CPI valvealert™

Many monitoring systems available to the compressor industry, while sophisticated are either costly to install and maintain or require specialist manpower to collect data, process and analyse. Now there's a new revolutionary non intrusive alternative available - the CPI compressor valvealert™, is an innovative handheld or on-line reciprocating compressor monitoring and analysis system, supported by its own unique software. It is now possible for operators to equip themselves with the technology to identify problems before they occur, in a simple and affordable manner.

Compressor valves are the most critical parts of a piston compressor and are key to its overall availability, with valve problems reportedly the primary reason for reciprocating compressor shutdowns. Compressor valves fail for a variety of reasons, which can generally be divided into design and operating factors. Valve design could contribute if the wrong type for a particular application is fitted, or if operation failures occur related to the process gas conditions and how the compressor is run and maintained.

Experience has shown that regular monitoring of a compressor can identify and warn operators of significant situations that would otherwise not be detected. Nearly 75% of unscheduled shutdowns on existing reciprocating compressors can be associated with cylinder end components. Identifying those components can pay dividends in increased reliability and reduced maintenance costs. Frequently however, compressor deterioration remains hidden until a costly secondary failure occurs.

What is valvealert™

The CPI valvealert™ system is a simple, affordable and non-intrusive approach to detecting the mechanical condition of valves operating in reciprocating compressors, no matter where they are situated in the world.

Handheld version

The handheld data collector is fitted with a lead and sensor which will pick up Acoustic Emissions (AE) and measure temperature. The sensor is attached to a quick release connector that is permanently fixed to the valve cover and the AE and temperature data is quickly and simply gathered into the extremely user friendly data collector. Once the data is collected and stored in the handheld unit, it is down-loaded to a PC or laptop. The data is then analysed using the unique sophisticated software enabling the user to establish the mechanical condition of the valve through the simple graphic and data display. This is a versatile and very flexible way of monitoring the valves for all kinds of operations, whether for critical machines or compressors located in remote areas or for large or small operations.

On-line version

A more permanent and flexible option is set up to an on-line system, which can be linked to multiple compressors valves on a network and over the internet or intranet.

The software supporting CPI valavealert has been developed to automatically detect valve anomalies such as leaking valves, stiff or weak springs, slamming, valve flutter, late or early opening and closings, early detection of valve crack propagation and sticktion. This is in addition to the integral automatic analysis, summary and alarm reporting, probable investigation, diagnosis and action required functions.

Downloads: ValveAlert Brochure (1.87 MB)

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