CHEMICAL INDUSTRY

Chemical processing facilities rely on industrial machine-to-machine human interface systems (M2M HMIs) to effectively operate chemical production processes. Industrial HMIs have a long mean time between failure and allow operators enhanced control of machine performance. The increased visibility and control directly from the factory floor enhances productivity, plant safety and product quality; in turn, industrial HMIs increase profitability.  

In fact, increased visibility to batch processes and performance directly on the plant floor helps operators mitigate any production interruptions. Batch production may take a few hours or a few days, and require operator oversight. Any interruption or equipment downtime can ruin the batch, requiring the process to start all over again. 

A Class I, Division 2 or Zone 2 industrial HMI allows the operator to closely monitor batch processes and performance. With a stainless steel enclosure, shatterproof LCD display, fanless cooling system and wide operating temperature, a hazardous area HMI is the best solution because it can tolerate extended exposure to hazardous conditions (i.e. shocks, vibrations, corrosive or flammable emissions).   

For chemical processing facilities that operate in Division 1 or Zone 1 environments that are extremely hazardous areas, they rely on purge control units that are either built into the HMI or placed on top of the unit. The purge control will purge the unit of any flammable gasses, ensuring that the equipment inside the unit is not exposed to the surrounding flammable gas while operating. The purge control will alert the operator if a loss of positive pressure occurs or automatically cut power to internal equipment.