AS3_2025

Automazione e Strumentazione Aprile 2025 Tecnica 91 CONTROLLO control systems. This allows for seamless inte- gration of modules across different manufactur- ers without the need for complex, proprietary interface adaptations. A core aspect of MTP is the semantic structur- ing of modules, known as Process Equipment Assemblies (PEAs). PEAs have their own intel- ligence and represent at least one process-related function. They can be used at various produc- tion stages-from laboratories and pilot plants to industrial-scale manufacturing. Within a PEA, smaller functional units called Functional Equipment Assemblies (FEAs) handle specific process functions. [1], [2], [3]. A Standard with a History The concept of modularizing process plants has a long history. Engineers realized early on that standardized interfaces were necessary to connect plant components flexibly. A major milestone was reached in 2013 with the Namur Recommendation NE 148, which laid the foundation for the current MTP standard. The development was driven by numerous stakehol- ders, including research institutions such as TU Dresden and HSU Hamburg , as well as indu- stry partners actively shaping the standard. A crucial factor in its success was the close colla- boration between operators, manufacturers, and standardization bodies. The breakthrough came with the VDI/VDE/ Namur Guideline 2658, which specified the MTP standard, allowing for a uniform and manufacturer-independent description of pro- cess modules. This marked the beginning of a new era in automation technology, where modu- larity and flexibility became central. A significant milestone was reached in 2023 when the MTP standard transitioned to Profi- bus & Profinet International (PI), accelera- ting global standardization. While MTP had primarily been developed and used in Germany and Europe, its integration into PI provided an international platform for further development and adoption. The first major result of this tran- sition is the release of MTP 2.0, scheduled for early 2025. This new version will introduce sub- stantial improvements in interoperability and interface clarity, enabling even more precise and cross-manufacturer integration. The Benefits of MTP Throughout the Plant Lifecycle MTP delivers value across the entire plant lifecycle—from planning and operation to expansion or decommissioning. Traditional pro- Picture 2 - Modular Plant Structure [4]