Dubbed MS6-E2M, from Festo, it automatically monitors and regulates the compressed air supply to machines, actively intervening in the air supply.
"Saving energy is easier than ever thanks to the MS6-E2M energy efficiency module," comments Steve Sands, product manager at Festo. "For the first time, the air preparation system is monitoring, diagnosing and notifying maintenance teams based on actual requirements."
Sands explains that compressed air supply shutdown is triggered when the E2M module – which monitors predefined data, such as production line flow and pressure – detects machine standby).
He also says that the system is retrofittable, by connecting the sensors to a PLC, using Profibus connectivity.
And he adds that, during shut-off mode, E2M checks the installation for leaks, signalling the machine's control system (via Profibus) if it detects piping system problems.
Additionally, active condition monitoring gives plant operators access to energy- and process-related data (typically, flow rate, air consumption and pressure).