FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT

September 16, 2004 Luann Kupka

Marketing & Sales Administration Manager

860-599-6262

Davis-Standard Introduces Full-Featured, Cost-Effective MESA III Control

(Pawcatuck, Conn.)--Davis-Standard’s new MESA III process control system, introduced earlier this year, combines full process control with affordability. Engineered for controlling smaller lines with one or two extruders, this mid-level system offers the features and flexibility of advanced systems such as Davis-Standard’s EPIC III™ in a value-added, compact package. Processors can take advantage of features such as trending and recipe storage without incurring costs for additional functions not required for their processes.

The MESA III system architecture is divided into three basic parts: the computer/HMI (Human Machine Interface), process controller and temperature control. The integrated computer/HMI contains Windows®-based operating software, SCADA (System Control and Data Acquisition) foundation software and custom applications software. The HMI features an integral 15-inch (380mm) high-resolution color LCD with touch-screen and functions as the main operator interface for controlling drives, pressures, and temperatures. The operator can implement control functions, make set-point changes, monitor line status, alarms and events, focus on specific process areas, create and download recipes, and conduct supervisory functions such as trending and reporting.

The process controller (PLC) is selected based on application and is based on either a Siemens or Allen-Bradley PLC hardware system. PLC

components include an industrial input and output rack/rail with power supply, a CPU module, analog input and output modules, binary input and output modules, modem for remote diagnostics and trouble-shooting. Davis-Standard supplies a custom process control applications program in standard PLC language.

Standard temperature control is maintained using discrete, sub panel-mounted temperature controllers. These controllers are supplied with a communications link to the HMI through the PLC. All temperature set points and alarms are entered and displayed through the HMI. Control options include a multi-loop controller or the system PLC control. When the latter control is selected, the PLC replaces the temperature controllers as the means of controlling and monitoring temperature points. Davis-Standard’s advanced dual thermocouple algorithm is available with this option.

The MESA III controller is supplied with an ethernet port to allow easy data extraction of line parameters to a host data collection system. MESA III options include remote view nodes and web browsing capabilities.

For more information about the MESA III control system, contact Tom Lewon at Davis-Standard’s facility in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, USA, at tlewon@davis-standard.com or (860) 599-1010.

# # #