With the Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer, Ethernet-APL for short, Pepperl+Fuchs and other companies set a major milestone to bring digitization into every corner in the field of process plants. Ethernet-APL includes long cable lengths, explosion protection, and interoperability, enabling continuous and transparent communication across all hierarchy levels.
Do you want to learn more? Our Ethernet-APL experts are happy to introduce the future-proof technology, and to discuss the next steps with you.
For the first time ever: modern Ethernet technology applicable in hazardous areas
Long cable runs up to 1000 m, communication and power via the same Ethernet two-wire cable
Designed for Intrinsic Safety: Output ports selectable up to Ex ia IIC, barrier-free accessibility
Efficient plant modernization due to reuse of existing installations and infrastructures
Fast and efficient communication of large data volumes at a rate of 10 Mbit/s, full-duplex
Testing and certification ensures interoperability of the devices and systems from different manufacturers
Ethernet-APL includes long cable lengths, explosion protection, and interoperability, enabling continuous and transparent communication across all hierarchy levels. Get more information about the technology, benefits, topologies, and the Ethernet-APL project.
Efficient Communication across All Levels
Ethernet-APL enables the direct connection of field devices to higher-level systems, allowing a uniform communication infrastructure across all process management and company levels for the first time. At 10 Mbit/s, enormous amounts of data are transmitted over long ranges at least 300 times faster than with current technologies such as HART or fieldbus.
Increased Plant Availability
In addition to pure process values, modern field devices provide valuable additional data. With Ethernet-APL, plant operators can make the most of the devices in real time, centrally monitor the status of their components, and identify maintenance requirements early on. This avoids unplanned downtime and increases plant availability significantly.
Simple, Cost-Effective Plant Modernization
Ethernet-APL supports the trunk-and-spur technology established in the process industry and is applicable to any industrial Ethernet protocol such as EtherNet/IP, HART-IP, and PROFINET. This simplifies integration for planners, plant designers, and plant operators since existing installations and infrastructures can still be used and investments are protected.
Flexible Use Worldwide
Based on the established IEEE and IEC standards, the new Ethernet advanced physical layer allows communication that can be certified in every region of the world. In addition, the testing and certification of products ensures interoperability, so that even devices from different manufacturers work together without issue.
See this video to learn how easy it is to realize intrinsic safety with Ethernet-APL. Ethernet-APL borrows the concept known from FISCO, but allows higher performance and greater distances between switch and field device. For the verification of intrinsic safety, an additional chapter was included in the well-known IEC standard (IEC 60079). This concept for intrinsic safety of Ethernet APL connections is called 2-WISE for Two-Wire Intrinsically Safe Ethernet.
Thus, 2-WISE is not completely new after all. The majority of users who today have to use the entity concept to prove intrinsic safety for device technology with analog signals will be relieved when using Ethernet APL.
In order to simplify the test process for validating the intrinsic safety of Ethernet APL devices and cables within APL segments, a new system concept has been standardized in IEC TS 60070-47 (2-WISE). It specifies universal limits for defining intrinsic safety in APL circuits.
The manufacturer of an Ethernet-APL compatible field device guarantees compliance with the required limit values according to 2-WISE. A distinction is made not only between different zones, but also between divisions. The user must select the devices according to the desired zone, ensure a suitable cable and document the installation. Time-consuming own calculations are therefore no longer necessary.
The GR enclosure series consists of carbon-loaded, glass-fiber reinforced polyester with stainless steel cover screws. The enclosure series provides an anti-static, UV stabilized and corrosion resistant solution. Many attributes simplify installation and handling such as dedicated pry points for opening, a foamed gasket for IP66, and special protection for the sealing edge. With an expanded operating temperature range down to -60 °C, the GR enclosure series can serve as a cost-effective choice for many installations that would otherwise require stainless steel enclosures.
Designed for use in hazardous areas and harsh environments, the SR series offers different sizes and dimensions for a variety of different Ethernet-APL applications. Any accessories, such as flange plates, hinges, mounting brackets or lid security can be integrated according to customer specifications. The SR enclosures are manufactured from brushed AISI 316L stainless steel and all fixings are manufactured from A4 grade stainless steel as standard to provide excellent tarnish and corrosion resistance.
