An updated version of Tank Watch, a system that allows managers to have a more accurate picture of fuel stocks, has been launched by fuel management experts Fueltek. With the cost of road fuel rapidly rising again all transport operators are under great pressure to manage fuel resources more efficiently. Tank Watch helps managers by providing accurate information on current stock, available tank capacity (ullage) and deliveries, making it easy for them to assess any problem areas.
The electronic system is accurate to 0.3 percent, with automatic temperature compensation. "Traditionally fuel management systems manage and monitor fuel dispensing, and throughput from the pump, but Tank Watch specifically monitors the bulk tank contents, rate of extraction and accuracy of deliveries," explained Fueltek managing director Martin Devine. "A permissible variation on fuel delivery of plus or minus one percent over time should balance out, but Tank Watch will quickly identify any pattern of repeated under delivery."
Tank Watch incorporates a number of alarm states, including water detection, leak detection, high and low level alarms. For example, an audible and visible alarm is sounded if Tank Watch detects low fuel stocks. This alarm interfaces with the fuel management software and will send an e-mail alert on the manager's PC or post a text message reminder to a mobile phone. There will also be an alarm on tank filling if there is a danger of the ullage being exceeded. The system will even provide early warning of tank leakage if unaccountable reductions in contents are recorded.
Tank Watch can be used in its own right to manage fuel stocks or it can interface with other Fueltek fuel management systems that monitor pump throughput and stop unauthorised fuel use. In either configuration, Tank Watch provides a powerful reporting and management tool. The software, used for management and reporting purposes is user friendly and can provide information to the manager's PC via LAN/WAN, Internet, GPRS or hardwired link.
Built for use in harsh transport environments, Tank Watch has a heavy duty enclosure and a bright display that is easy to read in daylight. Tank measurement is by a high accuracy pressure sensor that is calibrated to take account of tank geometry. The system can be specified for new installations but is also easily retro fitted to existing tanks and tank farms.