SMART INSTRUMENTS
Smart instruments in the process industry
Smart instruments have significantly impacted the process industry , with automation as a key driver . However , their full potential remains untapped . This article explores the unrealised value of smart instruments , focusing on their role in wireless transmission , precise control , fast response , reduced carbon footprint and safety in design .
By V Murugappan , Instrumentation Engineer , Dow Chemical International Pvt Ltd .
The evolution of smart technology has relegated older instruments to the “ non-smart ” category , each with its own advantages and disadvantages . Previously , local closed loop instruments such as sensors , pneumatic controllers and final control elements operated in isolation without distributed control system ( DCS ) intervention . While DCS offers numerous advantages over conventional methods , smart technology presents both opportunities and challenges in plant automation .
Current state of smart instruments
Smart instruments generally provide more data , enabling preventive maintenance and remote management . Diagnostic features allow for performance comparison over time , determining instrument deterioration and its impact on plant operations . Despite these advancements , the full integration of wireless technology and artificial intelligence in plant automation remains a work in progress .
Advantages and challenges
Smart instruments offer several benefits , including preventive maintenance capabilities ,
improved diagnostics and enhanced efficiency . However , they also present challenges . More advanced improvements can be difficult to secure and may rely more heavily on technical results rather than practical possibilities . This has led to a continued reliance on redundant systems and independent plant reporting structures .
Impact on plant lifespan
Interestingly , while smart technology has increased in value , it has paradoxically reduced expected plant life . Older equipment often ran for over 30 years , whereas new projects typically aim for a 20-year lifespan at maximum . This shift raises questions about long-term sustainability and the true cost of technological advancement .
Safety and environmental considerations
Smart technology in plants still requires human interface , which can lead to injuries . The industry needs to move towards more automated construction processes to achieve near-100 % efficiency and negligible carbon footprint . Additionally , smart instruments should focus more on pollution control
56 Valve World November 2024 www . valve-world . net