AC500 PLC tunnel automation solutions

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ABB´s core competence is proven by numerous tunnels globally - based on PLCs, HMIs, motors, drives and the Automation Builder integrated engineering suite. They are a perfect fit for tunnel applications, resulting in engineering productivity.

Tunnels are built and equipped on the basis of the most up-to-date and safe technologies and constructions

Tunnels are created wherever local conditions do not permit an efficient road or rail routes. They connect people by shortening travel times significantly, protect man and nature from noise and exhaust fumes and make remote areas accessible.

The safety standards for tunnels are regularly reviewed and adapted to the latest findings. New tunnels will be built and equipped on the basis of the most up-to-date and safe technologies and constructions, while older tunnels will have to be upgraded.

AC500 PLC tunnel automation
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Tunnel automation with an end-to-end portfolio

ABB offers a portfolio of higher-level control systems (SCADA) which act on top of the local ABB PLC-based architecture. All technical subsystems and field devices of the tunnel system can be controlled and monitored from one or several central locations.

An end-to-end portfolio with a high number of scalable products and options, from the field layer right through to the management and visualization layers saves significant engineering time and money, while at the same time ensuring a highly available, safe and future-proof tunnel system.

AC500 tunnel automation solutions interview
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AC500 PLC tunnel automation
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Protection and security

  • Tunnel ventilation to protect people and equipment in every situation
    • Smoke extraction
    • Fresh air circulation
  • Video and radar control to detect hazardous situations early
  • Emergency evacuation system of the entire tunnel providing safe waiting spaces
  • Modern lighting technology for safe navigation and good recognition of vehicles and passengers
  • Manual call points along the exit routes
  • Firefighting systems

Control and safety

  • AC500
    • High availability
    • Safety PLC
  • Drives for an optimal integration of the tunnel fans
  • Suitable offers of control systems and switchgear
  • Power monitoring
  • Low-/medium-voltage distribution systems
  • Emergency power supply

Communication and reporting

  • Remote monitoring/IoT
  • Remote maintenance
  • General public announcement system
  • Communication and notification system accessible from every point in the tunnel
  • Optimized traffic flow with data acquisition via AC500
    •  Signal systems
    • Changing traffic signs

Supervision and monitoring

  • Local and higher-level control systems (SCADA)
    • Dashboards for an overview of the entire tunnel system
    • HMI CP600
  • Energy management for the complete system
  • Drive systems to efficiently operate tunnel ventilation

Learn more

ABB PLC Automation
ABB Drives
ABB Robotics
ABB railway solutions
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