The smart route to efficiency
Published: 9 December 2011 - Neil Mead
CompAir has launched SmartAir Master, a simple-to-install control system that provides detailed management reports to help plant engineers improve the performance and efficiency of a compressor network.
The SmartAir Master will control up to 12 compressors, fixed or variable speed and can reduce energy consumption by up to 35 per cent, by operating all of the compressors in the network to the narrowest pressure band.
It is considered that the easier a controller is to install and commission and the more comprehensive the data it provides, the more efficient the compressor network can operate.
CompAir has therefore designed the controller to be easy to install, with a series of on-screen prompts that guide the commissioning engineer through the set up and confirm when each parameter has been programmed correctly.
Once each compressor is connected to the SmartAir Master, the engineer needs to enter only minimal information as the controller will identify all the units in the system and will self-programme many stages.
The SmartAir Master doesn’t need numerous interface cards to communicate with each compressor. It has just two options, helping to improve the speed and ease of installation.
These functions combine to ensure the most efficient compressor combination is selected, thereby avoiding the risk and cost of off-load running.
In addition, where compressors of the same capacity are installed, the system will equalise running hours so no machine is over or underused, reducing maintenance costs.