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May 31, 2007
Crude Gets Smart
“I’ve got to optimize my hydrocarbon distillation train, but in order to know what’s going on in real-time I need a bunch of analyzers. But in my experience analyzers are expensive and hard to maintain in my plant. I guess I’ll have to just bite the bullet and get them anyway.”
If you may be faced with this type of no-win situation there may be a better way out of this fix. Pavel Kataev, Wulf Slobodkin of LUKOIL and Alexei Slavnov and Lou Heavner of Emerson Process Management penned an article in the March issue of InTech magazine titled, Crude Gets Smart. (180KB PDF) They relate their experiences using neural network technology in place of analyzers in a three tower crude distillation unit in the Perm refinery in Russia. The piece discusses setting up the neural models, training them and testing their results along with the watch-outs necessary to make things work as they should.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 31, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 29, 2007
Press Release: Emerson's DeltaV™ controller and firewall achieve Achilles Level 1 cyber-security certification
DeltaV system, a key PlantWeb® component, is recognized for robustness against cyber threats
AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 29, 2007) - Emerson Process Management today announced that its DeltaV™ controller and firewall have passed Achilles Level 1 Certification Testing designed to assess the overall security of automation controllers. The DeltaV certification passed over 20 million tests to achieve Level 1 certification. The DeltaV digital system is a key component of Emerson's PlantWeb® digital plant architecture, a global leader in automation of process manufacturing facilities.
"This is another step in our on-going effort to provide a highly secure control network that began when the DeltaV system was first developed," said Duncan Schleiss, vice president of marketing, Process Systems and Solutions, for Emerson Process Management. "Starting from the initial release, the DeltaV system has provided such security features as anti-virus protection and role-based user security, and is architected as a private network to keep the control system separate from any non-control networks. The use of DeltaV firewalls provides a plug-and-play security solution for DeltaV systems to deploy recently tested security solutions."
The Achilles Certification Program was developed by Wurldtech Labs and its partners to provide a benchmark for certification of secure industrial controllers. The program is designed to assess the overall security of industrial controllers and provide the most complete, accurate and trustworthy information possible on their security. Level 1 certification focuses on layers 2 to 4 and the implementation of common protocols such as Ethernet, ARP, IP, ICMP and UPD.
The challenge in testing automation controllers lies in a lack of detailed information available to vendors about the protocol stacks they are using, especially when used in conjunction with their own proprietary protocols. Achilles certification overcomes this problem by combining mathematically rigorous test-packet generation and stateful recognition with highly advanced black box monitoring techniques. Complex sequences of test packages generated automatically enable precise trace identification for any points of concern to discover both known and unknown errors and vulnerabilities.
"Automation engineers can have a higher degree of comfort knowing that DeltaV controllers have passed an accepted set of test suites and test parameters," said Bob Huba, senior product manager for Emerson Process Management. "Controllers with Level 1 certification have demonstrated the robustness to survive network cyber attacks. One real benefit of passing these rigorous tests is to provide users with the ability to better plan the installation of security updates and new anti-virus signatures. Knowing that the controllers can survive a possible security incident provides an opportunity to schedule these patching tasks around process activities rather than always immediately deploying the updates."
The DeltaV system (www.EasyDeltaV.com) combines the rings of protection, in which an intruder must get past successive layers of protection devices, with defense in depth, consisting of protections enabled within the security rings. The DeltaV network sits at the center of protection layers that provide as much system isolation as possible from attacks originating in the plant LAN network space. The basic security strategy for any automation system is to manage user and network access to the system to protect the controller from attack.
About Wurldtech
Wurldtech Security Technologies (www.wurldtech.com), headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Canada, is the leading provider of security solutions to SCADA, process control and mission-critical industries. Founded in 2006 based on research conducted at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), Wurldtech is committed to delivering breakthrough products and services that help protect global critical infrastructure and address the security needs of major industrial organizations and government agencies worldwide.
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the chemical, oil and gas, refining, pulp and paper, power, water and wastewater treatment, food and beverage, life science, and other industries. The company combines superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Its brands include PlantWeb®, DeltaV™, Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount®, Mobrey®, Bristol®, Daniel®, Ovation®, and AMS™ Suite.
