EMERSONOvation and WDPF DCS Training

A DCS retrofit project or new installation usually includes training for plant operators and I&C 

technicians. Personnel turnover, major equipment changes such as a DLN retrofit, or a 

change in plant ownership may also prompt DCS training. Typically, operators are focused on 

the plant process: how to monitor and control it, and they want details about process graphic 

interfaces, alarming, and trending. I&C technicians on the other hand are interested in 

maintaining the DCS in good working order, troubleshooting, signal tracing, and system 

administration. Control logic functionality and historical data retrieval are also important topics.

Onsite Training 

Onsite DCS training allows a large number of plant personnel to be trained on a flexible 

schedule using their own equipment, control logic, and operating procedures. Training 

materials, tests, and hands-on exercises organized around specific performance objectives 

can be customized to fit the specific needs of the trainees. Typical performance objectives 

are: 

Operator Training

1. Perform operator selectable control functions from Process Graphic Screens. 

2. Navigate the Data Analysis and Maintenance Menu and use its functions. 

3. Use Point Information and the Point Search Functions. 

4. Build and display Trend Groups. 

5. Navigate the Alarm Screens. 

I&C Training

1. Know basic functionality and location of all DCS hardware; be able to troubleshoot 

 and replace faulty modules; be able to load controllers/DPUs. 

2. Monitor control logic, correlate WDPF logic to the corresponding SAMA drawing, 

 and be able to troubleshoot and correct faulty software configurations. 

3. Navigate the directory structure, perform basic system admin tasks, and perform 

 system back-ups. 

Self-Paced Training 

Computer-based, self-paced training is a useful complement to onsite training. It allows 

operators and I&C technicians to review DCS documentation and test their knowledge using 

“bite-sized” modules organized around specific performance objectives. 

Field Service 

Make it a standard maintenance procedure to take advantage of training opportunities whenever 

a field service engineer is onsite. In most cases field engineers will gladly share invaluable 

insights and experiences so integrate training with field service whenever possible. 

“Cookbook” Procedures 

Some DCS tasks lend themselves well to “cookbook” procedures. Procedures such as point 

directory update, software server back-up, and historical data collection can be customized and 

compiled into an illustrated procedure manual. For I&C technicians responsible for multiple DCS 

platforms, PLCs, CEMs computers, and plant instrumentation this can be a valuable reference. 

Plant Simulator or Test-Bed 

A plant simulator can be used by plant operators and I&C technicians to practice normal 

operating procedures, simulate process upsets, and debug control software modifications prior 

to implementation. The WDPF simulator using the same DPU and WEStation hardware as the 

plant control system can double as a “hot-spare” parts bin, improving plant availability when 

critical WDPF parts fail. A test-bed allows testing of DCS hardware components such as I/O 

cards, power supplies, processors, and communication circuit boards. However, it also provides 

the software tools needed to build/modify databases, control logic, and process diagrams. 

Training is an ongoing process. In addition to the examples listed above, turbine or HRSG 

user’s group meetings, industry publications, and ISA certification programs present excellent 

training opportunities and can either complement or provide an alternative to OEM training.

About us… 

Process Control Solutions specializes in control system 

engineering, project management, and commissioning 

support for Ovation system retrofits. 

We supply WDPF/Ovation software configuration, 

optimization, training, and perform logic reviews to insure 

SAMA drawings are “AS- BUILT” for Combined Cycle 

and Fossil Steam Power Plants.