Automation & Control
Hosokawa Micron automation and control systems integrate processing equipment, safety functions and data management within an architecture tailored to the process. They support production monitoring and control, recipe management, operating data recording and plant diagnostics.
From individual machines to complete processing lines, control architectures can be designed around the required equipment, interfaces, traceability needs and level of automation. Integration with DCS platforms and upstream or downstream equipment can be included where required.
Design for industrial requirements
Our solutions combine processing equipment with an automation infrastructure designed to improve plant availability, operational traceability and process control. Analysis, recording and notification functions support production monitoring and the diagnosis of deviations.
Depending on the application, the design may take account of standards such as EN IEC 60204-1 and EN IEC 60079-14 for electrical installations, EN ISO 13849-1 for machine safety functions, and IEC 61511 and IEC 61508 for functional safety.
Our automation project approach
We follow a structured, results-driven project methodology to ensure reliable automation system implementation and long-term performance:
- Analyse the requirements
Our commercial and technical teams review the production objectives, required functions, process constraints and applicable standards with the customer. - Define the architecture
We develop an automation architecture suited to the equipment, interfaces, traceability requirements and desired level of control. - Design the solution
Our engineers prepare the electrical schematics, functional specifications, operator interfaces and control logic. - Implement and validate
Hardware and software components are configured, integrated and tested before commissioning. Verification may include FAT and SAT activities, depending on project requirements. - Provide technical support
After commissioning, our teams can provide remote or on-site support, as well as maintenance and optimisation services.
Food and pharmaceutical applications
In the pharmaceutical and food industries, specific requirements may apply to automation systems regarding traceability, access control, data recording and validation. For pharmaceutical applications, these may include FDA requirements relating to 21 CFR Part 11.
Projects can be carried out in accordance with GAMP principles, with documentation adapted to the customer’s validation requirements.
A project based on GAMP principles may include documentation and validation activities such as:
- Functional Specification (FS)
- Functional Design Specification (FDS)
- Hardware and Software Design Specifications (HDS/SDS)
- FAT and SAT protocols
- Installation Qualification (IQ)
- Operational Qualification (OQ)
Batch and continuous systems
Batch systems require precise management of recipes, production sequences, dosing and process parameters. Depending on the application, the control architecture can be designed in accordance with ISA-88 principles to structure equipment, process phases and production procedures.
Continuous processes require ongoing monitoring of critical parameters, alarms and plant performance. Our control solutions support real-time process monitoring, production data recording and rapid intervention when deviations occur.
Hardware and software components are selected according to the project requirements, the existing architecture and the customer’s preferences.
HMI: operator interface and process management
Hosokawa Micron offers several control architectures based on standardised or custom-designed solutions, depending on the project requirements:
- Delta solution
The Delta solution is suitable for smaller or less complex installations. It provides a standardised architecture for essential control and monitoring functions. Remote access is not available in this configuration.
- Siemens solution
The Siemens solution provides a flexible architecture for more complex installations, including batch processes, recipe management, data collection and remote support.
- Custom solution
A custom solution can be developed where the customer specifies a particular brand, architecture, software standard or control philosophy.
Operator interfaces can be configured for process monitoring, alarm management, reporting and recipe control.
Remote support
Remote support enables our specialists to analyse alarms, review process parameters and assist operators with equipment diagnostics. Where the customer’s infrastructure and access permissions allow, our engineers can also work on PLCs, HMIs and control software.
This approach can reduce response times and limit the need for on-site visits. Access, security and support arrangements are defined according to the installation and the customer’s requirements.
Learn more
Talk to our experts
Our specialists support the design of an automation and control solution tailored to your plant, production requirements and technical standards.
Sustainable process technologies
Hosokawa Micron B.V. is committed to sustainable and responsible process technology. Our ISO 14001 certification covers key environmental aspects such as air, soil, energy, waste, water, noise and hazardous substances. With an EcoVadis Silver Medal, we rank among the top 3% of EcoVadis-rated companies in the special machinery industry.
