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For five decades, PSM Instrumentation has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing high-quality level and pressure measurement solutions. What began as Pressure Sensors (Electronics) Limited has grown into a pioneering company developing products across various industries, including marine, defence, and industrial applications.

The Early Years

PSM Instrumentation’s origins trace back to Pressure Sensors Ltd., a company specialising in highly accurate pressure-sensitive capsules and diaphragms.

Over the decades these products have played a crucial role in numerous applications, such as:

1975 – 1985
• Automatic parachute deployment
• Pressurized underground cable duct monitoring
• Nuclear power plant monitoring
• Measurement scales

1985 – 1995
• Level measurement for UK Navy vessels
• Hospital heat exchangers
• Breweries
• Bore holes for the water industry

1995 – 2005
• Displacement tanks for warships and submarines
• Density measurement for the oil industry
• Water in oil detectors
• Deep sea flow meter

2005 – 2015
• International supply to Navy vessels
• Water ingress alarm systems
• High temperature dairy tanks
• Visual water level indication for power substations
• Lifeboat fuel switches

2015 – 2025
• Gauging and flood detection for floating wind farms
• Complete digital systems for Navy vessels
• Dedicated trim and heel monitoring
• Dedicated draught measurement and monitoring
• Supply digital systems for Yachts, Tugs, Workboats and OPV

Expansion into the Marine Sector

During the 1980s and 1990s, we began focusing on the marine industry, where reliability and regulatory compliance are paramount. Our unique combination of high-accuracy LVDT sensing technology and a single, all-welded measurement cell construction with high overload capabilities quickly gained industry recognition.

A pivotal moment came in 1996 when we partnered with the UK Navy to develop a specialised transmitter and monitoring solution for a unique naval application. This project marked the beginning of our long-standing relationship with navies worldwide, delivering both new-build and retrofit solutions for naval platforms. Today, these innovative technologies are equally valued in the broader marine industry.

Digital Innovation and Modern Solutions

By 2010, we launched our first-generation digital hydrostatic transmitters, which combined traditional analogue 4-20mA signal capabilities with modern programmable features and multi-drop serial networking. This innovation dramatically reduced cabling requirements by up to 60%, cut commissioning time, and simplified in-service maintenance.

We have since introduced a second generation of digital transmitters, now complemented by our central acquisition and display systems. These scalable solutions cater to a diverse range of vessels, from tugboats and mega yachts to large tankers and warships.

The Present: Digital Tank Gauging System (DTGS)

Building on our decades of expertise, we developed the Digital Tank Gauging System (DTGS), a fully digital, user-configurable solution designed for easy installation, cost efficiency, and sustainability. The DTGS system offers:
• APT1000: Digital level measurement transmitter
• RFM Series: Local termination and safety barrier for hazardous area installations
• VPM: A 7-inch local display with ethernet networking for additional display locations

Our solutions are designed to provide exceptional performance, reduce costs, and meet the ever-evolving demands of modern marine and industrial applications.

A Legacy of Customer-Centric Innovation

At PSM, we work closely with customers to develop tailored solutions alongside our standard product range. With a commitment to precision, reliability, and continuous innovation, we are committed to delivering the next generation of level and pressure measurement products and technologies.

PSM is proud to have been selected as a supplier for Macduff Shipbuilders, part of the well-established Macduff Group, to provide advanced tank gauging systems for three of their newbuild projects in 2024, and we are delighted to start 2025 with a further order for their latest vessel.

2024 Newbuild Projects Equipped with PSM Tank Gauging Systems

Righ Na Mara – Gaelic for ‘King of the Sea’ – is a 24-metre landing craft/workboat owned by Bakkafrost. This vessel is equipped with seven tanks and a central display, for which we supplied:

• VPM4300 display unit
• 7 APT1000 transmitters for fresh water and fuel oil tanks

Fruitful Harvest & Fruitful Bough – These sister mussel fishing vessels are bound for service in the Shetlands. Each vessel is fitted with:

• APT1000 level transmitters for all 10 fuel oil, hydraulic oil, and water tanks
• 2 VPM display units, one in the engine room and one on the bridge

Additional Order for Workboat Newbuild Project 710 in 2025

Macduff Shipbuilders has continued its collaboration with PSM into 2025 with a fresh order for 20 APT1000 transmitters for their latest newbuild, Project 710, a workboat for Inverlussa Marine.

