Prosoft MVI56-AFC Advanced Flow Computer Module

Product Overview

The ProSoft MVI56-AFC is an Advanced Flow Computer Module designed for the Rockwell Automation ControlLogix platform. It installs directly into a 1756 ControlLogix chassis, providing AGA, GPA, ISO, and API-compliant flow calculations for custody transfer and process measurement applications. This module eliminates the need for external flow computers by performing all metering calculations — including orifice, turbine, ultrasonic, and Coriolis meter types — directly on the ControlLogix backplane.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: MVI56-AFC
• Product Type: Advanced Flow Computer Module
• Series: ProSoft MVI56 for ControlLogix
• Platform: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix 1756 chassis
• Meter Types: Orifice, nozzle, venturi, turbine, ultrasonic, Coriolis, vortex, PD meter
• Calculation Standards: AGA-3, AGA-7, AGA-8, AGA-9, AGA-11, GPA 2172, ISO 5167, API MPMS Chapter 11
• Run Capacity: Up to 8 meter runs per module
• Backplane Current: 800 mA @ 5VDC
• Configuration: ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) with flow wizard
• Data Interface: Direct tag mapping to ControlLogix controller tags
• Alarming: Configurable high/low alarms, flow direction, maintenance flags
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C

Features & Benefits

• Integrated Flow Computing: Performs all flow calculations on the ControlLogix backplane — no external flow computer required
• Multi-Standard Compliance: Supports AGA, GPA, ISO, and API standards for global custody transfer acceptance
• Multiple Meter Types: Handles orifice, turbine, ultrasonic, Coriolis, and other primary devices in one module
• Multi-Run Support: Up to 8 independent meter runs reduce hardware count in multi-stream applications
• Real-Time Data: Flow rates, totals, averages, and diagnostic data available as native ControlLogix tags
• Audit Trail: Event logging and alarm history for regulatory compliance and custody transfer auditing

Applications

• Natural gas custody transfer metering stations
• Refinery product flow measurement and allocation
• Chemical plant reactor feed flow control
• Water district billing and consumption monitoring

Installation Guide

1. Power Down: Turn OFF ControlLogix rack power before installing the MVI56-AFC
2. Slot Selection: Insert the module into any available slot on the 1756 chassis
3. Studio 5000 Setup: Add the module to your project using the ProSoft AOP or generic module profile
4. PCB Configuration: Launch ProSoft Configuration Builder and create a new flow computer project
5. Meter Configuration: Select meter type (orifice, turbine, etc.), pipe diameter, fluid properties, and calculation standard
6. I/O Mapping: Map differential pressure, temperature, and pressure transmitter signals to module input tags
7. Alarm Setup: Configure high/low flow alarms, maintenance flags, and event logging parameters
8. Download & Verify: Download configuration to the module and verify flow calculations against hand calculations

FAQ

Q: Does this module replace a traditional flow computer?
A: Yes, the MVI56-AFC performs all flow calculation functions internally, eliminating the need for separate flow computers in most applications while maintaining custody transfer compliance.

Q: What transmitter signals does it require?
A: The module requires differential pressure, static pressure, and temperature inputs (typically 4–20 mA) mapped through ControlLogix analog input modules.

Q: Is it suitable for LNG or cryogenic applications?
A: The module supports AGA-8 and ISO 6976 calculations for natural gas. For cryogenic LNG, verify specific fluid property requirements against the module's supported equations of state.

Q: Can I run multiple meter types simultaneously?
A: Yes, each of the 8 runs can be configured independently with different meter types and calculation standards.

Selection Tips

• Verify your calculation standard requirements (AGA-3 vs ISO 5167) before configuration
• Ensure your ControlLogix analog input modules support the required transmitter resolution (typically 16-bit)
• For multi-run applications, plan tag memory carefully — each run generates multiple status and totalizer tags
• Consider redundant transmitter configurations for custody transfer applications per API guidelines
• Order the XT variant for outdoor installations or corrosive environments