(4a) Open Process Automation: Unlocking Value Capture By Leveraging Advances in Digital Technology

Distributed Control Systems (DCS) are critical for the safe and reliable operation of today’s ethylene plants. The DCS also provides the foundation for our advanced process control and real-time optimization applications. Over the years these applications have become a key component for maximizing the value from our steam crackers. Advances in digital technology are now making it possible to consider a move from the traditional closed proprietary industrial control systems to an open architecture based upon industry standards. Such an open system has the potential to unlock value capture by creating an architecture which supports interoperability and portability for both hardware and software. Examples could include a new state of the art sensor or a recently developed data analytics application. An open system will lower the barrier for innovation and accelerate the development and deployment of new advanced applications to generate greater value from the production of ethylene. This paper will highlight the research done by ExxonMobil to create a proof of concept system which is leading to a prototype system to demonstrate the technical feasibility of an open process control architecture. The work of the industry consortium operating as the Open Process Automation ForumTM to create the required standards will also be discussed. Expected benefits supported by a move to an open process automation architecture will be highlighted.