Maximising compressor performance remotely

16 May, 2023

Across modern industry, the digital revolution has made massive steps to improve the performance and reliability of equipment possible. Enhanced data recording and analysis has reduced the time to diagnose issues, while better communications technology has enabled more support to be provided remotely.

Virtual on-hand expertise

OEMs have a responsibility to provide support for their products, and this may require skilled personnel to be on site to deliver hands-on assistance. However, at times, this may not be possible in the timeframe required by the operator, so a suitable alternative is needed. World events have highlighted how resourceful businesses have overcome major logistical challenges to their operations, enabling them to continue improving the service they deliver. Now, those that have adopted greater flexibility in the way they deliver their services, are benefiting from reduced project costs and greater customer satisfaction. Modern technology can often provide some of the solutions, for example, remote support software that enables a technical expert to guide a maintenance technician who is on site and provide precise instruction. For those working offshore or in the marine sector, this type of support can deliver many benefits. In such remote locations, expert support can be difficult to obtain, especially at short notice, so the ability to diagnose faults and complete maintenance tasks with remote support can significantly reduce costs as well as downtime.

Taking on challenging environments

The existence of zoned areas where potentially explosive gases may be present significantly increase the challenge of delivering remote support. This has been tackled head-on by Burckhardt Compression, which has developed a specialised range of digital solutions for its products. The wisdom of these developments has been borne out following the recent worldwide pandemic.

The scale of the Covid-19 pandemic has caused widespread disruption to almost every aspect of business and industrial life. For those needing to support customers with on-site technical help, the stringent travel restrictions posed a considerable challenge.

Fortunately, digitalisation and Industry 4.0 had laid the foundations for improved diagnostics and communications that would eventually lead to the more efficient identification and resolution of problems.

Instant support globally

Increased data availability and improved analytics has enabled one company, Burckhardt Compression, to offer three solutions for operators of its equipment. These provide customers with the tools to benefit from optimised compressor availability and efficiency by delivering access to immediate and ongoing technical support anywhere in the world.