Why It Matters:
The benefits of optimal compressor performance are clear: improved operating efficiency, reduced energy consumption and increased productivity. Tracking performance can also provide other benefits, such as early warning of impending gas leakages. Unfortunately, losses in efficiency often go undetected by many monitoring systems that focus on vibration, piston position and temperature only. Machine efficiency – like other key parameters -should be monitored continuously.
The Best Approach:
Monitoring systems should check machine efficiency and provide comprehensive analyses that identify how you can realize optimum operation. They can begin by detecting any changes in dynamic pressure during operation and performing specialized p-V analyses to identify components causing reductions in efficiency. They should also incorporate influences resulting from today’s compressor regulations. Finally, they must analyze other key values, such as compression cycle, piston rod load, and piston rod reversal. Monitoring systems should compile all this information to give you a comprehensive view of your machine efficiency and identify the steps needed to maintain optimum performance
