OUR SOLUTION

Due to recent upgrades and modernisations the existing APMS control system implemented in the late 1990s was becoming a limiting factor. The specification for a replacement integrated SCADA system for the six main generating units and ancillary services was developed, alongside a plan to refactor the existing database into a disciplined class based structure.

Following a competitive tender process, which included the review and testing of several SCADA packages by system integrators, Ematics were chosen to develop the specification into a working system based on Codra Panorama E² and complete the meticulous task of restructuring the database in conjunction with Drax engineering personnel.

Beginning with Units 1 and 6, the Class and SCADA screen development was conducted simultaneously. With the first two units substantially complete, focus shifted to Unit 4 and Common Services. The lessons learned in completing the first stages of the project, along with Ematics’ continuous improvement processes are helping to ensure the successful programming and deployment of the remaining Units, planned to be completed by 2020.

The Results

Project Technical Specifications:

• Virtualised Panorama E2 SCADA System
• Six Main Generating Units
• 700 Control Screens Built
• 1000 Object Classes Developed
• 10000+ Database Records Restructured
• Bespoke Desk Design & Manufacture
• Server Panels, Networking, Infrastructure
• Display Hardware & Thin Clients

Developing a collaborative approach at the early stages of this project was instrumental in the successful delivery, with the experience and system familiarity of Drax engineers and operators embedded within the Ematics team providing extensive knowledge sharing and enabling rapid development/testing lifecycles with improved integrated services.

The result has been the modernisation of ageing systems to improve reliability, availability, and sustainability – whilst keeping the same system look-and-feel to minimise the impact of changes on Unit operations.