July 2019

| FEATURES | www.smartmachinesandfactories.com July 2019 | 15 | systems, there was no OPC UA available of during the original installation. There probably won’t even be an Ethernet interface. But, there are solutions to collect a lot of system data that can be used to improve overall system efficiency. For example, sensors can be connected to the power supply to help ensure efficient energy management. That information, in conjunction with the recording of production machinery start and stop times via decentralised I/O, can provide essential comparative data. Cost-effective sensors and/or camera systems that can register and record pass/fail product data can also be added at different points on the production line. Users can monitor their plants condition by implementing a Smart Condition Monitoring system: here, a vibration sensor is attached to rotating machinery such as fans, gearboxes and motors. It is not necessary to access or change the machine control I t is not uncommon to see plant equipment still working after 30 years. Can these systems be integrated into value chains so that the requirements of modern production can be met? We all prefer production and maintenance decisions to be made based on effective monitoring rather than fixed schedules or guesswork. Certainly, the requirements for digitising such systems are demanding: for most brownfield Today’s plant automation systems provide transparent monitoring of system status, plus tools such as condition monitoring or predictive maintenance – all help to reduce unscheduled downtime. However, what about brownfield installations with legacy equipment? Hartmut Pütz* and Thomas Lantermann** report. Digitalisation and brownfield facilities – can these fit together?