Gravimetric feed systems can provide a great deal of information that can be leveraged in improving the performance of a process line. Information regarding raw material consumption, flow and abnormal operating conditions can be obtained and used. In addition, tight control over the feeders can be used to implement complex control strategies for the line. When selecting a feed system, evaluate both the technical capabilities of the controls as well as the ability of the vendor to provide sufficient assistance during the engineering and start-up phases. Even if all technical requirements can be met, it is important to have adequate support should problems or questions arise during commissioning. By thinking through the overall process control strategy and developing the details of an integration plan for the feed system, much time can be saved and possibilities identified which otherwise may not have been considered. An integration strategy for any type of complex control equipment is critically important to successful integration. Many technologies for industrial networking exist. While often predefined for a given plant or line, it is useful to survey existing technologies during the project to determine which bus system is most appropriate for a given process control problem.
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