There are many types of control systems used in projects
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A control system for a project often includes many systems, sometimes even over 10. Different unit designers and suppliers tend to use DCS systems that are standard for them; even within the same manufacturer, different types of control systems are often used, and even professionals within the owner’s organization are not always in agreement on this matter. Personally, I think it’s better to have uniformity. What do you all think? Sometimes it seems difficult to reach a unified opinion; do anyone have any good suggestions?
It’s definitely best to use a unified brand; for example, if we work with Siemens DCS, the client will request that the PLCs of other individual devices also be from Siemens, so that it’s possible to monitor all parameters easily from the control room using a host computer.
Unified brand. . . Unified communication method
A unified brand is the best option, as it facilitates management and reduces spare parts costs; however, it is difficult to achieve unity due to the control systems of individual devices. Devices such as those for utilities like gas, water, etc., generally have fixed control systems; it is recommended to standardize them as much as possible in the design. The key is to ensure that communication interfaces are properly prepared in advance
Unified branding facilitates the operation, maintenance, and availability of spare parts, as well as improving after-sales service
For the same project, a unified control system brings many benefits, such as issues related to spare parts, maintenance staff shifts, and operational habits； What we are implementing now is: 1. For equipment that can be controlled via DCS, we should use the DCS system for control as much as possible, and make every effort to reduce the use of PLC-based control systems built into the individual units. 2. The company’s internal specialists work together to develop a unified bidding document for the control system; as for which product will be chosen in the end, that is determined based on the evaluation and selection process. 3. For large centrifugal units and similar systems that require specialized control systems, efforts should be made to integrate them into the control systems of mainstream units, as well as to prepare for communication with the DCS.
The owner and the designer should communicate well to ensure consistency in messaging. If you can’t meet the requirements, don’t bid at all; the keys are in the hands of the owner and the designer, and they can give them to whoever they want. . If no thresholds are set by oneself, how can the level of control be demonstrated?
Looking forward to more: 1. Ways to convince leaders who don’t understand much; 2. Different opinions from those with technical knowledge
The unification of control systems not only saves financial, material, and human resources. It also makes it easier for process technicians to operate.
The maintenance and operation should be standardized, but it is also possible that for certain special processes, some DCS systems with dedicated process packages have advantages. Another issue is the matter of interests; the timing of subcontracting for various projects varies, and different leaders are involved, which leads to considerations of their own interests~