From what you have written, it sounds like the dusty environment is the main culprit for your sensor failing. Dust can definitely cause sensors to trip or malfunction by interfering with their readings.

Here are a few suggestions that might help you find a more permanent solution:

• Dust-Proof Sensors: If you haven’t already, consider switching to a temperature sensor that's specifically designed for dusty or harsh environments. These are usually sealed or have protective coatings to keep dust out. It may be a more expensive option than the one you may have right now, but in the long run, I am sure this would definitely be a cost saving option. To give one example, you could look into the Honeywell 13 mm Series Heavy Duty Pressure Sensors or Siemens SITRANS TS500 Temperature Sensor. Or a simply google search may help you out or maybe even your company procurement or engineer would possibly have a preference. This would definitely be one of the most permanent and long lasting solutions.

• Protective Enclosure or Shield: If moving to a different sensor is not possible, then in order to protect your sensor, you could try installing a protective cover or shield around the sensor. This obviously won’t stop all dust, but it can reduce direct exposure. This may not be a permanent solution and you will still probably have to once in a while check it in, but it would get the job done. But just make sure the enclosure doesn’t block airflow, as that could lead to inaccurate readings from the sensor.

• Improve Air Filtration and/or ventilation: It could also be a possible to make an environmental upgrade by enhancing the air filtration system where the compressor operates. A good filter can significantly cut down on the amount of dust floating around, which might save your sensor (and your compressor) from future issues. On the other hand, you could make sure your compressor has good airflow around it. Better ventilation might help keep temperatures down and prevent the sensor from tripping.

• Relocate the Sensor or Compressor: If the above option of upgrading the environment is not possible and the new sensor can not be installed, then moving the compressor or just the sensor to a less dusty area might help. I dont know if the space is limited or not, but this could be an option.

  
  

• Replace with a Remote or Wireless Sensors: If moving the sensor isn’t an option, you could try a remote or wireless sensor. These can be placed in a cleaner area while still monitoring the compressor's temperature. This would be a great option if none of of the above can be implemented. But again, this would require using a different sensor from what you are using right now.

• Upgrade the Compressor: If this is a recurring problem, it might be worth looking into an air compressor that’s built for dusty environments. Some models come with better protection for sensors and other components.

The above could be some of the options, which could lead to a permanenet solution to your problem.