Plant automation – benefits of instrumentation In a process plant, modern instrumentation provides which of the following advantages?

Introduction / Context:
Instrumentation underpins safe, efficient, and high-quality plant operation. From field sensors to control systems and analyzers, measurement and automation deliver tangible benefits across safety, quality, and cost domains.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• General chemical/process plant environment.
• Modern instrumentation includes sensors, control loops, interlocks, and analyzers.
• Benefits are considered holistically.

Concept / Approach:
Accurate and timely data enable proactive control and protection. Safety instrumentation systems (SIS) and alarms reduce risk. Quality analyzers ensure specifications are met. Optimized control reduces variability and energy consumption, increasing throughput and yield, thereby lowering costs.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Case studies show reductions in process variability and energy use after installing better instrumentation and control, confirming all three benefit categories.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each single option captures only one dimension; the comprehensive improvement delivered by instrumentation covers all listed benefits.

Common Pitfalls:
Underestimating the value of calibration and maintenance. Poorly maintained instruments can erode the expected benefits.

Final Answer:
All (a), (b) and (c)