About Emerson
Emerson (NYSE: EMR), based in St. Louis, is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers through its network power, process management, industrial automation, climate technologies, and appliance and tools businesses. Sales in fiscal 2006 were $20.1 billion. For more information, visit www.GoToEmerson.com.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 29, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 25, 2007
DeltaV Connect™ for Honeywell® Systems v1.2 Product Data Sheet Update
DeltaV Connect™ for Honeywell Systems provides a pathway for Honeywell® TotalPlant® Solution (TPS) systems to easily transition to a PlantWeb® digital architecture with the DeltaV™ system. (1,393KB PDF)
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 25, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 24, 2007
Press Release: Emerson chosen to digitally automate North West Upgrading's $2.6 billion dollar oil sands project
PlantWeb® digital technology with DeltaV™ systems to automate upgrading of oil sands bitumen to value-added products
AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 24, 2007) - Emerson Process Management, a business of Emerson (NYSE:EMR), announced today that it has been awarded a contract to digitally automate an oil sands bitumen upgrader facility to be constructed by North West Upgrading 28 miles northeast of Edmonton, Alberta in the Industrial Heartland area of Sturgeon County.
The upgrader will process bitumen, a molasses-like viscous oil, into light, low sulphur products such as diluents and ultra low sulphur diesel as well as other products that can be used by refineries to produce gasoline. Under the contract, Emerson will provide digital automation services, and install its PlantWeb digital architecture that networks intelligent digital technology throughout processing facilities.
The $2.6 billion North West Upgrader project will be constructed in three phases. The facility built in the first phase, with construction to begin in late 2007, will process 77,000 barrels of bitumen blend per day and is expected to be operational in 2010. When the entire facility is completed in 2015, the upgrader will have a total processing capacity of 231,000 barrels per day. The bitumen, blended with a light liquid condensate, will be transported to the upgrader via pipelines from the oil sands region of northern Alberta.
Canadian oil sands - with reserves that are second only to Saudi Arabia's oil reserves - are expected to be a key resource in meeting the world's petroleum demand for the next century.
"Emerson is widely recognized as today's leader with respect to process instruments and automation systems," said Robert Pearce, president of North West Upgrading. "We expect to benefit greatly from their experience in applying these technologies to the processing of bitumen, integrating the engineering phase of the project, and bringing state-of-the-art efficiency to the operation of our upgrader."
Finding ways to reduce the high cost of both construction and oil sands processing is a key objective of project planners, according to Mr. Pearce. "By standardizing on Emerson's PlantWeb technology, we expect to achieve a consistent and durable process. This technology will be an important factor in reducing costs while supporting plant reliability and productivity."
North West is relying on Emerson to supply the full scope of automation products and services through its local business partner Spartan Controls Ltd. and Emerson's Hydrocarbon and Energy Industry Center in Calgary. This team is currently developing plant-wide automation standards to ensure that individual process units integrate smoothly into the overall upgrading process.
Emerson will supply engineering and project management throughout the three phases of construction, hands-on commissioning of automation products and systems, and ongoing service support. Efficiencies of PlantWeb technology will contribute further to lower capital costs for construction.
"We are pleased with the opportunity to work closely with North West Upgrading and their project management and EPC contractors and to deploy our industry-leading PlantWeb technology," said John Berra, president of Emerson Process Management. "We are committed to helping North West succeed with timely engineering and development assistance in the project phase to achieve ongoing operational excellence while controlling costs."
About North West Upgrading
North West Upgrading Inc. is a Calgary-based, privately owned company committed to building an independent heavy oil upgrader in Alberta's Industrial Heartland. The upgrader will enhance the economic value of Alberta's bitumen and heavy oil production by producing light, low-sulphur products and diluent. The upgrader will have a total processing capability of 231,000 barrels per day of blended feedstock (150,000 barrels per day of crude bitumen) over three phases. North West anticipates it will receive regulatory approval by fall 2007, with construction to begin immediately allowing for start up for the first phase in 2010. All three phases are expected to be operating by 2015. For more information, visit www.northwestupgrading.com.
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the chemical, oil and gas, refining, pulp and paper, power, water and wastewater treatment, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other industries. The company combines superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Its brands include PlantWeb®, DeltaV®, Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount®, Mobrey®, Bristol®, Daniel®, Ovation®, and AMS™ Suite.
