IOT News

The paper manufacturing industry is a typical high consumer of steam, with steam costs accounting for approximately 15% of total production costs. By introducing controllable steam condensate heat pump equipment, it is possible to optimize steam consumption, steam temperature, and pipeline pressure in the drying section of paper machinery, thereby reducing energy use and improving efficiency. The goal now is to implement data collection from these PLC-based heat pump systems to enable visual monitoring and management of various process parameters, improving management efficiency and overall work performance.

WideIOT deploys PLC smart gateways to connect to the industrial PLC controllers, collecting real-time data such as pump unit status, steam flow, condensate flow, steam temperature, pipeline pressure, and valve positions. This data is then transmitted to a remote monitoring and management platform via 5G, 4G, WiFi, or Ethernet. The platform supports remote monitoring, alarm notification, management, control, and data statistics and analysis. This helps establish an information-driven management system that promotes operational efficiency and supports energy-saving upgrades.

Key Features

1. Data collection and visualization – Collects key process data from heat pump equipment and pipelines, including steam flow, condensate flow, steam temperature, pipeline pressure, pump start/stop status, valve opening and position. This data is displayed through a visual configuration flow diagram.

2. Automated alerts – When abnormal data is detected, the system automatically notifies management personnel at all levels via SMS, WeChat, email, or other methods. This enables rapid fault location and quick response. Alarm information is also aggregated for centralized management, including frequency and distribution statistics.

3. Remote control – Authorized operators can remotely adjust valve openings, set heat pump operating parameters, and start or stop pump units. This allows for timely response to process fluctuations or emergency conditions, helping prevent accidents or economic losses.

4. Data analysis and reporting – The system analyzes steam flow and condensate return flow data to calculate metrics such as steam energy consumption per unit of product, condensate recovery rate, and energy efficiency ratios for each process stage. This supports scientific and informed decision-making.