a link between the ÔplantÕ and ÔbusinessÕ ends of the enter-prise. There are many employ-ees who regularly work in both these worlds - production management, supervisors, engineers, for instance - who would benefit from having real-time plant data at their fingertips. The client/server architecture bridges the gap between the real-time, high volume plant monitoring and control environment, and the open and flexible business information environment. Users are fully equipped with a scaleable server environment and flexible, easy to use client applications on the desktop. One of the main benefits to users of a plant-wide database is that the information available becomes widely used by technicians and managers alike. Staff can make extensive use of popular office software such as MS Excel, Word and Crystal Reports to create up-to-the-minute reports without having to consult their IT department. Industrial SQL is not only very fast - a three-month profile of a set of process variables can be recovered in seconds - it is also very open. In addition to InTouch and Microsoft Office products being able to display data from this database, it is also possible to use products such as Visual Basic or Powerbuilder. Further-more, Industrial SQL can be used as a gateway to enterprise-wide systems such as intranets and ERP systems. For example, an event can be used to produce a report automatically in Crystal Reports; this is then stored in HTML and made available for immediate viewing on the corporate intranet. This enterprise wide access to process and production data, available at speed and capable of being implemented at a very low cost, changes the whole way automation software products will be viewed in the future. No longer will it be sufficient to specify what SCADA software is required; it is now necessary to focus on how data and reports are made available to the whole enterprise. The choice of SCADA And automation software products will be narrowed to those that integrate in the best way with user-developed process data warehouses. John Bailey, MD of Pantek, which distributes and supports FactorySuite here, makes the observation that industrial users always want the latest technology but it has to be proven in service! ÒProviding a solution such as Factory Suite which is based on Microsoft Backoffice, is the closest we are ever going to get to achieving this he claims. Contact Tom Reaney. Building Bridges A part of the Smart Bridge monitoring system for the Dee Bridge in Wales, ruggedised Solartron IMPs collect temperature, strain, wind speed, acceleration and corrosion rate data and transmit it to a PC in the tower. The Dee Bridge is on the A548, the coastal road that runs through Rhyl and Prestatyn to Chester where it meets up with the M56. It is sometimes used as a "rat run". The bridge is scheduled to begin its stress trails prior to hand-over in early February. Valve improves Control The Posi-Seal¨ Package (PSP) high performance rotary control valve from Fisher Controls, combines the high performance of the Posi-Seal A41 butterfly valve with the operating power of the new posi-seal 1035 rack and pinion actuator. This engineered valves proves suited to both on/off and throttling applications, offering excellent flow control and shutoff capability as well as powerful operation in class 150 applications. Operating advantages high-lighted include low torque requirements that allow use of compact and economical actua-tor sizes, pressure-assisted, bi-directional sealing for exceptional shutoff capabilities, and optional ENVIRO-SEAL¨ packing to meet stringent emission requirements. Design features of the PSPÕs new 1035 rack-and-pinion actuator include low-friction operation, high torque output and long service life. The PSP is available in 3Ó to 12Ó sizes with ANSI Class rating, PTFE disc seal, and a choice of valve body materials. Write 7143 on card Contactor range extended The d range of contactors from Telemecanique, part of Schneider Electric, has been extended with ratings up to 150 Amps motor rated! This continues their history of providing innovative solutions to industryÕs requirements, setting new standards in power control technology. The new ratings provide a compact solution for motors up to 75 kW: LC1-D115, 55 kW AC3, 250A AC1, LC1-D150, 75 kW AC3, 250A AC1. The auxiliary contact, essential for most applications, does not increase the overall dimens-ions of the contactor. For maximum flexibility in the production or evolution of electrical circuits, these new contactor ratings can accept all the attachments of the existing d contactor range. In order to meet the different cabling requirements, these two new contactors are avail-able with shrouded terminals for bare cable or bare power terminals for bars and cables with lugs. Connection kits are available for fast modification of the existing type of cabling. Extremely flexible to install, the LC1-D115 and LC1-D150 contactors enable connection of coil wiring at the top and the bottom. For greater safety in operation, the contact carri-er is automatically blocked when removing the arc cham-ber during contact inspection or replacement. Contactors can be combined by direct mounting with their GV7-R motor circuit breaker to provide a very compact starter and also with their LR9-D electronic protection relay which enables separation of functions for rapid identifica-tion of the fault and simplified maintenance. In order to maintain production capacity, these 2 types of association guarantee Type 2 co-operation conforming