ISA Interchange

Welcome to the official blog of the International Society of Automation (ISA).

This blog covers numerous topics on industrial automation such as operations & management, continuous & batch processing, connectivity, manufacturing & machine control, and Industry 4.0.

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. ISA blog posts may be authored by ISA staff and guest authors from the automation community. Views and opinions expressed by a guest author are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent those of ISA. Posts made by guest authors have been subject to peer review.

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May Technical Training and Education Opportunities from ISA

This education & training roundup was compiled by Joel Don, ISA's social media community manager.

ISA will present two major events in May with opportunities for technical training. If you are planning to attend the 61st International Instrumentation (IIS) Symposium (May 11-14, Huntsville, Ala.), you’ll have an opportunity to sign up for courses on industrial wireless and industrial automation security/ ANSI/ISA-62443 standards. IIS is sponsored jointly by the aerospace industries, test measurement, and process measurement and controls divisions of ISA. May-2015-training-educationThe symposium is recognized internationally as the outstanding forum for discussion of new and innovative instrumentation techniques, development, and applications.

Later in the month, attendees at the 15th annual LDAR-Fugitive Emissions Symposium (May 19-21, New Orleans, La.) can take one of two informative training courses on audit-proofing your LDAR program and implementing LDAR programs for oil and gas sites. LDAR attendees receive the latest news and technical updates on best practices in air compliance, air emission reduction challenges and requirements, and LDAR program solutions. Numerous tutorials, panel sessions, and networking opportunities allow for extensive face-to-face discussions and interaction with government regulators as well as industry colleagues.

Onsite Training

In addition to taking ISA classroom training at ISA headquarters, regional locations and industry events, you can also receive customized ISA training at your facility through ISA Onsite Training.  This option can bring any ISA course or combination of courses – along with ISA’s world-class instructors, training materials and portable laboratories – directly to you.  Simply pick the time and place.  Contact ISA at +1 919-549-8411 or info@isa.org.

Note: If a class date is not showing in the course offerings page or registration appears closed, contact ISA at info@isa.org or call customer service at +1 919-549-8411 to get a registration update or waiting list status.

Fundamental Skills Training

Introduction to Industrial Automation and Control (FG07)
This course combines lecture and hands-on labs to provide an overview of industrial measurement and control. Technicians, engineers, and managers are provided with a foundation for communication with other control system professionals. The class serves as a solid fundamental course for introduction to other ISA courses. The 4.5-day class starts May 18 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Developing and Applying Standard Instrumentation and Control Documentation (FG15)
This course will present the methodology for designing and developing control systems documentation. The development of piping and instrument diagrams (P&IDs) and related ISA drawings are emphasized. This course covers both the development and the reading/interpreting of these documents, making it beneficial to engineers, designers, software programmers, system integrators, and technicians. The two-day class starts May 28 in King of Prussia, Penn.

Technical Skills Training – Instrumentation Maintenance

New_80x80Instrument Calibration and Documentation for FDA-Regulated Industries (TI24)
Do you want an untrained technician working on equipment that directly affects the quality and integrity of the product being manufactured at your facility? This course offers a combination of practical information and hands-on experience, covering fundamental principles of electronic process control instrumentation used in pharmaceutical and other life science industries. Proper calibration will be covered in hands-on lab exercises using common electronic instrumentation including analyzers. You will examine characteristics of electronic control systems and procedures for configuring transmitters, transducers, and controllers. A good portion of time is spent working hands-on with typical industry equipment. The 4.5-day class starts May 4 in King of Prussia, Penn

Advanced Operation of Digital (Smart) Transmitters and Digital Valve Controllers (TS16)
This lab-intensive course focuses on the configuration fundamentals, the calibration process, the measurements of multiple variables, and the utilization of computer-based configuration tools for both digital transmitters and digital valve controllers. This course offers hands-on, working knowledge of smart field devices with an emphasis on measurement accuracy, advanced information gathering, decreased maintenance time, ease-of-configuration and calibration, and diagnostic capabilities. The 4.5-day starts May 11 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Technical Skills Training – Industrial Data Communications

Industrial Data Communications Systems (TS06)
Starting from the basics, this course gives you the tools to design and maintain industrial communications systems on your plant floor. You'll learn the underlying principles behind today's industrial communications systems, including Modbus, Data Highway Plus, Ethernet, and TCP/IP. Real-life examples and case histories provide insight into the facts behind control networks and how to apply and maintain them effectively in your plant. The five-day class starts May 18 in Cerritos, Calif.

