Pressure Sensor Enables Condition Monitoring to Reduce Pneumatic System Losses

Pressure losses in pneumatic systems can be costly and affect machine efficiency. Emerson’s new Aventics PE5 pressure sensor from Emerson measures systems losses and will alert when the leakage rate exceeds a predetermined value. This enables excessive leaks to be diagnosed early and addressed before they become a major issue. An IO-Link connection makes it simple to connect to an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) network. The sensor can be fitted on new installations or easily added to an existing machine.
 

“Pneumatic system leaks can become a major issue for companies using lots of compressed air,” said Dieter Michalkowski, IIoT specialist with Emerson’s machine automation business. “Excessive leakage can lead to the need for larger compressors, or compromised machine performance. This new sensor addresses that issue in a simple and easy to implement way.”
 
When the machine is switched off, the Aventics PE5 sensor measures pressure loss over time. If the pressure drops faster than desired, a local alert is set and a signal can be sent via the analog or digital outputs. To trigger a maintenance task or to automatically generate a work order, the analog and digital signals can be sent to a PLC or other network.