BAC’s new remote monitoring system is capital-free and simplicity itself

Citation

(2003), "BAC’s new remote monitoring system is capital-free and simplicity itself", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 50 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2003.12850aab.001

BAC’s new remote monitoring system is capital-free and simplicity itself

Keywords: Corrosion protection, Monitoring, Data collection

A new remote monitoring scheme for corrosion protection systems that makes use of GSM mobile telephone technology to transmit readings back to a control room rather than expensive bespoke equipment and software has been introduced by BAC Corrosion Control (Plate 1). As well as removing a need to incur capital expenditure, customers no longer need to concern themselves about regular software and technology upgrades.

Plate 1 BAC’s new remote monitoring system is capital- free and simplicity itself. Each data collection unit (SATcell) comprises a data logger with two channels, one for current and one for potential; a GSM transmitter and terminal board. Data is accessed through a unique Web site

Cathodic Control On-Line (CCOL), which in partnership with Tecnosystem of Italy, BAC rents to customers allows for various levels of data monitoring, logging, graphing and alarm warnings and uses the cellular network short messaging system (SMS) and the internet for display, monitoring and data manipulation. The hire charge also includes the data collection units with field installation a simple operation. Limited damage insurance plus telephone and internet service costs are also included. Each data collection unit (SATcell) comprises a data logger with 2 channels, one for current and one for potential; a GSM transmitter and terminal board.

Data is accessed through a unique Web site where information can be viewed and graphed. Maps and documents can be uploaded to the relevant SATcell on the Web site whilst readings and graphs can be downloaded to a local PC for later viewing and analysis. Alarms for the potential channel can be set and if triggered can be sent to the user either through the SMS system (mobile phone text message) or via an E-mail.

Data is retained on the Web site for 4 years and each year’s historical data is sent to the customer on a CD. Replacement equipment in case of failure and battery replacement is included in the rental cost. As the system is for rental only, there are no capital costs and the system is updated regularly in line with developments in technology. There is also a sister service to monitor pipeline pressure.

Details available from: Tel: +44 1952 290321; Fax: +44 1952 290325; Web site: www.bacgroup.com