Test & measurement
advantages of digital versions are seeing them being rapidly replaced. That is because the accuracy and reliability of digital measurement instruments are ideal for the lengthy and complex Li-Ion battery production process. Traditional analogue measurement devices actually extend a production process that needs to be shortened to meet demand. Traditional analogue meters represent a particular measurement range using a varying electrical signal which introduces a potential mismatch between the transmitting range of an instrument and the input scaling range of the receiving instrument. This leads to incorrect readings and causes confusion for operators looking for ‘lost’ measurements, again slowing the process. By sending zeroes and ones from A to B, digital instruments eliminate this problem. The displayed value will always be a highly accurate representation, which ensures that each battery production stage meets the expected performance and quality parameters resulting in increased safety, greatly reduced waste and increased production of high- quality products.
Digital protocols also enable multiple values to be combined into one signal whereas traditional analogue allows only one signal to be sent at a time. Digital instruments can include many measurements such as density, temperature, or pressure along with the primary measurement again saving substantial amounts of time and money. Another benefit offered by digital instruments that they can be set up and used very easily, which improves quality and reduces errors. New user interfaces and graphical displays enable users to easily see and interpret what is happening, which makes commissioning easier. For example, temperature measurement devices from ABB substantially reduce the need for training by featuring a common and easy to learn HMI. And unlike analogue devices, digital
instruments can
automatically check the validity of their data. This means that operators can pinpoint any issues very quickly without the pain for analogue trial and error fault finding. Some advanced digital instruments even incorporate GSM technology, enabling users to obtain data and change configurations from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Remote operations are also made possible by the large number of digital instruments communicating over protocols such as Fieldbus. For example, a major Li-Ion battery
manufacturer in Sweden uses ABB’s Ability Field
Information Manager (FIM). A device management tool, ABB Ability makes it easier and quicker to configure, commission, diagnose, and maintain Fieldbus instruments, reducing the connection time from a traditional 15-30 minutes to three minutes or less. Another solution for the client is ABB Ability Verification, which enables the condition of
digital devices to be monitored in the cloud, which substantially reduces the need for scheduled maintenance.
THE POWER TO TRANSFORM PRODUCTION
When compared to their analogue equivalents, it is clear that digital instruments produce far more accurate data, and are more reliable and controllable. By going
digital with their measurements, Li-Ion battery manufacturers worldwide can significantly improve their contribution to a sustainable energy future by safely producing quality battery products that we will all come to rely on, all while keeping operational and material costs to a minimum by ensuring that the correct parameters keep production on course.
ABB
www.abb.cim/measurement
Instrumentation Monthly January 2024
17
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