Frequently Asked Questions | AGI CMC

How can I get field support or spare parts for CMC systems?

Contact CMC directly or use our distributor/partner finder on this website to locate the approved CMC partner closest to you. CMC technical support is available from 7AM to 7PM Pacific Time 7 days a week.

Is the CMC Hazard Monitoring System Intrinsically Safe?

Yes. Our systems are certified as Intrinsically Safe.

What is Intrinsic Safety?

Intrinsic safety (IS) is a design feature that enables the safe operation of electrical equipment in hazardous areas by ensuring that the available electrical and thermal energy in the system is always low enough such that ignition of the hazardous atmosphere cannot occur. This is achieved by ensuring that only low voltages and currents enter the hazardous area, and that no significant energy storage is possible.  The CMC system is Intrinsically Safe.

Is the CMC Hazard Monitoring System approved for use in hazardous locations?

Yes. The CMC system was tested and certified for use in Class I, Group C-D Divisions 1 and 2 and Class II, Groups E, F & G, Divisions 1 and 2 hazardous locations. Grain processing facilities are rated Class II, Group G, Divisions 1 or 2 and our products are approved for this location.

What Quality Assurance (QA) method does CMC use?

CMC has a full Quality Management System modelled after ISO9000. Our QAR and QAN QMS system meet the requirements of all worldwide certifcation agencies and has been audited by Factory Mutual.

What is the communications protocol for the EZSentinel Web Server?

The EZSentinel Web Server communicates via Modbus TCP/IP as a slave device. The sensors can be mapped to a standard plant HMI or PLC system. All major brands of PLC inclouding Rockwell (AB), Modicon and others now support Modbus TCP/IP natively. If your processor does not support Modbus TCP/IP an inexpensive bridge the DSP-LE from Red Lion can manage the connection.

What is the communications protocol for the EZSentinel 128?

The EZSentinel 128 can communicate with a PC using FTP protocol for downloading alarm and temperature logs. Optional software is also available to allow the viewing and operation of the EZSentinel128 from a remote PC. The EZSentinel 128 is not intended to be connected to factory automation systems. For direct connection to factory automation systems see the mOI215 Webserver Interface.

What are my choices for controllers in a CMC Hazard Monitoring System?

The Webserver (WS1) is used for larger, PLC controlled facilities and can support up to 256 sensors. The EZSentinel128 is a standalone controller for small to medium sized faciliites and can support up to 15 machines and 128 sensors.

What is HazMon in A Box?

HazMon in A Box is an innovative way of kitting our products that removes much of the confusion associated with ordering what you need for each machine in your facility. Each kit is shipped with everything you need already in there and simplifies the process from ordering to onsite storage to installation.

What are some useful system metrics and guidelines?

Bus Converter RS-485 network max 1640 feet 4 conductor shielded cable (use cable size calcualtor to select guage), IS sensor network 1000 feet CAT5, first field interconnect box must be withing 1m or 3' of the bus converter, first sensor must be within 61m or 200' of the bus ocnverter, sensor must be within 2m or 6' of a field interconnect box, up to 32 sensors can connect to a bus converter, up to 4 bus converters can connect to and EXSentinel128, up to 8 bus converters can connect to a WS1.

How many sensors can I install in a Field Interconnect Box?

Up to a maximum of 6 sensors can be installed in a Field Interconnect Box

How many sensors can I install on a Bus Converter?

Up to a maximum of 32 Sensors per Bus Converter

How many Bus Converters can I use with a Webserver (WS1)?

Up to a maximum of 8 Bus Converters per Webserver (WS1)

How many Bus Converters can I use with an EZSentinel 128?

Up to a maximum of 4 Bus Converters per EZSentinel 128

Does CMC offer onsite guidance on the size and scope of systems as part of the pre-purchase process?

Yes - As part of CMC's Roadmap to Safety Program, we can visit your site and offer guidance on the appropriate system to meet both your needs as well as meeting the industry regulatory requirements.

Does CMC offer post-installation site support and training?

Yes - CMC can provide support directly from the factory or we can direct you to one of our many approved partners for the provision of any additional site support that you may need.

What are the key components in a Hazard Monitoring System?

A controller, along with sensors to monitor shaft speed, bearing temperature, and belt misalignment.

Do CMC products have lightning protection?

All CMC products have built in lightning protection at all system levels. Lightning protection is built into our sensors, bus converters and HMI devices. No additional lightning protection is required. Lightning protection is effective against many events but no system, regardless of protection level, is immune from direct lightning strikes.

Do I need any specialized tools or training to maintain or troubleshoot a CMC Hazard Monitoring System?

No - CMC offers the EZTester, a hand-held tester that can be used for testing sensor, testing the network, and emulating sensors for setup and validation during system commissioning.

Do any of CMC's sensors need setup or calibration before use?

No - All sensors come from the factory pre-calibrated with 6 feet of cable and an industrial-duty RJ11 connector for easy plug and play changeout.

What is the warranty on CMC products?

All CMC products are warrantied for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase. Contact us if you have any additional questions about our warranty and return policies.

Is the CMC system and components rugged enough for my industry's needs?

All CMC products have been rigourously tested for the harsh grain processing environment. Testing includes full temperature cycling, physical damage prevention and water proof installation.

Why does CMC use brass rub blocks rather than limit switches or touch switches?

Brass rub blocks permit the early detection of a belt off track event. Touch switches can only indicate that the belt is on or off track. By utilizing alarms referenced to ambient temperature, brass rub blocks can notify the operator of an off track event before the machine has to be stopped.