Honeywell applies virtualization technology to Experion process control system

Virtualization can reduce total cost of Experion ownership by 30%.

By Renee Robbins April 1, 2010

Honeywell Process Solutions announced that it is providing virtualization technology for its Experion Process Knowledge System (PKS). This technology can help manufacturers streamline Experion system management and lower the total cost of ownership by up to 30%.

For many manufacturers, the process control environment requires separate servers to support different applications. Virtualization allows a single server to simultaneously run multiple operating systems and applications. It also improves reliability by insulating these operating systems from hardware changes. When process manufacturers use this technology, they can improve server utilization rates, reduce disruptive operating system and hardware changes, and simplify overall system management.

Honeywell’s range of virtualized offerings include Experion off-line testing and development solution, which can be used for training, simulation and engineering. It also includes Experion’s suite of advanced alarm management solutions, and eServer solutions that provide Web access to the system. All three products have been awarded VMware Ready status , which provides independent assurance that Honeywell has tested its software with VMware vSphere.

"Every manufacturer today is being asked to do more with less, and virtualization is a key to helping them achieve that goal because it can change how process control systems are installed and maintained," said Vimal Kapur, vice president of strategy and global marketing. "By combining virtualization with Experion, we are enabling cost savings for our customers and improving the overall user experience."

Manufacturing facilities use Experion to integrate plant subsystems – including process control, asset management and safety and security – to give operators a more-comprehensive view of how their overall plants are functioning. The data from Experion improves plant safety, reliability, efficiency and sustainability by allowing operators to make better-informed decisions in the control room.

– Edited by Renee Robbins, senior editor
Control Engineering News Desk
See also: ARC forum discussions reflect changing operations/IT paradigm