SMC, a renowned leader in pneumatic technology, has introduced the revolutionary AMS (Air Management System) to transform how we manage and optimize compressed air systems. It's providing unprecedented energy savings (30% - 50% on average) and cost savings (ROI is typically achieved in just 14 months). In this blog post, we will explore the AMS and cover what it does, who it is meant for, and how it sets itself apart from traditional air preparation systems.
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What's the AMS | Pain Points | Predictive Capabilities
Ideal Users | Green Incentives | Models | Request a Demo | Summary
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What is the AMS?
The AMS (Air Management System) by SMC is a pneumatic device that automatically regulates and isolates the compressed air provided to a machine to improve efficiencies during periods of inactivity. The unit gathers critical data like air pressure, flow, and temperature. With these data points, the AMS can characterize normal operating conditions, identify trends, and draws comparisons to enable predictive maintenance actions to maintain optimal system performance. The unit does not require reprogramming of the user's PLC to operate, making integration simple and cost-effective.
Furthermore, the AMS brings air prep into the digital age, allowing users to achieve 30% - 50% energy savings compared to traditional systems. With the AMS, return on investment is typically achieved in just 14 months, making it a compelling choice for those seeking both short-term benefits and long-term cost savings.
What pain points does the AMS solve?
The AMS addresses several pain points that compressed-air users commonly encounter:
1. Cost of Air Leaks
Air leaks can significantly impact energy consumption and result in unnecessary expenses. The AMS provides an inexpensive alternative to air leaks by offering a consolidated solution that reduces wastage and improves overall system efficiency.
2. Lack of System Visibility and Communication
A common challenge for users is managing their compressed air systems with limited visibility and control. Fortunately, with the AMS, users can easily track important parameters such as air pressure, temperature, and flow rates, which empowers users to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to optimize their systems.
Multiple units can also be networked together through a master unit to give an overall picture of your air consumption to help identify problem spots in your facility.
The AMS can also communicate with your PLC and various servers through numerous communication protocols, including EtherCAT, ProfiNet, and EtherNet/IP. The AMS is compatible with OPC UA.
3. Labor & Wiring Time
The AMS by SMC tackles the pain point of reducing labor and wiring time by offering a wireless connection with an impressive range of up to 100 meters. With the ability to connect up to 10 remote units wirelessly, the AMS simplifies installation and eliminates the need for extensive wiring, saving valuable time and resources.
4. Inefficient Energy Consumption
Conventional air preparation systems may result in wasteful energy consumption because of irregular pressure levels and excessive air usage. Thanks to the AMS, users can increase energy efficiency by monitoring and regulating air pressure and flow rates, resulting in substantial savings.
5. Reactive Maintenance Issues
Dealing with issues only after they cause system disruptions, known as reactive maintenance, can result in unplanned downtime and expensive emergency repairs. Fortunately, the AMS facilitates predictive maintenance by gathering real-time data, analyzing it, and delivering insights into possible problems (like excess air flow, high temperatures, and extreme pressures). Users can schedule maintenance activities in an organized manner, reducing downtime and streamlining maintenance resources.
6. Air Compressor Strain
By dynamically regulating air flow and implementing operating limits, the AMS reduces the load on the compressor, preventing excessive strain and contributing to increased longevity.
The predictive advantage of the AMS
The AMS is a powerful tool that enables predictive maintenance for compressed air systems. Predictive maintenance is a proactive approach that utilizes real-time data and advanced analytics to predict and prevent equipment failures, optimizing system performance and reducing unplanned downtime.
The AMS achieves predictive maintenance capabilities through its integrated digitization features. The system continuously collects data on key parameters such as air pressure, temperature, and flow rates. This real-time data can then be analyzed to detect any deviations from optimal performance or early signs of potential issues. By predicting when components might fail or require servicing, maintenance activities can be scheduled in a planned and controlled manner, minimizing unplanned downtime and costly emergency repairs.
The video above demonstrates how the AMS collects and communicates data to a PLC, other servers, and/or to the cloud through various communication protocols, including EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, or Profinet.
The AMS acts as a universal translator, collecting important data on your pneumatic lines and translating them through various communication protocols. The AMS is available wired, or wireless, and is IO-Link compatible. With unlimited visibility into your pneumatic system's critical parameters, users can identify anomalies, diagnose potential problems, and take proactive measures before they escalate into major failures.
In addition to enabling predictive maintenance, the AMS also contributes to energy savings. By monitoring and controlling air pressure and flow rates, the system ensures that compressed air is used efficiently, reducing energy consumption and associated costs.
Who would see advantages from the AMS?
1. Compressed Air Users
The AMS is suitable for a wide range of users. Facilities and plants that rely on compressed air systems, regardless of their industry, can significantly benefit from this innovative solution.
2. OEMs
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aiming to develop environmentally friendly machines can leverage the AMS to create sustainable solutions for their customers. Using the AMS, an OEM's next machine model can be a green machine.
3. Continuous Improvement & Maintenance Leaders
These users are usually seeking improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs, and would find the AMS to be an invaluable asset.
Energy Efficiency Incentives & Rebate Programs
By utilizing the AMS, you may be eligible for environmental government rebate programs as an additional monetary incentive. Many governments and regulatory bodies worldwide actively promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Government rebate programs reward businesses that invest in energy-efficient technologies like the AMS, offering financial benefits that can further enhance the return on investment for your air preparation system. Take advantage of these opportunities to not only optimize your compressed air system but also reap the rewards of government support and incentives for your commitment to sustainability.
Choosing a model
The AMS by SMC is available in four different models, providing flexibility and options for various application needs. The AMS20, AMS30, AMS40, and AMS60 series offer a range of capacities: small-scale setup (AMS20), a large industrial operation (AMS60), and everything in between, The availability of different sizes allow users to choose the most appropriate AMS model for their application, ensuring optimal air management and system efficiency.
A standout solution
The AMS has set a new benchmark for air preparation, making it the first of its kind in the market. SMC, leveraging its vast experience and knowledge, has once again pushed the boundaries of pneumatic technology, offering a comprehensive and efficient solution to meet the air preparation demands of the industry.
Summary
The AMS by SMC is a revolutionary air management system that simplifies air preparation, enables predictive maintenance, and delivers substantial energy savings. Its advanced data collection and digitization can provide real-time insights, allowing for proactive maintenance and minimizing downtime. The AMS also offers wireless connectivity up to a range of 100 meters, reducing labor and wiring time.
Moreover, the AMS propels air preparation into the digital era, empowering users to realize remarkable energy savings of 30% - 50% compared to conventional systems. Its intelligent monitoring and control capabilities enable users to pinpoint and resolve inefficiencies, thereby optimizing the overall performance of their compressed air systems. With the AMS, the return on investment is typically achieved within a mere 14 months, making it an enticing option for those seeking immediate advantages as well as long-term cost reductions.
Want more information? Or need help configuring your order? Contact us online, or ask a question in the comments!
Resources
- AMS Pricing & Availability
- AMS Product Catalog
- Request a Demo of the AMS
- SMC Product Configurator
- About SMC
- More SMC Articles
- More Pneumatic Articles
- Airline's Youtube Channel
- Contact Us
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