Controlling with a Higher Level MASTER CONTROL (Compound Control)

The greatest potential for the optimization of a compressed air system lies in the control of the compressors. When a compressed air station is made up of several compressors, the compressors should be controlled on the basis of consumption; this is ideally performed via a higher level electronic management system (master control / compound control). If a controllable compressor is also integrated in the network, the application of a compound control is strongly recommended. If two controllable compressors are integrated in the compressed air network, it is imperative that a compound control is used.

Conventional management systems use the internal pressure controllers of the individual compressors. If several controllers are simultaneously active, there is a high risk that their dynamic interaction may create an "escalation", which can lead to extremely uneconomical operation. The management system by kmo turbo, however, centrally takes over the control of all of the compressors to ensure that only one controller is operative at any given time. This guarantees highly economical and stable operation.

Characteristics of the Compound Control by kmo turbo:

  • Modular design with industry-proven SIEMENS-S7 standard components
  • Support of several networks featuring varying levels of system pressure, linked via pressure relief and booster functions
  • Optimum utilization of each compressor by taking into account the current suction conditions
  • Optimum utilization of the control characteristics of turbocompressors
  • Event-controlled control interventions (e.g. when activating a large-scale consumer)
  • Need-based connection and disconnection of compressor
  • Continuous evaluation of typical compressor wear indicators for the provision of valuable information for maintenance planning
  • Data logger: Temporally high-resolution, long-term data storage increases the transparency and provides valuable information for diagnostics
  • The system can be adapted to accommodate changed conditions (e.g. an expansion of machinery)
  • Visualization & operation, either via a local control panel, local PC, intranet and/or via the process control system
  • Web-based reporting, also via e-mail
  • Remote support for short-term optimization measures if requirements should change