Increased demand for intelligent instruments that integrate with digital ecosystems
Published on : Wednesday 03-07-2024
Hemal Desai – Vice President Quality & Marketing Communications, Endress+Hauser India Pvt Ltd.
What are the current trends and innovations in the test and measuring instruments industry?
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At Endress+Hauser, we're at the forefront of innovation in the test and measuring instruments industry. Here are some key trends we're seeing and the solutions we're developing to address them:
1. Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
Trend: Increased demand for intelligent instruments that seamlessly integrate with digital ecosystems and provide real-time data for process optimisation and predictive maintenance.
Endress+Hauser Solutions: We offer a comprehensive portfolio of IIoT-enabled instruments with features like Heartbeat Technology for self-diagnostics and remote monitoring capabilities. Our gateways and cloud connectivity solutions facilitate seamless data integration and analysis.
2. Focus on Efficiency and Sustainability
Trend: Growing emphasis on optimising processes for reduced energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation.
Endress+Hauser Solutions: We develop instruments with low power consumption and offer solutions for efficient resource management, such as flowmeters for precise control and leak detection systems.
3. Advanced Sensor Technologies
Trend: Development of new sensor technologies for more accurate, reliable, and versatile measurements across various process parameters.
Endress+Hauser Solutions: We invest heavily in research and development of innovative sensor technologies like ultrasonic flowmeters, tunable diode laser (TDLAS) analysers for gas composition measurement, and Raman spectroscopy for real-time process analysis.
Trend: Heightened awareness of cybersecurity threats in industrial automation systems.
Endress+Hauser Solutions: We prioritise cybersecurity throughout the product life cycle, implementing robust security features and adhering to industry-standard protocols.
5. Evolving Industry Needs
Trend: Specific requirements based on industries like life sciences, chemical processing, water treatment, and food & beverage.
Endress+Hauser Solutions: We offer a wide range of industry-specific solutions with tailored functionalities and certifications to meet the unique needs of each sector. For example, ourLiquiline Mobiles with Memosens technology are ideal for portable and hygienic applications in the pharmaceutical industry.
Endress+Hauser is committed to developing cutting-edge test and measuring instruments that empower customers to operate more efficiently, sustainably, and securely. By staying at the forefront of these trends, we aim to be your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving industrial landscape.
How do regulations and standards influence the design and manufacture of test and measurement instruments?
At Endress+Hauser, regulations and standards play a fundamental role in the design and manufacture of our test and measurement instruments. These guidelines ensure the accuracy, reliability, safety, and overall quality of our products, ultimately benefiting our customers and various industries we serve. Here's a closer look at their influence:
Ensuring Measurement Accuracy and Traceability
Regulations and Standards: Organisations like ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) and national bodies set specific requirements for measurement accuracy and traceability. These ensure instruments provide consistent and reliable data that can be trusted for critical processes.
Endress+Hauser's Approach: We adhere to these regulations by implementing rigorous calibration procedures and using high-precision components. Our instruments come with traceable calibration certificates, guaranteeing the accuracy of their measurements.
Safety and Compliance
Regulations and Standards: Safety regulations like IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission Ex for Explosion Protection) and ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) are crucial for instruments used in hazardous environments. These guidelines dictate specific design features to minimise the risk of explosions or fires.
Endress+Hauser's Approach: We prioritise safety by designing instruments that comply with relevant safety regulations. Our explosion-proof instruments, for example, are rigorously tested and certified for safe operation in hazardous areas.
Environmental Considerations
Regulations and Standards: Environmental regulations like RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) restrict the use of certain harmful materials in electronic equipment.
Endress+Hauser's Approach: We take environmental responsibility seriously by adhering to these regulations and using eco-friendly materials in our instruments. Additionally, some of our instruments contribute to environmental sustainability by enabling efficient resource management, such as water and energy usage optimisation.
Global Market Access
Regulations and Standards: Meeting international standards like CE Marking simplifies market access for our instruments across various regions.
Endress+Hauser's Approach: We design our instruments to comply with relevant global standards, allowing them to be used in diverse applications and geographical locations. This ensures wider customer reach and facilitates international trade.
Maintaining High-Quality Products
Regulations and Standards: Quality management standards like ISO 9001 ensure consistent quality throughout the design, manufacturing, and service life cycle of our instruments.
Endress+Hauser's Approach: We are committed to exceeding these standards by maintaining a rigorous quality management system. This ensures our instruments are not only compliant but also reliable and durable for long-term use.
In conclusion, regulations and standards serve as a crucial roadmap for Endress+Hauser. By adhering to these guidelines, we deliver high-quality, safe, and reliable test and measurement instruments that empower our customers to operate efficiently and responsibly.
How do manufacturers/designers ensure the accuracy and reliability of their instruments against growing environmental concerns?
