Q: Does the Fertilizer Plant Information Management System consist of one set of bundled applications or can it be customized to suit requirements?A: The Fertilizer PIMS solution is completely configurable and only requires Uniformance PHD as the underlying database, although Workcenter is also recommended as the user interface. Choose which applications are most useful to your business knowing that each application stands alone but also integrates with others to provide the full power of the overall solution. Components include (but are not limited to): Operations Monitoring, Operations Instructions, Operator Logbook, Production Balance, Production Costing, Advanced Formula Manager, KPI Manager, Business Hiway and others.
Q: What are KPIs?A: KPIs are Key Performance Indicators and function as performance benchmarks that your company wants to measure on a regular basis to monitor overall business performance. KPIs are essentially a scorecard for business operations and may be based on process, production, financial or safety metrics, such as inventory turnover, safety rating, budget to actual metrics, efficiencies (labor, order), throughput, late orders, etc. If needed, Honeywell services can assist in helping your company define KPI metrics.
Q: How easy is it to access Plant information?A: It is very easy because all the applications use a web-based application embedded in Experion called Workcenter. Any PC that has a standard web browser can access the information, provided the user has the appropriate security clearance.
Q: What experience does Honeywell have in providing this solution?A: Honeywell has 20 years experience in implementing over 1,100 Information Management System applications on over 400 different process units.
Q: Does Honeywell provide user support?A: Yes. Honeywell provides complete lifecycle support for Fertilizer PIMS solutions from design, implementation and commissioning, including operator and engineer training. Once operational, Honeywell can provide long term solution support including technology refresh and training, application enhancement, remote performance monitoring and reporting, migration to new platforms and a 24-hour Technical Assistance Center for remote support in all regions (Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and Americas).
Q: What hardware is required to implement this solution?A: The PIMS solution is based upon Microsoft Windows technology. The Uniformance PHD Server is normally installed on a Windows NT/2000 box that is connected to the plant control network. Business applications using PHD are usually deployed on other Windows NT/2000 machines, while a Web Server deploys data visualization tools that can be accessed via standard client machines with Internet Explorer. The specific hardware architecture is dependent upon the size of the complex and the applications being implemented.
Q: How long does it take to implement this solution?A: The initial layers of the solution, such as Uniformance PHD and Workcenter, can be implemented in just a few weeks, and you can begin to realize benefits right away. After that, business applications across an ammonia and urea production line take approximately nine months to implement.