Wireless Communications for Tank Gauging
Historically, tank gauges installed in tank farms, terminals, refineries and other petrochemical facilities have communicated to the system via field wiring. The unreliability of older wireless systems was not suitable for applications that involved critical or safety sensitive data. Today, there are a wide variety of cost effective, wireless communications options designed for reliable, real-time communications between your tank gauge, meter or field instrument and an interface device, such as an 8130 Remote Terminal Unit or handheld PC.
Communications
Varec wireless devices are able to use MODBUS 232/484 to communicate with the field device and Bluetooth, 900 MHz spread spectrum, IEEE 802.11 b/g or cellular communications to transfer the signal/measurement back to the interface device.
Installation
Due to the nature of wireless applications, we recommend a solution based on your specific application requirements. We are able to offer low-cost installation options when compared to conventional instrumentation cabling. Remote antenna and signal repeaters offer increased range, while AC, DC or solar powered transceivers provide flexibility at the measuring point.
Features
Depending on the model selected, the following features are available:
- MODBUS RS-232/485 instrument communications
- Bluetooth, 900 MHz spread spectrum, IEEE 802.11 b/g or cellular
- AC, DC or solar powered units
- Digital/Analog/Pulse inputs and outputs
- Point-to-point or point-multi-point systems
Applications
Varec wireless solutions can be utilized in the following applications:
- Tank gauge integration at tank farms, terminals and refineries
- Monitoring of tanks in remote locations
- Into-plane and dispatch operations at airports and military bases
- Inventory management for tactical fuel operations
Considerations
Your decision to install a wireless system will be based on what you perceive as a benefit of cost vs. functionality.
- How many parameters are required from the instrument, such as level, temperature, pressure, flow?
- Where are the tank/measuring points situated?
- Are there any obstacles or terrain blocking the line of site to the control room?
- Is there power available at the tank/measuring point?
- Is the area classified as a hazardous location?
- How critical is the application measurement?
- Will a loss of signal cause a safety hazard?
- Why do you want a wireless system?
