- April 01, 2017
- Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
ISA has published the latest in a series of technical reports that support the understanding and application of the widely used ANSI/ISA-18.2-2016, Management of Alarm Systems for the Process Industries.
ISA-TR18.2.7, Alarm Management When Utilizing Packaged Systems, provides guidance on how to integrate packaged systems (PSs) into basic process control system-based centralized alarm system. The technical report addresses various issues that can arise when ISA-18.2 work processes are applied to facilities where PSs are used, and provides guidance on how to successfully apply ISA-18.2 in these situations.
A packaged system, in the context of the technical report, can be visualized as existing outside of the basic process control system. It is a separate entity, usually containing an embedded microprocessor, controller or hardwired logic, which performs specific tasks for a piece of equipment or a process operating within a facility. Most PSs can be configured to send alarm or status information to a basic process control system, directly to an alarm annunciation system, or both.
The technical report addresses alarming-specific issues that can arise when PS interfaces are specified, designed, and implemented. Pros and cons of several design techniques are discussed from an alarm system point of view; the system designer should select the best PS interface option to use for the given application.
For information on viewing or obtaining ANSI/ISA-18.2-2016 and the series of supporting technical reports, including the new ISA-TR-18.2.7-2017, visit www.isa.org/findstandards. For information on ISA18, contact Charley Robinson, ISA Standards, crobinson@isa.org.