Control of gamma irradiation facility with improved safety system

Abstract

Modern industrial control systems are based on computer technology and robotics with real-time information processing, multiuser databases, and communication networks. Due to the latest advances in information technology, some irradiator operations are already gaining significant benefits. However, in the case of safety critical systems such as irradiation plant, the requirements concerning the high degree of safety and reliability are priority, apart from these for better process control and cost savings. This paper presents the architecture and design of a new highly flexible control system with an improved safety system. The proposed control system has been designed, installed as an upgrade to an existing irradiation facility and successfully validated. The system controls the entire irradiation process from loading of products to the production of post-treatment reports. In addition to completely automated control, remote monitoring of the facility operation, including video surveillance, is provided via the Internet and GSM network. © 2008 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.