MTL SUM5: Smart Universal Marshalling Solution
Published on : Wednesday 05-07-2023
MTL SUM5 combines five functions in one modular design.
Marshalling – the grouping of inputs and outputs (I/O) – is fundamental to any modern, industrial plant. The main idea behind the marshalling process is to bring order to the many signals passing between the Distributed Control System (DCS) and the field instruments. The ultimate aim is to provide reliable interconnections that make operation and maintenance simpler.
While this is sound in principle, in reality marshalling is a complex, time intensive and often cost-heavy process. The result is large control rooms crammed with multiple marshalling cabinets, which puts undue pressure on valuable space. It follows that the greater the number of marshalling cabinets involved, the more wiring is then required to connect them together: adding further cost, time and complexity to a procedure that is intended to simplify operations. Multiple components from multiple suppliers are another source of concern. A typical marshalling solution with IS generally involves 20 different component types, but the component type required often needs to be changed in the later detailed design stages. The resulting Bill of Materials is long and complex, which can make it difficult to maintain the marshalling system and control lifetime costs.
Existing marshalling systems have a number of technical drawbacks. However, there are some bigger drivers for change that also need to be factored in before a viable and enduring alternative can be developed. Cost is one key driver. The global marketplace is a highly competitive environment, so there is a need for cost visibility and control of a project from the outset.
Automation is another key driver that is transforming the industrial landscape. Any new marshalling solution needs to make connectivity simple and reliable. Agility – the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to changes in production demand and market forces – is a further consideration.
Eaton was uniquely placed to rise to this challenge. As a leader in reliability, efficiency and safety, Eaton has insight into the operational challenges facing many industries today. Eaton has applied this combination of industry knowledge and technical skills in order to develop a new marshalling solution that offers the simplification and standardisation that customers are seeking, with no compromise on functionality. The result is smart universal marshalling (SUM): a modular approach that enables the five key marshalling requirements to be fulfilled using a single cabinet design. Let’s explore in more detail how the MTL SUM5 marshalling system was developed.
MTL SUM5 combines five functions in one modular design enabling one standard cabinet to deliver the lowest lifetime costs and lowest installed cost while saving valuable space in a control room. MTL SUM5 offers a single cabinet design, with ‘plug and play’ configurable modules for the five key marshalling functions. This eliminates the need for intricate wiring to interconnect the components, ultimately improving uptime and reducing the cost of wiring, installation and maintenance.
MTL SUM5’s modular design simplifies marshalling and provides increased flexibility throughout the product lifetime. Loop disconnect is integrated in every terminal, so loops can be easily isolated, which together with the modular design, simplifies maintenance and keeps associated costs to a minimum.
MTL SUM5 reduces the number of marshalling components by 65% compared to a standard solution. One MTL SUM5 universal ADIO isolator module supports the functionality provided by 20 different MTL4500 single channel modules, while the configurable parameters enable support for an even wider range of applications. The marshalling solution provides comprehensive diagnostics, notifying the process managers when action is required. It also features LED indicators for power, function and status, which simplifies commissioning and troubleshooting. The MTL SUM5 modules are designed for both cabinet mounting in the control room, or field mounting. They are certified for ambient operating temperatures from -40 to +70°C and for mounting in a Zone 2 hazardous area, thus providing reliable operation in remote locations.
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