Valmet Marine PLC Replacement & Automation System Upgrade Solutions
Legacy programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and outdated marine automation systems face common challenges including discontinued spare parts, limited technical support, insufficient cybersecurity protection, poor system scalability, and failure to meet updated maritime regulations. As a trusted global marine automation partner, Valmet delivers professional, low-risk, phased PLC replacement and full automation retrofit services, migrating legacy PLCs and old-generation control systems to the advanced Valmet DNAe Marine Automation System — a purpose-built distributed control system (DCS) for marine applications. Our all-in-one solutions combine on-site engineering, remote support, workshop maintenance, professional training and full lifecycle services, ensuring seamless system transition, enhanced operational efficiency, robust cybersecurity and long-term reliable operation for all types of vessels.
Why Upgrade Legacy Marine PLCs & Automation Systems
Aging PLCs and legacy control systems create substantial operational and safety risks for modern vessels:
- Hardware Obsolescence: Discontinued components lead to difficult spare part procurement and unplanned vessel downtime.
- Functional Limitations: Lack of advanced diagnostics, unified alarm management, data analytics and remote operation capabilities.
- Compliance Gaps: Fail to satisfy latest maritime cybersecurity rules, IACS UR E26/E27, IEC 62443 and IMO operational requirements.'
- Poor Scalability: Traditional standalone PLCs cannot be expanded to integrate ship-wide OT/IT systems, emission control units and cloud platforms.
- Weak Cybersecurity: No layered defense mechanisms, leaving onboard critical assets vulnerable to cyber intrusions and malware attacks.
Valmet’s PLC replacement and upgrade solutions eliminate these pain points, leveraging the high-performance, cyber-secure Valmet DNAe platform to future-proof vessel automation infrastructure.
Valmet Core Upgrade Solution: Migrate to Valmet DNAe
Valmet provides cost-effective, flexible migration paths for all mainstream legacy marine PLCs and older Valmet automation platforms (Damatic XD, Damatic XDi, Metso DNA, etc.). We maximize the reuse of existing on-site infrastructure to cut retrofit costs and minimize operational disruption.
- Full PLC Replacement & Controller Modernization
- System Architecture & Network Upgrade
- Operator Interface & Data Management Enhancement
- Cybersecurity Embedded by Design
Standard Phased Upgrade Workflow (Minimal Vessel Downtime)
Valmet adopts a step-by-step phased migration methodology instead of full "rip-and-replace", guaranteeing continuous vessel operation during the upgrade:
- Pre-Project Onboard Survey
- Software Development & Simulation
- Phase 1: Network & HMI Upgrade
- Phase 2: Gradual Controller & I/O Replacement
- Phase 3: System Commissioning & Testing
- Final Handover & Documentation Delivery
Comprehensive Onboard & Remote Services
Backed by Valmet’s global marine service network, we deliver full lifecycle support throughout and after the upgrade project:
- On-Site Field Services
- Remote Support & Maintenance
- Onshore Workshop Services
- Genuine OEM Spare Parts
Professional Training for Crew & Shore Staff
To ensure safe and proficient operation of the newly upgraded system, Valmet provides flexible training solutions:
- Online Learning Platform
- Onboard Combined Training
- Repeatable Custom Courses
Key Benefits of Valmet PLC & Automation Upgrade
Low Operational Risk
Phased migration + maximum reuse of existing infrastructure = minimal downtime and no disruption to vessel navigation.
Cost Efficiency
Extend the service life of vessel automation assets, cut long-term maintenance and spare part costs.
Regulatory Compliance
Fully comply with IACS UR E26/E27, IEC 62443, IMO and EU maritime cybersecurity & emission regulations.
Enhanced Performance
Higher system stability, faster response speed, powerful data analytics and energy monitoring functions.
Unified Management
Realize full integration of onboard automation, emission control and cloud platforms for ship-wide intelligent management.
Lifelong Support
Global service network, continuous technical support and guaranteed spare part supply for the Valmet DNAe platform.