New_80x80Advanced Industrial Networking and Cyber Security (TS20)
In this course you will learn about the latest developments in Industrial Control System (ICS) networking and cybersecurity. The course provides a review of basic networking and cybersecurity technology and expands your understanding of industrial network concepts by reviewing basic networking principals including TCP/UDP, IPv4/IPv6, ICS protocols, addressing and troubleshooting. You will explore network security architectures and learn how to use layering and segmentation to improve security, as well as how web technology works and how web server capability is used in industry and the security problems engendered by such use. Practical application use of cybersecurity technologies such as firewalls, VPN, virtualization, virus scanning and intrusion detection tools will be covered, including how to industrially harden and secure your networks and perform "red team" testing of your systems using penetration testing software. Special focus is placed on the assessment of security risks and hazards in the industrial setting using ANSI/ISA-62443, NIST and ICS cybersecurity frameworks and standards. Laboratory exercises performed in class are designed to re-enforce learning objectives and allow for active participation using a classroom network setup leveraging virtual environments. The 4.5-day course starts May 8 in Cerritos, Calif.

Automation and Control Training – Basic Continuous Control

Industrial Pressure, Level, and Density Measurement Engineering (EI05)
This two-day course presents the principles and applications of modern pressure, level and density measurement systems. Emphasis is placed on instrument design technologies; system performance and design; and specification, selection, installation and maintenance requirements. The class will be held starting May 18 in Columbia, Ill.

Industrial Flow Measurement Engineering (EI10)
This three-day course presents the principles and applications of modern flow measurement systems. Emphasis is on flowmeter accuracy, performance, system design, sizing, specification, installation and maintenance requirements. The class starts May 20 at ISA headquarters in Columbia, Ill.

Designing and Applying Model Based Control Strategies (EC60)
This course will cover designing and applying Model Based Control (MBC) strategies, including the basic structure of all MBCs, the basic technology of Model Predictive Control (MPC), and how to successfully build and monitor controllers. The three-day class starts May 26 at ISA headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C.

Certification and Licensure Preparation

New_80x80ExamPrepChecklist_80x80Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level I Review Course (TS00)
This is a fast-paced review of the knowledge and practical skills necessary to install and maintain standard measurement and control instrumentation. It is intended for practicing technicians preparing for the CCST Level I exam. An explanation of the examination process and practice certification-type exams are provided. The four-day course starts May 11 in Cerritos, Calif.

ExamPrepChecklist_80x80Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level III Exam Review Course (TS03)
This course reviews the knowledge and skills areas included on the Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level III examination. The intent is to prepare an automation professional who meets the exam criteria to take the exam. The content is based on the job analysis domains, tasks, knowledge areas, and skill areas developed as the basis for the CCST certification exam. The 4.5-day course starts May 18 at ISA headquarters in Houston, Tex.

Special Training Offerings

61st International Instrumentation (IIS) Symposium (May 11-14)

The following two training programs are being held in conjunction with the 61st International Instrumentation (IIS) Symposium, set for May 11-14 in Huntsville, Ala.

Industrial Wireless Systems (IC85C)
This course will cover the most relevant details associated with industrial wireless systems with an emphasis towards how the various technological choices coexist, interoperate, and interact with each other. Numerous examples of real-world deployments are covered for facilities such as supervisory control and acquisition (SCADA) systems, petrochemical plants, electrical power generation, and transmission systems. The one-day class will be held May 11 in Huntsville, Ala.