About Emerson
Emerson (NYSE:EMR), based in St. Louis, is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers through its network power, process management, industrial automation, climate technologies, and appliance and tools businesses. Sales in fiscal 2006 were $20.1 billion. For more information, visit www.GoToEmerson.com.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 24, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 22, 2007
Fieldbus and DeltaV: Machinery Health Example Video Demo
A video demonstration showing how the DeltaV system uses smart field device information to avoid abnormal situations caused by equipment issues. (2:43 minutes)
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 22, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 21, 2007
Rosemount 3051 rev 23 Fieldbus Device Files
Rosemount 3051 rev 23 has passed the rigorous testing of the DeltaV interoperability labs and the Fieldbus Device Files for use with the DeltaV system are now available in the Fieldbus Device Downloads utility.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 21, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 20, 2007
Fieldbus and DeltaV: Instrument Air Leak Example Video Demo
A video demonstration showing how information from smart field devices combined with the DeltaV system’s control strategies helps avoid process upset conditions. (4:51 minutes)
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 20, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 19, 2007
Yokogawa Electric PH202-F Rev 3 Fieldbus Device Files
In Emerson's continuing commitment to open and interoperable standards, the Yokogawa Electric PH202-F Rev 3 has passed the rigorous and comprehensive testing of the DeltaV Stress Test labs. Using the DeltaV system's Foundation Fieldbus Device Downloads utility, these fieldbus device files are now available for use.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 19, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 18, 2007
Fieldbus and DeltaV: Advanced Control Field Device Failure Video Demo
A video demonstration showing how DeltaV system control strategies can incorporate information from smart field devices to ensure uninterrupted operations. (2:47 minutes)
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 18, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 17, 2007
Duncan@Play Slideshow: Duncan in New York
Jun Baldonado spends time with our fun-loving spokesnonperson and shares the memories in the Duncan in New York slideshow.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 17, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 16, 2007
DeltaV Controller Certified by Wurldtech's Achilles Controller Certification Program
The DeltaV controller is included in the first group of controllers certified by Wurldtech's Achilles Controller Certification. Check out the details on Jim Cahill's Emerson Process Experts blog.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 16, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
Press Release: Emerson Earns 2007 Frost & Sullivan Company of the Year Award for Industrial Automation and Process Control
From Frost & Sullivan: Global customer value cited as Emerson honored for fourth consecutive year
PALO ALTO, CALIF (May 15, 2007) - For the fourth year in a row, Frost & Sullivan has selected Emerson Process Management, an Emerson business (NYSE: EMR), as Company of the Year for industrial automation and process control. The 2007 Company of the Year Award recognizes Emerson for continuously providing services and innovations that help its customers worldwide drive their performance to new heights in an increasingly challenging marketplace.
Frost & Sullivan presents the award annually after conducting interviews with all market participants, customers, and suppliers, and after performing extensive secondary and technology research. Criteria including the number of new customers, new segments, commitment to business expansion and market growth are considered, as well. The recipient is chosen for exhibiting exceptional customer service, management, consistent growth, and for having positive social and economic impact on local and national communities and customers.
"Emerson has always been on the forefront of technological innovation, most recently illustrated by the company's introduction of its revolutionary Smart Wireless automation solutions," said Frost & Sullivan Industry Manager Kishan M Bhat. "These field-proven solutions extend the predictive capabilities of PlantWeb® digital architecture to improve plant availability and performance, delivering new data to users that previously were physically and economically out of reach."
Access to more data expands the power of local and mobile operators and plant personnel to improve predictive operations and boost plant availability and performance. Emerson's Smart Wireless solutions have demonstrated in field trials and initial deployment extreme reliability and up to 90 percent reduction in installed cost when compared to wired networks.
Emerson's proven solutions are powering robust growth for the company, which saw a 16 percent rise in fiscal 2006 worldwide sales.
"We are honored to receive this recognition from Frost & Sullivan for the fourth consecutive year," commented John Berra, president of Emerson Process Management. "Certainly we owe this success to our close automation partnerships with customers who are building and modernizing facilities around the world to meet the ever-growing resource, energy, and production demands in safe and environmentally friendly ways."
