Constant-fill fluid couplings typically operate in demanding applications, and ensuring an optimum coupling fluid temperature is vital for reliability and productivity. However, the temperature of the operating medium often remains hidden, meaning the actual load on the coupling during operation goes unnoticed. As Voith Product Manager Thomas Ohr explains, this is exactly where OnSens.SmarTemp comes into play: “With this smart and retrofittable temperature measurement system, we enable operators to track the condition of their fluid couplings in real time – for new and existing coupling installations alike.”

The system continuously measures the live fluid temperatures of constant-fill fluid couplings. This real-time data provides detailed insight into operational performance, helping boost system availability and profitability. It can also be used for load control, enabling a preventive response to alerts such as overload. And since signal transmission continues after shutdown, operations can subsequently be resumed at the earliest possible moment.

Free from cables and batteries, this temperature sensor does not need any maintenance or even an external energy supply. Its integrated Peltier elements perform 100% self-sufficient energy harvesting, requiring only a minimum temperature difference of 20°C between the surroundings and the operating fluid.

“As the name suggests, OnSens.SmarTemp is above all a smart solution,” notes Ohr. Central to this is its wireless connectivity, with 2.4-2.5 GHz radio transmission enabling a distance of up to 10 m between the sensor and receiver. This provides extra flexibility in terms of the system layout and commissioning.

The OnSens.SmarTemp package comprises the sensor, receiver and driver, so operators can easily integrate fluid temperature monitoring into their PLC (programmable logic controller). Despite its highly innovative design and features, it is nevertheless ideal for retrofitting into existing systems and can handle ambient temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C.

For Thomas Ohr, OnSens.SmarTemp means that “it’s never been easier to monitor fluid temperatures.” Optimized preventive maintenance lowers system costs, while the freedom afforded by radio transmission enables simpler installation and commissioning. “So operators can focus on what matters most — early detection of critical fluid temperatures and avoiding downtime,” he said.