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August 2024 Newsletter

Operations Update - Note from Bryan


As we come to the close of summer, we would like to update you on some things we’ve been working on for the past few months and much of it involves incorporating customer feedback and suggestions. 


In Version 2.0 of the Sentinel-CPM, ACI updated their eRCM Kernal to calculate the theoretical data and generates curves, which can now be overlayed on the actual measured data curves in the display. While we would like to take credit for this idea, it was actually one of our customers that suggested it. It was a great idea and makes it even easier to interpret the measured data. Warren Laible has also added to and improved his diagnostic suite, providing additional value to the software.


If you run integral engines, you’ve probably heard of our ProBalance and ProBalance Plus Systems for engine balancing. MMS has steadily been updating and improving the embedded software employed in the system since its introduction. We now have introduced our own Automatic Balancing Valve (ABV). This valve incorporates a direct drive 24 VDC stepper motor, four externally visible position indicators, externally mounted manual actuator, internal electronic position sensors, internal temperature sensors, latest technology electronic components, and perhaps most importantly, single point responsibility for the entire system. We are very excited with this product and its future in the industry!


If you are attending the GMRC this year in Tampa stop by our booth for a visit.

As always, we thank you for your interest and support. Stay safe.  

Bryan


Equipment Update


Sentinel - CPM


New updated interface and capabilities


Sentinel-CPM calculates compressor performance and determines compressor health and safety in real-time. The embedded Web interface allows users to view data from the CPM module with a web-browser-no additional software required. PV & PT curves can be viewed with theoretical overlays.


MMS teamed with ACI and licensed their eRCM library for all the thermodynamic calculations and it is incorporated in each CPM module.

 

After a customer uploads their eRCM Viewer file of the unit, Sentinel CPM compares actual measurements to theoretically expected values – and notable differences help identify compressor health and safety issues!



Sentinel - CPM Key Features

  • Real time measurements and alarming of rod loads and degrees of reversal
  • Automated leak detection of suction & discharge valves, rings and packing
  • eRCM Kernel enhanced with MMS real time compressor performance calcs
  • Changeable Usernames, Encrypted Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication per TSA mandates
  • Continuous monitoring of up to 6 double-acting compressor cylinders (up to 10 cylinders w/ an additional CPM module)
  • 12 pressure sensor inputs
  • 2 Magnetic Pickup inputs (TDC & Deg)
  • MODBUS (RS-485 & Ethernet) communication
  • Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, D rating
  • Alarm Relay - Dry contacts

Figure: Theoretical Overlay 

Sentinel - CPM Calculations

  • Cylinder-End HPs
  • Suction/Discharge Pressures
  • Suction/Discharge VEs
  • Rod Reversals & Rod Loads
  • OEM Methods and Limits Used
  • Theoretical PV Cards
  • Theoretical Discharge Temps.
  • Flows & Flow Balances
  • Calculated Clearances
  • Interstage Pressure Predictions
  • Gas Leakage Rates

Sentinel – CPM Compressor Diagnostics Program

The Compressor Diagnostics Program can reliably detect the most common reciprocating compressor faults in real time. We will continue to expand our fault detection to other serious but less common reciprocating compressor issues as we continue to refine this product. Currently detected faults include: suction and discharge valve leaks, rings leaks, packing leaks, unloader and clearance pocket issues overloading the compressor, exceeding rod load limits and lack of rod reversal.


Our motto, our customers come first is reflected in this new product. We are proud to share that our MMS Compressor Diagnostics program is installed on every MMS Sentinel – CPM board and connects directly to the Unit PLC to exchange data. This is a big win for our customers and best of all, there are no monthly subscription fees nor data that has to be uploaded to a company’s web application in the cloud.

Sentinel - CPM

Automated Balancing Valve


MMS is very pleased to announce the release of our own electronically controlled Fuel Valve. As with all our products, this is manufactured in the USA and is designed to upgrade our ProBalance ® System to the fully automatic ProBalance® Plus engine balancing system.



The valve is designed to provide a very linear flow pattern allowing the 24 VDC direct drive stepper motor to provide very accurate fuel flow control. The valve itself is rated for up to 125 psi, can actuate in very small increments allowing extreme precision even at high pressure. We have also reduced the overall size, height, and weight of the actuator to lower mechanical fatigue issues on the fuel system


The new valve has both an electronic position sensor, and 4 externally visible position indicators located every 90O around the top of the actuator. This allows visibility regardless of mounting orientation. Also included is an internal temperature sensor to provide an alarm should your fuel poppet or lifter fail, allowing combustion gases to back up into the fuel valve.


A manual adjustment nut has been added on top of the stepper motor. This feature allows the unit to continue to be balanced - albeit manually - even in the event of a catastrophic failure of the automatic balancing system or complete loss of power. It’s never happened before to any of our units, but better to be safe!


Definitely a better mouse trap! Rugged, smaller, compact design, no belts, easy electronic and visual indication of valve position, a temperature sensor, simple manual override, and MMS’s years of experience to back it up. All at a very competitive price point.

ABV - ProBalance Plus
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Machinery Monitoring Systems, LLC

10421 Lexington Drive | Suite D

Knoxville, TN 37932


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