OT Network Latency in Packaging
Production-impacting latency traced to the OT network environment, with as-built schematics and recommendations to prevent repeat disruption.
Scope & approach
Packaging lines depend on timely communication between controllers, drives, HMIs and the machines around them, so network latency shows up as lost output rather than as an IT fault. Orora needed to understand excessive latency on a production-critical OT network where the disruption was already affecting output and the investigation had to proceed without taking the running network down. Metromotion Controls examined the network topology, device configurations and traffic behaviour to isolate where latency was being introduced, then captured the as-built environment in accurate Ethernet schematics. The work produced recommendations focused on restoring performance and reducing repeat disruption.
What was delivered
- The investigation traced production-impacting latency back to the OT network environment through review of topology, device configuration and traffic behaviour.
- Accurate as-built network schematics improved future troubleshooting and change control on site.
- Recommendations were focused on restoring performance and reducing repeat disruption.
Scope items
- Site investigation of OT network topology, device configurations and traffic behaviour
- Development of accurate Ethernet network schematics reflecting the as-built environment
- Recommendations report to reduce latency, improve network performance and prevent future production impact
Services and sectors behind this work
OT networks and industrial networking
OT network design, industrial Ethernet, secure remote access and SCADA server connectivity.
Automation support and maintenance
PLC and SCADA fault finding, planned maintenance and production breakdown support for Melbourne and regional sites.
Packaging line automation Australia
Conveyor and line control, PackML-aligned states, changeovers, inspection and packaging OEE data.
PLC remote access: eWON, Tosibox and VPN
How remote access to PLCs works, what Australian cyber guidance expects and how to control vendor access.
OT network security
IEC 62443 zones and conduits, the Purdue model, segmentation, secure remote access and the ACSC Essential Eight in an OT context.
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