Automated Valve connects to bus network platforms.

Press Release Summary:




On-off valve line, with Valve Communication Terminal (VCT) technology, integrates StoneL(TM) networking to provide connection to bus network platforms, including AS-I, DeviceNet and Foundation Fieldbus. VCTs may be fitted with variety of solid-state switches, sensors, and communication modules suitable for general purpose, intrinsically safe, and hazardous area applications. VCT platforms include SolaR, Eclipse, and Onyx.



Original Press Release:



Metso Automation Standardizes on Networking By StoneL(TM)



SHREWSBURY, MA (September 3, 2002) - Metso Automation has integrated advanced StoneL networking technology with its entire line of automated on-off valves. Networking by StoneL(TM) allows users to select valve products appropriately configured for fast reliable connection to the most popular bus network platforms, including AS-I, DeviceNet and Foundation Fieldbus. Field proven VCT (Valve Communication Terminal) technology will allow users to slash installation and maintenance costs.

Eric Fillion, Marketing Manager at Metso Automation said, "Networking automated valves can reduce valve installation costs by 30% and in some cases even more. As with control valves, predictive maintenance based on monitoring of automated on-off valves over the network can significantly reduce life-cycle ownership costs. Networking by StoneL(TM) encompasses a range of reliable, field-proven products that provide Metso Automation customers a broad range of options for integrating automated valves with the bus-networking platform of their choice. These products are available as options, seamlessly integrated with our valve packages."

At the heart of the integrated networking options are a variety of StoneL VCTs (Valve Communication Terminals) that may be fitted with a wide variety of solid-state switches/sensors and communication modules suitable for general purpose, intrinsically safe and hazardous area applications. VCT platforms available on Metso Automation valves include: SolaR, general purpose; Eclipse for ISO/NAMUR direct mount and certified to CENELEC, FM and CSA standards for nonincendive and intrinsically safe applications; Onyx, nonincendive with integral pneumatics; and Quartz, explosion proof and flame proof certified by FM, CSA and CENELEC. Additional products available include Hawkeye, linear point sensors and Eclipse stand-alone visual indicators.

Fillion said, "Metso Automation is committed to bringing our customers the best available network-capable valve technology so that they can operate their plants with greater safety, improve process and operations performance, and reduce installation and maintenance costs. Networking by StoneL(TM) greatly simplifies network-capable valve selection and insures that Metso Automation customers will benefit from the best valve and valve communications technologies."

For more information, contact Metso Automation, 44 Bowditch Drive, Shrewsbury, MA 01545. Phone: 508-852-0200. Fax: 508-852-8172. www.metsoautomation.com.

Metso Automation (formerly Neles Automation) specializes in automation and information management application networks and systems, and field control solutions serving pulp and paper and energy industries as well as hydrocarbon industries worldwide.

In 2001, Metso Automation's net sales were EUR 693 million. The company employs 4,500 people and has sales and customer support units in 37 countries in Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Metso Automation Inc. is the automation and control technology business area of Metso Corporation of Finland. Metso's other businesses are Metso Paper, Metso Minerals and Metso Ventures.

Metso employs over 30,000 people worldwide. Metso's shares are traded on the Helsinki and New York Stock Exchanges.

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