Petrochemical plants are typically large and complex, and the combination and sequence of processes are specific to the characteristics of the products manufactured. The basic petrochemicals manufactured by cracking, reforming, and other processes include olefins and aromatics. A wide range of products can be made through the process of petrochemical manufacturing, such as resins and plastics, various polyethylene, synthetic fibers, rubbers, industrial chemicals, etc.

Petrochemical producers are applying unique processes to gain an edge in a highly competitive marketplace. A variety of catalysts are applied to manufacture the great majority of different petrochemicals produced. In manufacturing processes, effective monitoring and control of the status at each site of the process, and the emitted or released toxic substances and wastes is required to make the process work smoothly. For this reason, industrial Ethernet networks are widely used for centralized monitoring and control of different manufacturing processes. This type of network is reliable, uses open protocols, has a real-time transmission capability, as well as the right ruggedized features suitable for the petrochemical industry.