I recently had to recalibrate a booster pump pressure tank's air bladder due to an imbalance in air pressure. To measure the improvement in pump cycling over a 24-hour period, I considered using a current sensing clamp on a contactor coil to track starts. If this device exists, I'm unsure of its name. Any suggestions for an affordable device would be helpful.
Invest in an affordable Automation Direct PLC, mount it in a sturdy plastic enclosure, and utilize it as a versatile debug station. Temporarily wire it up, write a few lines of code, and store counts on a retentive variable to prevent data loss during power outages. This practical setup will prove invaluable in various scenarios.
If you have access to an auxiliary contact on your motor starter, consider connecting it to a counter for added functionality. Alternatively, for a similar cost, you can follow tdoa's recommendation and invest in a Click PLC for increased versatility in utilizing collected data. This will provide you with more options and control in monitoring and managing your motor operations.
In a recent maintenance task, JoeM61 had to recalibrate a booster pump pressure air bladder tank due to an imbalance in air pressure. He wanted to assess the impact on pump cycling over a period of 24 hours. JoeM61 suggested using a current sensing clamp on the contactor coil to track pump starts. He was looking for an affordable device for this purpose. One option is the Trumeter electromechanical counter available at Automation Direct for approximately $25 USD. This 6-digit analog counter operates on 24 VDC input, with other models suitable for 12VDC and 115VAC also available. The device can be connected through an auxiliary contact on the motor starter or in parallel with the coil. Additionally, JoeM61 recommended the Click PLC for data collection on machinery, as it offers versatile uses and a good return on investment.
If you're looking for a simple and affordable data logging solution for your pump, consider the Lascar EL-USB-5. This battery-powered device can easily be connected to a no voltage contact on your pump with just 2 wires. When you're ready to access the data, simply plug it into your PC via USB to receive a detailed graph and spreadsheet of all the times the pump turned on and its runtime. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also provides a convenient way to track the performance of your equipment.
Zimmer recommended using a battery-powered data logger like the one found on the CPC Ireland website. By connecting it to a no voltage contact on your pump, you can easily track when the pump turns on and off. Simply plug the data logger into your computer via USB to access a detailed graph and spreadsheet of all the recorded information. These devices are cost-effective and are commonly used for documenting automation run-offs lasting up to 20 hours.
You might consider a device known as an AC/DC clamp meter, which should accurately measure the pump's starts. These devices generally aren't too pricey and can be bought from most online retailers. However, also factor in the potential value of a device that offers precise real-time readings as this could save you time and money in the long run. Happy hunting!
I think you're on the right track with your idea of using a current sensing clamp. If you're looking to monitor pump starts, a Clamp-On Ammeter should do the trick. This device allows you to measure current usage without disrupting the circuit, which is ideal for your situation. In terms of affordability, brands like Fluke and Klein tools tend to have a solid array of options without breaking the bank. Additionally, you might want to consider using a data logging feature if available, so you can easily track the pump cycles over a 24-hour period.
That sounds like a smart approach to monitor your pump's performance! For tracking starts, you might want to look into a "clamp-on current meter" or a "current sensing relay." These devices can help you monitor the current draw of your contactor and provide data on how often the pump cycles. Many affordable options are available online—just make sure to choose one that can handle the amperage range of your system. Good luck with your project!
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Answer: - The device you can use to track motor starts without a PLC is a current sensing clamp that can be attached to a contactor coil.
Answer: - Tracking motor starts over a 24-hour period helps in monitoring the frequency of pump cycling and can indicate any improvements or issues with the system.
Answer: - A current sensing clamp can detect the flow of electricity through a wire, allowing it to count the number of times the contactor coil is energized, hence tracking motor starts accurately.
Answer: - You can explore online marketplaces, electronics stores, or industrial equipment suppliers for affordable current sensing clamps suitable for tracking motor starts in your setup.
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