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How wireless technology is changing condition monitoring
Condition monitoring and the concept of predictive maintenance has been around for several decades now. However, it is only recent developments that have opened this revolutionary technology up to a much wider range of applications. In this blog, we will explore just how crucial wireless technology is for the overall development of condition monitoring.
Wireless Sensors and Condition Monitoring
Wireless sensors are facilitating the often-complicated process of having expensive and complex technologies in remote and inaccessible locations. With machine downtime proving a costly affair, the emphasis of condition monitoring has always been on providing the most accurate and real-time insights into the performance of machinery and the durability of vital components. As a result, even governments have discussed investing in condition monitoring equipment, as it offers a centralised, cohesive and, most importantly, dependable method of analysis and data-collection that revolves around the successful integration of wireless technology.
The Challenges of Wireless Sensors
However, the exciting development of wireless sensors and technology has also created several key challenges. First and foremost is the issue of connection speeds, which need to enable the uploading of large amounts of data in real-time. This is particularly relevant in remote locations or when the machinery involved is either large or complex. Lastly, there is also the increasingly important issue of data security. As with any wireless system, it is tantamount that the data be kept confidential and can be stored in a safe, but also accessible manner.
Are Wireless Sensors the Solution?
However, with all these evolving challenges come new and innovative solutions, driven forward by developing technology and refined wireless sensors. Take, for example, the pioneering new products in the WiVib range. Sophisticated wireless sensors form the backbone of this particular monitoring system, which is at the very forefront of multi-channel vibration monitoring. As a result, they have become somewhat synonymous with the wireless revolution. The WiVib family is compatible with all low-cost access points and uses a comprehensive security system that enables full data protection.
It also deals with the issue of power storage and efficiency in an innovative and ingenious manner. It can be powered externally or from internal batteries, but also utilises a special battery-saving strategy whereby the device can operate in wakeup mode. This means it will take measurements at specified intervals to conserve battery power. Additionally, these new battery systems are changing the way we install systems without wiring, which is revolutionising this kind of technology. If you’re interested in learning more about this specific product, check out this helpful brochure!
Icon Research
The landscape of wireless condition monitoring systems is ever-changing, but it is within the context of these changes and developments that new technology will continue to emerge. The ability to compile and store real-time data in powerful analytical software tools provides businesses with the unique opportunity to approach their manufacturing or production processes from a top-level perspective. As a result, the trend of improving operational efficiency looks set to minimise unnecessary waste and machine downtime even further, providing stability and durability to sectors which have too frequently been exposed by machinery failures or environmental catastrophes. Furthermore, if you are a smaller business, it is now possible to get started with a small, affordable system, opening up new possibilities for businesses looking to modernize.
Icon Research have been at the forefront of the wireless revolution for many years now and continue to develop and test innovative new solutions to drive condition monitoring technology forward. Please get in touch with us for more information.
