Modular production with Module Type Package (MTP) Easy module engineering and faster time-to-market: MTP lets you respond efficiently and flexibly to customer requirements.
Changes in the process industry
In many places, the process industry is characterized by large systems that have been in operation continuously for years without interruptions. It is therefore all the more important that potential anomalies are detected early on to prevent consequential damage and to continue operation. The latter is becoming increasingly important, as market trends, rising raw material prices, and growing competitive pressure pose corresponding challenges for the future viability of faultless system operation.
The modularization of systems increases flexibility with regard to individual customer requirements and general conditions. In this way, a process is divided into its individual parts and the modules are mapped individually.
MTP: Game changer for process automation
The Module Type Package (MTP) is a cross-manufacturer standard that enables the standardized and manufacturer-independent integration of system modules into automation systems. At the same time, modules can communicate with each other and with the higher-level control system.
The individual modules are referred to as process equipment assemblies (PEA). These are autonomous function modules that can communicate with each other via a standardized interface. The description of the modules is provided in the MTP, in the driver file. All information such as the function and characteristics of a module is recorded in the MTP. In this way, the function units can be replaced and reconfigured flexibly. This means that production systems can be started up faster and respond more flexibly to individual customer requirements. The process orchestration layer (POL) reads and controls the individual PEAs.
As can be seen in the video, MTP, together with the NAMUR Open Architecture (NOA) standard, enables users to leverage higher data transparency and increase process efficiency and flexibility.
Our commitment to MTP
The ZVEI and NAMUR established and developed the MTP standard accordingly. Today, the PROFIBUS user organization (PNO) is responsible for the continuous further development and applicability for various use cases.
MTP is being constantly developed in accordance with industry requirements. The growing relevance for the process industry is clearly demonstrated by the fact that the German standard is increasingly being adopted around the globe.
As a result, the MTP concept will be included in IEC 63280 in the future. The individual pages cover different topics such as the general concept, the HMI interfaces, or the alarm concept.
Phoenix Contact has been supporting the continuous progress of MTP for many years within the framework of various activities in working groups with other partners.
MTP is just the solution for the challenges of the process industry. Whether cost pressure, resource consumption, or the shortage of skilled workers – all stakeholders can benefit and ensure future competitiveness by using the standard.
Relevance of MTP
MTP is an important component in numerous industries, providing greater efficiency and flexibility in operation.
The chemical and pharmaceutical industries are characterized by changing market requirements and many batch processes, which often require the swapping over of raw materials and changes in the production process. To keep processes as flexible as possible and to minimize downtimes, a modular design of the production system is required. This means that module automation can also be adapted to a new production batch within a very short time.
However, even when setting up a new manufacturing site, MTP can help to set up the system on a modular basis and save time with a reduced engineering effort. The same applies to the replacement of damaged modules. For example, a faulty pump module can be replaced with a ready-to-run new module, as the module communicates with the control system using the MTP standard.
MTP also optimizes developments, processes, and maintenance in many other industrial markets. On the high seas, for example, the standard intelligently controls the individual system components of a ship, such as the engine, gearbox, or air conditioning system.
MTP is the game changer in every respect
- 50% faster time-to-market
- 70% reduced engineering effort
- 80% greater flexibility
Advantages for different target groups
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Feel free to contact us. Together, we will find an optimum solution for modular automation in your system. As a full-service provider of modular automation systems, we provide you with the right hardware and software. In addition, we offer comprehensive consultation and concept development, including engineering activities.
End-to-end engineering also includes the consideration of relevant requirements for functional safety, explosion protection, and cybersecurity. It is best to arrange an appointment right now.