sarah | PSM Marine

PSM Supply Full Tank Gauging Solution to Chilean Passenger Vessel

Posted on October 1, 2024 by sarah

PSM is proud to announce we have recently been awarded a contract to supply a comprehensive system for a new build passenger vessel by the leading Chilean shipyard, Asenav. This project showcases our ability to deliver flexible and simple to install solutions that meet the diverse needs of the maritime industry

The system will feature our APT1000 intelligent level transmitters, which accurately monitor the contents of over 30 onboard storage tanks, including ballast, fuel oil, and service tanks. To ensure seamless integration and efficient data management, the system will utilise our RFM4 termination modules and a serial RS485 network, feeding into the VPM4300 series data acquisition and processing display unit.

Beyond tank level measurement, the system will also incorporate vessel draught measurement, providing comprehensive information in both tabular and bar graph formats on the VPM4300 unit and a second remote display connected via a single ethernet link.

To address the specific requirements of vessel trim and heel monitoring, a dedicated VPM4300 unit will be supplied, utilising integrated inclinometers for accurate data collection.

This project underscores PSM’s commitment to delivering complete tank gauging solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and compliance within the maritime sector.

Top 10 Things People Forget When Installing and Commissioning Tank Gauging Systems

Posted on September 9, 2024 by sarah

In the final part of our series on tank management systems, this month we look at the key things that people often forget when it comes to installing and commissioning tank management equipment:

Taking accurate measurement of the sensor’s mounting height above the tank lowest point This will help you ensure that the system is configured correctly.
Ensuring that the correct Specific Gravity value is used in the monitoring system to avoid calculation errors.
Ensuring that the system is powered from an isolated supply to avoid potential ground loops / earth faults being generated, and that all signal cable screens are correctly terminated to avoid interference from other adjacent equipment.
Ensuring that the tank tables are based on physical level in the tank rather than a manual sounding table where the sounding pipe might not be perpendicular.
Checking the sensor output is zero when the tank is empty. This will ensure there are no unwanted offsets causing an error of display.
For absolute sensors, calculating the expected output based on actual barometric pressure. This will help check that you are receiving an accurate reading from the sensor.
Using appropriate protection when using metal tie clips to secure sensor cables in cable trays to prevent damage to the cables.
For gauge pressure sensors, checking that the vent pipe has not been kinked, trapped, or crushed. This will ensure that sensor is receiving the correct atmospheric reference pressure. The junction box for the sensor cable must also be vented.
Ensuring that where sensors are supplied with remote electronics that these are correctly matched together. The calibration of the instrument relies on using the factory matched items.
Remembering that a Hazardous Area Safety Barrier is designed to protect the equipment attached. If a Safety Barrier is “blowing” it is doing its job and the installation fault needs to be identified and corrected. A Safety Barrier should NEVER be bypassed.

If you have missed any of our previous top 10 articles on tank gauging, you can view the full Top 10 Guides to Tank Level Measurement here. And for expert advice on your next tank gauging project, please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Tank Level Gauging: 10 Things You Need to Know (But Might Forget!)

Posted on August 21, 2024 by sarah

In the second of our three part series where we offer practical advice to mitigate risks and challenges associated with tank management system installations, we look at the top 10 things people forget when it comes to tank level gauging.

Here’s the 10 most common oversights when it comes to level gauging:

Sensor Measurement: Sensors cannot measure liquid below their physical measuring diaphragm. The contents below will require calculation in the monitoring system.
Sensor Material Matters: Depending on the tank contents selecting the right material will ensure the longevity of the sensor.
Sensor Output: The output will be affected by the movement of the vessel unless compensated for in the monitoring system.
Liquid Matters: Every liquid has a specific gravity, which needs to be factored in for accurate readings. Using the wrong value can cause measurement discrepancies.
Installation Precision: Even small mistakes in measuring the sensor’s installation height can lead to significant errors in the amount of volume you think is in the tank.
Safety First: Depending on the situation, intrinsically safe (IS) certified sensors might be required. These are specially designed to be used in areas designated as hazardous zones.
Safety Barrier: If you need intrinsically safe sensors, you will also need to install safety barriers to provide additional protection.
Calibration is Key: To get the most accurate readings, sensor calibration needs precise information on tank height, sensor placement, and the liquid’s specific gravity.
Venting Matters: When choosing a sensor, consider the height of your tank’s vent pipe to ensure the sensor has the appropriate pressure overload capabilities.
Validation is Vital: Before relying on a new level gauging system, it’s crucial to have the installation validated and commissioned to ensure everything is working properly.

