ODVA announced Nov. 12 that new process device profiles for temperature sensors are now available as a part of its EtherNet/IP specification. These profiles help system integrators and end users commission new devices and more easily replace devices. They also standardize process variables and diagnostics for smoother device interoperability and easier controller data integration from EtherNet/IP-capable field devices.
Device profiles are available for Coriolis, electromagnetic and vortex flows, standard and scaled pressure, and now resistance temperature detector (RTD) and thermocouple temperature devices. ODVA adds the value of the profile’s standard formatting of process variables, data totals and diagnostics is enhanced by adding temperature profiles.
“Adding new temperature process device profiles for EtherNet/IP gives end users another valuable tool to enable more efficient device commissioning and replacement,” said Dr. Al Beydoun, president and executive director of ODVA. “All EtherNet/IP process device profiles are aligned with the Process Automation Device Information Model (PA-DIM) and NAMUR NE 107 diagnostics. This allows for easier movement of data from the factory floor to the cloud for analysis and action, and quicker identification of maintenance issues through standardization.”
In addition to flow and pressure, introducing process device profiles for temperature allows seamless integration among more interchangeable EtherNet/IP devices. The temperature device profile contains one instance of the process measurement value object to provide temperature value and status. The device profile also contains several process device diagnostics instances to provide diagnostic information. Temperature devices measure relative heat or cold using a thermocouple or RTD. Thermocouples rely on two dissimilar metals joined at one end that produces a voltage difference between the two materials for measuring temperature. The voltage is directly proportional to the temperature difference between the two ends. RTDs operate based on the principle that the electrical resistance of a metal increases with temperature. RTDs tend to provide greater accuracy, while thermocouples have wider temperature sensing ranges. The latest version of the EtherNet/IP specification including temperature process devices profiles for EtherNet/IP is available at ODVA’s website.
