Distributed control system (DCS) for process automation
Valmet DNA Automation System
Valmet DNA is a single Distributed Control System (DCS) for all your process automation needs in pulp & paper mills, energy production, marine, and process industries. It gives you complete control of all your processes and provides user experience and transparency that go far beyond traditional automation systems. Valmet DNA can be applied for process controls, machine controls, drive controls, and quality controls. Information management is an integrated part of the platform along with mechanical and field device condition monitoring. The single system architecture saves on both costs and effort while ensuring open growth for your future challenges.
The leading DCS user experience in pulp, board, paper and tissue mills, energy, marine, and process industries
Built-in control, optimization, condition monitoring, advanced analytics, and remote support
Certified cybersecurity based on ISO 27001 & IEC 62443-4-1 standards
User experience
Towards an autonomous plant
Valmet DNA distributed control system (DCS) integrates all the process automation needs under the same system. It provides an easy and practical approach from design to installation and maintenance.
Valmet DNA User Interface concentrates on making the most meaningful information available to all process automation users according to their roles, regardless of their location.
Built-in control & optimization
Interoperable applications
Valmet DNA User Interface enables easy use of all control & optimization applications through the same user interface for all users. Applications share the same data assets and visualization principles, making Valmet DNA the easiest-to-use automation system on the market.
Trends and event information is available through the same user interface. You can simply drag and drop any signal from any application to utilize the trend data. Instant troubleshooting, reporting, and process development take a leap to the next level.
Certified cybersecurity
ISO 27001 + IEC 62443-4-1 standards
Valmet DNA is the leading platform in cybersecurity. The security has been externally certified per the requirements of ISO 27001 and IEC 62443-4-1 (SDLA).
Valmet DNA automation system uses the Defence in Depth (DiD) approach from the beginning. The extensive Valmet Cybersecurity Lifecycle Services provide protection against any threat that might occur.
Control & I/O
Valmet DNA ACN controllers
Valmet DNA controller and I/O family ensure a dependable platform for all your controls and external connections. These control nodes support the modern ACN I/Os and main industry field buses, such as PROFIBUS, PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, FF, and AS-i. Standard links like OPC DA, OPC UA Ethernet, and serial links ensure excellent connectivity to third party systems.
Information management
Valmet DNA Information management
Modern process plants generate a vast amount of online data that is often stored and processed efficiently for later analysis. Valmet DNA Information management combines process interfaces, calculations, and databases into one uniform solution.
Databases store all measurements, setpoints, controller outputs, device statuses, motor starts, alarms, operation tracking etc. into history databases.
Engineering & maintenance
A scalable multiuser environment
Distributed control systems are used in different kinds of processes, often requiring a scalable multiuser environment for concurrent engineering. Valmet DNA Engineering environment contains versatile tools to engineer and maintain plant automation.
The tools allow life cycle management for all control applications, field buses, and field devices, as well as network document management. In addition, advanced diagnostic tools offer easy maintenance support for both applications and hardware components.
Related articles
What is a distributed control system?
Distributed control system (DCS) for process automation
A distributed control system (DCS) is a type of control system architecture used in industrial settings to monitor and control various processes and equipment. It is designed to provide centralized control while distributing the control functions across multiple devices and locations.
In a DCS, the control functions are divided among multiple nodes, which are interconnected through a communication network. Each node, often referred to as a controller or a remote terminal unit (RTU), is responsible for controlling a specific portion of the overall system. These nodes are typically connected to various sensors, actuators, and other devices to gather data and execute control commands.
The communication network in a DCS enables data exchange between the controllers, allowing them to coordinate their actions and share information. This network can be wired or wireless, and it facilitates real-time monitoring and control across the entire system.
One of the key advantages of a DCS is its ability to provide a high degree of flexibility and scalability. As the control functions are distributed, it allows for easy expansion and modification of the system without significant disruption. Additionally, DCSs often incorporate advanced features such as redundancy, fault tolerance, and automatic failover, which enhance the reliability and availability of the control system.
DCSs are widely used in industries such as pulp, board and paper, tissue, power generation, oil and gas, chemical processing, water treatment, and manufacturing, where precise control and monitoring of complex processes are crucial. They play a vital role in optimizing productivity, improving safety, and ensuring efficient operation of industrial plants.
Differences to a programmable logic controller (PLC)
In comparison, a programmable logic controller (PLC) is another common control system used in industrial automation. Unlike a DCS, a PLC is a standalone controller that is typically used for controlling specific machines or small-scale processes within a larger system. PLCs are often programmed using ladder logic or other programming languages specifically tailored for industrial automation.
