Applications & Articles

Quality Analysis for Fail-Safe Industrial Automation.

In industrial testing and measurement technology, reliability, precision, and a solid data foundation play a decisive role. Whether in the condition monitoring of industrial valves or the optimization of gas turbines – a high-performance data logger provides the basis for meaningful analyses, efficient maintenance planning, and the development of robust control systems. Our article demonstrates how measurement and test procedures can be practically implemented using modern data loggers, and the added value this creates for engineers, developers, and plant operators. Read on to discover how the right measurement solutions can help you sustainably optimize your processes.

Enhanced Valve Diagnostics Using a Data Logger.

The tightness and closing force of industrial valves can decrease over time during operation. To prevent process interruptions, thorough valve diagnostics within systems and machinery are essential. Recording relevant process parameters with a data logger enables early detection of changes and supports cost-efficient, well-planned maintenance scheduling.

Comprehensive Quality Analysis and Maintenance Planning.

Industrial valves are mechanical control and regulation systems that monitor the flow and pressure of liquids in industrial installations. Regular recording and evaluation of wear-related changes provide meaningful information that serves as a sound basis for maintenance decisions. Plant operators benefit from documented measurement data by being able to perform an in-depth assessment of their valves and incorporate the results into maintenance planning. Manufacturers of industrial valves and repair service providers can, in turn, use these measurement results as proof of product quality.

Reliable Condition Monitoring Through Direct Measurements.

To detect fault-prone valves at an early stage, diagnostics should be performed under actual operating conditions. Reliable condition monitoring requires direct measurements on the installed valves, for example using a measurement coupling to capture torque or actuator pressure. Torque and friction forces provide information on the tightness and operational performance of on/off and control valves.

The output signals from the measurement coupling are read in millivolts (mV) and recorded by a data logger. Comparing the baseline curve (new condition) with the current operating curve allows assessment of the valve’s present condition. For rotary actuators, the linear measurement coupling (LMK) is replaced by a torsion measurement coupling (TMK).

GL260-EU | Compact Data Logger,
10 Measurement Channels.

Multifunctional inputs for flexible measurement applications:
Voltage (20 mV to 100 V), temperature, humidity, logic and pulse (4 channels) | 16-bit resolution for precise measurement results | Long-term recording up to one year with SD card | Storage capacity for up to 2 million data points | Alarm function for threshold deviations | Network functionality for control, monitoring, and data transfer | Available in three preconfigured sets: with carrying case and battery (GL-240-EU-Kit), with WLAN adapter (GL240-EU-WLAN-Kit), or with temperature sensors (GL-240-EU-Temp).

Conclusion: Condition monitoring of valves can be improved through direct measurement of torque and contact forces using a measurement coupling. A data logger with multiple measurement functions and wide input ranges is well suited for data acquisition and analysis.

GL260-EU

Multi-channel data logger, 10 isolated channels, midi logger

1 in stock. Ready to ship in 1 business day

Optimization of Gas Turbines Using a Data Logger.

Gas turbines are exposed to extremely high temperatures and rotational speeds. To ensure safe operation, advanced testing methods are required. Analyzing PID speed controllers with a data logger helps developers achieve the optimal balance between accuracy and stability of the auxiliary power unit (APU).

Speed Control and Performance Optimization.

Gas turbines have become established as auxiliary power units (APUs) in aircraft due to their excellent power-to-weight ratio. They are also used in trains, ships, and power plants for power generation.

A gas turbine is typically driven by compressed air mixed with a burning fuel such as propane. The resulting heat causes the air to expand and flow past the turbine blades, producing rotational motion. Gas turbines operate most efficiently at constant load; at idle or under variable load, they consume more fuel than piston engines

PID controllers optimize turbine performance. The PID controller (Proportional, Integral, and Derivative Control) measures input parameters and calculates the required drive output. Through continuous adjustment, the PID algorithm maintains stable turbine operation.

Efficient Development of PID Controllers.

Because gas turbines are subjected to extreme thermal and mechanical stresses, their development and production are comparatively expensive. Using an appropriate data logger, parameters such as turbine speed and exhaust gas temperature can be measured and recorded to analyze PID controller performance and efficiency.

Data evaluation is typically software-based. The resulting plots can reveal control loop errors causing deviations between throttle demand and actual rotational speed. The response of the drive system to changes in PID configuration can also be visualized.

PicoLog CM3 | USB Data Logger

3-channel data logger for single-phase or three-phase AC currents | Measurement of electrical consumption in buildings and machinery | High resolution and accuracy for detecting minimal current variations | Short conversion time for rapid current changes | USB and Ethernet interfaces | Operation without external power supply (PoE and USB) | Includes PicoLog recording software and three current clamps.

PT-104 | USB Data Logger

Conclusion: Analyzing gas turbines with a data logger supports the design and optimization of PID speed controllers. The measurement data contribute to cost-efficient and precise development processes.

Pico
PP815

Data logger, USB, 3 channel, CM3, without current probe

€419.00

Delivery time upon request

Pico
PP682

Data logger, USB, 4 channels, PT-104, 4 pol. Mini-DIN sockets for PT100 and PT1000

€689.00

Delivery time upon request

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