Monitoring air compressor

[DavidM]

I would like to get a page/text message in case of air compressor failure. What I am thinking of is sensor that detects the air pressure and sends a signal when the pressure drops below a certain threshold.
I have a Laser4000 at this site and I think I can tie into one of the unused alerts so that it will send a page.

Has anyone done something like this? I have a vague idea of how to make this work but would like to have information from someone that has accomplished this.

Side note... I have another site with a Vector and Belanger built this functionality into the machine. All manufacturers should do this.

David

 

[Bubbles Galore]

I've thought about hooking my change machines up to a few of my empty ports on my new Razor...this is an interesting idea though and something that would be beneficial.

 

[SonofOsirus]

Both of these can be done with a Sensaphone (google it). Any input made will call out and tell you which output was triggered. We have used them in conjunction with a pressure switch (grainger) and set it at the minimum air pressure to close the contacts. Basically put the pressure switch in line and then wire the two contacts over to the Sensaphone and whala!

Same concept for bill changer; use the "out of order" light to send the signal. Also can trigger a water sensor on the floor by the drain, or any other fantastic idea that will come to mind. The website tells lots of suggestions.

 

[Jeff_L]

This doesn't answer your question, but how about adding redundancy? Why not plumb in another (maybe smaller) air compressor set at a lower minimum that will kick in if your main compressor quits working? That way you know you're still up and running until you get it fixed? (Maybe you've done this already and are now looking for an alert system?)

 

[MEP001]

This doesn't answer your question, but how about adding redundancy?

I second this. When the compressor started acting up and tripping randomly, it wasn't until a customer lost money before I knew via a page that there was a problem. Adding a second compressor for about $800 was much better peace of mind.

 

[DavidM]

Thanks for the suggestions.

The Sensaphone looks like a handy device. I might order one to try out but I don't think i need it for this application.

Thanks for the thoughts on redundancy. If this was a repeat problem or the site was farther away, I might go that route. We have a large industrial compressor and have it serviced annually. It has been very reliable. In fact, when we lose air it is more likely to be a problem with the air dryer than the compressor. We can be up and running again in 15 minutes if we know there is a problem.
Also, we do have a spare compressor that we can move from site to site as needed rather than purchase three separate backup compressors.

If I ever build another wash it will be designed with redundant compressors. Compressed air is too important to risk not having it.

David