Internet-based Data Transmission for Pipeline Monitoring

Related Vendors

DÜPERTHAL Sicherheitstechnik GmbH & Co. KG

TURCK GmbH

EagleBurgmann Germany GmbH & Co. KG

PHOENIX CONTACT Deutschland GmbH

Flexible Expansion of the Small-scale Controller Used

The PLC used is a modular small-scale controller from the Inline product range from Phoenix Contact, which can be combined with various I/O modules from the Inline set. The respective communication modules are used to integrate the controller into the various fieldbus systems. Data transmission via VPN tunnel by means of the Internet does not influence the PLC selection, since it can be implemented with each Ethernet-compatible controller. PLC and the sensors installed in the field are classically connected via 4…20 mA signal, which is connected to an analog input module of the control module.

Gallery

The field sensors used by the user are located in a potentially explosive zone, which means that their connection via a signal conditioner is subject to Atex approval. The signal conditioners also provide a signal splitter, so that 4…20 mA signals can be forwarded to a secondary system of the user. In this way, existing sensors can assume their originally envisaged monitoring function. In favorable conditions, the user does not need to install any additional sensors and thus saves money.

In the first project phase, the application of the Taiwanese user comprises four field units installed along the pipeline. The fourth unit is already on the site of the fuel depot, where the control room with the Pipe-Patrol server is also located. In the next steps, monitoring is extended to the remaining pipelines. The field units are configured via a web interface, which is why a display is not required, which is sometimes merely used for startup and otherwise does not have any functions. The web interface can be opened on any notebook with a standard web browser. The web server runs on the controller.

In order to be able to perform the on-site installation flexibly and quickly, the field units have been delivered as wired mounting plates. Each unit is fully documented and can be swiftly reproduced at any time. As such, the user has the option to easily extend the system or use the field unit for recording additional measured variables.

The solution as a wired mounting plate, which is ready for use in a housing or control cabinet, is an additional block which simplifies a technology for the user by means of modularity and as a result makes it easier to use.

What is more, the approach implements the aim of the Industrie 4.0 project. Corresponding solutions are specially developed in Vertical Market Management from Phoenix Contact for each industrial sector. A subsidiary of the Phoenix Contact Group is then transferring the concept to complete function units, such as wired mounting plate or fully assembled control cabinets.

* The author is Project Manager, Industry Management Process, Phoenix Contact Electronics GmbH, Bad Pyrmont/Germany.

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