By keeping these 10 points in mind, you can ensure your tank level gauging system is accurate, safe, and reliable. For more information on designing, specifying, installing and commissioning tank sensors and systems, you can view the full guide here.

At PSM Marine we have been providing tank level gauging solutions for over 45 years, so contact us for expert support and discuss your next project.

PSM Strengthens Partnership with Turquoise Yachts with New Tank Gauging Orders

Posted on August 12, 2024 by sarah

We are pleased to announce two new orders for complete tank gauging packages from Turquoise Yachts for their new build project NB74 & NB74. This follows a successful string of projects where we supplied full systems for Megayachts MY Infinite Jest, MY Roe, and MY Nympheas.

Our complete tank gauging packages provide:

– Local self-powered gauges

– Networked remote gauging with intelligent APT1000 Hydrostatic transmitters

– Multiple display locations using VPM Displays

– Real-time tank status information to the Yacht’s Alarm Monitoring System via serial link

– Bilge level switches for flood detection

Turquoise Yachts are known for their bespoke, fully customisable yachts, providing a completely tailored solution for clients and maintaining full in-house control on all aspects of design, engineering and construction. We are delighted to establish ourselves as a trusted partner to them.

We are also further strengthening our commitment to Turquoise Yachts and other Turkish clients by appointing DOP as our new agent in Turkey. DOP brings extensive experience working with Turquoise across various equipment, offering local support for installation and commissioning of systems.

We are proud of our ongoing partnership with Turquoise Yachts and are excited to collaborate on future projects. Together with DOP’s local expertise, we are committed to providing exceptional tank gauging solutions for the Turkish yachting industry.

Avoid Costly Delays: Top 10 Pitfalls to Avoid When Planning Tank Management Systems

Posted on July 17, 2024 by sarah

Have you seen our Top 10 Guides to Tank Level Measurement yet? We have produced a guide to help avert some of the risks and issues that can arise when installing tank management systems.

Here we summarise the top 10 pitfalls to avoid when planning tank management systems:

Understand different tank gauging solutions and their functions is crucial. Don’t get caught unaware – research the options!
Choosing the wrong type of measurement technology (pneumatic, hydrostatic, non-contact, etc) can lead to inaccurate readings. Select the best fit for your needs.
Not factoring in realistic lead times for system design, manufacturing, and delivery can increase delays in your project timeline. Really think about how long each stage will take.
Inaccurate specifications for measured liquids, tank calibration tables, and sensor placement can cause major headaches down the line. Provide precise information for a seamless setup.
Not considering all expenses, including logistics, when budgeting for your tank management system can increase costs.
Not only do you need accurate specific gravity (SG) initial values, but also to ensure that the system selected can easily accommodate changes in service that might require updates.
Tank tables in editable formats (like Word or Excel) are crucial for accurate translation into the monitoring system. Avoid formats such as scanned documents.
Careful sensor selection matters, e.g. choosing absolute sensors, when gauge pressure sensors would provide better resolution, will compromise the system accuracy.
Don’t leave external system interfaces unspecified. Clearly define how your tank management system will interact with other existing programs.
Having an engineer oversee installation, system setup, and warranty validation ensures everything functions correctly from the start.

By avoiding these mistakes, you will be well on your way to a successful tank management system implementation that saves you time, money, and hassle.

BLS9200 Bilge / Flood Level Switches Now Certified for Hazardous Areas

Posted on June 18, 2024June 18, 2024 by sarah

We are excited to announce that our BLS9200 bilge / flood level switch has been assessed and certified as Intrinsically Safe. This means the switch can now be installed in hazardous areas, significantly expanding its application possibilities.

The BLS9200 has been certified to Ex ia IIC T5 Ga, meeting the primary safety standards of ATEX, IECEx, and UKCA. This is particularly beneficial for naval vessels, where areas near munitions are often classified as hazardous. With this certification, there are now no restrictions on where you can install the BLS9200, providing greater flexibility for your bilge and flood detection needs.

