|

Ethernet-APL is Ready to Use

Endress+Hauser’s load test of a realistic setup confirms the new technology’s performance

May 1, 2023

Ethernet-APL is Ready to Use
238 Endress+Hauser field devices were integrated into an Ethernet-APL system using Pepperl+Fuchs’ field switches and Honeywell controls

Expectations in the process industry for the new physical layer are enormous. Now, Ethernet-APL has shown that it can meet these expectations. The instrumentation manufacturer Endress+Hauser successfully conducted two load tests of a realistic Ethernet-APL setup with components from various manufacturers. The results confirm the new technology’s reputation as a game-changer in industrial communication. 

The load tests were designed according to customer specifications to prove that components from different manufacturers can be combined to create a reliable and robust system based on Ethernet-APL. The global chemical company BASF defined the requirements from the customers’ point of view. On the hardware suppliers’ side, Endress+Hauser stood next to Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB. Their components were confirmed to work together in harmony.

Successful load tests prove market readiness of Ethernet-APL

The first test was set up with nearly 240 Endress+Hauser measuring devices, including flow, pressure, temperature and level sensors. They were integrated into a system with Pepperl+Fuchs’ field switches and a Honeywell control system, all using Ethernet-APL and PROFINET. For the second test ABB provided the control system and was tested along with the previous field switches and measuring devices. 

The test results were conclusive: Ethernet-APL can be used under realistic circumstances. The test cases were carried out with maximum network layout, and the scalability and fault tolerance were successfully verified. All relevant requirements like total netload or redundancy switch-over times were met or exceeded.

Open Integration partner program enabled and supported tests

The Endress+Hauser Open Integration partner program unites more than a dozen manufacturers that want to ensure the streamlined interaction of their complementary products. The partners test and document the integration of their offerings and how digitalization may be fully utilized within typical process automation applications.

According to Jörg Reinkensmeier, head of the Open Integration partner program at Endress+Hauser, “The load tests proved that Ethernet-APL can be used for real. The components from various manufacturers work together smoothly, and the systems run reliably. We are proud that the close cooperation with our Open Integration partners made it possible to validate this technology. We have reached a milestone of bringing Ethernet to the field level of process automation.”

Jörg Reinkensmeier, head of the Open Integration partner program at Endress+Hauser

Ethernet-APL opens new possibilites for data use

Ethernet-APL enables the use of Ethernet at the field level of process plants. The 2-wire technology with power and communication over the same wire pair meets the requirements of even harsh process environments. Fast and digital data transmission with high bandwidth is now possible over long distances and in explosive atmospheres. Easy access to data from field instruments can lift process automation to a new level of efficiency and professionalism.

With the success of the load test, BASF, Endress+Hauser, Pepperl+Fuchs, Honeywell and ABB have taken a significant step towards a technological infrastructure that is open, future-proof and ready for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This will enable customers to create more flexible, efficient and cost-effective industrial systems and more benefits for the industry. 

Endress+Hauser is soon launching a full portfolio of Ethernet-APL measuring devices that transmit data via the PROFINET protocol. 

More Information

Ethernet-APL

Related Story

With Strong Results into the Anniversary Year for Endress+Hauser

2022 was marked by strong growth worldwide for Endress+Hauser. The specialist for measurement and automation technology delivered more sensors than ever before despite strained procurement and logistics chains. Incoming orders, sales and employment reached new highs; profits fell due to a negative financial result. The company, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2023, remains confident for the current year.

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Featured Article

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and logistics industries, the need for efficient and flexible material movement solutions has never been greater. Traditional methods like conveyor systems, forklifts, and manual pushcarts have served us well, but they come with limitations.

That’s why Omron is thrilled to announce the launch of their game-changing MD Series of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Read more


Products

  • Safety Locking Device PSENmlock from Pilz

    April 29, 2025 Safe interlocking and safe guard locking in one product! The safety locking device PSENmlock offers safe interlocking and safe guard locking for personnel and process protection, up to the highest category PL e. Safe guard locking is enabled by the dual-channel control on the guard locking device. As such, the switch is particularly suitable… Read More…

  • Rockwell Automation Unveils Powerful New Service to Detect and Respond to OT Cyber Threats

    April 28, 2025 New offering delivers 24/7 real-time threat detection and response to combat rising cybersecurity risks in operational technology environments. Rockwell Automation, Inc., one of the world’s largest companies dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, announced on April 28th its Security Monitoring and Response service, which is purpose-built to deliver continuous, real-time monitoring of… Read More…