Southern Cross Compressors non-invasive airflow measurement

Using a clamp-on transit-time correlation technique with ultrasonic transducers simply clamped onto the outside of a pipe means air lines no longer need to be cut to complete an air audit.

Southern Cross Compressors’ non-invasive airflow measurement equipment uses digital signal processing and analysis with up to 1000 signals/s and is capable of accurately registering the smallest of airflows, the company claims.

By clamping transducers onto the outside of an air line, an accurate profile of a customer’s usage can be obtained independent of the type of compressor or the control system utilised by the compressor. Production is not interrupted and there are no electrical connections, moving or pressure loaded parts to consider.

The measuring device can be used on a range of pipe sizes ranging from 7 to 1600 mm with accuracy of ±1 to 3% depending on the application. The pipe and materials parameters are taken into consideration and, using paired calibrated transducers, flow can be determined over an extended period of time. This accurate real-time data is used to determine a profile and to optimise air production and reduce usage.

Opportunities to reduce wastage are identified through leaks or pressure, which contribute to lowering energy usage. As an example, a reduction of just 4% can represent total power savings to a similar degree per year, according to the company.

An air audit on the supply side concentrates on the compressor room, ensuring the compressor and ancillary equipment is right for the job, the pipe size is correct, ventilation is sufficient and there is ease of access for maintenance. The demand side requires checks for air leaks and inappropriate uses, and looks at ways of reducing demand.