Taking Responsibility for Safety and Security

The term 'security' alone causes a media storm – one glance at newspapers and online news sites is all it takes and everyone is in the thick of the discussion around cyber security. Automation and communication technology are not spared from this. This can sometimes create the impression that issues surrounding IT security are a new phenomenon. The experts of PI have concerned themselves for many years with the issue of secure operation of communication technology components, which by nature have always been tightly networked. Also new to the discussion is that the areas of safety and security are moving closer together.

Wireless Safety along the Ride Flight Path with PROFIsafe

Flying machines built according to plans devised by Leonardo da Vinci centuries ago are one of the latest attractions in Germany's largest amusement park, Europa-Park, in Rust outside of Freiburg. Industrial automation technology with wireless and fail-safe Industrial Wireless Local Area Network (IWLAN) and PROFINET communication provides the required safety for the rail-guided "sightseeing flight." Da Vinci would be impressed!

Easy PROFIsafe integration for Fortress Interlocks

UK-based Fortress Interlocks manufactures premium safety interlock systems for industrial applications. These interlocks are used to help prevent a machine from harming its operator or damaging itself. The interlocks stop the machine whenever certain states occur such as the opening of a door or the push of a button.

A Pair of PROFIBUS Application Papers

Snijders Intelligent Automation designs and manufactures electrical panels for many industrial and commercial sectors, including maritime. The Barwon Water biosolids drying facility is a fully enclosed thermal drying operation in Australia. Both are using PROFIBUS to maximize transparency and uptime. (more…)

Application Story: PROFINET empowers IIoT Deployment

When you think about how to keep grain operations running smoothly with zero downtime and no undetected safety hazards or unnecessary operating costs, the Internet of Things is probably not the first answer that comes to mind. (more…)

20 Years of PROFIBUS for Silicon Manufacturing

Solland Silicon in Meran, Italy, is one of the leading companies in silicon manufacturing for the photovoltaic industry. The factory in Meran, Italy, belongs to the PUFIN Power Group and is a chemical manufacturing operation. They have used PROFIBUS since the 1990’s and now use PROFINET as well.

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Application Story: Fortescue Metals

Development of Fortescue Metals Group’s (FMG) 60mtpa (Million Tons Per Annum) Solomon Iron Ore Project in Western Australia’s Pilbara was completed in just over two years – including the construction of two new mines, primary and secondary crushers, two ore processing facilities, PROFINET & PROFIBUS control networks, 15km of overland conveyors, rail, and other infrastructure. (more…)