Demand for improved performance, easier maintenance, and minimised downtime have changed process automation from simple pneumatics to sophisticated smart instrumentation. The increasing complexity of processes and advancement of technologies has seen the further development of smarter, more intelligent real-time instrumentation.
The Rise of Smart Instruments
A smart instrument is that which is used to measure a single process variable of an application. For example, this includes pressure, temperature, level, or flow. While it is a commercial or ‘’off the shelf’’ instrument with generic fixed firmware by the manufacturer, it offers flexibility. As such, users can set its parameters.
Leading the charge for improvements in smart instrumentation is the demand for high-quality, accurate, and instantly assessable data. A data-centric approach not only influences how data is obtained at an instrument level but also how entire systems interact.
Optimising Operations with Data
With data key to optimisation, more efficient and easier means of accessing data resulting in greater understanding of current operations. As such, it also aids with better-informed decision-making. Greater accessibility to information can lead to faster fault-finding and troubleshooting strategies, maximising uptime, and improving an operation’s bottom line.
A drawback of instrument technology has been the inability to effectively process data at volumes which is not readily available. Innovative technologies using Artificial Intelligence (AI) have paved the way for a solution. Manufacturers are now making intelligent instruments and sensors with the flexibility to push data to asset management systems. Also, they can push data to distributed control systems (DCS), and cloud platforms.
In addition, algorithms created through AI, are deciphering data at larger volumes and increasingly fast rates. This provides greater understanding and enables better decisions to increase productivity. Scaling and diagnostics are now within reach for many operations. With information being valuable, smart instruments are increasingly vital in collecting data.
Addressing Concerns: Data Infrastructure and Security
With any period of growth and innovation comes risks and concerns especially as complementary equipment and technology progress. For process automation and smart instruments, data infrastructure and security are a concern. As such, new ways of protecting data from outside attacks or corruption are a priority with operations using external expertise.
Smart and Intelligent instruments while proving to be invaluable for data collection and transfer will continue to advance. In doing so, they illustrate new ways of empowering decision-makers and consequently, optimising plant processes, minimising downtime, and improving profitability.
For more information on this topic, or how our sales team can support your intelligent instrumentation needs, contact us today! www.triplei.com.au/sales/.
About Triple i
Triple i delivers outcomes for all your control, data, electrical, instrument, and mechanical needs with over thirty-five years of experience. We supply a range of technology-based projects, consultancy, maintenance, and support services in the industrial sector. With over seventy-five skilled employees, Triple i provides the best products and services, with integrated solutions designed for clients’ needs.