Multi-Function Sensor for Efficient Energy Management

The FTMg series sensor is the first one developed by SICK capable of measuring three parameters, flow, pressure and temperature, which guarantees high system reliability and complete monitoring of the status of the lines. The sensor saves monitoring data for up to seven days, so that even the smallest leaks in the pneumatic system can be detected more effectively.

Energy efficiency and energy transparency are playing an increasingly important role in factory automation. SICK has launched the Flow Thermal Meter for gases (FTMg), a multifunctional sensor for compressed air which reliably displays three parameters at once by measuring the flow, pressure and temperature. In doing so, it saves money due to improved energy management mainly thanks to the reliable detection of leaks. The FTMg flow sensor with Ethernet interface serves as the basis for Industry 4.0 applications. With high measurement dynamics and low-pressure loss, it measures non-corrosive gases with extreme efficiency. FTMg also measures the gas flow and temperature as well as the process pressure, making it a cost-saving multi-talent. Its size makes it lightweight, compact and easily surveyable. This construction style means it is also ideal for installation in tight spaces.
For SICK, it is the first time that three parameters are measured in just one sensor. The combined triad delivers a complete overview on the status of the cable, therefore increasing system reliability, also saving on maintenance costs.

It detects even the smallest losses and saves data monitoring

All users with an energy management system in accordance with EN ISO 50001 can now also observe their energy consumption and make it more transparent for optimization. The integrated data monitoring lasts for up to seven days, therefore supporting the efficient search for even the smallest leaks in pneumatic systems. This is what makes targeted detection and localization of exceptional pressure loss possible. But the high measurement dynamics for detecting changes to the consumption system also make an important contribution. Measurement data can be interpreted unequivocally thanks to the presentation as a diagram on the contrast-rich display with quick changes or jumps and the correspondingly flat or steep edge of the pressure curve. For operators of pneumatic drives, an important argument besides savings due to leakage location is low-cost operation. The constriction-free design of the FTMg is a guarantee for low pressure loss since it guarantees nearly loss-free flow of gases through the sensor.
Whether on the computer, a mobile device or through the controller – users are always immediately informed as to whether the system is working trouble-free or showing abnormalities. All measurement data can be transferred via IO-Link, Ethernet or with switching and analogue signals. And last, but not least, the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) sensor has an integrated web server that enables simple operation by computer and standard browser. The PoE sensor also provides the OPC UA and MQTT interfaces.