The global SCADA market size is estimated to rise at a CAGR of 7.8% i.e. USD 14.2 billion by 2027.
Driving industry mobile solutions, managing process industries, growing smart city projects, and developing infrastructure and the transportation sector are a few major growth drivers of the SCADA industry.
Before we proceed any further, let’s understand it better with a SCADA system overview.
What is SCADA?
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Primarily known as a software application used for controlling industrial processes, SCADA gathers data in real time from all the unlikely locations to control conditions and equipment. It is famous for providing companies with the required tools to help them deploy data-driven decisions in their industrial processes.
In short, SCADA performs the following functions:
- Account events into a log file
- Collects, monitors and processes real-time data
- Communicates system issues to mitigate downtime
- Helps maintain efficiency while processing data for wiser decisions
- Interacts directly with devices like valves, sensors, motors, pumps, etc via HMI (Human Machine Interface) software
Simply put, the SCADA system is a blend of both hardware and software components. That’s how it enables on-site and remote gathering of data from the industrial equipment.
Features of SCADA
Before the evolution of SCADA systems in the mid-20th century, most industrial plants, manufacturing flowers and remote sites relied on manually controlling and monitoring equipment via analog dials and push buttons. With the rising need, the first iteration of SCADA began with mainframe computers. Since then, SCADA has become the backbone of modern industries. Though, it has different features for different industries, a few general ones are given below:
Acquiring Data:
Data acquisition is the foundation of the SCADA system because it gathers data and delivers it to the field controllers which leads to storing data in the SCADA computers.
Remote Control:
Based on the data acquisition, further steps are taken via control of filed actuators.
Alarms:
To notify SCADA operators about major conditions in the system. These are basic alerts that are set to alert operators when processes are blocked when the system fails or when the process needs to restart, stop or adjust.
Presentation of Data:
This is achieved with the help of HMIs that represent historical and current data to the operators running under the SCADA system.
Reporting:
Reports on process performance, system status and customized reports as per the specific uses are available on SCADA system software.
Historical and Real-Time Data:
This enables users to track the latest performance in comparison with the previous ones.
Networked Data Communication:
This is the best feature that enables all SCADA functions by transmitting the data collected from sensors to the SCADA field controllers leading to communicating with the SCADA supervisory computers. Then the remote control commands are transferred back to the actuators from the supervisory computers.
The automation feature within the SCADA systems speaks volumes on how it helps detect the minute inconsistencies of routine operations, solves water and wastewater system problems and makes the whole process energy-efficient. From reducing the cost of operations to checking the functionalities that need to be prioritized and optimized, SCADA has transformed the way operators now interact with system data.
Who Uses the SCADA System?
SCADA system is of common usage in industrial organizations, and private and public sector companies. SCADA applications work well for enterprises that range from simple configurations to large intricate installations because of their ability to help mitigate downtime, distribute data for wiser decisions, communicate system issues and maintain efficiency. SCADA is the spinal cord of many modern industries like:
- Manufacturing
- Recycling
- Transportation
- Oil and Gas
- Renewable Energy
- Food and Beverage
- Telecommunications
- Power, Distribution and Control
- SCADA for remote water treatment
Depending on what data is needed, the SCADA system connects different equipment and monitors and controls everything from pumps to weather sensors to power motors and production. This system is of utmost importance for operating industrial plants effectively because it is efficient in gathering crucial data. In all the above industries SCADA system works towards providing valuable information to key collaborators.
Step-by-step Guide for SCADA Implementation
SCADA systems are termed highly valuable because of their ability to monitor chemical levels, tank levels, ultraviolet intensity, and multiple environmental conditions along with filters, valves, pumps, etc. From record-keeping and site security to aiding in managing distribution and sewer networks, pump stations, and filtration plants, the SCADA system does it all.
Here’s a 10-step guide for successfully implementing SCADA solutions:
From here SCADA software starts performing by interacting with your faculty, notifying you about the issues, informing predictive maintenance, and offering control over multiple pieces of equipment. Before you opt for the process, scrutinize the SCADA implementation cost in the market.
Components of SCADA
SCADA components comprise a collection of software and hardware instruments listed below in the form of a formula.
- SCADA software is responsible for connecting PLCs and RTUs to collect data and deliver control commands.
- To control and monitor different types of machinery, PLCs aka industrial computers are used.
- Collecting data from the field-based devices and sensors and then transmitting it to the SCADA system takes place with the help of RTUs.
- Communication within the SCADA system happens via the HMI i.e. mobile devices or computer screens.
- These communication networks connect the SCADA system to the equipment in the field.
Components of SCADA make it clear that water systems gain valuable insights and help by employing modern SCADA systems as it helps them in gathering data from crucial assets and immediate environments. Managers, Technicians and even employees can use the data displayed on digital devices to control equipment remotely and enable accurate and active responses within the system. That’s how the process helps in reducing costs, lowering risk and efficient operations.
Also Read: Water Audit For Your Business - Meaning, Importance, Steps
How Does the SCADA System Work?
SCADA functions with the help of sensors, controllers, RTUs and a communication network.
SCADA system performs 4 major functions:
- Data Acquisition
- Data Communication
- Data Presentation
- Monitoring with SCADA
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), also known as the Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) are the connecting links of the SCADA architecture. These microcomputers work with both Human Machine Interfaces and Field Devices (Equipment).
- RTUs/PLCs, also termed local collection points, send and translate data to the on-site/remote HMI which sends back control commands to the equipment.
- Human operators (Cloud-based or owned servers) access data via HMI.
- SCADA comprehends and displays data in understandable language to help operators analyze and react to alarms.
- SCADA systems also have options for automatic reporting engines or control actions for easy reports.
SCADA is often used for troubleshooting to maintain security, and continuous production flow without errors. The existence of SCADA systems in most water operations helps companies with the optimum utilization of existing resources and infrastructure. It is distributed throughout the entire operation and is central to the water company’s security.
Benefits of replacing SCADA with Dhaara
A few major benefits of SCADA and Dhaara are listed below in a tabular format to help you understand the SCADA software comparison clearly:
The above SCADA vs Dhaara comparison highlights how impeccably Dhaara removes the need for SCADA with its online assistance and comprehensive support.
Also Read: The Only Way Businesses Can Become Water Secure
Let’s Do It The Dhaara Live Way!
With Dhaara Live, you can ease your mind and save time as it is designed for companies committed to security, accuracy, and efficiency. Within just a few clicks, Dhaara makes sure you identify opportunities for improvement while complying with the regulations. It lets you be aware of the situation with its friendly reminders, over-usage reports, SMS alerts, and notifications. Moreover, you’re motivated to make wise decisions with Dhaara’s intelligent suggestions like compliance score, AI-driven suggestions and whatnot! Your choice of opting for the right provider can be your biggest investment.
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