DeltaV feature pack aims to shorten migration path

Emerson has expanded the DeltaV Automation Platform with the DeltaV Version 15 Feature Pack 2 update for its distributed control system (DCS). The company said the feature pack helps users to easily transition to a DeltaV DCS from more third-party control systems, expands support for data-rich Ethernet device networks and reduces the complexity of state-based control implementations.

“DeltaV Version 15 Feature Pack 2 provides users new functionality, capabilities and enhancements to further expand seamless data and I/O integration as well as applications to more easily modernise their operations, improve connectivity and collaboration, and lock in operational excellence,” said Claudio Fayad, vice president of technology for Emerson’s process systems and solutions business. “Today’s plants need to reap the benefits of modern, digital technologies that optimise operations and improve sustainability. However, one of the most common barriers to control system modernisation is the high cost and labour requirements of transitioning I/O.”

DeltaV IO.Connect, which lets users replace legacy control systems with DeltaV software and controllers while leaving legacy I/O infrastructure in place, now supports multiple third-party control systems. Emerson has done this to make it easier for plants to transition to a DeltaV control system from the most common third-party systems and transition their I/O infrastructure gradually, on their own schedule, to minimise downtime and risks.

With this latest release, the DeltaV control system has increased the types of data as well as the diagnostic capabilities of the wide range of supported Ethernet-based communication protocols including Profinet, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA and Modbus TCP. These enhancements allow DeltaV automation to exchange an increasing volume and variety of data from various field device networks.

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