Converged IP Network for Hydrocarbon Process Automation

Hydrocarbon Process Automation Applications (HPAA) are used in industrial plants that operate under conditions that - if not controlled - could become dangerous for people, assets and the environment. Process control systems that support the necessary functions to achieve and maintain a safe steady state HPAA operation are referred to Safety-Related (SR) systems. These systems are composed of sensors, actuators, and logic solvers linked together by communication networking channels. Reliable networking plays a key role in supporting such a system infrastructure. The existing network designs consist of multiple, separate networks with limited interconnectivity. Literature review was conducted to identify gaps and requirements in establishing converged Internet Protocol (IP) network for control and non-control HPAA operating environment. Simulation was conducted to assess the feasibility of such a design and shown encouraging outcomes. HPPA can benefit from a converged IP network by minimizing network components and wiring, and provide more integrated applications for the end user´s desktop.