Compressor monitoring systems: diagnostics

To protect our industrial compressors, it is necessary to equip them with adequate control systems but , above all, with advanced monitoring systems that are able to check and prevent machine downtime that penalizes production. Before delving into this topic, it is important to know how the various pieces of information from our compressors, such as pressure and temperature, are measured. 

Resistance thermometers are usually used to measure the temperature of a compressor, with resistance increasing as the heat increases. The compressor temperature measurement is therefore summarized in the variation in resistance, which is converted into a 4-20 mA signal. 

Another way to measure temperature is with thermistors, semiconductors that can be used as temperature controllers and are mainly used in electric motors. 

As for compressor pressure, detectors such as diaphragms are used to measure it. When diaphragms are exposed to pressure, they receive a low pressure that is then amplified to the appropriate adjustment level; in this case, we are talking about resistive diaphragms. In addition to these, there are also piezoelectric diaphragms based on crystals where charges proportional to the pressure exerted by the surface are concentrated. 

Compressor monitoring systems

Each compressor monitoring system must be in line with the type of compressor, so there is no predefined equipment that is suitable for all industrial compression systems. 

If we have systems composed of small piston compressors, the monitoring system has the task of disengaging the motor in case of overload through a single device. If, on the other hand, we are dealing with very large screw compressors, for example, more than one device will be necessary: not only the motor disengagement device but also devices for controlling temperature and pressure. 

In the most advanced monitoring systems, compressors can be managed through a control panel that allows us to act on temperature, pressure, and status even remotely as soon as a warning signal is sent from the machines. A monitoring system of this type allows us to intervene promptly before the compressor stops working and shuts down. 

Being able to use a control panel gives us the ability to control our compressors remotely, creating advantages in terms of performance and efficiency. 

Riem Italy designs and uses advanced monitoring equipment capable of performing accurate and timely diagnostics. Our industrial compressor management panels employ innovative and secure technologies that place us at the forefront of technical assistance in the sector. 

FURTHER INFORMATION: Compressor diagnostics