The Benefits of PSM’s Digital Tank Gauging Solutions

Our tank gauging systems feature our intelligent APT1000 transmitters, which communicate via a multi-drop network to the central VPM display unit. Some systems also feature repeater displays for enhanced monitoring flexibility. The scalability and effectiveness of PSM’s digital tank gauging solution are clearly demonstrated across these projects. The benefits include:

• Simple installation – Reduced cabling requirements simplify the setup process.
• Suitable for multiple vessel types – Work equally well on these smaller vessels as it does for larger systems where the same equipment is used to monitor and display 60-80 tanks and have up to 10 discrete display locations.
• Ease of commissioning – Systems are delivered pre-configured to an agreed specification, allowing the shipyard’s own team to activate them with minimal effort.
• Flexible display configurations – Information can be arranged and presented as required by the client, with quick updates possible without on-site service attendance.

PSM is committed to providing advanced tank gauging solutions that meet the evolving needs of shipbuilders worldwide, whether building workboats, megayachts or large naval vessels. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Macduff Shipbuilders.

PSM are looking forward to attending Expomaritt, taking place from February 18-21, alongside our Turkish agents, DOP.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore PSM’s advanced Tank Gauging Solutions, showcased alongside a wide range of marine industry products supported by DOP.

If you’re attending, be sure to visit our stand and connect with James Spenceley and the DOP team. We look forward to discussing how our solutions can support your operations!

The 18th International Maritime Exhibition – Expomaritt Exposhipping Istanbul is taking place at the Instanbul Expo Centre, for more details visit expomaritt.com

The Beginning

Founded in 1975, PSM Instrumentation Ltd began its journey under the name Pressure Sensors (Electronics) Ltd in Axminster, Devon. The company was established to complement an existing enterprise, Pressure Sensors Ltd, renowned for designing highly accurate pressure-sensitive capsules and diaphragms. These were vital for critical applications such as automatic parachute deployment and pressurised underground cable duct monitoring.

The newly formed company added expertise in electronics design, aiming to develop a complete range of transmitters for pressure and hydrostatic liquid level measurement. This innovation proved highly successful across various industries. Specialised designs included hygienic versions for the food, dairy, and pharmaceutical sectors, specific solutions for water and wastewater applications, and, most significantly for future growth, the marine industry.

As the product range flourished, a separate entity, Pressure Sensors Marketing Ltd, was established. This brought in experts with deep market knowledge and the ability to promote the company’s products globally.

A Legacy of Innovation

The 1980s and 1990s were transformative decades for PSM Instrumentation. Technological advancements enabled the expansion of the product portfolio, including display instrumentation, allowing the company to offer complete tank gauging solutions. During this period, the focus shifted toward the marine sector, with products tailored to meet its unique requirements and strict regulatory standards.

One key development was the integration of high-accuracy LVDT sensing technology with a single, all-welded measurement cell construction. This combination offered high overload capabilities and excellent long-term stability, earning a strong reputation within the marine industry.

In 1993, Pressure Sensors Marketing Ltd and Pressure Sensors (Electronics) Ltd merged, forming PSM Instrumentation Ltd. The entire development, production, and sales operation was consolidated at its current site in Haywards Heath, West Sussex. With a global sales base, the company achieved export levels of up to 70% of annual production.

The marine sector, particularly naval vessels, became a significant area of focus. In 1996, PSM worked with the UK Navy to design a specialised transmitter and monitoring solution for a unique application. This initial success led to collaborations with navies and shipbuilders worldwide, establishing PSM as a trusted supplier for both new-build and retrofit installations. Over the years, these innovations have also benefited the general marine market, contributing to consistent year-on-year sales growth.