to IEC 947-4-1. Write 7144 on card Motion control The new GE Fanuc DSM300 series is nearly half the price of the popular Power Mate J motion controller which it replaces. yet its powerful dual processor architecture pro-vides 3 times more processing power. ItÕs also 50% smaller, measuring a compact 5ÓH x 5ÓD and 2.25ÓW, and boasts position capturing capabilities of 250µs. Remarkable, this single board also consumes only 4 Watts of power, thatÕs 50% less than the previous model. And it can be used with GE FanucÕs Series 90-30 CPUs or in an I/O chain with their PCIF (PC Interface) module. ÒItÕs a complete solution offering customers benefits like ease of integration and programming, shorter develop-ment cycles, higher reliability, and affordability. With its new capabilities and lower price, the DSM300 gives our custo-mers the performance and features and features normally associated with high-price controllers,Ó said a spokes person from General Controls & Automation who market GE Fnuc in Ireland. ÒIt combines all the versatility of our Series 90-30 PLCs and CIMPLICITY Operator Inter-faces with the reliability and performance of our proven alpha and beta Series Servo Systems.Ó Integrating both motion con-trol and servo loop controller, the DSM300 provides point-to-point or follower motion motion control for a variety of applications ranging from simple positioning and velocity control to complex, multi-axis positioning and control. It can be used in a variety of industries including packaging, converting, auto-motive, printing, and semi-conductor for applications including general automation, high-speed assembly, material handling, & metal fabrication. The main CPU, a 386EX, processes the control programs and interfaces to the back-plane. A second processor, one of the latest DSPs from Analog Devices operates at 25 MIPs and controls all the servo loops (position, velocity and torque) for two axes control. Write 7147 on card Dial Flowmeter Manotherm announces the release of a new Dwyer advanced design dial type flowmeter to measure water flow in ranges 0-3, 0-5 or 0-10 GPM. Series RMV II Rate-Master¨ flowmeters employ a target-type design combined with a damage resistant mag-netic linkage to drive a pointer over an easy-to-read litho scale. This nunique con-struction fully isolates flowing media from gauge front for leakproof opera-tion at pressures to 3000 psig (206.7bar) with±5% of full scale accuracy. The design also eliminates frustrating visibility problems which can occur when mineral or other particles form inside glass tube rota-meters. Its solid machined brass meter body is ideally suited for water flows. Inlet and outlet threads are 3/4ÓNPT female. The case is precision moulded from polycarbonate and the dial is protected by a clear cast acrylic front cover. Wetted parts are brass, 302 SS, sintred barium ferrite and polycetyl. Write 7150 on card New Mass Opportunity Fisher-Rosemount Flow (ProsCon Automation) has created a major new measure-ment opportunity for the process industries with the launch of the ALTUS 3000 applications platform, an elec-tronics package designed for use with their Coriolis sensors & other electronic flowmeters. It is available with an integrat-ed MicroMotion transmitter which provides the traditional Coriolis measurement of mass flow, density and temperature. In addition, Altus computes parameters such as BRIX, viscosity, percent solids, net solids, net oil, net flow, API gravity and specific gravity. PID and batch control are also available and a variety of serial communications proto-cols including HART, Modbus, Profibus, Allen- Bradley And Device Net are available. Each ALTUS platform can simultaneously run-up to three selected applications, either as one control function with two measurements, or as three individual measurements. By running multiple applications from a single device ALTUS reduces costs and simplifies installation and upgrading. Life cycle cost estimates indicate that ALTUS can provide savings of up to Ir£36,000 per annum. Additional functionality is added to the system by down-loading snap-on software modules via a PC. Once the appropriate software capability has been added, the user selects the required functions from the front panel keyboard. As applications develop within a process, so the platform can be adapted and/or expanded to ensure that the right process variable can be measured, reducing variability, optimis-ing process control and simpli-fying the interfacing of field devices. The output capability is also modular enabling addi-tional digital or analogue out-puts to be added as necessary. The MMI includes a large, backlit display and tactile feedback push-buttons. Menu driven screens are used for selecting functions directly from the display, so that no hand-held devices are needed. Write 7149 on card. Tightening insensitive. Se‡n Gough of GS Sensors (France) tell us of a first in transducer technology. The XPM5 is a miniature, flush membrane high stability pres-sure transducer with better than 0.25% FS in ranges from 5 to 30 bar. Originally developed for hostile environ-ments, the transducer is con-structed entirely from titanium. Other M5 pressure transducers are very suscep-tible to zero offset generated by tightening up the trans-ducer. This unit has an unique mechanical design which renders it insensitive to tight-ening torque. High stability strain gauges are bonded to the inner surface of the membrane. It is claimed that performanc and stability are unrivalled for this type and size of transducers.

