FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

In the list of frequently asked questions you will find answers to all areas of the new diagnostic technology.

The New Diagnostic Technology - General Information

What is KRIWAN diagnostic technology?

The KRIWAN diagnostic technology is an innovative step forward into the future. The compressor is monitored by the application, which determines whether compressor is running according to specification and in compliance with the parameters of the system plans.

What is an INT69® diagnostic device?

The INT69® diagnostic device is designed for use in conjunction with the refrigerant compressor (functionality). It diagnoses the status of the compressor using a range of sensors and information from the application.

Which of the current INT69 models can be replaced by the INT69® diagnostic device?

The INT69® diagnostic device is designed to be compatible with devices that feature motor temperature monitoring (standard INT69). Voltage monitoring has been implemented. No other functions for compressor protection are integrated. When used in combination with a hot gas sensor, the diagnostic function is partially restricted. (The INT69® diagnostic device features voltage monitoring.)

To what extent can INT69® diagnostic devices and standard devices be used in combination with PTC sensors?

The INT69® diagnostic device can be used in combination with a PTC-standard-sensor – limited diagnostic functions available. It is also possible to combine an AMS sensor with a standard INT69 – no diagnostic functions.

At what interval/at what temperatures are NAT 1 and NAT 2 selected?

NAT 1 is the operating temperature of the compressor. For reciprocating engines, KRIWAN assumes a temperature range of 65 to 70° C. NAT 2 is the previously selected cut-off temperature of the compressor.

In the KRIWAN communication flyer, a case is made for measuring the temperatures within several temperature ranges Z 1 – Z 3. What exactly does this mean?

The use of an appropriate design should make it possible to achieve greater accuracy in the temperature range to be measured. Sensors must be selected individually in consultation with the user.

Is it possible to export/show the winding temperature?

There are no plans at present to output the winding temperature from the INT69® diagnostic device. This can be implemented on request.

Is it possible to implement switching functions on the basis of the motor temperature measurement?

As it currently stands, the functions 'refrigerant injection' and 'head fan on/off' can be integrated into INT69 on the basis of the winding temperature measurement. The INT69® diagnostic device is then able to perform the control function for this functionality.

Which motor manufacturers are currently able to integrate AMS sensor chains into their motors?

Installation of AMS sensors is done using the method used with today's PTC standard sensors. As such, all motor manufacturers can integrate the new sensor into motors.

Are there systems where the AMS sensor and the INT69® diagnostic device are installed and running?

There are currently two references systems equipped with compressors whose motor protection is based on AMS sensors and the INT69® diagnostic device. The diagnostic functions are integrated. Results are available.

How are the new AMS sensors marketed?

A special agreement is in place with the motor manufacturers Sisme and A.O.S.

The KRIWAN communication flyer advertises a 3-in-1 system that focuses in particular on the savings it offers in terms of cost and time. What examples/numbers/percentages are available?

The savings are derived from projections based on findings. The examples are based on the pilot systems.

Will you accompany me to my compressor customers when I present the concept?

KRIWAN supports the equipment manufacturer in negotiations with the compressor manufacturer on the integration of new diagnostic technology.

Which motor manufacturers already use the AMS sensors?

KRIWAN works in partnership with Sisme. At the moment Simon is the motor manufacturer that has fitted the experimental compressors with AMS sensors.

Which motor manufacturers already use the AMS sensors?

KRIWAN works in partnership with Sisme. At the moment Simon is the motor manufacturer that has fitted the experimental compressors with AMS sensors.

How can I order compressors/stators with AMS sensors?

KRIWAN takes care of the negotiations regarding logistics with the compressor and motor manufacturer. If necessary, contact KRIWAN about having equipment fitted with the new compressor protection technology/diagnostic device.

Does the new technology make it possible to boost the performance of my compressor or to run it closer the limitations of the engine operating map?

The boost in performance is gained through the process. The motor temperature makes it possible to determine the thermal efficiency of the motor.

Where can I visit/see a system that has already been implemented and is in operation today?

