Austin, TX—Faster time to market, easier validation, and operations excellence based on real-time diagnostics in smart field devices were reportedly among reasons Emerson was selected to manage, configure, and start-up a project to increase production capacity at GE's Lindesnes plant in Norway. The project, scheduled for completion in February 2007, includes new installations and alterations to the existing production plant, designed to meet the increased market demand for its X-ray and MRI contrast agents. The work is being carried out in stages, and the entire factory meets national and international standards for the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.

The company is installing its PlantWeb digital plant architecture with the DeltaV digital-automation system and FOUNDATION fieldbus digital communications technology. Emerson values the project at some $3.5 million.

"We have chosen to continue with fieldbus technology based on our positive experiences following its implementation in one of our new factories," said Roy Tråne, the GE Healthcare engineer responsible for the project at the Lindesnes plant. "The bus technology provides a cost-effective solution with faster and more efficient start-up. We can also see significant longer-term benefits from the diagnostics available from the intelligent field devices."

The PlantWeb digital approach will include Rosemount analytical and measurement instruments, Micro Motion Coriolis flowmeters, and Fisher valves with Fieldvue digital valve-controllers. The company's AMS Suite will monitor diagnostics delivered by field devices, and provide alerts and guidance for maintenance effectiveness.

Also included in the package are custom solutions for removing 5,000 I/O connections from the existing PLC systems and integrating these into the new scheme. The complete system will combine new and existing systems and will incorporate around 7,500 I/O points.

The Lindesnes plant—70 km south of Kristiansand—employs about 400 employees.

For more information: www.emersonprocess.com/lifesciences