Compressed air costs around R0,13 per cubic metre; it is not a cheap source of motive power at all. Therefore, it is surprising that many engineers cannot provide an overall cost to company for their compressed air systems. A typical 160 kW air compressor will consume around R1,3 million a year in power when providing a basic plant air service plan operating 24/7/365.
In a recent compressed air leak survey at a major production facility, the audit engineer found compressed air leaks accountable for costs of some R600 000 per annum. The cost of the Artic Driers service was recovered in days, not even weeks.
Ultrasonic leak detection and report generation
There are many types of ultrasonic leak detection devices, from inexpensive to high-end equipment that is capable of performing air and vacuum leak detection, steam trap malfunctions, as well as bearing ultrasound checks. The equipment used by Artic Driers during auditing is sophisticated and provides the cost per leak, as well as the actual compressed air volume lost. Tag numbers are allocated to each leak, and a page per leak report is generated on an Apple iPad using a purpose-built program.
When the company audit team leaves the site, 85% of the report is already complete and ready for download from the Cloud.
The ability to generate an Excel report is the key to targeting the worst leaks first, and the page per leak format makes the issuing of maintenance job cards exceptionally easy. Each card has an area location listed as well as a photograph of the leak with its tag number.
Should the accuracy of a report be challenged, the audit engineer will place an inline flowmeter in the supply when the facility is off line. Any air flow past the probe is then posted as leaks. The ultrasonic air leak detection gun is then used to ‘chase down’ these leaks in the plant, after which the two figures are compared. Invariably there is less than a few percent difference between the results.
Portable air auditing kits
Artic Driers International and Suto-iTech have recently launched a new fully portable device, the S600. This brand-new air auditing system is able to measure simultaneously the oil carry over into an air line, the particle count carry over, as well the dew point.
A variant of the S600 is also able to sample the compressed air in readiness for bacterial counting by a certified laboratory. This is a first In South Africa and a great asset for any laboratory or hospital complex.
OEM-standard repairs for industrial gear units
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
BMG, the official OEM for Hansen gearboxes, is authorised to repair Hansen industrial gear units in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s documented procedures, preserving the design tolerances and operational reliability required in demanding industrial environments.
Read more...The smart choice for test and measurement solutions RS South Africa
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
As the demand for precision and efficiency continues to grow across industries, RS PRO, the own brand of RS, provides a complete portfolio of test and measurement equipment engineered to meet the highest standards of performance, safety and value.
Read more...Achieving clean and dry compressed air Artic Driers International
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Compressed air is an expensive source of motive power so it makes good sense to supply clean, dry compressed air to your distribution system.
Read more...Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.
Read more...Is your compressed air system sustainable? Artic Driers International
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
We are all aware that compressed air is an expensive source of motive power, but do we actually know what the cost is?
Read more...Clog-resistant nozzle for powerful stationary tank cleaning
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
As EXAIR and BETE continue to build on a strong partnership, EXAIR has recently added a selection of BETE products to the site, including the innovative BETE HydroClaw tank and vessel cleaning nozzle.
Read more...Clog-resistant nozzle for powerful
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
As EXAIR and BETE continue to build on a strong partnership, EXAIR has recently added a selection of BETE products to the site, including the innovative BETE HydroClaw tank and vessel cleaning nozzle.
Read more...Why your next oscilloscope should Comtest
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The PC-based USB oscilloscope is a cutting-edge, adaptable alternative to traditional benchtop oscilloscopes that’s redefining test and measurement.
Read more...Automated test and measurement Comtest
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Comtest, in partnership with global brands, provides customised solutions with integrated hardware and software for efficient testing and data collection.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version