New fieldbus concept offers flexible and secure communication with Grundfos pumps

Open and interoperable data bus networks are becoming increasingly important for supervisory systems monitoring pumps systems. Grundfos (Denmark) offers communication and control solutions using a new fieldbus concept that creates an optimal, flexible and therefore cost-effective integration of data communication and field devices such as pumps or pump systems into management systems.

The Grundfos CIM/CIU concept

The Grundfos Communication Interface Module (CIM) and the Communication Interface Unit (CIU) enable the connection of Grundfos products to standard fieldbus networks. The CIM/CIU communication interfaces enable data communication via open and interoperable networks such as Profibus DP, Modbus RTU, LONWorks, BACnet MS/TP®, wireless via GSM/GPRS or to the Grundfos Remote Management system (GRM).

The series of Grundfos CIM/CIU Communication interfaces means a great variety of pumps can be connected to a supervisory system. These open communication standards offer vendor neutral, flexible and secure communication solutions that optimise and protect investments, all the way to the pump field.

The modular design is prepared for future needs and is based on standard functional profiles. Grundfos CIM/CIU communication interfaces are easy to install and commission. CIM modules are add-on modules that allow communication with 11 to 22 kW E-pumps, including the new Dedicated Controls for wastewater pumps. For Grundfos products that do not support the CIM add-on module e.g. like smaller e-pumps, boosters, etc. CIU wall-mounted or DIN-rail units are available.

Integrated LED’s indicate the status of the connected communication network and assist in the commissioning phase. The CIU range has an integrated wide-range power supply from 24 V to 240 V.

Pre-empt maintenance and control remotely

Central data monitoring optimises remote control possibilities and enables a visualisation of the pump and pumps systems. From the high level of transparency of the collected data, operators can optimise their pump systems and carry out preventative maintenance. For example, in pressure boosting systems, data is not only available from the controller, but also from each connected sub-pump.

The aim is to allow operators to communicate quickly and easily via standard fieldbus networks with plant devices, saving time and money, for example by optimising the speed control. The result is improved reporting, increased plant availability, plant safety and easy and fast analysis and optimisation of the whole system.

The Grundfos CIM/CIU interfaces enable the integration of pumps and pump systems into SCADA systems, PLC’s, or other controller or monitoring systems.