Emerson has further driven growth by addressing the needs of the emerging economies of Asia, providing management solutions for ten new coal-fired power plants in China and upgrades to existing installations at a cogeneration plant in Russia. The company has been selected as automation supplier for LNG facilities in Qatar, a refining and ethylene complex in Asia, and has also been instrumental in the development of new power and pulping projects and upgrades of existing power, refining, and chemical facilities in China, Eastern Europe, South America, and North America.
"The global footprint of the company and its outstanding engineering capability coupled with a sound business process empowers Emerson to deliver the same benefits at all customer locations," Bhat said. "Emerson's ability to manage projects at multiple locations gives customers a powerful incentive to partner with the company repeatedly, which has increased its business volume."
About Frost & Sullivan
Frost & Sullivan, a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services, and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community by providing comprehensive industry coverage that reflects a unique global perspective and combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics. For more information, visit www.awards.frost.com.
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the chemical, oil and gas, refining, pulp and paper, power, water and wastewater treatment, food and beverage, life science, and other industries. The company combines superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Its brands include PlantWeb®, DeltaV™, Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount®, Mobrey®, Bristol®, Daniel®, Ovation®, and AMS™ Suite.
About Emerson
Emerson (NYSE: EMR), based in St. Louis, is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers through its network power, process management, industrial automation, climate technologies, and appliance and tools businesses. Sales in fiscal 2006 were $20.1 billion. For more information, visit www.GoToEmerson.com.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 16, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 14, 2007
Endress+Hauser GmbH Levelflex M Rev 4 Fieldbus Device Files
In Emerson's continuing commitment to open and interoperable standards, the Endress+Hauser GmbH Levelflex M Rev 4 has passed the rigorous and comprehensive testing of the DeltaV Stress Test labs. Using the DeltaV system's Foundation Fieldbus Device Downloads utility, these fieldbus device files are now available for use.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 14, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 10, 2007
Endress+Hauser GmbH Micropilot M Rev 4 Fieldbus Device Files
In Emerson's continuing commitment to open and interoperable standards, the Endress+Hauser GmbH Micropilot M Rev 4 has passed the rigorous and comprehensive testing of the DeltaV Stress Test labs. Using the DeltaV system's Foundation Fieldbus Device Downloads utility, these fieldbus device files are now available for use.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 10, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 9, 2007
Come Together
“Sure our automation system is connected to the plant LAN. We have to get information out to our business systems efficiently. I don’t have to worry about security issues; however, the IT guys have me covered.”
Hopefully you are more aware of the risks of the increased linkages between business and automation systems than the fellow just quoted. A recently published article in Industrial Networking magazine, Come Together, (1.4MB PDF) shows some of the real-world issues that arise when automation systems integrate on other networks and how to deal with them. Emerson’s Bob Huba lists a case where a chemical plant outsourced its IT management internationally only to find that their controllers couldn’t talk to their human machine interfaces due to the remote disabling of a firewall. In that case misconfigured switches slowed automation communications and it took a week to get IT to release the necessary passwords and permissions to remedy the problem.
The article is a good reference for process automation professionals that have systems connected to plant LANs.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 9, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 7, 2007
Application Enrichment Services Data Sheet Update
Application Enrichment Services provide a convenient flexible consultation service to assist you with planning and implementation of DeltaV application configurations, network design, system interfaces and more. (84KB PDF)
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 7, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 3, 2007
pH Control Solutions Web Seminar
Join Greg McMillan on Wednesday, May 16, 2007 for the ISA Web Seminar pH Control Solutions. The seminar is from 2 - 3:30pm (Eastern) and covers the root causes of poor performance in pH control systems.
The source of problems can originate in the process, piping, equipment, electrode, valve, or controller. Basic principals and key concepts are developed to provide an understanding of the basic nature of the challenges and options. The plant and control system design is analyzed to get the most cost effective solution.
ISA Member Cost is $195 USD. Non-Members $225 USD.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 3, 2007 | TrackBack (0)
May 2, 2007
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Control Room
Greg McMillan's A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Control Room is now available as an ebook.
Posted by Emerson's EasyDeltaV.com on May 2, 2007 | TrackBack (0)