Yes, they connect to any LoRaWAN or MQTT infrastructure (Kerlink, Cisco, Milesight, MultiTech, etc.) for flexible integration with existing SCADA systems.
Loading Arm Pressure Monitoring
Improved visibility during transfer operations
Pressure
Quick Overview
| Problem | Pressure conditions during loading and unloading operations can vary rapidly, but are not always continuously monitored at the loading arm level. |
| Solution | SENSAiO pressure sensors provide continuous monitoring of pressure conditions in loading arms during transfer operations. |
| Value | Improved visibility on transfer conditions, supporting safer and more controlled loading operations. |
| ATEX | Suitable for hazardous terminal environments (Zone 1–2), compliant with ATEX / IECEx requirements. |
The Operational Challenge
Loading arms are critical interfaces between storage infrastructure and transport systems such as trucks, railcars, or marine vessels.
During transfer operations, pressure conditions within the loading arm can fluctuate due to:
- Flow rate variations
- Valve operations (opening / closing sequences)
- Pump start and stop events
- Product characteristics (density, viscosity, vapor pressure)
These pressure variations can generate several operational concerns:
- Transient overpressure conditions
- Flow instability during loading
- Mechanical stress on loading arm components
- Risk of product release in case of abnormal conditions
In many installations, pressure monitoring is performed at pump or manifold level, but not directly at the loading arm.
This creates a lack of visibility on actual transfer conditions at the critical interface point.
Why Continuous Pressure Monitoring Matters
Pressure is a direct indicator of hydraulic conditions during product transfer.
Continuous monitoring at the loading arm enables:
- Detection of pressure transients associated with operational events
- Identification of abnormal pressure increases that may indicate restriction or improper valve configuration
- Observation of pressure drops that may correlate with leaks or disconnection events
- Correlation of pressure behavior with transfer phases (start, steady flow, shutdown)
Pressure trends provide insight into how the system behaves dynamically, not just under steady-state conditions.
This helps operators better understand transfer performance and identify deviations from expected operating profiles.
SENSAiO Solution
SENSAiO deploys wireless pressure sensors installed on loading arms or associated piping.
These sensors continuously measure line pressure and transmit data via LoRaWAN networks to a centralized monitoring platform.
The system provides:
- Real-time pressure visibility during transfer operations
- Historical pressure trends for each loading sequence
- Detection of deviations from typical pressure profiles
It is important to clarify that:
- SENSAiO is a monitoring-only system
- It does not control pumps or valves
- It does not act as a safety shutdown system
- It does not diagnose specific failure mechanisms
The system provides data that supports operational awareness and investigation.
Results and ROI
ATEX Compliance and Safety
Loading arms are typically located in hazardous environments where flammable products are handled. SENSAiO pressure sensors are designed for these conditions, with:
- ATEX / IECEx compliant versions for Zone 1–2
- Certification aligned with gas groups and temperature classes
- Robust design suitable for outdoor and exposed environments
All equipment is supplied with certification documentation and installation guidelines.
SENSAiO systems are not safety systems. They do not replace existing protective functions such as emergency shutdown systems or pressure relief devices.
Integration and compatibility
| Protocols | LoRaWAN, MQTT, REST API |
| Gateways | Compatible with standard LoRaWAN gateways (Kerlink, Multitech, Cisco, etc.) |
| Systems | Integration with terminal SCADA and monitoring systems (Emerson, Honeywell, Schneider, ABB) |
| Deployment | Suitable for retrofit on existing loading arms or integration into new terminal designs |
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.