Pioneering Digital Innovations

In 2010, PSM introduced a new range of digital hydrostatic transmitters. These intelligent devices supported traditional analogue 4-20mA signals, while adding programmability and multi-drop serial network connectivity. This breakthrough reduced cabling requirements by up to 60%, simplified commissioning, and enhanced in-service support.

Today, PSM offers a second generation of digital transmitters, complemented by a family of central acquisition and display systems. These scalable solutions are deployed across a wide range of vessels, from tugs and mega yachts to large tankers and warships.

Global Expansion and Acquisitions

In 2015, PSM’s expertise in hydrostatic measurement attracted the attention of Scanjet A.S., a Swedish company and global leader in tank cleaning equipment. Scanjet sought to expand its marine tank gauging portfolio, and in March 2016, the acquisition of PSM was finalised.

Following the acquisition, PSM designed a transmitter tailored to Scanjet’s requirements and became the exclusive manufacturer of transmitters for the group. This collaboration has significantly expanded PSM’s global reach, enabling joint product and market development.

In 2022, Scanjet was acquired by Alfa Laval, marking another milestone in PSM’s history. As part of the Alfa Laval family, PSM benefits from enhanced IT infrastructure, advanced management processes, and greater development resources while maintaining its independent operations. These advantages position PSM to continue its legacy of innovation and growth.

Looking Ahead

As PSM celebrates 50 years of excellence, the company remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. Backed by the global strength of Alfa Laval, PSM is well-equipped for the next chapter in its remarkable journey.

Here’s to the next 50 years of innovation, growth, and success!

It has been another successful and rewarding year for PSM, which saw us maintain our strong growth trajectory, invest in new equipment, expand our team, and strengthen our partnerships with local agents.

An additional 5% growth in business for 2024, as well as maintaining the 25% growth we saw in 2023, has allowed for significant capital investment in new equipment. We have invested in some of the latest state-of-the-art equipment, including an environmental chamber, precision pressure sources, a laser etching machine, and advanced digital measurement tools. These tools have enabled us to streamline and automate our production and calibration processes.

We welcomed three new employees to the PSM team to strengthen our capabilities in our Sales, Production, and Development departments. We also continue to invest in employee development through apprenticeship schemes, with members of the Production team successfully completing IPC610 training to enhance the quality inspection of all electronics to IPC Class 3.

We continue to strengthen our partnerships with partners and agents, through successful online training sessions and in-person visits.

Product Innovation and Market Leadership

Our cost-effective APT1000 and VPM digital systems have become the industry standard, and are the first choice for many applications, including Tugs, Mega Yachts, Ferries, Naval Vessels, and Tankers.
We have also introduced innovative product enhancements, such as purpose-designed monitoring systems for Vessel Draught, Trim, Heel, and Flood Detection.

A Bright Future

We are proud to have secured several major contracts for full tank gauging systems for military vessels, solidifying our position as a leading supplier of TLG solutions for Naval platforms.

We are already planning ahead for 2025, and we look forward to sharing some exciting new developments with you in the new year.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our valued customers, suppliers and agents a very Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for 2025 from everyone at PSM.

I joined PSM at the age of 17 and have been part of the PSM team for 15 years. During this time, I have gained extensive knowledge of our products and have achieved three NVQs in engineering. In addition to the technical product skills I have acquired, I am also a qualified internal auditor and have been a dedicated first aider for the past four years.

Outside of work I enjoy spending quality time outdoors with my girlfriend and daughter, visiting animal sanctuaries and walking in the countryside. I am also a big fan of film, TV and video games.

I have always found myself drawn to administrative roles. Over the years I have developed my skills in various settings, with my most recent experience prior to joining PSM, working as a Personal Assistant to Directors in Chartered Building Surveying companies. My work primarily focused on pre-purchase building surveys, architectural design, refurbishment, and new-build properties.

In June 2024, I embarked on a completely new and exciting challenge and joined PSM as a Sales Administrator. This role has introduced me to the world of sales, where I am now assisting the Sales Director and the wider Sales Team. It has been a great opportunity to learn new skills.

Outside of work, fitness is an important part of my life and you will often find me in the gym. I also work as a Swim England Referee which allows me to play an active role in the sport I love.

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.