Watlow will preview its innovative Eurotherm® branded Edge Process Management (EPM) platform at SPS 2024 in Nuremberg. This cutting-edge solution marks a major step forward in the development of the “Factory of the Future,” where intelligent automation, data-driven decision-making, and robust cybersecurity work together to improve efficiency and reliability across industries.
The Eurotherm EPM platform enables manufacturers to capture and analyze real-time data where it is generated: at the edge. The EPM program integrates advanced analytics and machine learning, enabling users to optimize processes, reduce energy consumption, and improve product quality while ensuring the highest levels of data security.
EPM Data: Revolutionizing Data Management and Security
EPM Data, the first EPM platform solution, leverages Eurotherm’s advanced data management capabilities to enable manufacturers to collect, analyze, and secure data at the edge of their applications. Seamless integration with existing devices and compliance with industry standards make it ideal for industries that require precision and regulatory compliance.
Watlow’s Global R&D Director Kevin Shaw explains: “EPM Data will be a game changer for industries looking to harness the power of data recorded and time-stamped at the point of measurement to optimize processes. Its capabilities enable manufacturers to improve efficiency and safety today while ensuring operations for the future.”
Key features include:
High-precision data capture: Accurate and secure data capture ensures compliance with standards such as SAE AMS2750 and CQI-9 in aerospace and automotive manufacturing. Unique cold junction compensation (CJC) design allows for thermocouple accuracy measurements comparable to calibration equipment.
Real-time process analytics: Built-in batch validator shows deviations in real time, reducing waste and increasing throughput for more efficient operations. Scalability and Flexibility: Native expansion I/O reduces engineering overhead and increases the number of data points to meet growing operational needs.
Comprehensive Data Integrity: Compliant with ALCOA+ principles, tamper-proof data storage and audit trail capabilities support compliance with global regulations such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EudraLex Vol. 4 Annex 11, which are important in areas such as pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Robust Cybersecurity: Designed to meet IEC62443 standards, EPM Data enhances protection of sensitive data from cyber threats.
Supporting Watlow’s Integrated Thermal Loop Vision
The EPM Platform, including EPM Data, is a key part of Watlow’s integrated thermal loop strategy, connecting heaters, sensors, controllers, energy management systems and data recorders in a unified approach. The integrated circuit enables real-time data processing and machine learning to optimize thermal processes, allowing users to instantly respond to changes, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall product quality.
Sebastian Girard, Executive Director Europe at Watlow, explains: “Future releases of EPM Data will provide manufacturers with powerful tools for real-time optimization and increased data security. This innovative solution acts as a data collector enabling data analysis, reporting, and machine learning to make informed decisions to improve manufacturing processes in line with Industry 4.0 trends. Our integrated EPM architecture spans data management, process control, performance control, and automation, empowering manufacturers to make truly informed decisions and drive continuous innovation.”