FOCUS-1 is developed for the process industry and features a integrated control valve, flowmeter, pressure and temperature sensors combined with extensive computing power in one single device.
Extensive CFD analyses enables FOCUS-1 to measure and control a medium between the identical face to face dimensions without jeopardizing on performance compared to a conventional control loop.
Traditional installations for control tasks in process plants
usually consist of several sensors, a control valve and a
DCS with control algorithms.
The process operator relies on proper functioning of all
these components to ensure process quality.
By combining all these components in one device, FOCUS-1, specifically developed for the process industry,
simplifies the installation dramatically and reduces
significantly the number of flanges, cables and I/O points.
In addition to the above, the commissioning efforts are
also heavily simplified, as all the control algorithms are
implemented within FOCUS–1.
FOCUS-1 complies with various communication protocols which are currently used in the process industry. Both setpoint, measured values as well as alarms can be communicated trough industry standard protocols. This allows the user seamless integration in their existing automation infrastructure.
FOCUS-1 can be easily accessed via its in-build web address. This allows remote access, user-friendly interfaces, cross-platform compatibility, scalability, and security, offering several advantages for asset management, maintenance and data control.
FOCUS-1 complies with various communication protocols which are currently used in the process industry. Both setpoint, measured values as well as alarms can be communicated through industry standard protocols. This allows the user seamless integration in their existing automation infrastructure.
FOCUS-1 can be easily accessed via its in-build web address. This allows remote access, user-friendly interfaces, cross-platform compatibility, scalability, and security, offering several advantages for asset management, maintenance and data control.
Internal communication between components reduces the need for complex DCS systems. FOCUS-1 can be used depending on control requirements allowing flexibility and adaptivity in various applications. With 1 device any of the below control options can be selected. By using FOCUS-1 as process controller (2) or system controller (3) the build-in PID-(auto) tuner guarantees simple and accurate process control.
Control of the valve position provided by the DCS
- Set point valve
position [%]
- Valve position [%]
- Measured Values
- Alarms
Control of flow or pressure measured inside FOCUS-1
Set point
- Volumatic flow or
- Outlet Pressure or
- Delta Pressure
- All Measured Values
- Alarms
- Diagnostics
Control of process by using a external sensor, such as temperature, level, pH, etc.
- Set point of external
control variable e.g.
temperature or
level or pH
- Set point value
- Measured Values
- Alarms
- Diagnostics
As all control functions (PID), sensors and the control valve are integrated in FOCUS-1, system accuracy and thus the control quality is significantly improved.
Valve type | Linear globe control valve |
Flow meter | Ultrasonic transducers |
Actuation | Pneumatic |
Fail Action | Fail to Close / Fail to Open |
Air supply | 3-6 bar clean air |
Power supply | 85V AC up to 250V AC 18V DC up to 32V DC |
Input set point | 4-20 mA/ PROFINET |
Output signal | 4-20 mA (active & passive), HART7®/ PROFINET |
Area use | non-EX & EX/ATEX |
Min Inlet run | 4 D |
Min Out run | 0 D |
Diameters | DN 50, DN 80, DN 100 (2″,3″ and 4″) |
The compute model in FOCUS-1 is enhanced with an additional layer of process monitoring, alarming, and diagnosis without compromising safety or performance. This is called the Digital Twin and constantly monitors deviations between measured and modelled values in the compute model. When a deviation of the measured value appears, the device triggers an alarm with information on the possible cause and severity. In the meantime, FOCUS-1 will present the modelled value which allows in having a replaceable process value to continue with operations. Resulting in opportunities to extend and plan maintenance to stops or maintenance beneficial moments.
FOCUS-1 combines flow, temperature, and pressure sensors with controls for optimal alkaline electrolyser performance. Simplifying KOH concentration measurement and flow control, it enhances efficiency, reduces complexity, and lowers costs in hydrogen generation through electrolysis. Precise measurement ensures ideal electrolyser operation during the energy transition to renewable hydrogen sources, aiding the shift from fossil fuels.
George Borst
BDL FOCUS-ON
At Ardo in the Netherlands, steam produced in a boiler is used to cook spinach before its frozen, this to maintain the quality and extend shelf life. During operations an optimal control and monitoring of the boiler feed water is crucial for several reasons. By replacing the existing control valve with FOCUS-1, Ardo gains comprehensive control and monitoring capabilities, offering valuable insights into the boiler operation.
Ardo
Netherlands, Zundert
Discover how a global agriculture and food industry leader optimized their gas scrubber operations with FOCUS-1. Learn about improved control, real-time data insights, and increased efficiency in this case study.
George Borst
BDL, FOCUS-ON
Explore how Dynea, a leader in Europe's wood adhesives sector, revolutionized boiler efficiency and sustainability with FOCUS-1, the world’s first smart meter valve.
George Borst
BDL, FOCUS-ON
An essential aspect of the biorefinery process involves steam production. Their careful regulation of water and steam production is geared towards reducing energy consumption and ensuring a responsible carbon footprint. A crucial element of achieving this lies in the efficient management of condensate return lines, which transport condensate back to the boiler. A important factor for this process is its safety aspects. FOCUS-1 ensures that the boiler feed water tank with the correct amount of water to maintain safe operating conditions.
George Borst
BDL, FOCUS-ON
FOCUS-ON VoF
Kerkeplaat 12
3313 LC Dordrecht
The Netherlands