Introduction to Industrial Automation Security and the ANSI/ISA99 (IEC 62443) Standards (IC32C)
Understanding how to secure factory automation, process control and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) networks is critical if you want to protect them from viruses, hackers, spies and saboteurs. This seminar teaches you the basics of the ANSI/ISA99 Security for Industrial Automation and Control Systems standards and how these can be applied in the typical factory or plant. In this seminar, you will be introduced to the terminology, concepts and models of ANSI/ISA99 cybersecurity. In addition, the elements of creating a cybersecurity management system will be explained along with how these should be applied to industrial automation and control systems. The one-day course will be held May 11 in Huntsville, Ala.

15th annual LDAR-Fugitive Emissions Symposium (May 19-21)

The following classes are being held in conjunction with the 15th annual LDAR-Fugitive Emissions Symposium, set for May 19-21 in New Orleans, La.

Audit-Proofing Your LDAR Program (SP09PC)
This course will review LDAR compliance obligations under state, federal, and Consent Decree LDAR requirements. Attendees will learn advanced compliance strategies and best management practices compiled from over 100 industry facilities. Frequently asked questions on LDAR compliance issues from calibration to delays of repair will be addressed. The course also includes a review of common and uncommon LDAR audit findings and compliance “blind spots” to be addressed. The one-day training course will be held May 19 in New Orleans, La.

Implementation and Maintenance of LDAR Programs for Oil and Gas Sites (SP12PC)
This seminar is designed for the LDAR coordinator or individual responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the LDAR program at an upstream and/or midstream oil and natural gas site.  The focus will be on definition of fundamental regulations, practical implementation strategies and quality assurance/control programs, in order to appropriately comply with federal/state regulations. The one-day class will be held May 19 in New Orleans, La.

Online, Instructor-Assisted Courses

OnlineCourse_80x80Control Systems Engineer (CSE) PE Exam Review Course (EN00E)
This online course reviews the knowledge and skills areas that are included on the Control Systems Engineer (CSE) Professional Engineer (PE) examination produced by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and administered by U.S. state professional license boards each October. The intent of the class is to prepare an engineer with four or more years of experience to take the exam by providing instruction in the broad range of technical areas that will be tested. The content is based on the CSE Exam Specification that went into effect in October 2011. The 12-week course starts May 4.

OnlineCourse_80x80Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level I Review Course (TS00E)
This course is a fast-paced review of the knowledge and practical skills necessary to install and maintain standard measurement and control instrumentation. It is intended for practicing technicians preparing for the ISA Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) Level I exam. Practice certification-type exams and an explanation of the examination process are provided. The 10-week Web class starts May 11.

OnlineCourse_80x80Applying Instrumentation in Hazardous Locations (ES10E)
This self-paced, online course provides a systematic approach to specifying and implementing instrumentation in hazardous locations. Related standards from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), American Petroleum Institute (API), and ISA are discussed. The eight-week course starts May 18.

New_80x80OnlineCourse_80x80Fundamentals of Industrial Process Measurement & Control (FG05E)
This self-paced, online course provide an overview of industrial measurement and control for technician, engineers, and managers providing a basic understanding and foundation for communication with other control systems professionals. The 12-week course starts May 18.

OnlineCourse_80x80Safety Instrumented Systems − Design, Analysis and Justification (EC50E)
ISA’s CyberU online instructor-led training course offers the benefit of a high-quality ISA training course with the added advantage of studying at your own pace in the office, at home or while traveling. This course utilizes online training modules, additional text materials, online evaluations, and email discussions. Students will have access via email to an instructor and have an opportunity to participate in live Q&A sessions with the instructor and other class participants. The course focuses on the engineering requirements for the specification, design, analysis, and justification of safety instrumented systems for the process industries. Students will learn how to determine safety integrity levels and evaluate whether proposed or existing systems meet the performance requirements. The eight-week course starts May 25.

Note: This course is required for the ISA84 SIS Fundamentals Specialist Certificate Program. Click this link for details.

