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Accurate tank level measurement is a critical requirement across the marine industry, particularly when monitoring cargo tanks. Beyond inventory control, modern tank level gauging systems play a vital role in process safety, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency by providing reliable monitoring of all shipboard service and ballast water tanks.

In this guide, we explore the key technologies used in tank level gauging, the factors vessel operators should consider when selecting a solution, and how Scanjet PSM supports customers throughout the entire project, from selection and delivery to installation, commissioning and aftersales support.

Why Tank Level Gauging Matters

Effective level measurement systems deliver a range of operational and safety benefits, including:

• Improved operational efficiency through optimised storage utilisation and reduced losses
• Enhanced safety by preventing overfills, spills and hazardous incidents
• Compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as API 2350 and IEC 61511
• Accurate inventory management for operational and financial reporting

Failures in level measurement can result in costly downtime, environmental damage and increased safety risks. Selecting the right tank gauging solution is therefore an important operational decision, rather than simply a technical requirement.

Core Technologies Used in Modern Tank Gauging

A variety of technologies are available to suit different tank types, products and operating conditions.

1. Non-Contact Radar Level Measurement

Radar systems are widely recognised as the preferred solution for cargo tank applications.

Key benefits include:

• High accuracy, typically within ±2 mm
• Reliable performance in varying vapour, temperature and pressure conditions
• Minimal maintenance requirements

These systems are particularly well suited to cargo storage tanks, hazardous environments and high-value products where measurement accuracy is critical.

2. Guided Wave Radar (GWR)

Guided Wave Radar is ideal for challenging conditions such as foam or turbulence.

Benefits include:

• Stable and reliable readings in difficult process conditions
• Suitability for smaller vessels and interface measurement applications

3. Ultrasonic Systems

Ultrasonic technology offers an economical, non-contact measurement solution for less demanding applications and environments.

While cost-effective, performance can be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations and vapour presence, making these systems more suitable for non-critical applications.

4. Hydrostatic (Pressure-Based) Measurement

Hydrostatic pressure measurement remains a proven and cost-effective solution for shipboard service and ballast tanks

Key advantages include:

• Simple installation
• Corrosion-resistant material options
• Also employed for cargo tank overpressure and manifold pressure monitoring

5. Self-Powered Gauges and Sight Glasses

Traditional technologies such as self-powered gauges and sight glasses continue to provide reliable local or secondary level indication.

Their advantages include:

• Proven reliability
• Simple operation
• Independent, self-powered functionality

Scanjet PSM: Built for Purpose

At Scanjet PSM, our solutions are engineered with a clear focus on performance, safety and system reliability, making them ideally suited to the demanding conditions of the marine environment.

Key Differentiators included with our standard products

1. Installation and Operational Benefits

• Digital network architecture, helping to significantly reduce installation time and cost
• Scalable solutions suitable for vessels of all sizes, with multiple display options tailored to operator requirements
• Interchangeable programmable transmitters simplify spare part management, while built-in diagnostics support maintenance and calibration checks

2. Certification

• ATEX / IECEx / UKEx included
• Safe operation in hazardous and explosive environments
• Marine Society Type Approval included

3. System Integration

• Seamless connectivity with vessel Alarm Monitoring Systems (AMS), loading computers and platform management systems
• Supports industry-standard Modbus communication protocol

4. Lifecycle Support

• System design and application support
• Commissioning and calibration services
• Ongoing technical and aftersales support

Looking for More Guidance?

Choosing the right tank level measurement system is critical for safety, compliance and operational performance. For a more detailed overview of the key considerations, technologies and best practices involved in specifying a tank gauging system, download our Top 10 Guide to Tank Level Measurement and discover the factors every vessel operator should consider before making a decision.

Scanjet PSM has secured a series of new contracts that highlight the growing demand for our advanced flood detection and tank gauging solutions across diverse vessel types.

Originally developed as an extension of the VPM display family and Connect software for integrated tank gauging, these systems have evolved into highly effective stand-alone solutions. Their flexibility and reliability are now being demonstrated in a wide range of marine applications.

Successful Delivery for Asyad Dry Dock Company

Scanjet PSM recently delivered two fully Type Approved systems to Asyad Dry Dock Company in Oman, supporting the newbuild passenger and vehicle landing craft Jawharat Sur.

Built on the VPM/Connect platform, the systems combine:

• A complete tank gauging solution
• A dedicated flood detection system compliant with SOLAS requirements for passenger vessels

The tank gauging system uses our APT1000 level transmitters operating in digital mode, simplifying installation while significantly reducing cabling requirements.

For flood detection, the system incorporates the BLS9200 submersible switch. This is configured to provide four clear status indications at the central VPM unit: Normal, Alarm, Cable Break, and Cable Short. This approach ensures that any wiring fault is immediately visible, removing the risk of hidden or undetected alarms.

