MEASUREMENT & MONITORING
INDUSTRY TRENDS
SPIRAX SARCO
“NOW IS THE TIME TO OPTIMISE YOUR CONTROL
SYSTEM’S POTENTIAL” ADVISE STEAM EXPERTS
Process managers could be making
improvements to increase efficiency and
product quality by paying closer attention
to the specification of controls systems used
within their facilities – that’s the current
message from Spirax Sarco’s National
Controls Specialist, Darren Silverthorn.
The latest quarterly Confederation of British
Industry (CBI) Industrial Trends Survey
suggests that output volumes will be
broadly flat in the coming three months
(-2%)1. While it is estimated that average
unit costs will grow (+31%) in that same
period2. As such, Spirax Sarco advocates
reviewing control systems as this is one
area that could have a positive impact
on future budgets. By upskilling staff in
controls systems alongside identifying
improvements in controls systems
technology, manufacturers could reduce
costs and improve efficiencies in the
absence of increased sales.
Over the coming months, Spirax Sarco
will be identifying the key tell-tale signs
of inefficient control systems along with
significant gains process managers can
make to optimise their potential. Ultimately
aiming to mitigate the risk of downtime and
product spoilage, while also aiding process
productivity.
Darren Silverthorn, National Controls
and Metering Specialist explains: “A
lot of the time, early warning signs
related to potential equipment failure
can go unnoticed. Control systems
ultimately enable safety, stability and
accuracy throughout a process. If they
are not maintained appropriately, or are
not specified correctly prior to initial
installation, then any of these things can be
jeopardised.”
Darren continues: “Reducing downtime
and improving productivity must begin
with a more robust specification. When
it comes to control systems and control
valves in particular, quality issues can arise
due to poor specification, either poorly
specified or more commonly due to a lack
of information being provided during the
specification stage.” the day and that operating a steam system
is not always forefront of mind. We are
therefore on a journey to help educate
those responsible for steam systems on
control system strategies that can be put in
place, or simply offer additional expertise
and resource where it may be limited in-
house.”
Darren concludes: “We know our customers’
roles are becoming more demanding by Spirax Sarco’s campaign will cover the full
spectrum of improvements that can be
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PECM Issue 40
implemented within a steam system to help
make the lives of plant managers, process
engineers, production managers and the
like that little bit easier.
For more information on optimising
your control system’s potential, visit:
www.spiraxsarco.com/global/uk/
Products/Pages/control-valves.aspx