What's new with Ethernet APL in the process industry?

Level and pressure measurement, particularly when it comes to radar, benefits from Ethernet APL. As the two-wire protocol makes its way into industrial uses, people still wonder about this up-and-coming communication method for process applications.

To find out more, Control talked with Pat Koenig, product and technical solutions manager for VEGA Americas, Inc. In the following conversation, we discussed the new world for radar, why Ethernet APL is important for process control, the long wait to get this technology into the hands of users, security concerns and FieldComm Group’s role in developing and implementing Ethernet APL.

Q: What’s new in the world of radar?

Pat Koenig, product and technical solutions manager, VEGA Americas, Inc.

A: We know radar has transformed dramatically since its inception. We are now in our second generation of 80 GHz, non-contact radar. As radar technology advanced, so has the communication that we incorporate into the sensor. Today’s latest is Ethernet APL, which accommodates multiple protocols including Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, HART-IP and OPC-UA.

Q: What can you tell us about Ethernet APL? We hear there will be an Ethernet APL Roadshow in 2025?

A: I can confirm that there will be an Ethernet APL Roadshow in September in Houston. There are two locations where users can see multiple vendors, highlighting sensors and devices along with an education day of presentations and discussion. The first will be on Sept. 23 in Houston’s Energy Corridor, and the second is Sept. 24 in Baytown, Texas. The event is hosted by the SDOs of Ethernet APL—FieldComm Group (FCG), ODVA, PI and OPC-UA—along with several device manufacturers. Keep a lookout from FCG for registration information for either location.

Q: Why is the availability of Ethernet APL important?

A: That's a hard question because there are several features in these new sensors that have never been available in previous generations of two-wire sensors. Let me list a few:

It’s two-wire with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), so it’s fast and has a migration path for previous generations of two-wire sensors.
If the existing wire is in good shape and meets standards, you can use existing 4-20 mA wiring or fieldbus wiring for future migration to Ethernet APL.
Because it’s Ethernet, we can store more information in memory and support built-in webpages for sensor commissioning, diagnostics and more. For example, we can store manuals, certificates and other data from the sensor.
Ethernet APL is designed for process. The ability to use PoE and intrinsically safe power (IS) directly from the field switch to the device is a game changer that can reduce panel space and installation costs for a new or upgrade project.

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Q: Many users have waited several years for Ethernet APL. What would you like to say to them?

A: I would say that it’s real and it's here! Support from control systems, field switches and devices are available and ready for process applications. Larger companies have evaluated APL technology for years and are ready to implement projects that include APL devices and networks.

Q: Future users might be concerned with security of control data over Ethernet or Ethernet APL. Should they be?

A: Obviously, cybersecurity is a priority when it comes to Ethernet APL networks and devices. For example, our radar sensor has been designed from the ground up to meet IEC 62443-10-20 for cybersecurity. Many concerns can be eliminated for security of the field devices. In addition, many protocol standards used in Ethernet APL include security in the data packets being transmitted back and forth. The European Cybersecurity Resiliency Act (CRA) requirements to be implemented in the future are met by the certification of IEC 62443.

Q: How has FCG supported the development and implementation of Ethernet APL technology?

A: Even though it’s Ethernet, we can support the sensors with FCG standards (FDI, FDT/DTM) that traditional users are familiar with when commissioning sensors and devices. All this is done over Ethernet. Also, FCG is an APL conformance testing body for devices and sensors. They certify that devices meet the APL standards.