The load tests were carried out according to customer specifications in order to prove that components from different manufacturers can be combined in a reliable and robust system based on Ethernet APL. The chemical company BASF defined the requirements from the customer's point of view, while Endress+Hauser was the hardware supplier alongside Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB.

The first test was carried out with almost 240 measuring devices from Endress+Hauser, including flow, pressure, temperature and level sensors. They were integrated into a system with Pepperl+Fuchs field switches and a Honeywell control system - all using Ethernet APL and Profinet. For the second test, ABB supplied the controller, which was tested together with the aforementioned field switches and measuring devices.

The test results were convincing: Ethernet-APL can be used under realistic conditions. The test cases were carried out with maximum network design, scalability and fault tolerance were successfully verified. All relevant requirements such as total network load or redundancy switching times were met or exceeded.

Open Integration Partner Program enables and supports testing

Endress+Hauser's Open Integration Partner Program brings together more than a dozen manufacturers who want to ensure the smooth interaction of their complementary products. The partners test and document the integration of their offerings, demonstrating how the full potential of digitalization can be exploited in typical process automation applications.

Jörg Reinkensmeier, Head of the Open Integration Partner Program at Endress+Hauser, states: "The load tests prove that Ethernet-APL can be used in practice. The components from different manufacturers work together smoothly and the systems run reliably. We are proud that the close cooperation with our Open Integration partners has made it possible to validate this technology. We have reached a milestone in bringing Ethernet to the field level of process automation."

An Ethernet APL-capable flowmeter from Endress+Hauser

© Endress+Hauser

Ethernet-APL enables the use of Ethernet at the field level of process systems. The 2-wire technology with power and communication via the same cable pair meets the requirements of even harsh process environments. Fast and digital data transmission with high bandwidth is also possible over long distances and in hazardous areas.

With the success of the load test, BASF, Endress+Hauser, Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB have taken an important step towards an open and future-proof technological infrastructure that is ready for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

Endress+Hauser will soon be launching a complete portfolio of Ethernet APL-capable measuring devices that transmit data via the Profinet protocol.