News

Since May 2005, a HIMatrix system from HIMA Paul Hildebrandt GmbH + Co KG has been ensuring via Ethernet communication the safe remote control and monitoring of safety-critical states of the Werries lock through the Hamm lock in the Datteln-Hamm Canal.

The overhaul of the Hamm and Werries locks not only involved structural measures, it was also intended to create the technical prerequisites for operating the locks by means of remote facilities. The company OSMO-Anlagenbau GmbH & Co. KG, which was commissioned with the installation of the electrical and communications engineering, decided to use the HIMatrix system for safety engineering because at present this is the only automation system with approval which is capable of transmitting any type of safety signal via Ethernet, via which the communication takes place between the two locks.

HIMA delivered a service packet consisting of hardware and application software to OSMO. A fail safe, memory programmable HIMatrix F20 controller as well as a remote I/O module F3 20/8 are being used as hardware components. The PLC as well as the safety-related communication of the devices among each other have a TÜV certification and are approved for safety-related applications up to SIL 3, Cat. 4 in accordance with IEC 61508, IEC 61131, EN 50156, EN 954.

HIMA also developed two safety solutions for the two basic hazards which can occur during the operation of the locks:

1. A ship whose fastening is too "short" can "remain hanging" on the wall of the lock when the water level drops. When the water level rises, it can capsize or be dragged under water.
2. A person close to the closing lock gate can be crushed by the gate. Furthermore, there is risk of injury from the slidegate valves which control the rise and fall of the water levels in the lock chambers.

Both solutions developed by HIMA were approved by the specialised department for mechanical engineering at the Waterways Construction Office in Datteln on behalf of the responsible Water and Shipping Authority in Rheine.

After the remote control system proved successful in service trials, the shift leader will also monitor the lock operations in Werries from Hamm using screens and video links. The project is set to become the standard for other lock modernisation projects. In the future it is already planned to equip other locks with remote operation facilities with this safety system.