Aligning Predictive Upkeep with Security Instrumented Programs

Within the industrial automation sector, a wide range of software program applied sciences exist to deal with practically each facet of operations. Generally, nevertheless, these programs can come into battle. Take into account the case of predictive upkeep programs and security instrumented programs.

Predictive upkeep (PM) programs monitor equipment and different gear in real-time to establish potential failure factors earlier than they develop into actual failures. Typical PM programs make use of various sensors to trace vital parameters akin to equipment put on and tear, temperature adjustments, vibration and shock, strain and fluid ranges. This allows technicians to carry out proactive upkeep to reduce and, in some circumstances, remove downtimes and preserve effectivity. 

Different options of PM programs embrace integration by way of Industrial Web of Issues (IIoT), which allows distant monitoring and management. With this functionality, PM programs can incorporate cloud-based synthetic intelligence (AI) to gather, analyze and course of huge volumes of information in real-time to assist producers enhance productiveness and prolong asset lifespans.

Security instrumented programs (SIS) actively shield personnel from harm, in addition to gear from injury. Historically, a SIS consists of {hardware} and software program controls able to shutting down a manufacturing unit operation or operations when the SIS detects a hazardous situation. Relying on their SIL degree, some SIS varieties embrace emergency shutdown programs, ventilating programs that divert hazardous gases to forestall explosions and poisonous environments, and interlock programs that stop processes from resuming operation till upkeep personnel can right the fault.

Points with useful overlaps

To make sure compliance with security requirements, akin to security integrity degree (SIL) requirements SIL2/SIL3, IEC 61508 for useful security and IEC 61511 for security instrumented programs, a SIS will proceed to function accurately though a system fault and/or shutdown happens.