Glossary · HMI, SCADA and operations
Process control system
Also known as: PCS
German: Prozessleitsystem
In process automation, a process control system is the system of controllers, operator stations, engineering tools, networks and software used to monitor and control a process plant, including functions for alarms, trends and archiving.
- HMI and SCADA
- Process industry
In one sentence
A process control system monitors and controls a process plant with controllers, operator stations, engineering tools and networks.
Example
The new wastewater plant receives a process control system that controls the pumps, aeration and dosing and shows all areas in one control room.
How it applies
- Engineering: Process control systems are implemented as a Distributed control system (DCS), as PLC-based systems with SCADA, or as hybrids. Selection depends on plant size, number of loops, required availability and existing standards at the site.
- Safety: The basic process control system is normally separated from safety instrumented systems, which perform safety functions independently according to IEC 61511.
- Security: Process control systems are OT systems; their protection follows IEC 62443.
- Documentation: Keep functional specifications, architecture, configuration documentation and operating manuals under document control. Use the same tag names across P&ID, control system and manuals.
Process control system vs. safety instrumented system
The process control system runs the process. A safety instrumented system brings it to a safe state when defined hazardous conditions occur. Keeping them independent is a core principle of IEC 61511.