Intelligent Actuator works with automated on/off valves.
Press Release Summary:
Modular FieldQ incorporates Intelligent Position Tracking technology for final control applications using on/off and modulating valves. It delivers predictive, diagnostic data to enterprise about operating performance and health of device. Actuator break time, travel time, and cycle counter are also reported. FieldQ is compatible with several standard communications protocols, including AS-i bus, Profibus DP, and FOUNDATION(TM) fieldbus.
Original Press Release:
Emerson Introduces FieldQ, the First Intelligent Actuator Series for Automated On/Off and Modulating Valves
Revolutionary design improves reliability, while predictive diagnostics enable tighter process control and asset health management
MAASTRICHT, THE NETHERLANDS. (November 22, 2002) -- Expanding the key role of final control in powering its PlantWeb(R) digital plant architecture, Emerson Process Management announced today the European introduction of the FieldQ intelligent actuator series for on/off and modulating valves. Incorporating patented Intelligent Position Tracking (IPT) technology, FieldQ delivers cost-effective, reliable intelligence in final control
applications using on/off and modulating valves, dramatically improving both process operations and device health management. FieldQ availability for North America and other world markets is scheduled for Spring 2003.
FieldQ's intelligence delivers predictive, diagnostic data to the enterprise about both the operating performance and health of the device itself. Actuator break time, travel time and cycle counter as well as electronics health are reported. Not only does this allow operators tighter control, it also enables predictive maintenance where devices are serviced only as needed. Additionally, operations and maintenance personnel receive advance notice of any degradation so preventative action can be taken.
The FieldQ's modular design dramatically reduces, if not eliminates, equipment failures of other mainstream actuators by housing historically vulnerable control components in the robust FieldQ housing construction. Solenoids, switch boxes and coils are safely protected from corrosion, the number one cause of failure for most rack and pinion actuators. These components are integrated with a breather and speed controller, meaning that
separate installation of the components is not required. "Plug and play" controls design allows for changes to be made easily and quickly should they be required. Further, push button automatic initialization saves time at the installation and commissioning stage which can help to reduce labor costs as well as potentially enable quicker start up.
Communications flexibility is also a key benefit of Emerson's FieldQ actuator. The device is currently compatible with several standard communications protocols, including AS-i bus, Profibus DP, and of course, FOUNDATION(TM) fieldbus, making the FieldQ a critical component of Emerson's PlantWeb digital plant architecture. A DeviceNet version is also planned for later release. Inventory and spares costs are minimized since the replacement of a plug in the functional module of the FieldQ actuator facilitates the easy change from one communications protocol to another.
In addition to maintenance savings, FieldQ can reduce installed costs by as much as 15 percent. Conventional actuators tend to have non-integrated automation accessories, and often need additional mounting brackets, external piping and cabling as well as lengthy assembly times, and require complex interoperability testing. FieldQ offers all these functions in an intelligent and easy-to-use single package with modular, integrated controls consisting of a pneumatic control module and, for the initial FieldQ product, an on/off module. A FieldQ unit that provides a modulating positioner function will be available late 2003.
The actuator has been built on proven technology and is designed for superior and safe performance over time; there are in excess of 2 million units with the basic construction installed worldwide, attesting to its popularity and reliability. Performance of the FieldQ is expected to exceed 1 million open/close cycles.
"The FieldQ is of significant importance to our industry," said Ram Krishnan, VP Marketing & Business Development Valve Automation division of Emerson. "I strongly believe that the innovative nature of the easy to use digital communications and diagnostic information, packaged into a complete compact solution, will open many opportunities for our customers. The FieldQ truly expands the reach of bus systems into the valve automation arena and will deliver unprecedented value in such applications."
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the chemical, oil and gas, refining, pulp and paper, power, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other industries. The Valve Automation division of Emerson Process Management is a world leader in pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, and gas-hydraulic valve automation products and services. It consolidates a vast array of valve automation products and services, bringing together well-known industry leaders Bettis actuators and controls, El-O-Matic International, Hytork International, Shafer Valve Operating Systems, and Dantorque. Its best-in-class technology and expertise play a key role in Emerson's combining of superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Emerson brands include: PlantWeb(R); Dantorque(R); EL-O-Matic(R); Hytork(R); Bettis(R); Shafer(R); Daniel(R); Fisher(R); Micro Motion(R) Rosemount(R); DeltaV(TM); AMS; and Ovation(TM).
About Emerson
Emerson (www.gotoemerson.com) is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers in process control, electronics and telecommunications, industrial automation, heating, ventilating and air conditioning, and appliances and tools. Sales in fiscal 2001 were $15.5 billion.
PlantWeb, Dantorque, EL-O-Matic, Hytork, Bettis, Shafer, Daniel, Fisher, Micro Motion, Rosemount, DeltaV, and Ovation are marks of Emerson Process Management. FOUNDATION is a mark of the Fieldbus Foundation. Other marks are property of their respective owners.
Contact:
Dan Wisenbaker, Valve Automation Division of Emerson Process Management
1 (281) 463-5122, Dan.Wisenbaker@EmersonProcess.com
Jerry Moon, Emerson Process Management
1 (512) 832-3089, Jerry.Moon@EmersonProcess.com
http://www.emersonprocess.com/home/news/
