Introduction
Aggreko’s advanced control solutions
Why are controls important for temporary temperature control solutions?
1. Energy efficiency:
Temperature regulation: advanced controls automatically adjust cooling output based on real-time data, ensuring energy is used efficiently. This is crucial for reducing power consumption during peak times or when full capacity is unnecessary. For instance, in scenarios where weather conditions are favourable, these controls can reduce the load on generators, thereby saving on diesel fuel and reducing carbon footprint.Load management: these controls can optimise the cooling load, reducing energy use during less critical periods without compromising performance. This is particularly important in large-scale multi-MW operations where reducing energy consumption can quickly add up to significant reduction in cost and environmental impact.
Scheduling: programmable controls allow systems to operate only during necessary periods, avoiding energy waste. This feature is particularly useful in environments where cooling or heating is only needed at specific times, such as in certain manufacturing processes.
Noise reduction: with noise emissions in urban areas becoming ever more critical, measures can be taken through controls to minimise noise during certain times e.g. at night. This could be as simple as reducing fan speeds on chillers or cooling towers.
2. Performance optimisation:
Precise control: accurate sensors and advanced algorithms maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, critical for sensitive environments like petrochemical plants or manufacturing processes. For example, in petrochemical processes where maintaining a precise temperature range is critical, Aggreko’s controls can ensure that temperatures remain within a 0.5°C variance.
Adaptability: controls can adjust to changing environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance across different operational scenarios. Whether dealing with fluctuating external temperatures or varying process loads, Aggreko’s systems adapt in real-time to maintain optimal conditions.
3. Safety and reliability:
Fault Detection: Integrated systems monitor for malfunctions, providing early warnings to prevent critical failures. For example, in scenarios where a heat exchanger could freeze, the system can automatically switch to a backup exchanger, preventing blockages and ensuring continuous operation.
Aggreko Remote Monitoring: our advanced monitoring systems offer remote diagnostics, allowing for quick interventions to reduce downtime. This is particularly important for installations that are far from the main operation site, where on-site monitoring is impractical.
4. Flexibility and useability:
Remote operation: modern systems allow for remote access, enabling users to monitor and adjust settings from anywhere. This is especially useful for operations in remote locations or those low on onsite manpower, where manual adjustments would be impractical.
Integration with other systems: Aggreko controls can often be integrated with other building management systems (BMS) or distributed control systems (DCS), offering centralised control and monitoring. This integration allows for a seamless operation of multiple systems, reducing the need for manual intervention.
5. Cost savings:
Extended equipment life: proper management reduces wear and tear, extending the lifespan of equipment and minimising maintenance costs. Aggreko’s controls ensure that equipment operates within safe parameters, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and extending the overall life of the system.
6. Data collection and analysis:
Predictive maintenance: data-driven insights allow for predictive maintenance, reducing unexpected failures and downtime. By analysing trends in equipment performance, Aggreko’s systems can predict when maintenance will be needed, ensuring that issues are addressed before they become critical.
Case example: advanced controls in petrochemical processes
In petrochemical processes, where precise control over temperature is crucial, Aggreko’s advanced control solutions have proven to be indispensable. For instance, in scenarios where cooling systems need to operate below freezing temperatures, Aggreko’s controls can manage the process of switching between heat exchangers to prevent freezing and ensure continuous operation. This level of control goes beyond simple monitoring; it involves actively managing the process to avoid downtime and ensure safety.
“In critical environments, it’s not just about monitoring temperatures it’s about actively controlling the process to ensure everything operates within safe and optimal parameters. Whether it’s switching between heat exchangers or adjusting the cooling load based on real-time data, our controls make sure that our systems deliver exactly what the process requires - no more, no less.”