Embedding smart sensors in automation – Infrastructure concepts for efficient process control

Abstract

The advantages of continuous monitoring of a process with complex chemical analyzers or tomographic methods for increasing efficiency are shown, using the example of chlorobenzene synthesis. Microsystems technology helps to miniaturize complex analyzers such as flame ionisation detectors or mass spectrometers, which is one of the requirements for their use in field devices. Tomographic methods complement these analyzers with the spatial distribution of process variables. We investigate how the generated data can be harnessed without neglecting safety aspects and the installed base, and what other added values can be obtained for the operator of the plant and potential new stakeholders.