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July
2020
HYDROCARBON
ENGINEERING
66
PUMPS,
VALVES &
SEALS REVIEW
Hydrocarbon Engineering
presents an overview of some of the recent developments
and technologies in pumps, valves and seals for the downstream sector.
AUMA
AUMA has launched its new SIMA² Master Station,
providing high-performance actuator control and
supervision via open fieldbus standards. By optimising
communications between field devices and host system, the
SIMA² Master Station simplifies all aspects of configuring,
controlling and managing valve actuators and other field
devices over the plant’s life cycle. While suitable for any
type or size of petrochemical plant, SIMA² Master Station is
particularly beneficial for extensive sites with large numbers
of actuators, such as tank farms and refineries.
One master station can manage up to 988 actuators in
four independent networks, arranged as loop or line
topologies. Total cable length without external repeaters
can be up to 296 km per network.
SIMA² exclusively uses standardised, proven fieldbus
protocols to ensure high-speed and reliable
communication as well as long-term security of
investment. The system supports Modbus RTU and Modbus
TCP/IP to communicate with the host, linking to the
actuators via either Modbus RTU or Profibus DP. The cycle
times are extremely short, enhancing process efficiency.
Integral Ethernet and OPC UA interfaces facilitate data
exchange, ensuring future-proofing for Industrial Internet of
Things (IIoT) applications.
Multiple redundancy options also maximise plant
availability. Modbus RTU loop topology with built-in
redundancy ensures communication even in the event of
a cable break, for instance, while hot-standby
architecture provides redundancy at system level.
Comprehensive diagnostic functions facilitate
fault-finding and asset management.
Communication parameters can also be easily set,
and fieldbus networks configured, commissioned and
tested, directly from the SIMA² Master Station, thus
speeding up commissioning. During normal plant
operation, SIMA² coordinates all actuator commands
and feedback signals, reducing host communications to
an absolute minimum.
Operating the new master station is intuitive and
convenient, whether using the large integral
multi-touchscreen or an external web browser. The
compact and ergonomic design of the SIMA² Master
Station minimises installation time and cost. Housing
options include 19 in. rack mounting or turnkey
solutions, within a control cabinet or for outdoor
installation.
The SIMA² has been supplied to numerous reference
projects worldwide, where it is proving its performance.
AUMA’s customers are enthusiastic about its ease of use
and its reliable and high-speed communication.