For example , manufacturers can send external maintenance engineers previous reports or any relevant production information ahead of a visit for sampling . If the company experiences a drop in heat transfer efficiency or an unexplained increase in energy costs , it could help the engineer to get a clearer picture of why this is occurring , and where the problem is .
After the sample has been taken , the engineer will send it to a laboratory for testing and analysis to determine fluid condition . To further limit unnecessary visits to site , engineers can deliver the analysis report virtually , explaining the status of the fluid and offering recommendations on how to maintain or extend the lifespan of the heat transfer fluid . If required , facilities managers and external engineers can also plan any maintenance accordingly so that they can maintain social distancing and hygiene measures .
CONTINUOUS MONITORING
Embracing digital technologies is one of the ways that businesses are improving productivity with fewer people in a facility . The heat transfer market has been slow to reap the benefits of digitalisation , but the pandemic could be the catalyst for change .
Regular thermal fluid analysis is a vital part of maintenance in facilities that use heat transfer systems .
Condition monitoring technology could revolutionise how businesses complete accurate thermal fluid management in the future , by both bringing it into the digital age , and by reducing time on site .
Until recently , there has been no way of knowing thermal fluid condition without an engineer visiting a site and taking a sample . However , the introduction of Thermocare ® 24 / 7 Live Condition Monitoring cloudbased remote monitoring system changes everything . While facilities should continue regular sampling using traditional methods , a monitoring system can detect potential issues earlier , reducing the risk of costly downtime in the future . The system continually monitors fluid condition , sharing real-time data with the cloud that engineers can access from any location . The platform can determine the presence of degradation factors and warn maintenance personnel with an alert to smart devices if it detects an anomaly .
Installing a remote condition monitoring system allows engineers to monitor and access accurate data about fluid condition without affecting the flow of the liquid . Investing in this equipment as part of a proactive maintenance programme for thermal fluid management will help to keep heat transfer systems running efficiently . It can also reduce the need for external engineers to visit the site regularly , because they can react to alerts on the remote condition monitoring system and assist when required .
While sampling will still be an important part of maintenance , bringing thermal fluid management into the fourth industrial revolution can greatly benefit productivity , particularly as remote working and virtual communication becomes the norm . The ability to access real-time information about fluid condition from any location will reduce unplanned site visits while still effectively sustaining thermal fluid and system life span .
To discuss the benefits of a remote preventative maintenance plan with a thermal fluid expert , visit www . globalhtf . com
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