Posted to News on 19th Jun 2015, 10:50
Electronic clogging indicator enables efficient use of filters
A new electronic filter clogging indicator from Eaton is enabling users to minimise machinery downtime and improve their operational processes. Early identification of increased contamination in hydraulic and lubrication oil is vital for preventing machinery failure, and the new VS5 clogging indicator uses a "traffic light" style of LED to denote the status of the filter element. The visual indicator offers a simple and quick way to check the condition of the filter, allowing operators to make an informed decision about when to replace the filter element as part of their preventative maintenance strategy.
Chris Rau, division engineering manager of Eaton's Filtration Division says: "At Eaton we understand that optimum timing is the deciding factor for clean, safe and efficient filtration. The new VS5 indicator is robust and ideal for use in harsh environments, providing a clear visual aide to operators as to when filter elements need replacing. Knowing exactly when to replace the elements enables users to make cost-saving decisions associated with replacing elements too early, before the end of their working life."
Eaton's VS5 electronic clogging indicator for oil filters measures the differential pressure inside the filtration system continuously to evaluate the status of the filter elements. It includes a M12 female connector as signal interface, which is designed in response to increased demand for industrial applications, and features an eight-pin configuration to ensure interference free signal transmission, thereby providing a reliable signal to the operator. The eight pins of the M12 connector are configured with an analogue 4-20mA output signal, two PNP switch signals, power supply and earth.
The LED is integrated into this compact connector too. At a glance users can see what the condition of the filter is: green stands for connected and operating well; yellow provides an early warning signal, showing that nominal pressure of the first limit value has been exceeded (75 per cent); and red indicates that it is necessary to change out the clogged filter element because nominal pressure has been exceeded (100 per cent). Furthermore, it is possible to connect the VS5 indicator to the user's PLC control system to determine the clogging status of the filter elements in operation from a central point.
To learn more about the VS5 electronic clogging indicator and other products for hydraulic and lubrication oil filters, visit www.eaton.com/filtration.