Contact KRIWAN if you wish to visit or view operational plants as well as discuss technical issues with the operator.

Is the concept offered or supported by a compressor manufacturer?

Frascold.

How do an AMS sensor and the PTC standard sensor chain differ?

The AMS sensor makes it possible to measure the motor temperature.

AMS Sensor - Sensor Function

When will the new AMS sensors be available?

Serial production of the AMS sensors is set to begin by 1 January 2011.Customer-specific/compressor-specific solutions are also being considered. There is no guarantee that these solutions will be available on 1 January 2011.

Are AMS sensors compatible with PTC standard sensors?

The features of AMS and PTC standard sensors are comparable. The protective function of the sensors is compatible.

Does the AMS sensor's feature to shut down the compressor correspond to the previously used standard feature?

Yes, the features of the sensors are similar. Shut down is performed in the exact same way. In this regard, there is no difference between AMS sensors and PTC standard sensors.

Which NAT combinations of the AMS sensor are available?

Any required combination on the basis of available measuring devices is possible.

Are AMS sensors available as single sensors?

No.

Triplets are now used once in each phase in accordance with DIN44082. How are the new AMS sensors installed?

In the same way as before.

In some cases, two triplets of chains (hot side/cold side) are installed in compressors. Can the AMS sensor concept be used here? If so, how?

The sensor on the hot side can be implemented as AMS-PTC. The full diagnostic function is available here.

Can I use AMS sensors together with AWG22?

The new AMS sensor features ETFE wires. This is the standard. Special versions with AWG22 wires are not available.

Can I use AMS sensors with ETFE-insulated wires?

Designs incorporating AMS sensors with ETFE-insulated wires are the standard. Other designs are not available.

Is it possible to obtain fully assembled, ready-to-install AMS sensors based on my design?

Yes, just like standard PTCs.

What does AMS stand for?

AMS stands for "Adjusted Motor Scaling", i.e., differentiated monitoring of the temperature inside the motor is possible.

Is documentation on the AMS sensor available?

A data sheet is available for the AMS sensor, as is the case with all KRIWAN products. In addition, product presentations are also available.

How does the AMS sensor behave in a serial connection with other PTC sensors?

Same as before. The diagnostic function is limited when using further sensors outside of the motor.

Are AMS sensors manufactured/processed in any way differently by KRIWAN?

No, the sensor in its present design is UL-approved and complies with the current UL file.

Do I need to order the new AMS sensors with a new order number?

The sensor's order number is identical to the order number of the previous PTC standard sensors. The KRIWAN-specific ID (serial number) must however be changed in the order.

Is the installation process for AMS sensors more complicated than with PTC standard sensors?

It is the same.

Can I use the AMS sensor in any refrigeration compressor?

Basically, it is possible to use the sensor in any refrigeration compressor. The current diagnostic function of the sensor is tailored to reciprocating engines.

Does my bill of material change in relation to the motor?

No, the bill of material remains the unchanged. The order number of the sensor remains the same.

Do the manufacturing instructions for the motor need to be changed?

This must be considered and discussed with the manufacturer based on the manufacturing instructions. Basically, the AMS sensors are also wrapped in a coil in the stator.

Are AMS sensors already installed as triplets in motors?

Sisme builds motors for various compressor manufacturers. Frascold fitted 60 compressors with the AMS sensor in September 2010. The diagnostic protection concept is undergoing thorough testing here.

Which compressor manufacturers use the AMS sensor today?

Field tests with Copeland and Frascold compressors are underway. In these tests, the generation compressor protection is fully integrated.

When can I expect stators with the AMS sensor?

The technology is available now. Mass produced products will be ready for delivery on 1 January 2011.

Does the AMS sensor consist of DIN44081 PTCs with different NATs?

Yes.

Were refrigerant/oil mixture tests performed on the AMS sensors?

The materials and components of the AMS sensors correspond to those in use in PTC standard sensors and have therefore been subject to refrigerant/oil mixture testing. There are no changes here in relation to the previous sensor.

