Burkert Fluid Control Systems, in conjunction with its partner distributor Fine Controls (UK) Ltd, has supplied Johnson Matthey with Profibus and AS-i compatible valves for one of the largest Profibus network systems in the UK – part a major expansion at the company’s precious metals refinery at Royston, Herts.
Johnson Matthey is one of the world’s largest refiners of precious metals such as platinum, palladium, ruthenium and rhodium. The company’s Chemical Business Unit refines precious metals and produces fine chemical products for other Johnson Matthey divisions and for use in high-purity applications in the pharmaceutical, medical, electronics and other industries. The expansion of the facilities at the Royston site required significant additions to its automated control systems.
The Burkert valves, which are compatible with the latest Profibus and AS-i networks, are being used throughout the new control systems to supply feed liquors and reagents to many different processes. Many of the chemicals used are strong acids and alkalis, so the use of plastic valves is common. The plant also uses many glass-lined steel reactors, which are heated and cooled at various stages of the process using Burkert profibus steam valves.
The proportional valves connected to the Profibus PA network were supplied with software customised to Johnson Matthey’s requirements. The on/off valves, which use the latest AS-i 2.1 technology, are connected to local AS-i networks that are then connected into Profibus DP networks. The Burkert components used on the projects were Profibus PA diaphragm and globe control valves and AS-i 2.1 globe, angle seat, polypropylene, stainless steel and lined diaphragm valves.
