©2026 Automation.com, a subsidiary of the International Society of Automation.
-
ISA provides technical resources and standards to help industrial automation professionals advance their careers and the field. We enable automation professionals worldwide to solve problems and enhance their skills by bringing people together to create new technologies and share best practices with future automation professionals.-
ISA Resources
-
Upcoming Events
-
Industry Insights
-
Consortia
-
Author Profile
Joel Don
345 Results Found
-
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Network Security Technology Does Not Use Encryption?
A virtual local area network (VLAN) is achieved through configuration of Ethernet switches and not encryption. It divides a physical network into smaller logical networks to increase performance, impr -
Feature
AutoQuiz: What Is the Purpose of the Proper Grounding of Electrical Devices?
Proper grounding provides safety, over-current protection, electrical noise reduction, lightning protection, and static electricity reduction. -
Feature
AutoQuiz: How to Calculate the Pressure Recovery Factor for Valves
Pressure recovery factor is the increase in fluid static pressure that occurs as fluid moves through a valve from the vena contracta to the valve's outlet and downstream piping. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Are the Four Key Activities in the Maintenance Cycle of a Control System?
Documentation of the "as left" condition of the control system is a basic requirement for all maintenance, calibration, commissioning, and testing tasks. -
Feature
AutoQuiz: What Are Multiple Independent Protection Layers in Relation to Industrial Safety?
A consequence of the concept of multiple independent protection suggests minimization of risk occurs when safety instrumented systems are completely independent from process control systems. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Response in Level Control System If the Process Liquid Medium Changes?
For a capacitance probe installed in a metal tank, the measured level is proportional to the measured capacitance between the level probe (one capacitor plate) and the tank wall (second capacitor plat -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Determine Cause of the Apparent Discrepancy in Flow
Periodic visual inspection of orifice plates is required to ensure the integrity of measurement with a digital flow transmitter. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Which Flowmeter Type Does Not Operate on the Principle That a Differential Pressure Is Developed Across a Flow Restriction?
A Coriolis flowmeter develops a flow measurement by measuring the degree of deformation (twisting) of a vibrating tube(s) as the fluid moves through the tube. -
NewsBook Excerpt + Q&A: Safety Instrumented Systems, A Life-Cycle Approach
This book leverages the performance and documentation requirements defined in the ISA/IEC 61511 functional process safety standard coupled with the authors' nearly 80 years of safety system experience -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is an Example of Adaptive Control?
A controller uses a quantitative process model and modifies controller tuning based on how the process responds in relation to the model prediction. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: P&ID Determination for Temperature and Pressure Sensors
Instrument technicians often use P&ID diagrams as a reference to identify what type of instrumentation is installed and how the instrumentation is installed in the process. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What is Tree Topology in Fieldbus?
Tree Topology concentrates the connection of several field devices to couplers/junction boxes. Tree topology is also known as "Chickenfoot" or "Star" configuration. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What P&ID Symbol Is Used to Indicate a Temperature Regulator?
The symbol reflects a temperature regulator, filled thermal system. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Assess the Optimal Alarm Deadband Setting
Learn to assess the alarm deadband setting on a high alarm. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Purpose of an Intrinsic Safety Barrier?
An intrinsic safety barrier prevents excess voltage and current from reaching the hazardous area. -
Feature
AutoQuiz: How to Assess the Hazard/Risk Category for an Industrial Electrical Panel
Work on energized electrical conductors and circuit parts, including voltage testing on panelboards, or other equipment rated 240V and below would be classified as Hazard/Risk Category 1. -
NewsBook Excerpt + Q&A: New Edition of Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge
ISA's book is a key resource for preparing for certification, including the ISA Certified Automation Professional, the ISA Certified Control Systems Technician, and the Professional Engineer (P.E.) ex -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How is the Reynolds Number Used in Flow Measurement?
For the Reynold's number, the inertial forces in the numerator are given by the product of mass (density), fluid velocity, and pipe diameter. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Best Tuning Method for a Catalyst Feed Flow Controller?
Only a closed-loop tuning method can be used with an exothermic reaction where the reactor can "run away" (increasing speed of reaction as the reaction progresses, catalyzed by its own heat of reactio -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Plotting Control Valve Characteristics
For an equal percentage valve characteristic, each increment of valve movement provides the same percentage increase in flow. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What is the Lifecycle Economic Model?
