Fieldbus actuators support world's most efficient CCPP

To achieve such high efficiency as well as outstanding operating flexibility, GE deployed an advanced distributed control system based on Foundation Fieldbus communication to integrate sensors, valves and actuators. A key reason to opt for AUMA actuators therefore was their ability to seamlessly integrate into Foundation Fieldbus environments.

In addition, EDF had already gained positive experience with AUMA actuators in recent years, as AUMA had supplied the valve actuation technology to all of EDF’s new combined cycle plants, namely Blénod, Martigues, and West Burton (UK).

Prior to installation, AUMA engineers worked closely with GE to adapt the electrical connections at the actuator controls to the specific requirements of the plant. AUMA also provided extensive training to EDF staff at Bouchain CCPP.

Under Foundation Fieldbus, the actuators allow for reliable and rapid exchange of process data, commands, and feedback and alarm signals. Parameters can be set or read remotely, and the full diagnostic capabilities provided by AUMA AC intelligent actuator controls can be exploited, thus enhancing process monitoring and increasing plant availability. Playing a key role as the interface between the valve and the control system, the actuators also provide the necessary intelligence to act as Link Active Schedulers (LAS) and thus manage the direct communication between field devices within the network.

AUMA actuators are certified and registered with FieldComm Group, and comply fully with the Foundation Fieldbus H1 protocol. A Device Description (DD) provided by AUMA facilitates actuator integration and allows devices to be identified and configured centrally at control system level. This can yield considerable time and cost savings during commissioning, especially compared with other fieldbus systems such as Profibus, where settings have to be performed locally at individual field device level.