The PCS 7 Advanced Process Functions (APF) specially developed for the chemical and food & beverages industries expand the functional scope of the SIMATIC PCS 7 system components.

They rationalize the configuration and operation of small and medium-sized automation systems with easier material processing which is characterized by dosing, mixing and agitating processes.

The APFs comprise modules for:

• Material management
• Parameter management
• Storage location management
• Order management
• Archive management

They support automation of the production process which starts with the raw materials intake and ends with release for filling and packing.

Batch processes can be automated using simple recipe structures (lists or parameter recipes) by means of the APF editors and function blocks. Clear information about materials and storage locations make a valuable contribution towards production optimization.

The function blocks that can be connected in CFC diagrams represent items such as materials, parameter records or subsystem-specific tasks. When coupled with so-called user archives, they allow master data to be managed and results data to be archived and evaluated via predefined OS displays on the SIMATIC PCS 7 operator station.

Notes:

• The PCS 7 Advanced Process Functions (APF) V2.1 require SIMATIC PCS 7 V8.2 OS engineering and OS runtime software. SIMATIC PCS 7 system components are not supplied with the APF products, but must be ordered separately (see ST PCS 7 catalog).
• A prerequisite for delivery of the APF products is successful completion of an APF training course. Please contact your local sales representative for further information.