At Endress+Hauser, we recognise the growing environmental concerns and their potential impact on the accuracy and reliability of test and measurement instruments. We take a multi-pronged approach to ensure our instruments continue to deliver trusted data in increasingly challenging conditions:
1. Robust Design and Material Selection
We use high-grade materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, harsh chemicals, and exposure to UV radiation. This ensures the instruments' performance remains consistent even in harsh environments.
Our rigorous testing procedures simulate real-world conditions, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference, to guarantee the instruments' functionality and data integrity.
2. Environmental Compensation Features
Many Endress+Hauser instruments come equipped with built-in environmental compensation features. For example, our pressure transmitters can automatically adjust for temperature fluctuations, maintaining measurement accuracy.
We actively develop new compensation algorithms to account for a wider range of environmental factors, ensuring reliable data regardless of external conditions.
3. Advanced Sensor Technologies
We invest heavily in research and development of advanced sensor technologies less susceptible to environmental variations. For instance, some of our flowmeters utilise ultrasonic technology, which offers excellent accuracy regardless of temperature or pressure fluctuations.
We explore new materials and designs for sensors to improve their resistance to environmental stressors and ensure long-term stability.
4. Regular Maintenance and Calibration
Regular maintenance and calibration are crucial for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of any instrument, especially in harsh environments. We provide comprehensive maintenance plans and user-friendly calibration tools to ensure our instruments perform optimally over their lifespan.
Additionally, some Endress+Hauser instruments feature self-diagnostic capabilities that alert users to potential issues before they can impact accuracy.
5. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
We actively collaborate with industry experts, research institutions, and regulatory bodies to stay informed about the latest environmental challenges and their potential impact on measurement technologies.
By sharing knowledge and best practices, we collectively develop solutions for ensuring accurate and reliable measurements in a changing environment.
Endress+Hauser's Commitment to Sustainability
Our commitment to environmental responsibility goes beyond ensuring the accuracy of our instruments. We design instruments with low power consumption and develop solutions that promote resource efficiency, like flowmeters for leak detection and optimised water management systems.
By prioritising these aspects, Endress+Hauser strive to deliver instruments that are not only accurate and reliable but also environmentally conscious. We believe in empowering our customers to make informed decisions based on trustworthy data while promoting sustainable practices within their operations.
What are the advantages of virtual instrumentation over traditional hardware based systems; and how has digitalisation impacted the T&M scenario?
The landscape of Test and Measurement (T&M) is undergoing a significant transformation driven by digitalisation. While traditional hardware-based systems remain crucial, virtual instrumentation is emerging as a powerful tool offering distinct advantages. Here at Endress+Hauser, we embrace this evolution and provide solutions that leverage both approaches.
Advantages of Virtual Instrumentation
Enhanced Flexibility and Scalability: Virtual instruments are software-based, offering greater flexibility in configuring measurement systems. They can be easily adapted to changing needs by modifying software programs, eliminating the need for additional hardware or complex reconfigurations.
Cost-Effectiveness: Virtual instruments can reduce upfront costs by consolidating multiple functionalities into a single software platform. Additionally, the elimination of physical hardware components lowers maintenance expenses.
Improved Data Management and Analysis: Virtual instruments seamlessly integrate with data acquisition and analysis software. This facilitates real-time data visualisation, remote monitoring capabilities, and advanced data analysis tools, leading to better process optimisation and decision-making.
Remote Access and Collaboration: Virtual instruments enable remote access to data and instrument control, allowing for troubleshooting, analysis, and collaboration from any location with an internet connection. This is particularly beneficial for geographically dispersed teams or applications requiring continuous monitoring.
Digitalisation's Impact on T&M
The rise of virtual instrumentation is a direct consequence of digitalisation. Here's how it has impacted the T&M scenario:
Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Virtual instruments streamline workflows, facilitating faster data acquisition, analysis, and reporting. This translates to improved efficiency and productivity within T&M operations.
Predictive Maintenance: The ability to collect and analyse real-time data allows for predictive maintenance strategies. By identifying potential equipment issues early on, downtime and maintenance costs can be significantly reduced.
Enhanced Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Remote access and data sharing capabilities fostered by virtual instrumentation enable improved collaboration and knowledge sharing among teams. This can lead to faster problem-solving and continuous improvement within the T&M process.
Endress+Hauser: A Bridge Between Tradition and Innovation
At Endress+Hauser, we recognise the value of both traditional hardware and virtual instrumentation. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of intelligent measurement devices that seamlessly integrate with virtual instrument platforms. This hybrid approach empowers our customers to leverage the strengths of both worlds, ensuring accurate and reliable measurements while benefiting from the flexibility and efficiency of digitalisation.
By embracing innovation and adapting to the changing T&M landscape, Endress+Hauser remains your trusted partner in navigating the exciting world of digitalised measurement solutions
How is data generated by test and measurement instruments managed and utilised?
