NeSSI moves from concept to reality

InTech, Feb 2007

The Center for Process Analytical Chemistry leads the New Sensor Sampling Initiative (NeSSI) in efforts to modernize analytical sampling systems.

ARC Advisory Group reported, with approximately 300 systems now in active service and a commitment from ExxonMobil to migrate to Generation II systems, the NeSSI has moved from concept to reality.

While the group has made significant progress, some technical and cultural issues still need attention. The technical issues are not showstoppers, and a few minor changes to the ISA-76 standard will remedy many of the technical shortcomings.

Cultural issues are another matter and will take greater effort on NeSSI's part to articulate a compelling reason to change from traditional to modular systems as well as define the value proposition.

Under the leadership of the Center for Process Analytical Chemistry at the University of Washington, NeSSI is an ad hoc global industry initiative comprised of end users and suppliers formed to drive permanent change in process analysis.

The focus of their effort is to modernize the analytical sampling system to keep pace with advancements in analyzer technology and associated software. With the exception of a few design details, Generation I work on the Fluid Components is complete.

Currently, the group is midway through the Electrical Network & Smart work of Generation II. At this critical juncture for NeSSI, modular sampling systems begin to increase dramatically in end-user value.

ExxonMobil Chemical is convinced modular systems can in fact deliver on NeSSI's promise of increasing sample system reliability while reducing long-term cost of ownership.

The company intends to implement NeSSI Generation II systems in greenfield projects and existing plants as systems become available.