DATA Logging and why it is important

The efficiency of your compressed air system has never been more important. Energy costs are continuing to rise every year along with the increasing environmental responsibility for businesses. This is where data loggers come into context they identifies inefficiencies and highlights adjustments to save money in the long run.

Data loggers collect and store information relating to a compressed air system’s pressure, temperature, dew point, flow rate and carbon reduction is also monitored. Ata logging should be a period of 1 weeks worth of a normal business week to ensure the readings balance out.

The data recorded gets analysed and show whether any cost savings can be achieved.

1. Establish a baseline

One of the most important steps of managing a compressed air system is to develop a baseline. This acts as a point of reference to make comparisons from.

The relevant units of measurement are: kilowatts (kW), which is the amount of power being consumed which is a standard unit for understanding energy consumption.

Understanding the kWh usage of your system is important as this is what energy companies base billing on.

If your system is not performing like the manufacturer’s specification, there is most likely a problem. Minor deviations from your baseline may also help highlight opportunities for change. For example, during weekend reduced production.

2. Troubleshoot problems

Data loggers are useful for troubleshooting, particularly after a system problem has occurred. It is easy to review the data sets to determine what was happening at the exact time of the problem.

3. Ensure pressure stability

It is difficult to monitor system pressure manually but using data loggers allows the data to get recorded and analysed. And when using multiple parameters, such as flow and compressor power, it can be possible to identify the response of the compressor to pressure change, or the response of pressure to compressor changes.

4. Sizing equipment

Before undertaking replacement projects or updating equipment. Data loggers provide a snapshot of system operation in order to avoid inaccurate assumptions and (expensive) incorrect sizing decisions.

5. Verify savings

Loggers are necessary to prove predicted savings get achieved.

If energy efficiency and total control of your compressed air system is important, don’t take it for granted! Data logging ensures your system is operating at its required performance. It can also open your eyes to money saving opportunities.