Endress+Hauser tests multi-vendor scalability of Ethernet-APL with Yokogawa DCS 

Endress+Hauser, in collaboration with Covestro, BASF and Yokogawa, has conducted a further large-scale Ethernet-APL scalability test, extending validation to more complex and heterogeneous process automation environments. The test took place at Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions in Reinach, Switzerland in May 2026. 

Building on earlier multi-vendor testing, the new setup expands the focus from instrumentation density to architectural breadth. For the first time, a Yokogawa CENTUM VP distributed control system (DCS) and Plant Resource Manager asset management system were integrated into a large-scale Ethernet-APL PROFINET test environment, alongside a broader combination of field devices, switches and network infrastructure. 

Focus on architecture scalability under realistic conditions
While previous tests confirmed Ethernet-APL readiness under full-load conditions, this one focused on scalability across more complex plant architectures. In addition to peak-load validation, the test scope was extended to include a multi-day stability test phase, assessing sustained network behavior under realistic operating conditions. 

The test environment included: 

Multi-vendor integration extended
The successful integration of the Yokogawa CENTUM VP system broadens the scope of validated DCS environments for Ethernet-APL. At the same time, the inclusion of additional infrastructure components, including Ethernet-APL switches and higher-level network elements, further demonstrates interoperability across a growing ecosystem.

Operator-driven validation
With Covestro leading the test and BASF contributing prior test experience, two global chemical producers have now actively validated Ethernet-APL technology under scalable, realistic conditions. This reflects increasing interest in Ethernet-based field communication to support digitalization initiatives that require consistent data access, system interoperability and lifecycle transparency.

Network setup overview
Interoperability was validated across the control system layer, field devices, Ethernet-APL switches and network infrastructure components. The test setup included a Yokogawa CENTUM VP distributed control system (DCS) with Plant Resource Manager (PRM), Endress+Hauser APL field instruments and Samson APL field positioners, as well as Ethernet-APL switches from R. Stahl, Softing, Phoenix Contact and Pepperl+Fuchs.

Network infrastructure components comprised a Hirschmann switch with a private VLAN for asset management access across rings and Siemens Scalance switches operating as Media Redundancy Protocol (MRP) manager.

Edited by Romila DSilva, Induportals Editor.