Was a durability test carried out? If so, did the AMS sensor pass it?

The durability test was performed using PTC standard sensors. There has been no change in the materials. The durability has therefore been certified.

Is a DIN 44081/082-compliant AMS sensor available?

Yes.

Is the AMS sensor UL-approved?

Yes.

Is the AMS sensor UL-approved as a single sensor/as a triplet?

KRIWAN has unrestricted UL-approval for all currently recognized motor-related AMS sensor designs. This UL approval is in accordance with the current UL file.

Is UL approval for PTC standard sensors and for the AMS sensor in any way different?

No, the current UL file applies to both technologies. There are no differences in relation to UL approval.

Have VDE/UL approved the design of the current sensor in connection with the previous PTC standard sensor?

Yes, UL/VDE has not changed the current approval of the sensor. No changes will be made due to the new design.

Is the characteristic curve of the sensor UL-relevant?

No, the characteristic curves of the AMS sensor and the PTC standard sensor are different. This difference is not UL-relevant.

Due to the new order number, does the motor documentation for submission to UL need to be changed?

No, the order number of future AMS sensors corresponds to the order number of present sensors. The serial number specifying the AMS sensor is not part of the UL file.

Is it possible to use all AMS sensors in place of PTC standard sensors according to the UL file?

From UL's perspective, the sensors are identical. In that regard there is no difference in how they considered by UL or in relation to the motor UL file.

Does the existing approval for the motor remain in place?

Yes, the existing UL approval for the motor remains in place.

What function is provided when the AMS sensor is combined with a PTC Standard sensor?

When using two or more PTC chains to protect the compressor, the previous protection concept is implemented if a combination of sensors is used. Machine protection corresponds to the previous machine protection.

How accurate is the linear range of temperature measurement between NAT 1 and NAT 2?

The level of accuracy between the two NAT ranges is approx. +/- 5 Kelvin. The winding temperature is measured in this linear range. The machine manufacturer must decide whether this level of accuracy is sufficient for expanding the functions of the protective device (injections of refrigerant or head fan on/off).

INT69® Diagnostic Device - Device function

When will the INT69® diagnostic device be available?

The INT69® diagnostic device goes into serial production on 1 January 2011. Customer-specific/compressor-specific solutions are also being considered. There is no guarantee that these solutions will be available on 1 January 2011.

Can I use the INT69® diagnostic device with a reciprocating compressor?

The first generation of INT69® diagnostic devices is designed for reciprocating compressors. The functions of the INT69® diagnostic device are currently aligned to this type of compressor.

Will the level of protection match that of the INT69 it is replacing?

The functions of the INT69® diagnostic device are now defined. Customer-specific versions will be designed and delivered on request.

Do the functions offered by the INT69® diagnostic device meet the requirements of EN60335?

EN60335 is not incorporated into the currently available versions of the INT69® diagnostic devices.This is however possible and will be considered on a per request basis after a detailed review.

The motor terminal voltage is monitored for undervoltage and overvoltage. Is it possible to monitor the phase sequence?

It is generally possible to monitor the phase sequence/phase loss. This function is not integrated into the current INT69® diagnostic device.

The fault memory of the INT69® diagnostic device contains the previous 20 error statuses. Is it possible to create/open a long-term diagnostic analysis? If so, how?

Yes. Evaluations are possible with the INTelligence diagnostic software.

What plausibility checks does the INTelligence diagnostic software contain?

There are several plausibility checks for sensor manipulation and relay bypassing.

Which error statuses are deleted and saved by the INT69® diagnostic device?

The error statuses of the refrigerant compressor are detected by the INT69® diagnostic functionality. An exact list of the different error statuses varies based on the sensor in use. The options are shown in the INTelligence diagnostic software.

Is it possible to connect the INT69® diagnostic device via the communication interface?

The INT69® diagnostic device in its current form sends data on the statuses of the compressor to the INTelligence diagnostic software. It is presently not possible to intervene in the function of the compressor/device via this interface.