All lifecycle costs should be considered over the entire expected life of a project, with all costs calculated on a net present value basis. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Characteristics of a Full-Wave Bridge Rectifier Circuit
A bridge rectifier consists of diodes in a bridge circuit configuration. It features the same output polarity for either input polarity, and is used for converting an alternating current (AC) input in -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Cause of Cavitation in a Liquid Flow Stream?
When fluid drops below a liquid's vapor pressure, a gas is formed. As fluid moves downstream to where the fluid pressure is greater than the vapor pressure, it "collapses" back into a liquid. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Read a Gauge Pressure Transmitter
At zero gauge pressure in the steam line, you are essentially suppressing (pushing) the transmitter output back down to zero after the system reaches equilibrium. The transmitter will read that impuls -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Failures of Complex Systems in SIS Design and SIL Selection
A fault tree analysis begins with the "top event," which is the result of a number of basic events that contribute to, or initiate, the system failure. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Loop Tuning Terminology for Change in Amplitude
The common method of judging tuning is known as the "quarter wave decay" method. It has been shown if a loop is tuned so the oscillation decays with each wave being one quarter of the previous wave, i -
Feature
AutoQuiz: Industrial Applications for Nonincendive-Rated Field Wiring
Nonincendive is allowed in Class 1, Division 2; Class 1, Zone 2, and Non-hazardous rated areas. Use in higher hazard areas, such as Division 1, Zone 1, or Zone 0 areas, is not allowed. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Standard Wiring Color for Type K Thermocouple
Type K (chromel–alumel) is the most common general purpose thermocouple with a sensitivity of approximately 41 µV/°C. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Liquid Flow Condition Where Falling Static Pressure Causes Formation of Vapor Bubbles?
The first stage of cavitation is the formation of vapor bubbles within the liquid system because of the fluid's static pressure falling below the fluid vapor pressure -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of RTDs?
Resistance temperature detectors require a temperature transmitter to function. This is not a disadvantage of an RTD, since its function does not require a temperature transmitter to be installed. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Interpret Relay Logic for a Pump Control Switch
When a pump control switch is in auto, the storage tank low level switch or the pressure tank high level switch can stop the pump. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Diagnose Industrial Pressure Sensor Errors
If a pressure sensor/transmitter is giving a non-linear response, replacement of the sensor and/or the transmitter will be required. -
NewsBook Excerpt + Author Q&A: Mission Critical Operations
Mission-critical specialists are in-demand in a variety of critical infrastructure areas, focused on events that could result in serious consequences, such as loss of life, harm to the environment or -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Motor Shaft Speed Relationship to Frequency and Number of Poles
The shaft speed of a motor is directly proportional to the frequency and is inversely proportional to the number of poles. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Measure Tank Differential Pressure
A tank level is measured using a differential pressure transmitter (DPT-1) and a bubbler tube. The tank is vented to atmosphere. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Nonhazardous Pressurization Systems
A Type X pressurization system reduces the classification within the enclosure from Division 1 to nonhazardous and, therefore, permits the use of ignition-capable equipment inside the enclosure. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Identify the Function of a P&ID Symbol
In a P7ID diagram, a "circle" enclosed in a "square" indicates it is an instrument that has a shared display or a shared control. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Best Location in an HMI for the Graphic Display of a Distillation Column?
A distillation column refers to one piece of equipment in the distillation process, which will contain several loops. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Can You Identify the P&ID Symbol?
A "circle" enclosed in a "square," which indicates it is an instrument with a shared display or a shared control. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is PID in a Control Loop?
The PID term as described refers to the loop control technique used in controllers. A PID control loop includes proportional, integral, and derivative functions to control the process. -
-
FeatureAutoQuiz: Can You Identify Instrument Line Symbols?
ISA-5.1-1984 (Revised 1992) - Instrument Symbols and Identification. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Minimize Electrical Interference with AC Power and DC Signal Wiring in a Control Panel
Crossing the wires at 90 degrees will minimize the exposure of the wires to each other and therefore minimize the effects of interference. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is an Industrial Process Variable?
