Martin Engineering has introduced the N2 Air Cannon Intelligence (ACI) System, a digital monitoring platform designed to help cement plants and other bulk processing facilities improve the performance, reliability and efficiency of industrial air cannon systems.

The new technology provides continuous monitoring and performance analytics for air cannons used to prevent material buildup inside process vessels, including raw mills, preheaters, kiln feeds, coolers, silos and chutes. According to Martin Engineering, the system represents the most significant advancement in air cannon technology since the company introduced the equipment more than 50 years ago.

The N2 ACI System uses wireless, battery-powered sensors mounted directly on individual air cannons. The sensors collect firing performance data and transmit it through long-range radio frequency communications to a cellular gateway. Operators can access performance information through a secure web-based dashboard and mobile interface.

By analyzing firing characteristics, the platform helps maintenance teams identify developing issues before they lead to equipment failures or production disruptions. The system also enables operators to evaluate and optimize firing sequences, equipment placement and overall air cannon performance across large installations.

Martin Engineering said the technology was developed at its Center for Innovation in Neponset, Illinois, and refined during two years of trials with cement producers in the United States, Brazil, France, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

Traditional air cannon inspections often require personnel to manually activate equipment and observe pressure gauges. However, issues such as partial nozzle blockages and performance degradation can be difficult to detect, potentially leading to reduced effectiveness, higher compressed air consumption and increased risk of downtime.

According to Martin Engineering, customer trials demonstrated operational and safety benefits by reducing the need for manual inspections, emergency cleanout procedures and worker exposure to confined spaces and high-temperature process areas. Evaluations also reported fewer emergency interventions and improved visibility into maintenance requirements.

The platform maintains historical records for each monitored air cannon, including firing trends, service history and component performance data. Martin Engineering said these insights support long-term reliability initiatives and help facilities transition from reactive maintenance practices to proactive asset management.

The N2 Air Cannon Intelligence System can be retrofitted to Martin Hurricane, Typhoon, Tornado, XHV and Passport valve air cannons. The company said installation can typically be completed without a plant shutdown because the platform operates independently of facility wireless networks and control systems.

Martin Engineering plans to introduce the N2 Air Cannon Intelligence System across its global network over the coming months, with additional installations already underway.