En EspanolInstrumentados de Seguridad - Diseño, análisis y justificación - (EC50ESP - Version en linea)
Este curso esta enfocado en los requerimientos de ingeniería para especificar, diseñar, analizar y justificar el uso de sistemas instrumentados de seguridad para la industria de proceso. Los estudiantes aprenderán como determinar los niveles integrales de seguridad funcional y como evaluar si los sistemas existentes o propuestos alcanzan los requerimientos de desempeño o rendimiento. Este curso es requerido como parte del programa ISA 84 "Certificado como experto en fundamentos en Sistemas Instrumentados de Seguridad funcional." El estudiante puede inscribirse para tomar el curso solamente o para el programa del certificado, que incluye el examen. Aquellas personas que completen el curso y pasen el examen, recibirán el reconocimiento como "Especialistas en Fundamentos ISA84" (ISA84 SFS por sus siglas en Ingles). Este curso es requerido para obtener el certificado como “Especialista en Fundamentos ISA84” (ISA84 SIS Fundamentals Specialist Certificate Program). La clase comienza 25 de Mayo.

Live Webinar Series – Electrical Safety Series (2 webinars)

Webinar_80x80Grounding in Instrumentation Systems (TI21W1)
his seminar covers grounding requirements, concepts, and applications in the measurement and control areas. Terminologies, types of grounding systems, and shielding relevant to grounding are areas of emphasis. This web seminar will be held May 6.

Webinar_80x80Noise Reduction in Signal and Power Circuits (TI21W2)
Participants will learn about noise sources, methods to reduce signal noise, power noise sources (including harmonics), and techniques used both to reduce power line noise and maintain power quality. This web seminar will be held May 13.

Live Webinar Series Wireless Technology & ANSI/ISA100 Series (3 webinars)

Webinar_80x80Introduction to ISA100-A Universal Family of Wireless Standards for Industrial Automation (IC85W1)
This course provides insight into the architecture of the ISA100 family of standards, future directions, and how the family will provide an integrated approach to industrial wireless. The webinar will be held May 20.

Webinar_80x80Introduction to ISA100.11a-The First Standard of the ISA100 Universal Family of Wireless Standards for Industrial Automation (IC85W2)
This course provides an understanding of the ISA100.11a standard, an understanding of future directions, and how the standard fits an integrated approach to industrial wireless for the process industries. The webinar will be held May 27.

Webinar_80x80Deployment of ISA100.11a − The First of the ISA100 Family of Standards for Wireless Industrial Automation (IC85W3)
This course provides participant an understanding of deployment approaches for ISA100.11a, expected performance, and site issues. The webinar will be held June 3.

ISA Training Partners

ISA has teamed up with IDC Technologies & EIT to bring an array of technical-related training courses to various US locations as well as online courses, with special discounts for ISA members.

Upcoming topics:
Professional Certificate of Competency in Practical IEC 61850 for Substation Automation for Engineers and Technicians
May 4, Duration: 3 months

Professional Certificate of Competency in the Selection, Commissioning and Maintenance of Shutdown, Blowdown, Severe Service and Choke Valves
May 4, Duration: 3 months

Professional Certificate of Competency in Machine Vision Applications in Industry
May 4, Duration: 3 months

Advanced Diploma of Remote Engineering, Mechatronics and Robotics
May 4, Duration: 18 months

Practical Power Transformers: Operation, Maintenance and Testing
May 13, Duration: 4 hours

Power Cables: Operation, Maintenance, Location and Fault Detection
May 21, Duration: 4 hours

When you become an ISA member, you’ll join thousands of automation and control professionals who collaborate to share ideas and insights, and solve technical challenges. And, you’ll receive up to 20 percent off on ISA products, including training courses. To review the complete array of ISA member benefits, click the link below or contact ISA customer service at +1 919-549-8411 or info@isa.org.

Click here to join ISA ... learn, advance, succeed!

Joel Don
Joel Don
Joel Don is an independent content marketing, social media and public relations consultant. Prior to his work in marketing and PR, Joel served as an editor for regional newspapers and national magazines throughout the U.S. He earned a master's degree from the Medill School at Northwestern University with a focus on science, engineering and biomedical marketing communications, and a bachelor of science degree from UC San Diego.

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