Application and benefits of an open DeviceNet control system in the forest products industry

This paper describes how smart devices communicating on a DeviceNet protocol have allowed a composite panels plant to successfully integrate vast amounts of process information to improve productivity and uptime in the forest products industry. The benefits of integrating DeviceNet systems include better process information to operators and improved diagnostic capability for troubleshooting. Valuable process information, previously unavailable, can now be readily viewed by any mill personnel. Safer plant operation has also resulted from the additional process control information. Also discussed is the total installed cost of a DeviceNet system as compared to a traditional PLC installation.