Automation Compressed Air Systems Equipment IIoT Sensors

Small Steps to Create a “Smart” Compressor

Grant Gerke | October 26, 2017

Increasing pressure adds to a compressor’s load and increases energy consumption.

sensor compressor control

How to move towards predictive maintenance. (Source: Opto 22)

Several years ago, legacy equipment was originally cited by many as too cumbersome to include in a proactive maintenance approach and begin the journey away from preventive maintenance. However, end users have reexamined this approach due to many “accessible” smart equipment solutions, even for legacy equipment. Plus plant managers are employing smaller predictive maintenance pilot projects to get results quickly and build credibility with executive management.

These pilot programs can more inexpensive and due to smaller project scopes can provide quicker results for plant and executive managers to evaluate a bigger investment. Recently, Arun Sinah from Opto 22 showed how to connect a compressor and begin monitoring compressor (see image, right) values via a cloud analytic solution or plant floor dashboard.


From the article:

To move from this periodic compressor maintenance to predictive maintenance, the three parameters I would monitor are 1) Motor temperature 2) Vibration and 3) Motor current. These parameters are good indicators of compressor health, are simple to start with, and can be instrumented without too much effort or cost—and without taking the machine apart.

The article goes on to describe in great detail what’s essentials are needed, such as a vibration sensor, some control hardware and how to configure. If you’re interested in predictive analytics and what’s needed, check out this article.

Read Full Article Here >>

FEATURED VIDEO

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Grant Gerke

Sign up for insights, trends, & developments in
  • Machinery Solutions
  • Maintenance & Reliability Solutions
  • Energy Efficiency
Return to top