Both systems operate independently and feature Modbus outputs, enabling seamless integration with the vessel’s central monitoring system for real-time status updates and alerts.

New Contract: Flood Detection for Cable Laying Vessel

Further demonstrating the scalability of the VPM platform, Scanjet PSM has also been awarded a contract to supply a flood detection system for a large cable laying vessel.

This project introduces more complex requirements, with the vessel divided into multiple independent flood detection zones. Each zone must operate autonomously and remain unaffected by faults in other areas.

Unlike the point-level detection used in the Asyad project, this system requires continuous level monitoring within each zone. Our solution again utilises the APT1000 transmitter, with more than 60 measurement points distributed across the vessel.

Each zone operates on its own discrete network, feeding into a central acquisition panel. This panel delivers a consolidated system overview and provides a Modbus interface to the vessel’s platform management system.

Driving Innovation Through Adaptability

These latest projects underline Scanjet PSM’s ability to adapt proven technologies to meet evolving regulatory and operational demands. Whether as part of an integrated system or as a stand-alone solution, the VPM display family continues to deliver reliable performance across the marine sector.

In the marine industry, long-term partnerships are key to delivering proven, high-quality solutions in challenging operating environments. As part of our focus on PSM’s valued partners, we’re proud to highlight our long-standing relationship with Terasaki Electric Co. (Far East) Pte Ltd, Singapore.

Established in Singapore in 1973, Terasaki specialises in the design and manufacture of distribution and control systems. Over the past five decades, the company has grown into a leading international manufacturer of switchboards and control systems, supporting marine and industrial sectors worldwide.

Terasaki’s reputation for quality and reliability is underpinned by a proven project track record and internationally recognised certifications, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.

A Long-Standing Partnership

For more than a decade, PSM and Terasaki have worked together on a wide range of marine shipboard projects. As an engineering-led organisation with deep expertise in the marine sector, a global reach, and full system commissioning and service capabilities, Terasaki is a natural fit for PSM.

Mark Jones (Sales Director, PSM) said:

“Our long-standing collaboration with Terasaki reflects a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and delivering dependable solutions to our customers worldwide.”

Mr Tan Soon Kiat (Assistant General Manager, Terasaki) added:

“We have had the privilege of partnering with PSM for over a decade. Throughout this long-standing relationship, PSM has consistently demonstrated outstanding performance in delivery, responsiveness, and product quality.

As a Japanese organization with a strong emphasis on quality and reliability, we value partners who share the same commitment. PSM has proven to be a highly dependable partner, aligning closely with our principles while consistently delivering high-quality products, complemented by professional service and robust technical support.

We look forward to continuing this successful partnership.”

Delivering Value to Customers

Together, PSM and Terasaki have successfully delivered integrated tank gauging and marine instrumentation solutions that enhance operational efficiency, safety and regulatory compliance.

By combining PSM’s range of level transmitters, switches, and display technologies with Terasaki’s advanced monitoring and control systems, we provide customers with fully integrated, reliable solutions tailored to the demands of modern vessels.

These solutions have been deployed across the Far East, Middle East and Europe, supporting a wide range of marine applications and helping customers meet increasingly stringent environmental and safety standards.

Looking Ahead

Both companies share a common philosophy centred on product innovation, quality, and long-term reliability, always with customer needs at the forefront.

Having both recently celebrated 50 years of serving the marine industry, PSM and Terasaki are committed to building on this strong foundation. Together, we will continue to support the evolving demands of marine automation, environmental performance, safety, certification, and regulatory compliance.

Accurate tank measurement is fundamental to safe and efficient vessel operation. At Scanjet PSM, we understand that a tank gauging system is not simply an instrument package, it is a critical safety, compliance and operational control system.

The Primary Tank Gauging System

A typical tank gauging system utilises hydrostatic level transmitters at each measurement point or tank. These sensors provide continuous, real-time level data to a central display interface.

Live tank data can be presented in both textual and graphical formats at key vessel locations such as:

• Bridge
• Engine Room (ER)
• Cargo Control Room (CCR)

Where required, the system also provides draught indication and consolidated outputs to the vessel’s Alarm & Monitoring System (AMS), ensuring consistent and reliable data across all operational platforms.

Why Two Independent Systems May Be Required

Using Fuel Oil Service Tanks as an example, these tanks supply fuel directly to engines and generators and are therefore vital to vessel propulsion and safety. In such cases, regulations and best practice often require a secondary, fully independent method of level measurement.

