Innovative Solution
Previous practice was to program a new basic function when a new type of entry system was purchased. However, this had the disadvantage that basic functions, phases and screens had to be adapted in the affected units. This regularly meant that the recipes created for the corresponding unit were no longer usable. Because more time was available this time, there was an opportunity to develop and implement a better solution.
As soon as the control box and with it, the CHARM-IO controller (CIOC) are supplied with power, the CIOC logs on to the DeltaV system and takes over control of the powder application system. If the CHARM-IO controller is not connected, all alarms of the affected IO are automatically suppressed. In this way, the solid material input of a reactor is separated: Into a fixed standard discharge chute, which runs under the ceiling up to the reactor (basic functions, phases and images always remain the same), and an exchangeable part above the ceiling, which as an infrastructure assembly fits flexibly for all reactors and all control systems
Also Applicable for Older Control Systems
The infrastructure part is controlled using a recipe from DeltaV. Only two (digital) signals are responsible for communication with the underlying reactor, which are used to query via external referencing whether the solid material valve of the reactor is open (release for feeding) and whether the manual button for closing the solid material valve of the reactor has been pressed (completion of the feeding sequence). These signals can also originate from older control systems, meaning that the new powder feed systems can also be used for older control systems.
In this way, CABB Pratteln saves time and money with every product change and the associated adjustment of the solid material feed system.