Digitization in the process industry

The development of converting information into a digital format, for use by electronic devices, impacts our daily lives, as well as our work.

Like in the process industry, where digitization is essential. Innovations such as smart instruments - for example, advanced sensors, transmitters and actuators - are constantly improving. These instruments not only measure parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow and level, but also other parameters and communicate this data, directly via digital signals to control and management systems. Digitalization also enables the acquisition of comprehensive diagnostic data and predictive maintenance. Measuring instruments can perform self-diagnostics, identify trends and detect deviations, which contributes to process optimization and increased process reliability.

Modern process instruments support various digital communication protocols, such as HART, Modbus, Profibus Foundation Fieldbus, Ethernet/IP Ethernet APL, enabling efficient and secure data transfer. This is important for real-time monitoring, control and advanced data analysis. Real-time monitoring allows operators to react immediately to deviations, which improves the safety and efficiency of industrial processes and helps minimize breakdowns.

Digitalization also enhances compliance with safety and environmental standards by providing accurate monitoring and reporting of process parameters.

In a nutshell, digitization promotes efficiency and safety in the process industry by applying advanced measurement and control solutions. It also has a positive impact on sustainability by optimizing energy and raw material consumption, reducing waste and emissions, and promoting the circular economy.

KROHNE has been applying digitalization in its instrumentation for many years, resulting in advanced and reliable measurement solutions. Examples include:

Ultrasonic flowmeter OPTISONIC 4400: This flowmeter uses two measuring paths and is designed for application in both extremely hot and cold process conditions. This makes the meter very suitable for challenging industrial applications where accuracy and durability are important. Read more

MFC 400 transmitter for Coriolis Mass Flow Meters: This transmitter provides extensive diagnostic capabilities according to NAMUR standard NE 107, which is essential for status and error handling. The system not only enables self-diagnostics of the internal circuits, but also provides valuable information on flow sensor health and process conditions. This contributes to predictive maintenance and process optimization. Read more

Focus-1 Smart meter valve: This innovative control valve integrates flow, pressure and temperature measurement technology into one device, making process control easier and more efficient. The integrated approach enables real-time monitoring and adjustment, leading to improved process performance and increased operational efficiency. Read more

With the availability of this digital data, the question arises: what do we do with it?