MARSHALLTOWN IOWA, Oct 21, 2003. Emerson Process Management has begun full operation of its newest PlantWeb Dynamic Performance Lab at its Fisher® valves research and engineering complex in Marshalltown, Iowa.

The lab is dedicated to the study of control valve performance as experienced under dynamic flow conditions. Use of dynamic flow testing best simulates the actual process control conditions found within valve users' manufacturing facilities. The findings of these simulation studies are utilized in the development and refinement of control valves and their flow control components.

The dynamic performance labs also allow head-to-head comparisons of purportedly equivalent valve designs. Differences in ability to control are identified and analyzed as part of ongoing programs to improve valve effectiveness.

Presently there are five control valve dynamic performance laboratories in the world; all are owned and operated by Emerson. The labs enable a PlantWeb experience as well as simulating dynamic flow conditions. They make extensive use of the PlantWeb digital plant architecture that incorporates digital field devices, systems and software to conduct and document the performance tests. DeltaV automation systems control the dynamic performance loops in the labs. Each lab site utilizes HARTâ and FoundationÔ fieldbus communication protocols. The lab’s testing capabilities helps Emerson experts optimize valve performance, a key factor in powering PlantWeb to improve plant efficiency.

The PlantWeb Dynamic Performance Labs also are used in the development of on-line, in-service predictive maintenance systems for control valves. The resulting predictive diagnostics software, AMS ValveLinkâ , can detect and identify more than 200 fault conditions that can occur in control valves. The software is utilized with Emerson's FIELDVUE® Digital Valve Controller to detect, diagnose and recommend corrective action, which is an industry first and an exclusive capability.