Freelance control system supporting efficient plant modernization
The power station was converted from analog technology to the Contronic P DCS in 1988. Later, Contronic P was stepwise being replaced by the Freelance DCS.
The conversion to modern and future-proof controllers and a modern control stations also allowed for integration of remote alarm functionality. When there is no operator in the control room, messages can be forwarded to a pager or a mobile phone. Furthermore, replacing the old system with a modern DCS helps to avoid problems with spare parts. In fact, one particular reason why we chose Freelance was that ABB offered an efficient and cost-effective way of migration.
Multi-phase migration strategy implemented by system integrator helped to shorten downtime
BERFA AG, the company commissioned to replace the old control technology, decided to use a multi-phase migration strategy. This strategy facilitated the system integator's effort and reduced the interruption times.
The first phase included the replacement of the old Contronic P vizualization with the Freelance operator interface. It could be run both with Contronic P process stations and with the AC 800F controllers by using a coupling station. In the second phase, the Contronic P process stations were successively replaced with AC 800F controllers.