Introducing Valmet DNAe: A Next-generation Distributed Control System

Valmet has released its next-generation distributed control system, Valmet DNAe, updated with a cybersecure system architecture and new engineering and analytics tools. In addition to improving the efficiency of autonomous operations, the new web-based control system is designed to provide enhanced security, sustainability, and usability. The system's modular nature allows upgrades to previous system iterations. Valmet serves the paper, pulp, and energy industries, developing and providing advanced process technology, automation solutions, and services.

Improving process control for automated systems can help save resources, reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, enhance productivity, and boost profits. Image used courtesy of Valmet 

Valmet DNAe Distributed Control System (DCS)

One of the key features of the Valmet DNAe DCS is a modern web-based user interface (UI).  With this updated interface, operators, salespeople, managers, maintenance workers, lab workers, and warehouse workers can easily access information relevant to their job roles. The UI also allows for a unified environment, enabling flexible configuration of automation systems (when aiming to meet new plant requirements) and the execution of maintenance duties to help maintain operational efficiency.

The DNAe UI Designer tool allows users to create interface displays and test component behavior before downloading. The I/O monitor enables diagnostics of I/O channel statuses in real time and allows authorized users to execute manual overrides of force output or input values. With this information, users can maintain the integrity of automation systems and make necessary tweaks to control when required.

Customers can access the DCS and conduct their work on desktop and mobile devices. According to Valmet, its DCS interface is the first and only UI amongst its competitors to connect with existing DCS.

With Valmet DNAe’s UI, users are able to intuitively access information most relevant to their job role. Image used courtesy of Valmet

Analytics and Data-driven Decision Making

Valmet’s dashboarding and analysis tools are available for handling industrial data. Analytics applications allow customers to monitor processes and generate predictions. Valmet DNAe comes with secure data management for data collection, storage, and processing both in the cloud and on-premise. 

The Valmet Process Analysis Tool executes process data monitoring, computation, and filtering. It allows for comparisons of production output, enabling users to observe peaks, analyze long-term trends, and eliminate unnecessary data. It is an effective method for process tracking and problem solving and is interchangeable with any process data tags.

Advanced Process Controls

Valmet DNAe comes with integrated Advanced Process Controls (APC), allowing customers to optimize their sub-processes by modifying them to run in their ideal operating range. APC advanced control applications can help companies reduce their emissions, resource/energy waste, and operating costs and improve product quality. 

Following any process optimization, users can keep track of performance and continue to enhance production processes with Valmet’s process performance services. Valmet provides remote monitoring and a worldwide network of service experts to help its customers achieve their process optimization goals.

The Valmet DNAe DCS meets ISO 27001 and IEC 62443-4-1 cybersecurity standards for worry-free operation. Image used courtesy of Valmet

Cybersecurity Standards

The cybersecurity of Valmet DNAe is certified by ISO 27001, an internationally recognized framework for information security management systems. Furthermore, it conforms to the IEC 62443 standards, created especially for enhancing the security of control systems and industrial operations. 

Thanks to proactive actions taken to avert assaults, industrial organizations are empowered to operate with confidence in the constantly evolving panorama of cybersecurity dangers. Valmet DNAe's security protocols lay a strong basis for protecting vital data and infrastructure.