Inside Front This is an article describing a visit to Roche Ireland. (Full text) News from the Net I&C News from the InterNet. Company News Goodbye RTC Cork RTC is now officially designated as the Cork Institute of Technology or C.I.T. Final Control In todayÕs automation envi-ronment where the emphasis is placed on process control, there is a tendency to treat the final control element with less priority. In many cases the accuracy of the control system depends to a large extent on how well this final control element performs. Modulating control valves provide the means by which the flow of the medium is altered and, the accuracy of the control circuit is a function of the design and accurate sizing of these units. Sizing of control valves is no longer a black art and can be mathematically calculated as a function of the differential pressure across the valve by the rate of flow required (referred to as the valve coefficient or Cv) In I.C.S. the instrument control and calibration company based in Antrim and Clonee (Co Meath), this task is accom-plished by use of valve calculation software that gives additional data such as noise levels and velocities - parameters required to satisfy health and safety legislation. As the flow through any orifice follows the Square Root Law it will be acknowl-edged that the selection of Cvs and plug configuration is important to provide a wide range of controllability flows. For this reason the valves supplied by the company have linear, equal percentage & quick opening characteristics that need to be assessed for each application. Design selection is equally important to ensure that the correct pressure rating and resistance to environmental influences do not influence the performance of the control valve. The selection of body materials, whether they be standard cast iron, carbon steel or exotic materials, is necessary. In addition to sizing and design selection other important functions relating to close-off pressures, leakage rates and accessories need to be assessed I.C.S. can offer this consultancy as part of the normal discus-sions with the end user. With a valve stock of modular parts they are able to offer a specialist service to users of control valves, providing correct sizing, correct design selection and fast delivery. Together with the existing strategy of stocking recorders, con-trollers, transmitters and other process control related products, I.C.S. can now provide the complete picture to the customer base throughout Ireland. Write 7141 on card. Plant control integration Joseph Stewart & Co have awarded Datastor Ltd, a Mitsubishi Alliance Integra-tion Partner company, a con-tract to supply an integrated plant control system for their feed mill in Boyle. The system design integrates real-time operational control on an Intel Multibus platform, with 8 PLCs distributed throughout the plant. Areas covered by individual con-trollers are Intake, Main Blending, Downstream Rou-ting, three Press Lines and the Micronising plant. DatastorÕs comprehensive software also caters for the dispensary and cross contamination protec-tion. The press lines incorpo-rate the latest technology long barrel expanders and fats coating control. The control system real-time engine is linked to a net-worked graphics package running under WindowsNTª and incorporates a database that provides comprehensive management information as well as control. Features include: Production schedul-ing, batch and press run reports, Raw materials database, RMBN traceability, Base and additive formula-tions, Spread sheets, Archiving of data, Backup and restoration of the Database and a link to the Corporate busi-ness computer system. Multi-function operator VDUs on the plant provide control additional to the PC stations. The system will provide trace-ability of critical materials and optimisation of production throughput and quality. A modem is included to enable Datastor to provide diagnostic and maintenance support and to transfer software from their base in England. Write 7142 on card GCAL Consolidates In some restructuring at the GCAL group the have refocused their attention on their core business. They have closed their Systems House partly because of problems in recruiting personnel who when trained were enticed to international companies in Australia, Canada, the US and Britain. They have System House arrangements with a variety of companies which meant that they no longer needed an internal facility. All staff were offered positions with in the other companies of the group. The original company General Controls and Automation Ltd continues to work with GE Fanuc PLCs and are major suppliers to the world and Irish market. They also handle Vision/Data Matrix products from RVSI/Acuity, Kodak high speed diagnostic cameras, Tawi