The Sentron PAC4200 power monitoring device from the Siemens Industry Automation Division collects and records measured data such as voltage, current and energy consumption and permits the analysis of network quality. The device can be integrated into higher-level control and energy management systems in which the measured data it provides creates the transparency necessary to increase plant efficiency, optimise energy consumption, and help reduce costs.
The Sentron PAC4200 measures around 200 electrical values such as voltage, current, active power, and active energy with an accuracy of 0,2%. This corresponds to the new IEC 61557-12 standard for measuring devices and ensures that the device meets the needs of modern industrial plants in performance, safety, and operating behaviour. It provides the user with basic data with which to assess network quality. These include distortion current intensity, phase angle, and the third to 31st odd-order harmonic, which can lead to overheating and deterioration of the system and components. The Sentron PAC4200 records more than 4000 events. Average values for apparent, active, and reactive power are stored as a load profile over a 40-day period.
The device includes a standard 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet interface with which it can be directly integrated into a LAN (local area network). Two optional expansion modules allow the unit to connect to Profibus DP and Modbus RTU fieldbuses. These interfaces are used to integrate the power monitoring device into higher-level systems such as the Simatic power-rate power management system. Using such energy management systems, the user can precisely measure and optimise plant utilisation and thus increase plant efficiency and reduce energy costs.
The Sentron PAC4200’s gateway function is used to transfer data from subordinate devices with basic serial RS485 interfaces such as Sentron circuit breakers and basic monitoring devices to an Ethernet network. Two multifunctional digital inputs and outputs each provide flexibility for additional control and reporting functions and monitoring energy consumption. As with the existing Sentron PAC3200 power monitoring device, the new device also displays all relevant network parameters on a large graphical LCD flat screen.
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