Signal Server Technology
Refrigeration Control Systems
The
Signal Server Technology refrigeration control system is based on the knowledge
and experience of the end-users who utilize the systems, the refrigeration
contractors who help to implement the systems, and our own people. The current
system represents over 25 years of development. This being the case, the core
system provides functionality that can’t be replicated using standard PLC/HMI
development platforms. In effect, custom programming procedures that would be
required in a PLC- based system are replaced by simple site-specific
configurations.
One of the most impressive aspects of the system is that it can actually pay for
itself through
energy-cost savings
in a short period of time.
All features and control algorithms provided by the system have been
successfully implemented at well over 300 facilities. It would be quite
difficult to describe all advantages of the SST refrigeration control system in
a single webpage; however, the following list outlines a few of the more
beneficial features. Although all features listed are included in each system,
certain features listed may require additional hardware components.
Screw Compressor Communication Drivers
The core system includes communication drivers to communicate with the screw
compressor micro-controllers of all major manufacturers. This feature allows
the end-user to add compressors in the future from the vendor of their choice
since the control system would be vendor independent.
Control System Open Source
The control programs are developed using a simple script language. The ECON client
application suite provides all tools required for operational experts to modify/
create and deploy programs.
Manual I/O Control Overrides
The I/O display screens of the system allow an authorized user to temporarily
override the automated control of system outputs to control solenoid valves,
motor starters, etc… manually.
User-Definable Control Processes
SST systems are implemented on a logical mechanical system component level. The
user-interface provides screens to allow authorized users to define control
procedures based on the logical components of the system.
Remote 24/7/365 Support
LOGIC Technologies provides technical support on a 24/7/365 basis with each system.
The tools required to provide this support are inherent to the SST server operating
system. The engineers that developed the system provide the support. The customer’s
authorized personnel can also use the support tools provided from a remote location.
Monthly Training Sessions
LOGIC Technologies conducts in-depth training sessions at our facility on a monthly
basis. Two free sessions are included with each system. Additional training sessions
are available on a long-term basis for a nominal fee.
Advanced Graphic Trending
Long-term historical information is stored for analog values utilized by the
systems. Screens are made available to allow the user to view the detailed analog
values in graphic trend chart form or a standard list.
System Energy Consumption Monitoring Capability
The system allows users to monitor the energy consumption of individual refrigeration
equipment components in real time. Users can also monitor the energy consumption of
the entire system at once. Historical energy consumption information is also stored
to allow users to view the energy consumption trends of individual components or the
entire system over time. The information can be reviewed locally or from a remote
site.
Detailed Energy Consumption Reports
The system provides detailed energy consumption reports that can be used to fine
tune the parameters of the system to ensure that the refrigeration equipment is
operating at maximum efficiency. The system also provides the tools required to
allow a user to define custom reports for management review.
Unlimited Engine Room Schedule Configurations
The system provides the functionality required to allow a user with the proper
security clearance to create unlimited compressor schedules. This capability allows
the customer to configure lead-lag compressor start sequences to compensate for
large product loads that are expected or seasonal requirements due to ambient
temperatures. The schedules are configured based on day of week and time and are
automatically engaged.
BRTI (Blast Run-Time Interval) Control Schemes
The BRTI or Blast Run-Time Interval feature was originally developed for blast
freezers; however, the feature can be used on all evaporators in the system to
improve operational efficiency. This feature provides up to three defrost intervals
for valve groups thus allowing the customer to configure defrost cycles to compensate
for specific product requirements or load factors. Proper use of this feature can
guarantee 100% efficiency by guaranteeing that the evaporators are operating with a
clean coil.
Temperature Setback Scheduling
The temperature setback scheduling feature of the system allows the customer to
create automatic time of day / day of week set point schedules for the evaporators.
The schedule capabilities can be used to reduce overall KW consumption by turning
off equipment during peak power charge periods. Reduced equipment requirements
obviously equate to reduced compressor runtime requirements.
Proportional VFD Temperature Control
The standard refrigeration control system provides the capability to control
fan and compressor motors using VFD controllers. The additional up-front costs
of the VFD unit can quickly be recovered through energy cost savings. Once
temperature set-points are achieved, the system proportionally reduces the speed
of relative VFD controlled motors. Temperatures can be maintained utilizing
various equipment motors running at reduced speeds. Motors operating at reduced
speeds require far less power.
Shed Load by Demand Power Features
The scheduling capabilities of the system related to evaporators and compressors
can be configured to minimize power consumption during peak charge per KWH times.
Lead-lag compressor and evaporator fan run sequences can be based on power
consumption.
Consumption Based Coherent Control Algorithms
The underlying philosophy behind the entire control system is to achieve the
required set-points using the least amount of power equipment possible. This
being the case, the customer can quickly configure new equipment in the future
to operate at maximum efficiency. The component-based control scheme makes it possible for a user with
the proper security clearance to configure new compressors, valve groups, etc… in
just a few minutes.
Refrigeration Contractor Advantages of Use
Refrigeration Control System Quotation Request Form
Refrigeration Control Marketing Document
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