The measuring, control and automation system specially matching the prevailing plant topology allows for simple and faultless operation of the plant. The complete operating system comprises all necessary field devices such as sensors, actuators, local panels, PLC system as well as a central-computer-based operation and visualisation system. The field devices are designed with process connections which are suitable for food or are hygienic according to their use. If inflammable media are used, the field devices are of explosion-proof design. An efficient field-bus system links the field devices to the PLC system via so-called remote I/Os.

Wherever local operation is required (e.g. for filling or discharging the extractor), appropriate operating panels are installed. Depending on the requirements, parts of the plant (including the operating panels) are manufactured in clean-room type.

The PLC system contains the complete plant software, including the registration of current values, controls, sequences, interlocks as well as motor and valve controls. It is linked to the computer system via a plant bus, usually Industrial Ethernet. In order to improve the availability, the computer system may have a redundant structure with a master computer and a back-up computer. The plant structure is displayed clearly on the computer screens in a form similar to the P&I diagrams. Messages and requests for data inputs are displayed in plain language. The system contains extensive diagnostic functions in order to guide the operator to the affected component in the case of fault.

• Display of current values for pressure, temperature, flow rates
• Indication of valve positions and status messages
• Recording and trend display of relevant process data
• Recipe management, i.e. input, modification and downloading of recipes into the PLC
• Batch protocols with all relevant data
• Alarm-announcing system
• Hard copies of all computer screens
• Remote service via standard telephone line