When a lightning strike disabled the compost control system at Westport’s facility — along with several other plant devices — the ECS team quickly mobilized to get them running again.
Our service engineers first supported Westport remotely, diagnosing a failed serial bridge and server communications. We shipped programmed replacements and guided the installation, but intermittent errors remained. At the customer’s request, our field technician visited the site, discovered a failed switch port, and replaced a damaged RS485 isolated repeater. The system came back online except for one variable frequency drive (VFD), which we temporarily ran in local mode to keep aeration active.
To fully resolve the issue, our team recreated the entire control network in our Seattle shop using an in-production system and the client’s program. After verifying communications and components, we traced the final fault to a partially functional RS485 repeater. Once the site operator bypassed it, the system restored full communication and normal operation.
This incident highlights ECS’s commitment to supporting clients long after commissioning—through detailed troubleshooting, responsive field service, and a deep understanding of our equipment and control systems.
Learn more about ECS approach to customer service and support.
