Process automation system for zinc smelter

Nyrstar Hobart, a global multi-metals company, has awarded a $2.5m+ order to Rockwell Automation and its Global Solutions team to replace a distributed control system (DCS) at its zinc smelting operation in Hobart, Tasmania, with a Rockwell Automation PlantPAx process automation system.

Jeremy Kouw, general manager, Nyrstar Hobart, says: "Our current DCS would be cost-prohibitive to upgrade. Hardware was failing and repairs were becoming expensive and requiring longer lead times.

The Rockwell Automation solution provides us with better integration between different process areas, improved diagnostics, maintaining plant uptime and delivering improved plant performance reporting." Rockwell Automation developed a three-year phased integration with a back-up option that uses custom input/output cabling to ensure process continuity, and technical support. NHP Electrical, a Rockwell Automation distributor, provides long-term support to the project.