Is it possible to run the INT69® diagnostic device with a frequency converter?

Yes, as a special version.

Is the diagnostic function of the INT69® diagnostic device possible when operating a frequency converter?

Slightly limited.

How does an AMS sensor behave in series with a hot gas sensor acc. to DIN 33081?

Like the standard sensor.

How does the INT69® diagnostic device behave in a serial connection between an AMS sensor and a hot gas sensor acc. to DIN 33081?

In terms of protection, the same way as with a standard sensor.

Is it possible to upgrade an INT69® diagnostic device?

Yes.

What are the advantages of upgrading?

(Restricted) use of diagnostic function.

Does the INT69® diagnostic device meet the requirements under UL 991 and UL/EN 60335?

EN 60335, currently no. UL 991, currently no.

Does the INT69® diagnostic device comply with the requirements of EN 60335?

Currently no.

After the machine is switched off due to excess temperatures, it is switched back on when it has cooled down. Is the absolute value of the linear range above or below the restart value?

Shut down and restart value, i.e. the standard functionality of compressor protection, is higher than the linear range. As such, both functionalities (shut down, restart) can be run parallel to the measurement of the linear temperature.

The obstruction is detected more quickly using dR/dt or d²R/dt². What type of time savings (in %) can I expect versus today's PTC standard sensors/INT69 standard devices?

The reduction of the temperature overrun is critical here, not the actual time saved.

What type of reduction in temperature overrun obstructions can I expect versus today's PTC sensor technology/INT69 technology?

Approx. 20 – 35 Kelvin

INTelligence Diagnostic Software - Diagnostic Function

When will the INTelligence diagnostic software be available?

The INTelligence diagnostic software will be available by 1 January 2011.Customer-specific/compressor-specific solutions are also being considered. There is no guarantee that these solutions will be available on 1 January 2011.

How is the memory/data exported from the INT69® diagnostic device?

Using the INTelligence diagnostic software.

Are installation notes available on how to export data from the INT69® diagnostic device?

The INTelligence diagnostic software is described in the KRIWAN documentation. It also contains installation notes for communication between the INT69® diagnostic device and the INTelligence diagnostic software.

Is it possible to implement remote polling via the INT69® diagnostic device's communications line?

This is not possible in the version currently available, however it is planned as part of the next upgrade.

How is remote access implemented in the INT69® diagnostic device?

Not defined. Available on request.

Is it possible to view customer-specific information in the INT69® diagnostic device?

The INTelligence diagnostic software is now available to meet all requirements. Customer-specific diagnostic options must be considered separately. This is however generally possible.

Which switching cycles are rated by the diagnostic software as specification/application-compliant?

Rating is performed by the operator.

Why are these switching cycles rated as specification/application-compliant by the INTelligence diagnostic software?

The switching cycle distribution represents a type of 'fingerprint'.

Which switching cycles are rated by the INTelligence diagnostic software as out of the ordinary?

Switching cycle (frequency) changes are rated as out of the ordinary.

What distinguishes a partial load from a full load?

The temperature criteria.

How is it determined whether maintenance is required?

A special functions determines the maintenance interval/if maintenance is required.

How is the maintenance interval set?

By specification of the operator, for instance.

Who is authorized to define maintenance intervals and change the device settings?

Determined by the operator, for example.

Is it possible to hold a training seminar on the diagnostic or INTelligence diagnostics software on-site?

Yes.

What is the INTelligence diagnostics software?

The INTelligence diagnostics software is the presentation/visualization of the diagnostic results from the INT69® diagnostic device.

How is the INTelligence diagnostics software connected to the INT69® diagnostic device?

Communications takes place via a KRIWAN-specific data cable. The INT69® diagnostic device features an output where this communication cable can be attached. This is used to transfer the data to the INTelligence diagnostics software.

What type of responsibility/liability is assumed by KRIWAN if the maintenance intervals are not properly displayed in relation to an application/system?

The operator sets the intervals.