Remote monitoring software simplifies traceability

THE NEW remote monitoring system from Bühler allows customers to keep track of the performance of their optical sorters via a PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone. The SORTEX AnywarePro™ software collates relevant data, such as sorter status, machine performance, fault alerts or component lifetime indicators to significantly aid processors in making better informed plant management decisions. It can highlight potential issues with other parts of the plant – for instance, a sudden increase in foreign material can indicate that other removal machines, such as a destoner, or magnetic separator, are no longer performing efficiently.

With this software, processors can remotely monitor their optical sorters at any time of day to access real time data from their plant and pre-empt problems which may occur. It is currently available on the SORTEX S Ultravision™ and will soon be launched on other ranges within the Bühler optical sorting portfolio.

Other features include:

•           Wear information with the Component Lifetime Indicator functionality

•           Sorting statistics and historical data such as defects by date

•           Fault logs and notifications

•           An audit log

•           Support from Bühler engineers around the world using built-in instant messaging

The software helps in cost reduction. The traceability and log functions track the sorter performance, level of defects, any changes to the sorter and which operator made them. This audit trail allows the processor to trace back and verify any issues, should negative feedback be received. This in turn helps to protect the revenue stream by pre-empting problems and potentially, significantly reducing downtime. Additionally, the new Component Lifetime Indicator functionality provides a life expectancy for component parts, giving processors advance notice to order spare parts, while the Remote Assist function enables engineers to provide remote expertise and performance monitoring, enabling them to make improvement suggestions, and performing service tasks remotely to minimize downtime.