Integrating the pumps into the refrigeration and air-conditioning technology of building management systems increases reliability and user comfort while simultaneously lowering operating expenses through intelligent pump management. The Dortmund-based pump specialists Wilo used the IKK 2006 in Nuremberg to present a complete range of interface converters and alarm modems for online operation of all Wilo pumps.

The manufacturer's electronically controlled glandless and glanded pumps all contain a digital PLR interface through which the hydraulic and electronic sensor data is transmitted to the building management system. The intelligent Wilo Pumps also now have an internet interface via a new “Wilo-DigiCon” module in conjunction with a new GSM or 56k alarm modem. As a result, communication with the pump can take place using a standard PC with an online connection.

At the heart of the new control technology is the “Wilo-DigiCon” converter, which converts PLR signals into RS485 bus signals at a maximum of 115.2 kBaud. Up to 64 Digicons can be connected, allowing communication between up to 256 electronic pumps with a Wilo alarm modem and the building control system. The Wilo 56k alarm modem permits an online connection via the telephone network, and the wireless GSM modem makes the application viable in areas which are less accessible. This makes it possible to transmit automatic error messages, query the maintenance interval or simply transfer sensor data to the pump. Powerful Windows-based software allows rapid installation.

The “DigiCon” digital interface with the “DigiCon-A” expansion module has the option of a manual operation level parallel to the RS485 bus. Likewise, the new “AnaCon” analogue interface converter can be integrated into conventional, analogue pump control systems.