At Endress+Hauser, we understand that the true value of test and measurement instruments lies not just in the data they generate, but in how effectively that data is managed and utilised. Here's how we empower our customers to harness the power of their instrument data:
Seamless Data Acquisition and Integration
Our instruments are designed for efficient data acquisition. Many offer digital communication protocols like HART®, Modbus®, or Profibus® for seamless integration with data acquisition systems (DAS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
We also provide user-friendly software tools that simplify data collection and transfer from individual instruments or entire measurement networks.
Smart Data Management Solutions
Endress+Hauser offers a suite of data management solutions like Netilion. This cloud-based platform provides secure storage for instrument data, allowing for easy access, visualisation, and analysis from any location.
Our data management solutions offer features like data filtering, aggregation, and real-time dashboards, empowering users to gain valuable insights from their measurement data.
Utilising Data for Process Optimisation and Decision Making
The data collected from our instruments can be used for various purposes, including:
Process Optimisation: By analysing trends and identifying deviations, users can optimise process parameters for efficiency, quality control, and reduced waste.
Predictive Maintenance: Continuous data analysis can help predict potential equipment failures, allowing for preventive maintenance and minimising downtime.
Improved Product Quality: Real-time data insights can be used to ensure consistent product quality and identify areas for improvement within production processes.
Advanced Data Analytics and Services
Endress+Hauser offers advanced data analytics services to help customers unlock the full potential of their instrument data. Our experts can assist with data interpretation, developing customised reports, and creating data-driven strategies for process improvement.
Security and Compliance
We prioritise data security and ensure compliance with relevant data privacy regulations. Our data management solutions offer robust security features like user authentication and access control.
Endress+Hauser: Your Partner in Data-Driven Success
By providing a comprehensive suite of data acquisition, management, and analytics solutions, Endress+Hauser empowers our customers to transform raw data into actionable insights. We believe that leveraging the power of data is key to optimising processes, improving decision-making, and achieving sustainable success in today's industrial landscape.
How can aspiring engineers and technologists prepare for a career in test and measurement?
The world of Test and Measurement (T&M) offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for aspiring engineers and technologists. At Endress+Hauser, we're constantly seeking talented individuals passionate about accuracy, innovation, and contributing to efficient industrial processes. Here's how you can prepare for a successful career in this exciting field:
Academic Foundation
Strong Foundation in Mathematics and Physics: A solid understanding of these core subjects is crucial for comprehending the principles behind various measurement technologies and data analysis techniques.
Engineering or Technology Degree: Consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in disciplines like Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Instrumentation & Control Engineering, or related technology programs. These programs provide a strong foundation in relevant areas like circuit analysis, thermodynamics, control systems, and sensor technology.
Building Practical Skills
Laboratory Courses and Internships: Look for opportunities to participate in laboratory courses offered by your academic institution. These courses provide hands-on experience with various test and measurement instruments, familiarising you with their operation and data interpretation. Internships at T&M companies or industrial facilities offer invaluable practical experience in real-world applications.
Software Proficiency: Many modern T&M instruments utilise specialised software for data acquisition, analysis, and reporting. Develop proficiency in relevant software, such as data visualisation tools, programming languages (e.g., Python), and process simulation software.
Developing Key Skills
Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The ability to analyse data, identify root causes of issues, and develop effective solutions is critical for success in T&M.
Attention to Detail and Accuracy: T&M professionals must be meticulous and ensure the accuracy of their measurements and data analysis.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for collaborating with colleagues, presenting findings to stakeholders, and drafting technical reports.
Staying Updated with Industry Trends
Professional Associations and Conferences: Joining professional societies like the International Society of Measurement and Control (ISA) or attending industry conferences allows you to network with experienced professionals, stay updated on emerging technologies, and learn about the latest trends in T&M.
Endress+Hauser: Launching Your T&M Career
At Endress+Hauser, we invest in our employees' growth. We offer comprehensive training programs to help new recruits develop their technical expertise and gain practical experience with our instruments and technologies.
If you're passionate about precision, innovation, and contributing to industrial advancements, a career in T&M with Endress+Hauser could be the perfect fit. We encourage you to explore our career opportunities and embark on a rewarding journey with a global leader in measurement instrumentation.
(The views expressed in interviews are personal, not necessarily of the organisations represented)
Hemal Desai, a graduate in Instrumentation & Control Engineering, has over 32 years of experience in process control & automation business. He is currently working for Endress+Hauser India in Mumbai, for more than 11 years, handling the key responsibility for Marketing Communications, Quality & Business Excellence.
Previously he worked for Emerson for 21 years. His areas of expertise include Field Instrumentation, Gas Analysers, DCS, Safety Instrumented Systems, Fieldbuses & Wireless including IIoT technologies.
During his Emmerson tenure, he spent 10 years in commissioning of Gas Analysis projects. This was followed by becoming the service & training manager for Fisher Rosemount.
He also spent a considerable time in marketing of Foundation Fieldbus Technology in India during the early days.
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