|
|
|
|
|
22/07/2009
 Email to a friend
 Comment on this article
|
Schneider Electric has upgraded the programmable logic controllers and software which control the ion exchange effluent plant at the Sellafield facility.
The ion exchange effluent plant features a waste matter process that removes radioactivity from a number of outlets across the site and is critical to the facility's operations. Waste material, which generates heat, is kept in ponds and these need to be chilled to keep temperature constant.
 As the original provider, Schneider was called in to manage the upgrade project. Phil Woods, services and support manager for Schneider Electric, said: "The system was previously controlled by five Modicon 684 PLCs, which were installed when the plant was built. One of the biggest issues was the requirement to create software that closely resembled the original version so that it was familiar to Sellafield's process engineering team. This was necessary to ensure minimum disruption to the plant and reduce the need for radical retraining. At the same time, we had to implement programs that are compatible with IEC61131-3 open control system standards, bringing it in-line with modern regulations."
To meet the requirements, five Modicon Quantum PLCs were installed, each fitted with Cablefast 'plug and play'. Woods continued: "Essentially the five Quantum PLCs are arranged as two pairs that perform identical functions and the fifth as an individual unit, carrying out different functions from the others. One pair of PLCs is in use at any time and while this is not a truly dual redundant system, the operator can switch between the two pairs of PLCs."
|
|
| |
Author
Graham Pitcher
|
| |
| |
|
| |
This material is protected by Findlay Media copyright 2012.
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.
|
| |
|
|
| |
To comment on news stories or blogs you need to complete our 60 second registration
process. Once completed this then allows you to download any and all white papers,
register for e-zines and access our detailed supplier directory for FREE.
If you are all ready a registered user then enter your e-mail address and login.
You will need to have logged in prior to entering your comments in the boxes provided.
|