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.
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
Maintaining a proper balance between the volume of water and the microorganism colony is crucial for effective operation. Accurate dosing is essential to prevent the death of microorganisms, which can lead to process delays while the colony is reestablished. By implementing FOCUS-1, Heros achieves the integration of a flowmeter and valve into a single device, eliminating the need for separate components. The integrated flowmeter ensures exceptional accuracy, with only a 0.5% level of inaccuracy, enabling precise flow control into the basins.
Jimmy Bouwman
Technical Manager, Heros Sluiskil
In this case study we will explore the traditional waste incineration process, the inherent challenges, and how FOCUS-ON's innovative smart meter valves have revolutionized operations at the Kristiansand plant. By introducing FOCUS-ON's smart meter valves, the plant has achieved significant advancements in efficiency and control, overcoming previous limitations.
George Borst
BDL FOCUS-ON
Discover how a leading chemical manufacturer in Antwerpen reduced downtime and improved operational efficiency with the FOCUS-1 smart metering valve. Learn about the challenges faced and the successful strategies implemented.
Eliminating Downtime in Chemical Manufacturing with FOCUS-1: A Case Study
In the past a separate flowmeter and valve system for filling soy oil into trucks was used. However, for this specific application, there is an increased need for efficient and accurate flow control. To guarantee a safe and efficient bag loading process, preventing bag rupture, spills, and leaks, precise flow control is crucial. By implementing FOCUS-1 in this application the process achieves a inaccuracy of only 0.3% when loading the truck, enabling precise flow control and ensuring safety with the inclusion of an integrated pressure sensor.
GEORGE BORST
BDL FOCUS-ON
FOCUS-ON VoF
Kerkeplaat 12
3313 LC Dordrecht
The Netherlands