Faced with the challenge of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050 while managing the extensive water and wastewater infrastructure of a historic European capital (serving over 4 million people), the utility is prioritizing a critical energy management system upgrade.
This project will enable them to significantly reduce water and energy waste and implement IoT-based integration to optimize operations and support their field employees.
The Challenges:
A major public utility faced significant challenges in modernizing its infrastructure for enhanced efficiency and security. Their existing systems, spread across a wide geographical area, struggled to integrate diverse data sources and withstand increasing cyber threats. The core hurdles they needed to overcome were:
- Multiple Protocols Integration. To achieve comprehensive data visibility, the customer needed to consolidate data from devices communicating over diverse protocols—DNP3, MODBUS, and SNMP—and relay it to the cloud using MQTT. This level of protocol interoperability exceeded the capabilities of basic MODBUS RTU to TCP solutions.
- Cybersecurity: Due to its high profile, the company's network faced persistent and sophisticated cyber threats, compounded by its designation as National Critical Infrastructure.
- VPN Networking: Due to its high profile, the company's network faced persistent and sophisticated cyber threats, compounded by its designation as National Critical Infrastructure.
- Reducing Operational Costs. The company's geographically dispersed infrastructure required remote operational capabilities to reduce the need for on-site maintenance and lower operating expenses.
The Solution
To address the complex challenges of modernizing its critical infrastructure, a major public utility partnered with Robustel. This collaboration focused on deploying a comprehensive solution that prioritized robust connectivity, seamless data integration, and stringent security. Here's a breakdown of the key components of the solution:
Robustel R1520 Routers
Robustel deployed R1520 routers to establish reliable connectivity with diverse field devices.
These routers offered multiple interfaces, including RS232, RS485, Ethernet, and I/O, enabling connections to PLCs, variable frequency controllers, sensors, surveillance cameras, and RTUs for comprehensive data collection.
Edge2Cloud Software Framework
Leveraging RobustOS, Robustel provided the Edge2Cloud software framework to simplify multi-protocol integration.
This framework enabled the customer to develop specific Southbound Applications (e.g., DNP3, MODBUS RTU, SNMP) for data acquisition.
This approach facilitated seamless integration of diverse data sources into the Northbound Application's MQTT protocol for efficient cloud communication.
Configuration adjustments helped to account for site specific differences, and reduced development time.
DMVPN Support:
The R1520 routers supported the DMVPN protocol, ensuring robust data protection and encryption.
Cybersecurity Assurance:
To address cybersecurity concerns, RobustOS underwent rigorous third-party network security penetration testing, validating the security of the embedded system software.
RCMS Stack Deployment
The customer implemented the RCMS Stack device management platform, hosted on a private cloud, for efficient device monitoring and management, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.
Topology
The diagram below illustrates a robust and secure network topology designed for industrial data acquisition and remote management, using Robustel R1520 routers.
It showcases how diverse field devices, employing various communication protocols, are seamlessly integrated into a centralized system for efficient data collection and cloud connectivity, all while maintaining stringent security measures.
The Benefits
The implementation of Robustel's solution delivered significant operational and financial benefits to the public utility. By streamlining connectivity, simplifying integration, and enhancing security, the customer achieved tangible results.
Reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
The R1520 router and Edge2Cloud framework allowed for the consolidation of all field device connections onto a single gateway, eliminating the need for supplementary switches or serial device servers.
Edge2Cloud's simplified protocol integration minimized coding requirements and streamlined provisioning and commissioning processes, further contributing to cost savings.
Continuous Cybersecurity Support
Beyond penetration testing, Robustel's IEC62443-4-1 certification ensured ongoing support to address emerging cyber threats following installation.
Operational Cost Reduction
The RCMS Stack device management platform facilitated operational cost reductions through comprehensive device monitoring and management capabilities.
Its network diagnostic tools enabled remote identification and resolution of networking issues, minimizing the need for costly on-site interventions.
Conclusion
By deploying Robustel's R1520 routers, Edge2Cloud software framework, and RCMS Stack platform, this public utility successfully modernized its critical infrastructure, achieving enhanced connectivity, robust security, and significant cost savings. The integrated solution effectively addressed the challenges of multi-protocol integration, cybersecurity threats, and remote operational management.
For organizations facing similar challenges in connecting and securing their industrial networks, Robustel offers a comprehensive suite of router solutions. With features like versatile interface support, advanced software frameworks, and robust security certifications, Robustel empowers businesses to achieve seamless data integration, minimize operational costs, and ensure the resilience of their critical infrastructure. Contact Robustel today to discover how our router solutions can optimize your network connectivity and drive your digital transformation.
