Remote valve assistance through augmented reality

Emerson has announced its new Remote Assistance service capability to help plant operators immediately respond to industrial valve issues by using augmented reality (AR) technology. The AR technology uses a robust, secure channel certified as ISO 27001-compliant. Valve repairs are advised and guided by Emerson experts as part of the company’s expanding Connected Services portfolio in its Plantweb digital ecosystem.

Using a mobile device, plant personnel can securely share their field of view through the AR software as Emerson valve experts help troubleshoot and solve valve problems. Step-by-step instructions are overlaid in the field-user’s application to support installation, calibration or repair actions.

Valves play a key role in reducing variability and increasing reliability in production because they touch so many areas of the operations. In any given process facility, there could be hundreds to thousands of valves in operation. Depending on the criticality and the application, the maintenance plans could vary from daily monitoring to less-frequent inspections and repairs. Ensuring valves meet operational standards requires detailed record keeping and right-skilled talent to oversee the repair.

Real-time video communication enables users to resolve issues faster and minimise instruction errors that often occur with audio-only support while eliminating travel time and the cost of getting technicians to the worksite. In addition, operators can expand their in-house knowledge base and staff skillsets through on-the-job troubleshooting guidance and recommendations to remediate issues, up to and including oversight of the final repair.

“Our customers are supporting critical infrastructure through the global health crisis that we’re experiencing, but they still encounter issues where they need outside help. We’re able to continue our promise of support while protecting essential on-site staff and Emerson technicians through the use of this technology,” said Clint Schneider, Director of Emerson’s digital valve services.

The Remote Assistance service is available for Emerson valve, actuator and regulator products — and in some instances, can cover non-Emerson products, as some Emerson technicians have extensive backgrounds in repairing products from other manufacturers.

For more information, go to www.emerson.com/digitalvalveservices.