Data recorder customised for batch processing

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 27, 2001

Eurotherm has launched a version of their well-known Series 5000 Data Recorder with specialist batch recording software routines, designed exclusively for simple batch process applications

As part of an ongoing programme of product improvement development, Eurotherm has launched a version of their well-known Series 5000 Data Recorder designed exclusively for simple batch process applications.

Called the Series 5000 Batch Recorder, it is identical to standard models except for the installation of specialist batch recording software routines.

The new instrument is designed specifically for demanding batch process production environments such as heat treatment, baking, food processing, sterilisation and pharmaceutical production.

The Series 5000 Batch Recorder replaces traditional paper chart recorders, which have often been used to produce printed charts as permanent historical records of batch process variables, or Quality Control real-time records.

In doing so, the instrument also provides the additional benefits of true paperless recording and a clear, unambiguous operator display to provide fully traceable process data.

At the start of each batch, operators enter key batch details including operator identification, batch number, charge number and other text.

These details are all logged with a complete record of process data during the batch, for quality assurance and customer requirements.

Searching and reporting on the batch data can be easily implemented using Eurotherm's proprietary PC Review software, which allows detailed batch reports to be printed easily at the time or at a later date.

If required, data can be recorded onto floppy disk or plug-in PC Card.

Security of data is maintained by using a proprietary algorithm to both compress and render the data almost impossible to change.

Like standard 5000 Series instruments, the Batch Recorder variant utilises leading edge 32 bit RISC processor technology to significantly reduce component count, and thus the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership).

These instruments also feature high quality I/O, multi-function touch sensitive screens, and the ability to be networked, enabling archiving of data into plant-wide data networks.

The recorders feature high quality touch-sensitive screens coupled with either 1/4 VGA or SVGA TFT colour LCD displays.

Data is presented in the most easily interpretable format to the operator, so in addition to the standard Bar, Chart and Numeric displays, Custom displays (mimics) can be created.

Designed to directly replace standard 100mm and 180mm panel mounted chart recorders, they allow plant and equipment upgrades to be implemented with minimal redesign.

Inputs may be Vdc, mV dc, mA dc, TCs, RTD, Ohms, or contact closure.

Sample rate is 125mS for all channels as standard.

High noise rejection and isolation on all I/O channels (250 volts ch/ch and ch/gnd) results in outstanding measurement integrity in the harshest of environments.

In terms of data archiving, removable storage media are either 3.5" floppy or PC Card with up to 260 Mbyte of memory.

Data can be transferred from the instrument's non-volatile memory in hourly, daily or weekly files.

All data is stored in tamper-proof binary format that can be used for long term records of production.

Karen Rigby, Eurotherm's Series 5000 Product Manager, sees the Batch Recorder development as just the first step in an ongoing programme of product evolution.

She comments: "As a global leader in process data acquisition, we have spent many years helping to record data from the world's process industries.

This important development offers a new level of functionality for batch industries which we believe will prove to be invaluable to their processes.".