"We needed an updated system that provided more reliability and lifelong support for our control system. With Honeywell’s guidance we migrated our Rockwell ProcessLogix control system to the new Experion system, providing better support, reliability and an open door to full automation of our plant."
Christophe Floquet, Technicien Methode, RVA
Recuperation Valorisation Aluminum (RVA) needed to upgrade its legacy control system. The company decided to migrate its Rockwell ProcessLogix control system to the Experion® Process Knowledge System (PKS). As a result, the company has experienced the following benefits:
RVA is the only facility in France specializing in the recovery of aluminum drosses and slags. Its innovative and effective process enables the complete recovery of this kind of waste that was previously treated in hazardous landfills. This process is 100 percent clean; gas effluents are treated and no liquid effluents are being observed.
RVA wanted to increase the reliability of its control system while at the same time improve process operations and overcome the legacy and support issues with its Rockwell ProcessLogix control system. The ProcessLogix system was unable to keep up with the automation and business growth at RVA, and the lack of support for this outdated system hampered the company’s growth.
"We needed a system that provided better company-wide support and we didn’t have to worry about the reliability factor," said Christophe Floquet, Technicien Methode, RVA. "The risk factor involved was way too high and could shut us down. That was unacceptable."
After investigating several migration options for its control system, RVA selected Honeywell’s Experion system. RVA needed a supplier that could meet its need for a services-oriented process that could help the business grow.
"Honeywell helped us develop a plan to migrate our product and supplied both the justification and economic benefit analysis for us to do so," said Floquet.
Honeywell’s integrated, digitally based, project management methodology and tools ensure that process control projects stay on schedule and on budget, and adhere to technical specifications.
Honeywell was able to protect RVA’s investment in automation by migrating the ProcessLogix system without replacing any graphics, rewriting any control code or removing any wiring or I/O.
The success of this project can be attributed to detailed planning, careful execution and building the right team. Identifying all the project requirements, risks and customer expectations early in the discovery phase is also vital to positive performance.
Concluded Floquet, "Honeywell was competent, reliable and very professional. We are happy with our migration and now look forward to moving towards complete automation of our plant."
Experion® is a registered trademark of Honeywell International Inc.