Powerful electrostatic precipitator controller|FLSmidth

Key Benefits

Intuitive and user friendly
Easy troubleshooting
Flexible and simple to install and operate

What we offer

PIACS DC controllers

Best ESP control strategies

FLSmidth’s PIACS DC4 control unit for Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP) provides plant operators enhanced utilization of installed power which in turn improves ESP efficiency. Our smart microprocessor incorporates the best ESP control strategies to avoid process fluctuations delivering superior ESP performance that helps you save energy. It has evolved from 40+ years of experience in providing over 4,000 ESP installations worldwide.

Our controller uses a patented method to detect back corona when dust resistivity (specific electrical resistance) is high and address process fluctuations. Our controller features an enhanced stability monitor for ESP and process optimization. We enable superior ESP performance with improved spark detection and a patented rapid voltage recovery system. Also, our controller helps you save energy using a built-in energy management control system (EMCS).

Custom-made systems or retrofitting existing control panels

Our PIACS® DC4 is available for new ESPs, or you can easily upgrade your existing controller in a manner that fits your needs. We have successfully upgraded existing ESP control systems from all different manufacturers, starting with the first generation of PIACS controller.

User experience like never before

We designed the new controller with emphasis on an intuitive user interface so it is clear and simple for you. With distinct visual layers, clear text, symbols, and icons, we make it easy for you to navigate the system. We have built in rich content and functionality that you can seamlessly discover through smooth transitions without ever losing context.

Engineer working on PIACS DC4 ESP controller touch screen

Built-in ESP manager

Our built-in ESP manager eliminates the need for an external computer or special software. With the new PIACS® DC4, it is now possible to access the ESP control interface through a built-in
ethernet connection. This allows your maintenance staff and our specialists to service the equipment remotely.

Unique service facilities

It offers several unique service functionalities that help you maintain the ESP high voltage (HV) system including a built-in help menu with troubleshooting tips. Service tasks are addressed using a 4-channel oscilloscope and the firmware is easily updated via a USB port. There is a self-diagnose tool for the panel and I/O controller, and, for testing purposes, manual controls of firing angle and ESP current.

With the PIACS DC4 controller you can also detect failures inside the ESP using a 4-channel trend log of all essential operating values plus an alarm log and a history log. You can access current voltage curves (CVC) in automatic or manual mode and customize the event log for specific parameters and configurations that are important for you. What’s more, you can easily export CVC’s, trending data, events and scope data to an ftp server or USB memory card. Finally, your system configuration can be fully backed-up and restored with ease.

Key benefits

A modern ESP control system that is user friendly, flexible, easy to operate and maintain

Intuitive and user friendly: With an intuitive user interface it is clear and simple for you to navigate the system and access additional content and functionality without losing context. With several configuration options, you can customize the event log for specific parameters that are important for you and export key data, such as CVC’s, trending, events and scope data to ftp or USB memory for additional analysis or reporting.
Flexible, simple to install and operate: Compared to previous generations of PIACS controllers that were built for each section of the ESP, we designed the DC4 series with an expandable I/O system. Our design offers an almost limitless modular system and fully customisable control panels that can be tailored to your needs.

Additionally, almost all parts can be used in both single and three phase T/R systems. This means you save on spare parts, keep track of fewer parts, and only require one order number. Also, transitioning between single and three-phase T/R system is easy.
Easy troubleshooting: With a built-in ESP manager we offer access to the ESP control interface through a built-in ethernet connection removing the need for a computer or external device. Maintenance staff and our experts can service the equipment remotely. Additionally, we also offer various service packages, including 24/7 support via remote access from our customer service offices.

Product features

Unique and powerful features

for superior user experience while securing dust emissions matter emissions

Key features of PIACS DC4 controller

Improved ESP voltage and current measurements
Optimization of corona power delivered to the ESP bus section
Faster voltage recovery following sparks for improved performance
Robust controller construction for increased reliability of components
Automatic optimization, including patented method for back corona detection
Modular design with ability to expand by up to 90 rapping motor sand 90 heaters and two purge-air units
Dust transport handling
Standalone small SCADA feature for FLSmidth’s Coromax® 4 pulse controller
Available for new ESPs and for retrofits
Pre-cabled and pretested back panels can be delivered and installed in the existing cubicles with expert support to ensure new control systems are properly installed in existing ESP control panels
Built-in retrofits can be performed during maintenance outages or during operation, field by field
Delivery of retrofit kit parts with all required components for upgrading an existing panel with one-phase or three-phase thyristor control
Cost-efficient spare part strategy - Common parts for single and three phase systems
Built-in ESP Manager with remote monitoring and 24/7 support

Technical specifications

Component	Specification
ECP Touch Panel	15,6” capacitive touch panel Common controller for one chamber Modular system supporting Built-in ESP manager for remote support High-speed data communication with slave nodes using Ethernet Powerlink
LCP – Local control panel	4,3" resistive touch panel HMI controller for Intelligent Control Unit HMI panel can be used together with ECP touch screen or as standalone High-speed data communication with slave nodes using Ethernet Powerlink
FB – Firing Board	Single-phase firing board (3 phase systems use three single-phase units) Mains voltage up to 690V, 50/60Hz No active power supply for driver circuits One fibre optical firing for both half-cycles of the line frequency Status fibre for line synchronisation and status of firing
iCU – intelligent Control Unit	iCU supports both single and 3-phase systems Power controller for firing board up to 690V - 50/60Hz Fiber optical firing of the SCR unit(s) - electrical separation between iCU and firing board
rMU – remote Measuring Unit	High voltage control & alarms For unit status and maintenance (7-segment LED for status indication or manual control of firing angle/current control) Service interface via serial USB Analog monitoring of SCR units and control cabinet temperature