- ProcessMaster, ABB’s next generation electromagnetic flowmeters, now allow for high-speed transmission of field data in hazardous environments
- The Ethernet-APL-enabled sensors will bring a step-change to the chemical, oil & gas, power as well as water industries by combining precise measurement with fast, secure data access
- ABB’s expanding portfolio of instrumentation with Ethernet-APL connectivity opens new possibilities for digital collection and analysis of process data
ProcessMaster, ABB’s next generation electromagnetic flowmeters, are now available with Ethernet-APL (Advanced Physical Layer) connectivity, allowing for high-speed transmission of field data. By expanding its portfolio of APL-enabled instrumentation, ABB continues to bring the benefits of Ethernet communication to industrial operations.
The new ProcessMaster with Ethernet-APL
Image Credit: ABB
The new ProcessMaster flowmeters offer possibilities for simplified connectivity and high-speed collection and analysis of a wealth of process and diagnostic data in chemical factories, oil & gas operations, power plants, and the water industry. With the ability to measure flow in any process application, the ProcessMaster with Ethernet-APL supports the production process and opens new possibilities for process engineers and plant managers. The new capabilities support real-time decision-making and predictive maintenance based on real-time data, significantly reducing errors and downtime.
Ethernet is the most common communication technology in industrial applications. However, in most process industries its application has remained minimal due to concerns about safety, cost, and limitations on cable length, which has made it difficult to establish communication networks in large industrial facilities. These issues were addressed with the introduction of Ethernet-APL, which was created through the successful cooperation of 12 major industry suppliers of process automation, including ABB, and four international standard organizations.
“Following the successful launch last year of Ethernet-APL-enabled SwirlMaster and VortexMaster, two of our most widely used flowmeters in chemical factories and oil & gas operations, we're now bringing more devices with Ethernet-APL connectivity to the market,” said Krishna Prashanth, Global Product Line Manager, Electromagnetic Flowmeters from ABB’s Measurement & Analytics division. “This is fantastic news for our customers who can expect a leap in measurement performance in our electromagnetic flowmeters through high-speed transmission of field data even in hazardous areas.”
Ethernet-APL offers enhanced data rates of up to 10Mbps, shielded two-wire connection for carrying power and data safely over the same cable, and cable lengths of up to 1,000 meters. Intrinsic safety is also fully integrated, including a profile that limits supply voltage and current to eliminate the risk of sparking, enabling Ethernet-APL to be deployed in hazardous environments.
By providing a high-speed channel for process data as well as configuration and diagnostic information, Ethernet-APL offers a readily scalable solution for connecting devices in the field to a control system. It enables simplified networking with all instruments in the plant as well as opening new opportunities for process optimization by utilizing valuable data that has previously been locked away. The devices have an integrated web server and support various protocols such as Profinet and Modbus TCP.
ABB’s cybersecurity expertise, combined with its internal Minimum Cyber Security Requirements (MCSR) standard for all Ethernet-APL devices, ensure built-in protection for data and systems – enabling secure, real-time operations.?
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com
ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~20,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries outrun – leaner and cleaner. go.abb/processautomation