Batch Application Migration

Overview:

The ‘migration’ of an existing Batch application, either by replacement or upgrade of the batch ‘engine’, or the entire replacement of the control system, raises many issues. This paper covers the work involved, and the benefits and pitfalls expected, in contemplating a replacement of the batch engine or the entire control system, and the analysis and justification necessary for a migration to realise potential benefits. Examples will be used where a validated pharmaceutical plant converted to a new ‘S88 aware’ batch engine and chemical plants replaced the entire control system. In both cases the benefits and problems and techniques used to ensure a successful conversion and achieve the potential benefits, including increased yield and quality and reduced cycle times, will be discussed. Also covered will be applications (batch reactor), with examples, where a batch engine was not necessary but the provision of this solution on a new plant did produce many primary and secondary benefits. The paper will conclude with a breakdown of the main technical and engineering issues involved and the justification and benefits that may be attained.