ALMiG Air Control 1 Compressor Controller

ALMiG Air Control 1 Screw Compressor Controller

The ALMiG Air Control 1 is a purpose-built industrial microprocessor controller designed for automated operation, real-time safety monitoring, and energy-efficient load/idle regulation across ALMiG stationary rotary screw air compressors. Engineered to withstand high vibration, wide thermal variance, and electrical transients typical of marine machinery rooms and demanding factory floors, the unit consolidates system automation into an IP54-sealed front panel.

The Air Control 1 integrates direct control over primary motor start stages (mains, star, and delta contactors), intake/vent solenoid actuation, and auxiliary fan/heating circuits. With dedicated galvanically isolated analog loops for continuous discharge network pressure (4–20 mA) and dual temperature monitoring (KTY/PTC sensors), it guarantees real-time thermal and pressure safety interlocks to prevent mechanical seizure, cavitation, or unloader failure.

Equipment Compatibility

• ALMiG COMBI Series: COMBI 6, COMBI 8, COMBI 11, COMBI 15, COMBI 16, COMBI 18, COMBI 22
• ALMiG BELT Series: BELT 11, BELT 15, BELT 18, BELT 22, BELT 30, BELT 37, BELT 45, BELT 55, BELT 75
• ALMiG DIRECT Series: DIRECT 11, DIRECT 15, DIRECT 18, DIRECT 22, DIRECT 30, DIRECT 37, DIRECT 55, DIRECT 75
• ALMiG VARIABLE Series: Early-generation VARIABLE models equipped with 4–20 mA external drive speed reference cards
• Legacy Cross-Reference: Direct replacement for older Lupamat / LUP Air Control 1 platforms.

Key Features

1. Three-Stage Logic Sequencing: Controls automated star-delta transitions with user-configurable run-up acceleration timers and anti-short-cycling safeguards.
2. Dedicated Analog Monitoring Loops: Dual KTY temperature input channels and an 18V-powered 4–20 mA pressure channel with on-board pressure gradient offset calibration.
3. Integrated Service Hour Countdown Counters: Independent tracking registers for air intake filter, oil filter element, separator cartridge, and motor bearing grease replenishment.
4. Multi-Mode Operational Dispatch: Flexible code-selectable operating modes including Automatic Start/Stop, Continuous Load/Unload, and Optimized Run-On Idling.
5. Non-Volatile System Configuration: Retains all site setpoints, recorded run hours, and emergency trip logs in internal EEPROM memory without relying on lithium coin batteries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the ALMiG Air Control 1 replace older Lupamat Air Control 1 modules?

Yes. The ALMiG Air Control 1 shares the exact hardware footprint, 240 mm × 120 mm front bezel dimension, and Phoenix terminal configuration with earlier Lupamat Air Control 1 systems. Before commissioning, cross-check factory motor full-load amps (FLA) and pressure cutoff parameters to confirm setpoint parity.

Why does the controller display a flashing temperature reading and prevent startup?

If the discharge temperature sensor detects an ambient or airend temperature below +1°C, the controller activates cold-start protection to prevent starting with solidified or sluggish oil. If an optional external sump heater is fitted, startup remains locked until oil temperature satisfies the minimum threshold. If this occurs in a warm room, inspect Pin 18 (KTY sensor loop) for open circuits or cable severance.

How do I configure remote start/stop rather than local keypad control?

Access parameter code 0008 using the controller service menu. Toggle the setting from 0 (Local operation) to 1 (Remote control enabled). In remote mode, the system monitors a dry contact loop across Terminals 23 and 31. Closing the contact issues a compressor permissive run command; opening it executes a scheduled soft-stop unloading cycle.

What is the load capacity of the onboard output relays?

The relay contacts across Pins 7 through 12 are rated for 250V AC at up to 6A resistive load. However, because all primary contactors share a common power feed through Pin 6, total collective continuous current across all energized coils must not exceed 6A. If driving larger auxiliary contactors (e.g., above 45 kW motor starters), use intermediate coupling interface relays.

Does the unit lose its programmed parameters during a total vessel or plant blackout?

No. All operational parameters, pressure switchpoints, service hour setpoints, and diagnostic alarm histories are stored in non-volatile onboard EEPROM. Data is preserved indefinitely during extended cold-ship or winter plant shutdowns without requiring battery backup.