Problem
Often process plant that requires monitoring is not located close to operators or engineers. Support by FEG involves travelling to site and connecting to internal networks is normally not possible.
Approach
We considered several options for remote access and monitoring, looking at what our data point loading was going to be, based on the systems we needed to monitor. On several of the sites, access to the web via site engineering networks was not permitted so this had to be considered within the selection process. We opted for a device that could have a data only sim card added to enable the transfer of data to secure servers on which the logging function could take place.
Outcome/Benefits
Engineering staff receive email alarms which aids in their response to the faults, leading to reduced response time and cost savings through the remote access functions. Trending of data also improves process control and planned maintenance.