 A few months after the introduction of a new generation of onboard sensors for the continuous measurement of cylinder pressures in large engines, the first Condition Monitoring Systems were put into operation in cooperation with AVL. The system, which operates under the name EPOS – Engine Performance and Operation System – is a novel monitoring and diagnostic system for large engines. Pressure sensor technology, in addition to the implementation in simple hand-held units and OEM applications, is now available for use in continual condition monitoring.
With growing fuel costs and increased emissions costs for CO2, NOX and SOX, demand is increasing for more efficient systems for the control and optimization of large diesel and gas engines; given that minor improvements in efficiency in single digit percentages allow for savings in thousands of Dollars per year.
AVL EPOS incorporates permanently installed cylinder pressure sensors, which detect the pressure pattern in individual cylinders. In a subsequent data measurement unit, the pressure signals of the individual cylinders are evaluated. The performance of the engine is determined and possible problems identified using a complex algorithm. The user receives an automatic diagnosis and essential information regarding the reduction of fuel consumption, emissions and wear.
In order to make the end user in the marine market the most complete offer, EPOS is being integrated into the systems of Kongsberg Maritime, one of the world's leading suppliers in ship automation.
In this application, the sensors draw on the role of "enabling technology" because many applications failed in the past due to inadequate durability and exactness of available sensors. The utilized sensors are a further stage in Piezocryst's existing R&D sensor portfolio and are especially suited for permanent installation in large engines.
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