The controlled variable by definition is the variable that the control system attempts to keep at a "set point" value. -
NewsBest ISA Webinars of 2017
An ISA roundup of some of the best educational industrial automation industry webinars presented in 2017. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Choose Best Method for Level Measurement
Radar does not depend on temperature or composition of a fluid as long as the beam is narrow and the dielectric constant of the fluid is greater than two. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Measure Pressure in a Tank
Perform the calculation using dimensional analysis from conversion tables 33.9 ft water equals one atmosphere equals 14.696 lbf /in2 (psi). -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Calculate the Rated Torque for a Motor
The volts-per-hertz ratio (V/Hz) controls the torque of a motor. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Standard Range for Pneumatically Transmitted Signals
For the sake of ease and safety, Industry recognized it is better for an operator to monitor and control processes in a more convenient and protected place -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Measure the Resistance of a Conductor
The resistance of a length of a conductor can be determined using the specific resistance and the cross-sectional area by using the equation R = r L/A -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Level Reading with a Differential Pressure Cell
If a differential pressure cell is not at an elevation that corresponds to zero percent level in a tank, calibrate to account for difference in elevation. -
News
Book Excerpt + Author Q&A: Condensed Handbook of Measurement and Control
ISA book is an authoritative resource for anyone responsible for selecting & implementing measurement & control devices for process automation applications. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Which Control Valve Style Is More Likely to Develop a Blockage?
Ball, butterfly, and pinch valve body style have straight-through flow, and they are less likely to develop blockage. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Calibrate a Magnetic Flowmeter
Magnetic flowmeters use Faraday's law of magnetic induction as the basis of their operation. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Are Acceptable Hazardous Location Protection Techniques for Industrial Areas?
Hazardous location protection techniques are defined by NEC 500.7 (NEC 2002 Code). -
News
Book Excerpt + Author Q&A: Process Analyzer Systems Project Engineering and Management
ISA book helps ease the engineering and design burden for new and experienced engineers who work on process analyzers. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: When Does an Instrument Need to Be Recalibrated?
Analysis of a calibration plot will help you determine when an industrial instrument needs to be recalibrated. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Standard for Embedded Software for a SIL 3 Certified Safety System?
According to IEC 61511-1, embedded software, which is part of the safety device/ controller, should follow software guidelines in IEC 61508-3. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Calculate the Inherent Flow Characteristic of a Valve
The inherent flow characteristic is the relationship between valve capacity and valve travel, and it is usually expressed graphically. -
NewsBook Excerpt + Author Q&A: Safety Instrumented System Design
ISA book on safety instrumented system design helps industrial automation professionals meet the requirements of international safety standards. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Industrial Electrical Standards for Emergency Operations
The reset of an emergency stop circuit will not initiate a restart. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Are the Characteristics of a Piston Actuator?
An actuator is a device that applies the force necessary to cause a valve's closure member to move. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Length Limitation for Fast Ethernet Cable?
Because of the high speed of fast Ethernet, the use of twisted pair cable is limited to 100 meters (330 feet). -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How Is Fluid Velocity Affected When the Pressure Drop Across a Valve Increases?
The pressure drop refers to the change or drop in pressure from the upstream side of the valve to the downstream side. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Most Appropriate Technique for Modeling Linear Relationships?
The multivariate statistical-process control excels at modeling unknown linear relationships for a large number of inputs that could be correlated. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What is the Inherent Flow Characteristic of a Valve?
The "inherent flow characteristic" is the relationship between valve capacity and valve travel, and it is usually expressed graphically. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Minimize the Effect of Feed Upsets to the Top of a Distillation Column
A distillation tower has feed upsets that are measured and used to create a feed forward signal. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Install an Electromagnetic Flowmeter
The magnetic flowmeter conductor (fluid in pipe) moves through a magnetic field; a voltage is produced relative to speed of the conductor & magnetic field. -
News
Book Excerpt + Author Q&A: Calibration Handbook of Measuring Instruments
This is a handy reference and consultation handbook written mainly for operators who verify and calibrate measuring instruments. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: How to Calculate the Transfer Function
A transfer function is a mathematical representation of the relationship between the input and output of a system. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Which Orifice Plate Is Used to Eliminate Damming of Material at the Top or Bottom of a Pipe?
Orifice plates are in a straight run of smooth pipe away from valves and fittings so they do not interfere with the restrictor and readings. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Which Fuse Has the Quickest Response to Over Currents?
Certain types of fuses have a very high speed of response to over currents. They provide excellent short-circuit component protection. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: Optimal Beveled Orifice Angle for Flow
An orifice plate inserted in the line causes an increase in flow velocity and a corresponding decrease in pressure. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What Is the Maximum Level of Precision Available Using Modbus?
To achieve more precision special programming or a specialized version of Modus is necessary. -
FeatureAutoQuiz: What is the Most Common Pressure Tap?
The purpose of pressure taps is prevent gas or vapor accumulations in the connections between the pipe and differential-pressure (dP) measuring device.