Predictive maintenance sensor to detect leakage and improve energy efficiencies
September 2006
Sensors & Transducers
The compressed air sensor, efector Metris from IFM Electronic, continuously monitors compressed air systems to identify leakage areas and to improve energy efficiencies. Compressed air is considered to be one of the most expensive sources of energy in a plant. By identifying leakage areas in a compressed air system, the efector Metris sensor can optimise compressed air usage, improve system performance, and reduce energy costs.
Compressed air system leaks are typically found at pipe joints, couplings and connections. The efector Metris detects leakage areas by monitoring smaller areas of a plant, designated as 'zones'. A plant is divided into zones based on the number of fittings and potential leakage points in an area. When the sensor identifies a leakage area, plant personnel can pinpoint the exact leak location and repair the leak. Leak repair in compressed air systems improves the efficiency of tools and equipment, decreases system moisture, and achieves consistent system pressure.
The efector Metris sensor can be mounted in a supply pipe to monitor one machine, or mounted in a plant zone to monitor several machines. Two sensing methods are used to monitor compressed air usage. During machine operation, the sensor compares the machine's ideal air consumption to the actual air consumption. Any difference in the two readings indicates an air leak. When the machine is shut down the sensor will continue to monitor air consumption. Any measured air usage indicates an air leak.
The sensing technology of the product is based on the calorimetric flow sensing principle that ensures a constant temperature difference between two sensing elements. This method allows for greater sensitivity in air consumption, a faster response time, and a wide sensing range. Its acute sensitivity can detect small leaks, and at the same time, measure the air consumption of high-capacity compressed air systems. The compact sensor is fitted with an integrated pipe to ensure easy mounting and proper installation depth. The sensor's 4-digit numeric display provides air consumption readings and features microprocessor-based pushbutton setup.
The efector Metris has a 1,3 to 700 Nm³/h measuring range and can be locked electronically. It has a response time of less than 0,1 s, as well as analog, switching and pulse outputs for signal processing.
IFM Electronic is represented locally by Shorrock Automation.
Further reading:
Next-generation condition monitoring
Sensors & Transducers
The next generation Sitrans MS200 multisensor from Siemens is setting new standards in condition monitoring.
Read more...
Telco sensors for blocked/empty chute detection
Sensors & Transducers
Telco sensors overcome the problems of contaminated environments through powerful high-performance infrared sensors that ensure penetration of harsh pollution and guarantee reliable detectio
Read more...
Cleaning solutions for optical sensors
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Achieving accurate and continuous process visibility requires reliable sensor performance, even in challenging media. Endress+Hauser’s CYR51 mechanical cleaning unit addresses these challenges by providing stable, automated cleaning of turbidity and UV-Vis absorption sensors.
Read more...
Next-generation gas meter module
Sensors & Transducers
Sensirion has launched its new gas meter module combining a low-power consumption mode, future-ready compatibility and seamless integration, all within the same compact form factor.
Read more...
Adjustable proximity sensor with five metre range
Gail Norton Instrumentation
Sensors & Transducers
The Telco line of photo-electric eyes have the accuracy and reliability you need.
Read more...
Food safety – a matter of weight
Sensors & Transducers
Weighing systems play a key role in ensuring product quality in food production, complying with legal requirements and avoiding product recalls. The Minebea Intec MiNexx portfolio has been specially developed to meet these requirements.
Read more...
Telco sensors in the paper and pulp industry
Gail Norton Instrumentation
Sensors & Transducers
The paper and pulp industry poses a major problem for most photoelectric sensors. Telco Sensors has overcome this with its powerful and high-performance photoelectric sensors, ensuring penetration of thick and harsh pollution while guaranteeing reliable detection.
Read more...
Leaders in sensor technology
Gail Norton Instrumentation
Sensors & Transducers
A new addition to the Telco Sensors range is the adjustable Proximity sensor, with a range up to 5 metres.
Read more...
Cutting-edge sensor technology
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The advantage of Endress+Hauser’s Memosens technology is that digitised measured values and sensor information are transmitted via a non-contact connection from the sensor to the cable, and as a digital signal to the transmitter.
Read more...
Miniature inductive sensors
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The inductive IY/IZ type sensors from ifm are used in various industrial areas where space is limited.
Read more...
printer friendly version