Airflow Monitor generates one signal for multi-fan arrays.

Press Release Summary:



MatrixMonitor(TM) gauges airflow in arrays with 3-98 fans, with max airflow of 300,000 cfm per array. Offering alternative to fan inlet and piezometric flow monitors, this digital instrument consists of sensors and internal wiring for each fan connected to embedded processor. Solution operates on 100 W power supply and generates one airflow signal for entire fan array. With dual fan array capability, product can operate as stand-alone system or integrate with building automation system.



Original Press Release:



ClimateCraft Introduces MatrixMonitor(TM) to Measure Airflow in Air Handling Systems



Oklahoma City, OK - ClimateCraft has developed MatrixMonitor, a digital instrument that gauges airflow in fan arrays containing 3 to 98 fans, with maximum airflow of 300,000 cfm per array. MatrixMonitor is an alternative to fan inlet and piezometric flow monitors which require multiple controls to read air streams generated by multiple fans. In contrast, MatrixMonitor consists of sensors and internal wiring for each fan connected to an embedded processor. The system, which operates on a 100-watt power supply, generates one airflow signal for an entire fan array rather than individual signals for each fan.

"MatrixMonitor is a cost-effective alternative to traditional monitoring devices," says Tim Halbert, ClimateCraft'sdirector of sales and marketing. "With MatrixMonitor, the multiple fans in a fan array are monitored as if they were a single fan. When a customer adds plenum fans to a system, MatrixMonitor can easily accommodate the new equipment."

Key features of MatrixMonitor include:
  • Accurate airflow measurement in environments ranging from -20°F to 145°F
  • Dual fan array capability
  • Analog & digital interface capability
  • Scalable output signals for fan array flow & pressure rise
  • Local display of airflow & array performance parameters
  • Fan surge & failure detection with reverse airflow correction
  • Vibration monitoring
  • Grease bearing notification
  • Ability to monitor up to 98 fans
  • Real-time clock
  • Menu-driven setup through keypad display unit

    The MatrixMonitor Advantage
    MatrixMonitor's exceptional accuracy results from the micro-machined silicon pressure sensor used to detect the pressure depression of the piezometric pressure ports. The sensing element's dynamic thermal flow design is etched onto the silicon chip containing the signal conditioning circuitry. This design feature results in a sensor that maintains usable accuracy down to 1/50thof full scale. Being thermally compensated, the sensing element is unaffected by mounting position and vibration, which makes it ideal for use in MatrixMonitor.

    MatrixMonitor can operate as a stand-alone system or be integrated with a building automation system. Four scalable output signals of 0-10V are used to communicate the airflow and array pressure rise in separate fan arrays. The system uses three SPDT switches to relay output signals that show users the active controls. The system also alerts users to any problems with a particular fan or an array. Such information, along with other data related to performance and operational status, is available in real time on the two-wire multi-drop RS485 communication line using the Modbus protocol.

    A 4-line by 20-character LCD graphic display, combined with a 7-switch keypad,provides local display and setup. The device is programmed with performance characteristics for all ClimateCraft Matrix(TM)fans. A menu-driven interface allows MatrixMonitor to select the number of arrays, the number of fans in each array and the fan model in each array. The interface also sets the time and date, as well as analog output scaling factors and BMS communication settings. Several LED lamps on the keypad display unit indicate flow, fan failure, surge and other warnings.

    About ClimateCraft
    ClimateCraft, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of custom air handling equipment and FanMatrix(TM)technology used in healthcare, education and commercial applications, including high tech manufacturing. ClimateCraft systems are designed using parametric engineering techniques to ensure consistent quality, minimal processing time and prompt delivery. ClimateCraft is a division of LSB Industries, Inc. (NYSE:LXU), a diversified manufacturing, marketing and engineering company based in Oklahoma City.

    For more information, contact ClimateCraft, at 405-415-9230, e-mail info@climatecraft.com or visit www.climatecraft.com

    ClimateCraft's fan array products allow for fans to be turned off for safety, repair, and maintenance purposes. ClimateCraft's fan array products are not designed to turn individual fans on and off for the purpose of improving fan array efficiency, and ClimateCraft does not endorse turning individual fans on and off for the purpose of improving fan array efficiency. Any statement to the contrary is not supported by ClimateCraft.

    Documents and/or Photos available for this release:
    ClimateCraft has developed MatrixMonitor, a digital instrument that gauges airflow in fan arrays containing 3 to 98 fans, with maximum airflow of 300,000 cfm per array.MatrixMonitor is an alternative to fan inlet and piezometric flow monitors.
    MatrixMonitor's 4-line by 20-character LCD graphic display, combined with a 7-switch keypad, provides local display and setup. The device is programmed with performance characteristics for all ClimateCraft Matrix(TM)fans.
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