Controlled Atmosphere

Advanced control system for controlled atmosphere chambers

Altus' technology was implemented in the modernization of the control system for the controlled atmosphere storage chamber of a leading apple and fruit producer in the mountainous region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

The project enhanced precision control of atmospheric conditions, supporting optimal fruit conservation, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving storage quality throughout the preservation process.

Upgrading the control system of the controlled atmosphere chamber

To ensure full operability and precise control of the controlled atmosphere chamber, responsible for maintaining oxygen levels at 1% and carbon dioxide levels at 2%, a company located in the mountainous region of southern Brazil selected Altus’ technology as the ideal solution to automate the process for one of its clients.

Through this application, Altus reinforces its versatility in delivering automation solutions, providing high-precision and highly reliable technology for industrial and logistics processes that require strict control of environmental conditions.
Flexible Development

Flexible Development

Nexto System technology enables the development of customized programs for special use cases

Distributed System

Distributed System

The application is powered by robust Nexto CPUs acting as remote units, enhancing the system’s control capabilities

Preventive Maintenance

Preventive Maintenance

The architecture makes it easier to track equipment performance over tim

Multi-Protocol Communication

Multi-Protocol Communication

The system supports various MODBUS communication networks, facilitating reliable command execution and data exchange between devices

Comprehensive PROFIBUS control with full connectivity

Comprehensive PROFIBUS control with full connectivity

To effectively monitor and manage the cold storage and controlled atmosphere chambers, two Nexto bus systems were installed, each equipped with an NX3010 CPU to manage the remote components involved in the process.

The full system manages over 500 I/O points through MODBUS TCP communication and integrates 15 frequency inverters supplied by Altus, ensuring seamless control and automation.

High performance and availability

High performance and availability

The cutting-edge technology and innovative features present in the NX Series controllers were characteristics that led to the product being chosen as the centerpiece of the automation system that manages the company's Controlled Atmosphere Chamber.

Its multitasking and preemptive operating system, combined with the ability to perform multiple simultaneous tasks enabled by the 32-bit Power PC RISC processor, made the series the best cost-effective option on the market.

In addition, the series includes the One Touch Diag (OTD) function, which offers real-time insights such as short circuits, IP addresses, and alphanumeric tags. The Nexto Series also features advanced diagnostic tools and remote updates via a built-in Web server, ensuring continuous optimization and system performance.

A key advantage is the system’s connectivity, allowing integration with a wide variety of equipment and the ability to monitor up to nine variables directly from the HMI screen of a frequency inverter, streamlining operations and improving efficiency across the board.