Process Variable Transmitters Product Research (October 2005)

Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding process variable transmitters.

By Control Engineering Staff October 12, 2005

Research was undertaken to gain a better understanding of Control Engineering subscribers’ applications and needs regarding process variable transmitters.

Executive Summary

• Among those specifying, recommending, and/or buying process variable transmitters, 81% do so for in-plant requirements and 38% buy for OEM requirements.• Continuous is the most popular primary process application of those surveyed.• In terms of specifying integrated units vs. individual components, 43% of respondents base their decision on the needs of the application. An equal portion clearly prefer integrated units.• Temperature and pressure are the most widely used process variable transmitters. Flow and level transmitters are also used by an overwhelming majority of those surveyed.• On average, 26% of total transmitters used are multivariable transmitters.• 4-20 mA is currently the most widely used communication protocol for transmitter applications. Research indicates this will continue over the next 12 months.• More than 40% of respondents purchased process variable transmitters from Emerson Process Management in the past 12 months. Honeywell lead a group of seven companies in a tightly contested race for the second highest market penetration.• 111 process variable transmitters was the average number each respondent purchased in the past 12 months. This equated to average spending per respondent of $64,540. Survey results indicate demand for process variable transmitters will grow over the next year. However, Control Engineering is the only publication that can tap into all of this buying power. For example, 60% of Control Engineering subscribers responding do not receive IAN, and 69% do not receive Control.

Process Variable Transmitters Product Research 2005