AlphaWebGSM - Energy Saving

December 2009

We had to replace an old boiler house control system with a Mitsubishi Alpha 2. Using an Ethernet to Serial device server we could network the Alpha

and connect it with AlphaWeb. However, we needed so much more, we needed more comprehensive telemetry, and live interaction via Instant Messenger too.

After all, this controller was connected to a real world boiler plant...

In just a matter of days AlphaWeb was modified substantially to become AlphaWebGSM. The new features included:-

• • Data-logging to CSV files

Chart Rendered from raw CSV data in Excel 2010

• • Live chat (GoogleTalk style) via Jabber.Net client (includes using a mobile phone)

  • Remote control commands (On/Off and value adjustments right into the Alpha via an attached PC) using Email or IM.

  • Many other web-enabled tools (including IP tracker for DDNS web server installations)

Summary

Besides the new connectivity, the Alpha PLC was of course programmed to energy manage the heating system too; including compensated heating flow temperature;

duty boiler lead/lag control and optimised factory circulation fan start amongst other things.

After the Winter season of 2009 the fuel costs were analysed. The new Alpha control had saved £1000 over the previous, much milder, heating season. Real world, real savings.

3 Years On - The Alpha is still going strong! Taken on my Nokia Lumia December 2012