Interactive Control

In this episode we talk about what cybersecurity means within the power generation industry with Arthi Vasudevan - Cybersecurity product manager with GE Vernova. We review basics concepts, current challenges and how to manage cybersecurity for controls systems. OT Cybersecurity Solutions for Energy | GE Vernova

In this episode I discuss the challenges of managing control systems over time – the type of issues, why it matters, and what you can do about it – with my guest, Thaha Nazeemudeen with GE Vernova. Topics include examples of problems related to cost management, availability qualified personnel and, of course, obsolescence and cybersecurity.  Controls Lifecare Services (CLS) | GE Vernova

This episode is the conclusion of a 4-part series on Advanced Turbine Controls. In this episode I talk about System Reliability with my guest Bob Bellis. Other topics covered in this series are Startup Agility, Combustion Versatility, and Load Flexibility.

This episode is part 3 of a 4-part series on Advanced Turbine Controls. In this episode I talk about Load Flexibility with my guest Bob Bellis. Other topics covered in this series are Startup Agility, Combustion Versatility, and System Reliability.

This episode is part 2 of a 4-part series on Advanced Turbine Controls. In this episode I talk about Combustion Versatility with my guest Bob Bellis. Other topics covered in this series are Startup Agility, Load Flexibility, and System Reliability.

This episode is part 1 of a 4-part series on Advanced Turbine Controls. In this episode I talk about Startup Agility with my guest Bob Bellis. Topics covered include changing role of turbine startup, benefits of fast start and startup assurance, relationship to ancillary services, and considerations for simple cycle vs combined cycle plants.

In this episode I discuss different Control Service Offerings with my guest Robert Lewis. Topics covered include Phone and Remote Support, Site Visits, Preventive Maintenance, Patching, and more.

In this episode I discuss controls project management and ways you can help your project run more smoothly with my guest Brett Maclaren. Topics include Brett's experience as a nuclear submarine officer, responsibilities of a controls project manager, as well as common challenges and advice for controls projects.

In this episode I discuss ways to maximize profits while reducing emissions in cogeneration operations with my guests, Ben Janvier and Mike Schoof.

In this episode I discuss how parts management can reduce your operational risks with my guest, Brad Shochat. Topics covered include cost vs risk tradeoffs, on site spares and alternatives, non-new electronics options, cybersecurity for parts, and more.

In this episode I discuss Generator Control and Protection – what’s the difference, how a generator works at a high level, the different methods of protecting equipment and personnel, and what operators need to be watching out for with my guest, Chris Eckert.

In this episode I discuss surge phenomena on centrifugal compressors with my guest, Sangram Ghanto. Sangram explains what surge phenomena is, its potential impacts, how it happens, how to protect against it, and what to look for when choosing your compressor control system. 

In this episode I discuss overspeed protection – what it is, why you should care, and what you can do about it – with my guest, Steve Foss. Topics include examples of problems related to overspeed and their impacts, recommendations for implementing overspeed protection, and other important factors. 

This is the final episode of a 4-part series on nuclear energy with my guest Paul Rix. In this episode we discuss Fusion – its history, challenges, and current status. We even get to hear what it sounds like. We end with a summary of the key points from the overall series. You won’t want to miss this exciting conclusion!

This is the third episode of a 4-part series on nuclear energy with my guest Paul Rix. In this episode we continued with our discussion on fission technologies of the future including fast neutron reactors, high temperature gas, TRISO fuel, and Thorium. The intent of this series is to give listeners a sufficient understanding of the political, economic, technical, and scientific aspects around nuc...

The second episode of a 4-part series on nuclear energy with my guest Paul Rix. In this episode we continued to discuss some of the challenges facing nuclear – namely the major accidents that have occurred, potential for misuse, and public perception. Then we moved into some of the ongoing and future advancements expected in Fission technology, including small modular reactors or SMRs. The intent...

The first of a 4-part series on nuclear energy with my guest Paul Rix. In this episode we cover the nitty gritty of atomic structure and stability, the history of nuclear power, how fission technology works and we start on some of its challenges. The intent of this series is to give listeners a sufficient understanding of the political, economic, technical, and scientific aspects around nuclear en...

Have you ever wondered if you should be using a Distributed Control System (DCS) or a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for your application? Well, look no further because my guest for this episode, Nate Martin, will answer this question and more! Topics include differences between DCS and PLCs, as well as pros and cons of each with applications and examples. 

In part 1 of this series, we discussed emerging threats and attack vectors facing the industrial automation space. In part 2 we covered Operational Technology (or OT) and how to move from a reactive approach to cybersecurity to a proactive approach. In Part 3 we’ll cover specific tools that can be used to address challenges and implement a cybersecurity plan with my guest, Mohammed Al Afoo. Techni...

In this episode we talk about a very exciting topic – drones and robots – with my guest Tim Shea from ARC. Topics covered include roles and applications  in Industrial Process, market and competitive landscape, and special considerations such as regulations, piloting, battery life, and more. 

In this episode I discuss the pressing topic of Energy Transition with my guest, Alex Cruz. Alex gives his take on what it means and how it will impact control system users. Topics include carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, emissions management, clean integrated power, policy and external funding consideration, and more. 

In part 1 of this series, we discussed emerging threats and attack vectors facing the industrial automation space. In part 2 we cover Operational Technology (or OT) and how to move from a reactive approach to cybersecurity to a proactive approach with my guest, Matt Leipnik. You won’t want to miss Matt’s practical suggestions for getting started!

In this episode I continue my discussion on the different phases of a typical DCS lifecycle with my guest Paul Rix. Phases covered include: Vendor Selection, Spec Creation, Tendering, Negotiation, Contract Management, Engineering & Commissioning, Lifecycle Support, Expansion & Enhancements. Don’t miss the end where Paul gives his recommended best practices for each phase!

In this episode I discuss the different phases of a typical DCS lifecycle and the resulting ownership considerations with my guest Paul Rix. We cover each of the phases at a high level - Vendor Selection, Spec Creation, Tendering, Negotiation, Contract Management, Engineering & Commissioning, Lifecycle Support, Expansion & Enhancements - with deep dives into vendor selection and spec creat...

In this episode I discuss several different aspects of performance management with my guest Tim Wallace. Topics covered include an explanation of performance management and why it matters for Industrial Control, the difference between performance monitoring and performance optimization, real world examples to showcase the value of each, and more!