Common secondary arrangements of tank gauging include:

• A local level gauge or sight glass for visual verification
• Independent high- and low-level switches for alarm activation
• Manual sounding arrangements
• A self-powered contents gauge
• A second independent level transmitter

On vessels without manual sounding pipes, two transmitters per tank may be installed. Modern systems can incorporate a redundancy feature so that if one transmitter fails, the system continues to operate and display live data without interruption. This layered approach ensures operational continuity and safeguards against single-point failure.

Ensuring Accurate Tank Monitoring Across All Operations

Reliable tank measurements are critical not just for operational control, but for safety, environmental protection, stability management and regulatory compliance. Implementing robust primary and independent secondary systems ensures vessels can operate with confidence, even in challenging conditions.

Safety & Redundancy

A properly designed dual-system approach:

• Prevents reliance on a single system for critical tanks
• Ensures accurate readings even if one system fails
• Supports safe cargo transfer and bunkering operations

Pollution Prevention

Accurate tank monitoring plays a direct role in environmental compliance. Robust gauging systems:

• Reduce the risk of overfilling
• Support MARPOL compliance
• Provide early detection of abnormal tank levels

Stability & Trim Control

Reliable tank level data is essential for:

• GM (metacentric height) calculations
• Trim and list control
• Effective ballast management

Regulatory Compliance

International Rules, including SOLAS, MARPOL, the IBC Code and the IGC Code, require:

• A primary gauging system
• An independent secondary method (manual or electronic)
• Independent high-level alarms for overfill protection

Understanding Primary and Secondary Tank Gauging Systems

Effective tank management relies on a clear distinction between primary systems, which provide continuous operational monitoring, and secondary systems, which offer independent verification and safety assurance. Together, they form a comprehensive measurement strategy that safeguards operations, supports compliance, and ensures reliability even in critical situations.

With over 50 years’ experience across all vessel types, Scanjet PSM delivers reliable, compliant and fully supported tank gauging solutions. For tailored guidance on selecting, installing or maintaining tank gauging systems for your vessel, contact us today and ensure your operations remain safe, efficient and fully compliant.

Originally developed as a functional extension of Scanjet PSM Marine’s VPM Digital Tank Gauging Systems, our Draught, Trim & Heel Display System has evolved into a dedicated solution for the precise measurement and clear display of vessel draught.

A Dedicated Monitoring System

At the centre of the system is the VPM4300 Series display, providing a full-colour graphical and textual presentation of vessel draught values.

The display shows:

• Real-time draught measurements
• Averaged draught values over a user-selectable period, for a more stable and quantifiable reading, regardless of vessel size or prevailing sea conditions

A PSM APT1000 hydrostatic pressure transmitter, mounted to the vessel hull via a sea valve, accurately measures the head pressure of seawater. The VPM system offers flexible and easy configuration, including:

• One-, two-, or four-point draught measurement setups
• Simple interconnection using Modbus multi-drop capability, minimising wiring
• Single power source requirement at the display, simplifying installation

The VPM system processes the hydrostatic pressure readings from each transmitter and applies the necessary corrections to ensure that displayed values are accurately referenced to the vessel’s Forward and Aft draught marks.

Depending on the system configuration:

• Two-draught sensors (Forward and Aft) – vessel trim can be displayed
• Four-draught sensors (Forward, Aft, Port and Starboard Midships) – vessel heel angle can also be included

Simplified Installation, Configuration and Integration

The VPM system is designed for easy installation, minimal wiring and seamless integration:

• Modbus RS485 multi-drop – connect multiple transmitters with a single line
• Single power supply – reduces installation complexity
• Optional inclinometers – replace draught transmitters for trim/heel-only measurements via a single cable

Marine Type Approved and Field Proven

All system components are Marine Type Approved and have been proven in a wide range of marine applications, including:

• Small Ro-Ro ferries
• Mega yachts
• Naval vessels
• A series of eight Capesize VLBC vessels for the Seaenergy fleet

If you would like more information on our Draught, Trim & Heel Display Systems and how they can work for your vessels, then contact us today or visit our website.

As we head into 2026, Scanjet PSM is gearing up for a busy and productive year ahead. We are preparing for a full schedule of leading maritime events and exhibitions, where our team will be showcasing innovations, building partnerships and connecting with industry leaders from around the world.

Whether you are a long-standing client, a prospective new contact, or just keen to see what is next in marine technology, we would love to see you at one or more of these events.

Asia Pacific Maritime, Singapore (March 25-27, 2026)

Kicking off the year, Scanjet PSM will be attending Asia Pacific Maritime (APM), one of the most influential maritime exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region. APM offers a unique platform to meet global decision-makers and explore cutting-edge solutions across shipbuilding, offshore, defence, and beyond.

