Emerson Introduces Advanced Redundant Control System (ARCS) for Increased Operational Certainty in Emergency Shut Down Situations

January 20, 2021

Emerson has recently released its ASCO 141 Series Advanced Redundant Control System (ARCS) to provide a redundant solution for a variety of emergency shutdown valve applications, such as those found in the chemical, power, oil and gas industries. Available globally, it includes various redundant solenoid configurations to enhance the reliability of the process and meet specific safety or reliability requirements in automation processes. The single inlet/single outlet design provides a streamlined installation process compared to traditional bypass systems, while almost eliminating potential failure points.

The ASCO 141 series ARCS is designed for use as a component in safety instrumented systems. Utilizing 1oo2, 2oo2 or 2oo3 voting solenoids to enhance the reliability of the circuit, it functions as a redundant pneumatics tripping device to control the pilot air signal to a process valve actuator. The ARCS features either two or four electrically actuated solenoid valves, visual indicators and a manually controlled bypass or isolation valve. The unique control functionality allows for maintenance of the solenoid valves without having to shut down the process valve. In fact, the use of the maintenance bypass or isolation valve is not required for functional testing of the ARCS unit — a downtime-reducing feature not possible with common bypass functions.

“By addressing the concerns common with typical bypass systems — particularly those in critical or emergency shutdown applications — our ASCO 141 series ARCS provides a reliable, time-saving alternative,” said vice president of global marketing for Emerson’s industrial automation business, Erik VanLaningham. “Although the use of a common bypass is a typical solution, the end-user doesn’t know if they’ll be able to shut down on demand in the event of an emergency because their redundant system is in bypass mode. This is where our unique ARCS value proposition comes in. The ARCS individual valve isolation option provides increased safety and operational availability during online maintenance to help customers achieve their required SIL rating.”

With just a single part number, the ASCO 141 series ARCS features several advances that simplify specification, installation and operation. Supplied as a fully integrated, comprehensive solution using a manifold instead of individual valves, ARCS comes pre-tested from the factory and ready to install. The direct valve-to-valve design eliminates pipework and fittings between the solenoid valves and minimizes leak points for increased reliability and a lower total cost of ownership. A status indicator with feedback helps facilitate preventive maintenance while providing online fault detection. It provides digital input feedback (via pressure switches or Emerson-exclusive GO Switch options) to the control room. And for additional peace of mind, the ASCO 327 series 3/2-way direct acting solenoid valves included on the ARCS manifold are certified to SIL 3 capable (exida) standards.

A direct-acting platform with advanced diagnostic capability and online maintenance features, ARCS is suitable for a wide variety of valve piloting applications to meet both safety and operational availability requirements.

Source

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • How the NX102 Controller Streamlines Machine Automation with EtherCAT and CIP Safety

    November 12, 2024 In today’s manufacturing landscape, the complexity of machine control systems often leads to increased costs, extended implementation times, and challenging maintenance requirements. Omron’s NX102 Machine Automation Controller addresses these challenges head-on by seamlessly integrating EtherCAT motion control and CIP Safety functionality into a single, powerful platform. Simplified Network Architecture Through Integration The NX102 controller… Read More…

  • 3 Things Manufacturers Should Know About Industry 5.0

    November 12, 2024 While many manufacturers are still embracing the principles of Industry 4.0, the next evolution, Industry 5.0, is already beginning to take shape. Unlike Industry 4.0, which was a giant leap forward in automation and digitalization, Industry 5.0 represents a reconsideration of how smart technology platforms can work alongside humans. This includes technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Industrial… Read More…


Featured Article

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and logistics industries, the need for efficient and flexible material movement solutions has never been greater. Traditional methods like conveyor systems, forklifts, and manual pushcarts have served us well, but they come with limitations.

That’s why Omron is thrilled to announce the launch of their game-changing MD Series of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Read more


Products

  • FLO Confirms FLO Station Eligibility for ZEVIP Funding in 2024

    November 21, 2024 FLO confirms that all FLO commercial charging stations remain eligible for ZEVIP funding under this new federal directive Canada recently announced trade measures impacting vehicles from China and limiting eligibility under the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP) to electric vehicle (EV) charging products manufactured in countries that have negotiated free… Read More…

  • Omron’s D40A-2 Non-Contact Interlock Door Switch

    November 21, 2024 Next-generation, non-contact safety interlock switch for most common safety applications. The D40A-2 Non-Contact Safety Door Switch is designed to enhance safety and efficiency in industrial environments. This advanced switch exceeds safety standards and is ideal for manufacturing settings, featuring a coded magnetic mechanism that improves reliability and prevents bypassing. It includes 2-color… Read More…