APL in the process industry

Necessary requirements and success factors

Abstract

APL as a physical interface for field devices is about to be introduced. The advantage is the transparency of Ethernet down to the field level and the high speed of data transmission. The first tests with users have already taken place. However, in addition to the physical interface, the essential factors for the success of the future communication medium at the field level will be the functionality, simplicity and user-friendliness of the overall system. The WG 2.6 has published the requirements for this in various position papers and Namur recommendations and discussed them with manufacturers and organisations. Preferred topologies, communications protocols, device integration and future requirements for the use of APL devices in functional safety are considered.