EATON’s Crouse-Hinds division is offering an expanded range of MTL GECMA HMI workstations, introducing two new products, the thin client (TC) and personal computer (PC) versions. The MTL series are used in all types of locations, including hazardous operations and general purpose industrial plants. The addition of the TC and PC versions means Eaton now offers a complete range of workstations based on a common platform design. Plant managers can reduce operating costs, optimize productivity and increase plant safety, with the additional benefits of reducing space in the cabinet, and “future proofing” the plant.
The new versions complement the existing MTL GECMA Remote Terminal (RT), which has a modular design. These HMIs feature state-of-the-art technology, high standards for safety, and are approved to global hazardous certification for Zone 1 environments. As a result they offer safe handling on site and guarantee high reliability in hazardous EX zone areas.
The TC version is designed for virtualization applications, for example for batch control. It works with a client server in a safe space, across a LAN. This conserves space in the cabinet as users do not need a dedicated PC and can control up to 255 HMIs from a single server.
The PC version is standalone unit working across the LAN. Its system hardware meets the needs of most complex applications with high computing power demand. The workstation has a ‘watch dog’ function that automatically monitors the operating system, and if there is no input from the system it automatically re-starts itself. This avoids hard re-starts, which saves time associated with turning the system on and off, and minimizes any stress on the system for increased reliability.
The RT is a point-to-point device, with one workstation assigned to one PC in the safe area. It features a keyboard, mouse and video. The RT terminal’s modularity means upgrades to existing installations are quick and easy, which can save time, and minimize costly maintenance and downtime. Traditionally, the whole unit would have to be dismantled off site, but with MTL GECMA, individual parts can be replaced simply on site, increasing plant availability.
“With our MTL GEMCA range of HMIs, users have the flexibility of the platform design and can change between the workstations easily depending on the applications and specific needs of the plant,” according to Jan Thriene, GECMA product line manager.
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