A New Generation of digital 'intelligent' Sensors and systems

Improved tank measurement and monitoring capabilities are newly available to the marine industry following the launch of the latest generation of 'intelligent' sensors from PSM.

Uniquely, the UK based supplier says "Its 'iCT' series offers users sensors that contain directly embedded programmable functions and intelligent self-diagnostics. All sensors and transmitters are remotely configured and can transmit level, pressure and temperature on a single communication bus.

PSM said that it could provide various measuring technologies to suit all tank applications on board exactly and cost effectively. Instruments from the PSM range include FMCW or Pulse Tank Radar, TDR radar, acoustic wave and hydrostatic pressure. All integrate into the common bus to ensure the most cost effective gauging solution can be readily tailored to suit vessels of all sizes and duty.

PSM claims that not only is the system cost competitive but that the new digital bus system would accrue huge savings on cable cost and expensive ancillary devices such as Intrinsic Safety zener barriers. In particularly with PSM’s unique “one size fits all iCT sensor, shipyards and system providers can now install a common sensor where a pressure, level or temperature is required and remotely assign a duty and an individual configuration later, saving on installation set-up time.

Data is displayed on the TANKVIEW gauging system, which can be integrated with a loading programme and may even be interrogated remotely via satellite/GPRS link to enable managers and operators to view and monitor all tanks on board in real-time. For example, fuel consumption can now be monitored remotely, bunkers planned on route and cargo verified.