X20 on Board
One Control-Platform for Many Ships
Shipyards and system integrators increasingly need to standardize automation across a wide range of vessel types rather than putting together a new solution for every project. This is exactly where the B&R X20 portfolio comes in.
X20 components provide the foundation for standardized automation solutions in maritime applications.
Automation Built on Maritime Experience
Since more than 15 years, B&R has supported shipyards, OEMs and system integrators with automation solutions for maritime applications, contributing extensive know-how gained from a wide variety of vessel projects. This extensive experience forms the foundation of a comprehensive marine automation portfolio that extends beyond the X20 system to include industrial PCs, panels and the X90 system, all of which are deployed in a wide range of marine applications worldwide.
The X20 system is designed as a modular automation platform suitable for small, standalone subsystems as well as larger, distributed maritime applications. Depending on the task, PLC, I/O, safety and communication components can be combined within one common system. Different PLC variants provide the necessary scalability, while a broad selection of I/O modules supports a wide variety of customer applications. Instead of developing a separate solution for every vessel class, users select only the components their individual application requires.
Certified Products for International Projects
Selected X20 PLC and I/O products are available with internationally recognized marine certifications for different vessel types and regions. This enables customers to develop standardized solutions for different maritime applications and international projects without requiring a separate product variant for every market. For applications with higher availability requirements, the X20 system can also be used as part of redundant control concepts, helping to support reliable operation.
Ballast Water Management in Practice
An illustrative scenario from everyday maritime operations shows how the components can work together in practice: ballast water management. Such a system needs to control and monitor multiple pumps, valves, sensors and treatment processes. The X20 system can serve as the central automation platform for the entire process. It controls pumps and valves, captures the relevant sensor signals and monitors the individual treatment steps. Depending on the size of the installation, the solution can be scaled using different PLCs and distributed I/O stations. Safety and communication functions can also be integrated into the same platform where required. In this way, a complete maritime subsystem can be implemented using one modular and integrated automation platform.
Modernization Pressure in Shipbuilding Is Increasing
Stricter sustainability targets and new regulations are driving fleet renewal. At the same time, rising emissions requirements, increasing operating costs and the demand for more efficient vessels are increasing the need for modern automation solutions. Shipyards and system suppliers therefore increasingly want to standardize their automation platforms across different vessel types and applications. Technical requirements are also becoming more complex: Hybrid propulsion, battery systems, and increasingly sophisticated onboard power networks require reliable and integrated control solutions. Many existing vessels also need to be modernized without replacing the entire system. The modular structure of the X20 portfolio therefore supports both newbuild and retrofit applications.
Reducing Complexity Across the Lifecycle
For shipyards, OEMs, and system integrators, the benefits of a common platform can be seen in several areas. Using the same automation platform across vessel types, applications, and regions reduces engineering effort. It also minimizes the need to combine different automation platforms and products from multiple suppliers. The common platform also brings benefits across the lifecycle, including fewer different spare parts, reduced training requirements, and simpler diagnostics and maintenance. The system grows with the application and can support higher availability requirements where needed. Whether it is a small subsystem or a complex, distributed installation, a newbuild or a retrofit, the X20 portfolio provides shipyards, system integrators and OEMs with a scalable and modular automation platform featuring a broad range of marine-certified products. It supports a wide variety of onboard applications, from drive-train auxiliary systems and ballast water management to separators, pumps, and bridge solutions.