“MTP goes Industry” at Merck Shows the Way to Industrial Application

How can the transition from MTP pilot projects to industrial application be achieved? “MTP goes Industry @ Merck,” held on September 29 in Darmstadt (Germany), addressed this question. The new hands-on event format of PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) brought together operators, module and equipment manufacturers, system integrators, and technology providers at the science and technology company Merck in Darmstadt to discuss experiences from specific projects and requirements for the broader adoption of MTP. With 120 registrations from 13 countries, the number of available spots was far exceeded.

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Michelangelo Canzoneri of Merck highlighted the potential of modular production concepts for shorter time-to-market, reduced engineering effort, and more flexible production facilities. Reusable modular units and digital twins can help integrate process development and production more closely.

In the subsequent panel discussion with representatives from the pharmaceutical and life sciences, chemical, shipbuilding, and recycling sectors, it became clear just how varied the practical requirements are. At the same time, common goals emerged: integrating package units more quickly, reducing commissioning risks, simplifying engineering and validation, and creating vendor-neutral interfaces.

These issues were explored in greater depth in three parallel workshops -ranging from the requirements for future PEAs to modularization and PEA design, and on to technical implementation approaches and their economic benefits. A key finding was that modularization should be considered right from the start of the engineering phase. Clear requirements, defined system boundaries, and consistent documentation are essential prerequisites for efficient project execution.

At the accompanying Microfair, technology providers presented their products, tools, and services. Using an MTP workflow matrix, the available solutions were mapped to the individual phases of the MTP workflow. The matrix is intended to provide guidance even beyond the event.

Guided tours of the laboratories at the Merck site rounded out the program by providing insights into real-world application environments.

With “MTP goes Industry,” PI has created a platform for direct exchange on the practical implementation of MTP. The high demand shows that implementation experiences, reference projects, and cross-industry exchange are particularly in demand. PI intends to build on this with further practice-oriented formats.