semi-automated lifting systems and Rotork the well known suppliers of DCS and ESD systems. The contacts there are Frank Roberts and Jim Long. The training company CIM-TRACS (Intl) Ltd., continues to offer training and training audits to customers. It also offers seminars and conference programmes helping people keep up to date in the fast-moving world of new technology. Since this was writen we understand that the GCAL Group has ceased trading Best at Service Engineering Support and Services Ltd., the maintenance services company has won the Best Service Company award in the National Maintenance Project competition 1997. ESS Ltd specialises in contract maintenance services and production support and won the award for the work carried out by their on-site maintenance team in assisting the client company increase their productivity and competitive advantage through developing world class maintenance operations. The competition is run by MEETA - the Irish Maintenance Society and driven by Forbairt. A panel of independent judges from industry form the adjudicating panel. Write 7140 on card. T&M Instruments ex stock Neltronics is now offering Hewlett-Packard test and measurement instruments from stock. They are stocking the HP LogicDart Advanced Logic Probe, digital oscilloscopes, bench DMMs, signal generators, universal counters, DC power supplies and the new 20-channel low-cost, high performance HP3497A data acquisition system from theH.P. Basic Instruments range. Customers also benefit from their ILAB accredited laboratories in Dublin and Belfast. Write 7146 on card Movements Classic Technology Ltd have moved to a new address in Naas, Co Kildare. Details are as follows: Classic Technology Ltd Shamrock House North Main Street Naas Co Kildare. Tel: 045 896660 Fax: 045 896713. J.J. Sampson are moving to new custom built premises at the end of January. There numbers remain unchanged. J.J. Sampson & Son Ltd Nangor Business Park Dublin 12. Exhibition & Conference News Don't miss the shows ISA Ireland'98 28th April 1998 I&C Ireland'98 11/12th Nov 1998 More Shows. Pneumatics Training PneuUser - The Pneumatics Club, an initiative of SMC, have released their training calendar for 1998. There are three course scheduled for Belfast. Pneumatics is featured on 26th January and 2nd November 1998. Electro-Pneumatics is featured on a course 19th May 1998. Details on the UK FreePhone Number 0800 0260004. Bus on the Road ISA Ireland hosted an unique function late last year. They secured the co-operation of Siemens, Flomeaco and Douglas Electronics in a fieldbus roadshow on the ProfiBus open system visited Europes fastest growing city, Galway before going on to Limerick, Cork and Waterford. The show was well attended at each venue and people travelled some distances to attend these sessions when clear explanations were given and interesting applications presented. (Picture and Report). A special Interviey with Liam Mulligan on ProfiBus. Literature Free catalogue National Instruments (Imex) has just announced its new, full-colour 1998 Instrumenta-tion Catalogue. The free, 864-page catalogue details more than 600 software and hard-ware products that engineers and scientists use to develop integrated, computer-based systems for measurement and automation applications. The catalogue includes tutorials on data acquisition, GPIB, VXI, and industrial communica-tions; product line overviews; and selection guides - all designed to help readers increase productivity and save money with virtual instrumen-tation. New product highlights include PXIª modular instru-mentation; FieldPointª distributed I/O, computer-based instruments, and a new line of motion control pro-ducts. The 1998 catalogue also describes new versions of LabVIEWª, LabWindowsª/ CVI, HiQª, Lookoutª, and BridgeVIEWª application software products, as well as numerous new data acquisition products. This catalogue (also available in CD Format) features 14 sections - Instrumentation and Analysis Software, Portable Instrumentation, Data Acquisi-tion, Signal Conditioning, Distributed I/O, Image Acqui-sition, Computer-Based Instru-ments, PXI/CompactPCI Mod-ular Instrumentation, GPIB Instrument Control, VXI and VME, MMI/SCADA Software, Industrial Communications, and Customer Education and Support Services. The cata-logue features com-prehensive tutorials, complete with application examples to help readers learn more about using plug-in data acquisition (DAQ) systems, signal conditioning, HS488, PXI modular instru-mentation, serial instrumen-tation, and OPC client and server products. Write IMEX on card.

The Internet Directory of Instrumentation is the world wide Directory of Instrumentation and Control launched by BDI in May 1995.

The Instrumentation Signpost has interesting pointers for the I&C Professional.