In addition, we can also reveal that our APT level transmitters have received enhanced approvals. The Intrinsic Safety certification for our APT500 and APT1000 level transmitters has now been updated to include UKCA approval, alongside the existing ATEX and IECEx approvals.

Furthermore, the DNV type approval for the APT500 and 1000 has been renewed under the mutual recognition standard, which means this Type Approval is now accepted by all members of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).

These enhanced certifications demonstrate our commitment to providing safe and reliable level solutions for a wider range of applications.

PSM Strengthens Presence in Egypt’s Tug Boat Market with New Tank Gauging Systems

Posted on May 20, 2024May 14, 2024 by sarah

We are pleased to announce the recent supply of tank gauging systems for a further six newbuild tug boat projects in Egypt. This builds upon our previous successes in the region and reaffirms the suitability of PSM’s solutions for tug boat applications.

Our proven combination of VPM display systems and digital networked APT sensors has become the go-to solution for tank gauging in Egypt’s tug boat market. These systems offer several key advantages:

Comprehensive and flexible VPM displays provide clear and easy-to-understand data on tank levels, streamlining operations for crew members
Simple and cost-effective installation allows for a straightforward installation process.

We are committed to fostering strong partnerships in the regions we serve. For this latest project, we collaborated with PEP Arab. In June, representatives from PEP Arab, along with senior engineering staff from the shipyard, will be visiting PSM for in-depth product training and discussions on future collaborative projects.

This visit underscores our commitment to providing exceptional customer support and furthers our strong presence in the Egyptian maritime industry.

PSM Hosts Successful Online Partner Training on Hydrostatic Transmitters

Posted on May 9, 2024 by sarah

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of the third session in our series of online interactive partner training sessions. The session, which focused on our range of hydrostatic transmitters, was attended by more than 50 individuals from agents and partners across more than 15 countries globally.

The training session provided a comprehensive overview of our hydrostatic transmitter product line. Participants gained valuable insights into the key differences between each product range, allowing them to make informed decisions when selecting the right sensor for specific applications. The session also addressed common mistakes made during the specification and installation of hydrostatic transmitters, equipping attendees with the knowledge to ensure accurate and reliable performance.

This successful training session demonstrates our commitment to providing its partners with the knowledge and resources they need to be successful. By offering interactive online sessions, we can ensure that our partners around the world have access to the latest product information and technical expertise.

Reliable Water Level Monitoring for the Medway Tunnel

Posted on April 26, 2024 by sarah

For 28 years, the Medway Tunnel, underneath the River Medway, which connects the towns of Chatham and Strood in Kent, England, has relied on accurate water level monitoring to guarantee a safe passage for over 40,000 vehicles per day.

The tunnel has four strategically placed sumps, one at each end and two in the centre, and these sumps collect any water from the River Medway and road runoff. Shortly after the tunnel’s opening in 1996, our PSM level transmitters were installed in each sump.

The 4-20mA signals from these transmitters are fed into a PLC system that controls the pumping out of sumps, when the level reaches a predefined point, crucial for optimal water management, Because the level is controlled within a defined range, the transmitters were required to provide accurate measurement over a small range – 450mm for the central sumps and 1300mm for the larger end sumps, providing precise data within this critical zone.

The PSM transmitters have delivered exceptional performance throughout the tunnel’s operation. One transmitter is the original unit installed in 1996, while two were replaced in 2006 and two upgraded in 2009, meaning even the newest has worked reliably for over 15 years.

Recognising the critical role these instruments play, PSM is contracted to conduct annual checks and calibration certifications. These checks are performed during nighttime closures of the tunnel to ensure safety, and these inspections often reveal that the transmitters have maintained their accuracy, requiring no or minimal adjustments year after year.

Navigating the right PSM Product for your Vessel Type

Posted on April 12, 2024 by sarah

At Scanjet PSM, we understand that every vessel has unique needs. With over 40 years’ experience serving the diverse needs of the Naval, Superyacht, Ferry, Tanker, Tugboat and Workboat markets, our dedicated project management team understand the unique challenges and requirements of each vessel type. We will work closely with you to identify the optimal instrumentation solutions for your vessel’s need.

If you are unsure which product is right for your vessel, we have created simple Application sheets for each of our key markets. These downloadable resources detail the most suitable products for your ship type.

Download the Application Sheets here and find the perfect fit for your vessel.