India Operation
Center
Module 3.10 Functions of DCS
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Functions of DCS
Agenda
01 HMI (Human-Machine Interface),
02 Application Development
03 Trending & Process Alarming
04 Reports
Functions of DCS
Human Machine Interface
User interface
• HMI is the interaction point for monitoring and controlling
industrial processes, display of system data such as
• Process values,
• Setpoints and Process parameter status (e.g., temperature,
pressure, flow rates).
• Graphical representation of the plant through diagrams, alarms,
and real-time data
Control Interface
Allows operators to adjust setpoints, start/stop processes, and
change operational parameters
Alarm and Event Handling
Displays warnings and critical alarms (e.g., “Temperature too high” or
“Pressure exceeded safe limits”) to alert operators to take corrective
action as required
Data Display & Navigation
Organizes large amounts of data into user-friendly graphical formats
such as charts, gauges, and system schematics for quick
comprehension.
System Diagnostics
System hardware status
Functions of DCS
Application Development
Creation of Standard, customized Developing applications that interface
applications and logic to meet Industrial Integration with Other Systems with external systems like databases,
process specific operational goals ERP systems, or cloud-based solutions
Example: Sending production data to a
central database or generating reports Industry specific Libraries Testing of developed logic
for management.
Functions of DCS
Loop configuration
Functions of DCS
Trends & Alarms
Trends
• To Improve system performance operational efficiency
• Continuous monitoring and visualization of process data over time
(e.g., temperature, pressure, flow, etc.).
• Helps operators to identify patterns, anomalies or inefficiencies
• Used for predictive maintenance and performance optimization
Process Alarms
• Alarm Types: High/low limits, deviation alarms, equipment failure, etc.
• Visual and auditory alarms are triggered when process values exceed
predefined thresholds
• Alarms must be prioritized (e.g., critical vs. warning) to help operators
respond appropriately
• Historical Analysis: Analysing past alarms to identify recurring issues or
potential system weaknesses
• Alarm Rationalization: Ensuring alarms are meaningful and not
overwhelming to operators
Functions of DCS
Reports
Reports:
• Tracking performance
• Documenting operations
• Providing actionable insights for management
Types Of Reports
• Daily/Weekly Reports:
Summary of system status, production data,
and alarm occurrences
• Performance Reports:
Metrics such as efficiency, downtime, or throughput
• Compliance Reports:
Ensures that operations adhere to regulatory standards (e.g.,
safety, environmental compliance)
Automated Report Generation
TYPES OF AUTOMATED
REPORTING REPORT • Reports can be automatically generated at predefined
REPORTS intervals (e.g., daily production report, shift report)
GENERATION
• Use of Excel, PDF, or custom report templates
for distribution