Understanding the operational status of tank hatches and pump jacks at any given time is essential to maintain oil field productivity and regulatory compliance. SignalFire introduces a new multi-purpose wireless inclinometer that can monitor the status of tank hatch position or pump jack motion as part of a SignalFire Remote Sensing System. The patent-pending Tilt SCOUT uses a three-axis sensor that continually monitors angle to detect the orientation of a tank hatch or the motion of a pump jack. With feedback from the wireless sensor, workers can determine if a tank hatch is ajar and/or a pump jack is idle, and can take immediate corrective action to ensure proper and compliant operations.
Lighting can be an issue for remote sensor control systems, especially in the upstream oilfield. Sensors located on top of 20 – 24 ft. steel tanks become ideal targets for lightning. One unfortunate strike can take out a sensor or the entire telemetry system.