Today's Automation News Headlines from Automation.com

September 27, 2011 - Honeywell announced enhancements to its 854 Servo level gauge, which is now equipped with a Servo Auto Test feature. The Servo Auto Test feature can be used in overfill protection loops that require SIL-2 or SIL-3 solutions to prevent any spillage, complying with safety and environmental standards. Additionally, the Servo Auto Test solution can be loaded onto all existing 854 Servo units with a simple software patch.

This solution has been approved for Safety Integrity Level-2 and 3 (SIL-2 / SIL 3) applications and increases the gauge’s diagnostic coverage. The updated gauge provides high-accuracy level measurements in bulk storage tanks during inventory control and custody transfer applications. This provides oil and gas facilities with an updated tank solution that ensures safety, regulatory compliance and cost-effectiveness.

The increased diagnostics of the 854 Servo level gauge allow it to detect failures inside the gauge or in the application and report this to higher-level systems for further action, mitigating the possibility of mechanical failure.

When compared with other tank level solutions, the 854 Servo level gauge can significantly reduce operational costs by 15%. With a Safe Failure Fraction rate of more than 99 percent, the gauge’s diagnostics features can extend the device’s safety proof-test intervals to five years, depending on the application as opposed to every year for other solutions.
 

“Several serious accidents within the last few years have increased the awareness of process safety and how it can better protect people, the environment and assets,” said John Joosten, product manager, Honeywell Process Solutions. “Overfill protection also prevents the legal ramifications that can impact companies in countries with overfilled tank penalties. The modifications to the 854 Servo level gauge will help facilities take needed steps towards those bigger-picture objectives of overfill monitoring.”

Honeywell International is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell’s shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges. Honeywell Process Solutions is part of Honeywell’s Automation and Control Solutions group, a global leader in providing product and service solutions that improve efficiency and profitability, support regulatory compliance, and maintain safe, comfortable environments in homes, buildings and industry.