The system consists of an intelligent sensor for data acquisition and the timIOT Smartbox. This connects the pump to the timIOT cloud platform. Plant operators benefit from increased process reliability, minimized downtimes and considerable cost savings thanks to better planning. The market launch is planned for May 1, 2021.

Modern systems, for example for paint supply, are highly complex and numerous parameters are already monitored - often with the exception of the pumps. They are often the heart of a system and therefore a crucial element in the process chain. Failures can therefore lead to considerable economic losses. Until now, users have had to rely on empirical values when it comes to maintenance times or replacement. Until now, it has hardly been possible to collect operating data, especially for pneumatic double diaphragm pumps. "With our new IoT solution timIOT, we are rising to this challenge and creating a high level of data availability," explains Frederic Engels, Market Development Timmer. "The solution enables comprehensive pump data to be read out and statistically evaluated and can be integrated into double diaphragm pumps and electric piston pumps from Timmer, among others."

The timIOT system structure is very simple: the pump must first have an intelligent sensor. This is already integrated as standard in most Timmer double diaphragm pumps from May 1st. The sensor is then linked to the timIOT Smartbox, which transmits the data to the cloud using a secure transmission, for example via a separate LTE router that is independent of the company network. The data is visualized and evaluated on freely selectable end devices such as PCs, smartphones or tablets. Clear histograms, tables and statistics can be viewed regardless of time and place. In the event of error states or if defined threshold values are exceeded, a notification is sent to the IoT platform or to a specified email address.

Reliable real-time monitoring of the pumps

With the help of meaningful data, system operators can organize their processes more efficiently and make informed decisions. Parameters such as pump frequency, number of strokes or pressure curves are permanently visible. Predictions of wear and planning of maintenance measures become much more precise - this ensures optimum use of the pumps over their entire service life. "The statistical evaluation of the operating data also makes it easier to calculate operating costs and optimize system usage," emphasizes Engels. "This is because operators often maintain all pumps at the same time, even though some of them have only reached a fraction of their maximum service life - which costs money in the long term." In addition, predictive maintenance minimizes downtime and damage, while increasing process stability and machine availability.

The intelligent Timmer software provides users with additional useful tools. These include intuitive maintenance planning, a maintenance calendar and user-friendly management of service reports and pump-specific documentation. Timmer offers the IoT solution on the basis of a moderate annual license model. Regular updates and future functional enhancements are planned.