Yes, they connect to any LoRaWAN or MQTT infrastructure (Kerlink, Cisco, Milesight, MultiTech, etc.) for flexible integration with existing SCADA systems.
Bunkering Pressure Monitoring
Early detection of pressure instability and surge patterns
Pressure
Quick Overview
| Problem | Fuel bunkering operations involve dynamic pressure conditions, but pressure transients and deviations are not always continuously monitored along transfer lines. |
| Solution | SENSAiO pressure sensors provide continuous monitoring of pressure during bunkering operations. |
| Value | Improved visibility of pressure behavior, supporting earlier identification of abnormal transfer conditions. |
| ATEX | Available in ATEX / IECEx versions for hazardous fuel transfer environments. |
The Operational Challenge
Bunkering operations involve the transfer of fuel between:
- Shore-to-ship systems
- Ship-to-ship configurations
- Storage tanks to vessels
From a physical perspective:
- Fluid is transferred under pressure through pipelines and hoses
- Flow rate, pump performance, and valve positions influence pressure
- Transient conditions occur during start-up, shutdown, and flow changes
Typical issues include:
- Pressure surges due to rapid valve operations
- Pressure drops caused by restrictions or leaks
- Pump instability affecting flow consistency
- Line blockage or partial obstruction
Detection challenges:
- Pressure measurements are often limited to specific points
- Transient events may occur between manual checks
- Distributed systems reduce overall visibility
- Pressure anomalies may not immediately affect transfer rate
As a result, abnormal pressure behavior may go undetected during operations.
Why Pressure Monitoring Matters
Pressure reflects the hydraulic condition of the transfer system.
By continuously monitoring pressure:
- Flow consistency can be indirectly assessed
- Transient events can be captured
- Abnormal conditions can be identified earlier
Typical interpretations include:
- Sudden pressure increase may indicate valve closure or blockage
- Pressure drop may indicate leakage or reduced pump performance
- Fluctuating pressure may indicate unstable flow conditions
Pressure data provides insight into the physical behavior of the bunkering process.
SENSAiO Solution
SENSAiO deploys wireless pressure sensors installed on:
- Transfer lines
- Pump discharge points
- Hose connection interfaces
Sensors measure pressure and transmit data via LoRaWAN to a centralized monitoring platform.
The system enables:
- Continuous pressure monitoring during operations
- Detection of pressure deviations and transients
- Correlation with operational events
Clarifications:
- SENSAiO is a monitoring-only system
- It does not control pumps or valves
- It does not regulate pressure
- It does not replace safety or emergency shutdown systems
It provides data to support operational awareness and investigation.
Results and ROI
ATEX Compliance and Safety
Bunkering operations occur in hazardous environments with flammable fuels. SENSAiO sensors:
- Are available with ATEX / IECEx certification
- Suitable for Zone 1 / Zone 2 installations depending on configuration
- Designed for marine and fuel transfer conditions
The system does not perform safety shutdowns or replace certified safety systems but supports monitoring data for safer operational practices
Integration and compatibility
| Protocols | LoRaWAN, MQTT, REST API |
| Gateways | Compatible with standard LoRaWAN infrastructure |
| Systems | Integration with terminal management and bunkering monitoring systems |
| Deployment | Retrofit installation on existing transfer infrastructure |
FAQ - Common Questions
Are Sensa.io sensors compatible with any gateway or network?
What ATEX certifications apply to Sensa.io devices?
All hazardous-area models are certified Ex II 2 G Ex ia IIC T4 Gb and IECEx approved for Zones 0–2.
What is the typical battery life?
Up to 10 years at 15-minute intervals, depending on signal strength and environment.
How are the sensors integrated into existing systems?
Through standard protocols — LoRaWAN, Modbus, MQTT, REST API — no proprietary middleware needed.
How does predictive maintenance reduce OPEX?
Early anomaly detection reduces emergency interventions by 30–40 %, extends equipment life and lowers energy costs.
What does the Sensa.io Valve Position Sensor actually measure?
The device detects real-time valve position states—open, closed, or intermediate—with high accuracy. It continuously sends this information wirelessly to your monitoring dashboard.
Can this sensor detect partial valve movement or stuck valves?
Yes. The sensor identifies irregular patterns such as partial movement, delayed response, or stuck valves, enabling early maintenance before failure occurs.
Is this sensor suitable for manual, motorized, and actuated valves?
Yes. It supports a wide range of valve types including ball, gate, butterfly, actuator-driven, and manual valves.
How fast does it update the valve position?
You can configure the reporting interval—from seconds to minutes—depending on your operational and battery needs.
How long does installation take?
Most installations take under 10 minutes. The sensor mounts using brackets or clamps without modifying existing valves.
Explore Our Sensors
Valve position
The SENSAiO Valve Position Sensor provides real-time open/close feedback for manual and automated valves in oil & gas, chemical, and hydrogen operations.
Pressure
A rugged, industrial-grade pressure sensor designed for high-demand oil & gas applications. Provides continuous gas and liquid pressure monitoring, with ATEX intrinsic safety, IP67 housing, and LoRaWAN® connectivity.
Temperature
SENSAiO’s temperature sensor delivers precise temperature data for process lines, steam systems, heat exchangers, and storage assets.
Differential Pressure (ΔP)
A compact DP solution using dual synchronized pressure inputs to deliver accurate differential pressure data for filters, heat exchangers, separators, and manifolds.
Vibration
A high-resolution vibration sensor built for predictive maintenance of pumps, motors, compressors, and rotating equipment.
Acoustic
The SENSAiO acoustic sensor identifies ultrasonic leak signatures, gas escape, steam trap failures, and flare noise anomalies.
Trusted by a Worldwide Network
With partners in over 20 countries, SENSAiO delivers rugged sensor solutions to the toughest environments — everywhere.
