Emerson's cutting-edge dust collector monitoring solution. (Image source: Emerson)
Emerson, a global leader in industrial automation, has introduced a sophisticated dust collector monitoring and control solution aimed at improving operational efficiency, cutting maintenance costs, and ensuring environmental compliance across multiple industries.
By integrating proven mechanical and automation technologies, this intelligent system delivers real-time diagnostics and seamless compatibility with existing plant systems, enabling operators to optimise performance and prolong equipment life.
Industries including cement, mining, chemicals, food production, and power generation manage materials that generate substantial dust and particulate emissions. These airborne particles threaten worker safety, equipment reliability, and environmental standards, making effective dust collection systems essential.
Conventional dust collectors use filters that require periodic cleaning with compressed air and eventual replacement, which can lead to expensive maintenance and unexpected downtime if not properly monitored.
Emerson’s innovative solution addresses these issues through automation. By employing advanced algorithms and predictive diagnostics, it optimises filter cleaning, identifies faults early, and reduces energy consumption. Extending filter life by up to a year can save businesses as much as US$18,000, while avoiding downtime that may cost thousands per hour.
A robust automation suite
The solution combines a range of Emerson’s trusted products, such as ASCO™ pulse valves, AVENTICS™ air flow sensors, Rosemount™ pressure sensors, and PACSystems™ programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These components enable precise control of pulse valve operations and automated cleaning cycles across multiple filter lines.
Additional features include Movicon.NExT SCADA for remote monitoring, alerts, and reporting, and QuickPanel+ human-machine interfaces (HMIs) that provide real-time diagnostics and early fault detection. The system also incorporates ASCO P152 particle concentration sensors to detect low dust levels and filter issues, alongside differential pressure monitoring with optional 4-20 mA compatibility.
“With this world-class and easily implemented solution, we aim to help our end users achieve greater operational efficiencies and gain valuable insights that reduce reactive maintenance, lower the risk of downtime, minimize energy consumption, and extend equipment life while addressing the knowledge gap by providing easily accessed information for operations personnel,” said Samuele Oliva, product marketing manager for dust collectors and alternative energy with Emerson’s discrete automation business.
Delivering operator benefits
Emerson’s solution provides several key advantages. Optimised pulse valve usage extends the lifespan of valves and filter bags, reducing compressed air waste and safeguarding equipment. Predictive maintenance capabilities monitor compressed air, pressure, temperature, dust levels, and energy usage, allowing early intervention to prevent costly failures.
The system’s scalability, with licensing based on pulse valve count (up to 500), makes it adaptable to facilities of varying sizes. Its Floor-to-Cloud connectivity ensures seamless integration with existing automation systems, offering a comprehensive operational overview and supporting compliance with environmental regulations.
In addition to cost savings, the solution advances sustainability by lowering energy and compressed air consumption. Smart filter cleaning reduces waste, while early detection of failed filters helps avoid regulatory penalties. These features align with increasing industry demands for environmentally responsible practices.