INTERTANKO Annual Tanker Event, Hong Kong (May 20–21, 2026)

Following Asia Pacific Maritime, Scanjet PSM will be participating in the INTERTANKO Annual Tanker Event. This established industry gathering brings together tanker owners, regulators, and industry specialists to discuss key issues affecting the independent tanker sector, including safety, sustainability and regulatory developments.

Posidonia 2026, Athens (June 1-5, 2026)

Next up is Posidonia 2026, the hallmark event of the European maritime calendar. This five-day exhibition draws professionals from every sector of the shipping industry, providing exceptional opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Seawork, Southampton (June 9-11, 2026)

Seawork is the UK’s leading exhibition for the commercial marine and workboat sectors. It provides a valuable forum for operators, manufacturers and service providers from across the industry.

SMM 2026, Hamburg (September 1-4, 2026)

One of the largest and most important maritime trade fairs globally, SMM Hamburg is a must-attend event for anyone in the shipping industry. From ship design to digitalisation and sustainability, SMM covers the full spectrum of maritime innovation.

Saudi Maritime Congress, Saudi Arabia (September 16-21, 2026)

The Saudi Maritime Congress reflects the growing importance of the Middle East in global shipping and offshore sectors. The event brings together policymakers, operators, investors and service providers for high-level discussions and collaboration.

Metstrade, Amsterdam (November 17-19, 2026)

Closing out the year, Scanjet PSM will be at Metstrade, one of the world’s largest marine equipment trade shows. This event is the go-to destination for professionals in the leisure marine industry, and a great venue to explore new technologies, trends and partnerships.

We are looking forward to an exciting year of engagement, innovation and partnership. If you are attending any of these events, we would love to meet you and discuss how Scanjet PSM can support your maritime needs in 2026 and beyond.

Stay tuned for updates on our social channels as the events approach.

2025 has been a landmark year for Scanjet PSM, marking 50 years of delivering trusted, cutting-edge marine instrumentation worldwide. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognised leader in digital tank-gauging solutions, our 50th anniversary reminds us how far we have come and excites us about the journey ahead.

50 Years Strong – The Big Milestone

This year, we proudly reflected on five decades of product innovation and marine instrumentation excellence.  From early 4 – 20mA hydrostatic transmitters to today’s fully digital solutions and complete systems, our evolution mirrors the changing demands of the marine industry.

We marked our 50 years with an anniversary celebration for our team with a day of recognition and thanks, and an opportunity to honour our many long-serving colleagues.

Major Project Wins and Flagship Deliveries

This year, we secured and delivered a number of significant marine instrumentation projects spanning superyachts, military vessels, cruise ships and new-build commercial vessels, reinforcing Scanjet PSM as a trusted supplier at the highest level.  Some of these notable deliveries include supplying advanced tank gauging systems to new-build vessels, for global customers including Macduff Shipyard, Navantia, Babcock, Turquoise Yachts, Alexandria Shipyard, Asenav Shipyard, and a state-of-the-art tank monitoring system for the Magellan Discoverer expedition Antarctica cruise ship.

These wins highlight our versatility, from tugs, large naval and commercial vessels to high-end yachts, and the trust clients place in our digital tank-gauging systems.

Strengthening and Expanding Key Partnerships

Partnerships remain at the heart of our success.  In 2025 we deepened long-standing collaborations and forged new relationships that extend our global reach.  We celebrated over two decades of collaboration with Aries, our trusted Spanish partner.  Their support remains pivotal for our success in Spain’s naval market.  We officially appointed PEP ARAB as our agent in Egypt.  Launching with the delivery and commissioning of instrumentation systems for multiple tug-boat new-builds at leading Egyptian shipyards, the partnership is already delivering real results.  Our growing partnership with DOP has seen our footprint expand in Turkey, securing new projects in 2025, a highlight being Geta Shipyard for three vessels for the Malaysia Navy.  Finally, our partnership with Terasaki Singapore, now spanning more than 10 years, continues to thrive.  Together, we supply comprehensive marine instrumentation solutions to clients in Asia across a wide variety of vessel types.

These collaborations underscore our commitment to global support and local service, enabling clients worldwide to benefit from Scanjet PSM’s technology with trusted local representation.

Looking Ahead – The Next 50 Years

As we reflect on 50 years in 2025, one truth stands above everything else: our people have always been the core of who we are.  Technologies evolve and industries shift, but the spirit, skill, and commitment of our employees have shaped every chapter of our story.  We thank them for making 2025 another successful year!

We are more energised than ever about what comes next, and we would like to thank all our customers, partners and agents for being part of this journey.  Here’s to the next 50 years of innovation, reliability and marine excellence.

Our Scanjet PSM offices will be closed from 24th December through to 2nd January.  We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all Seasons Greetings and our best wishes for 2026.  We look forward to working with you in the New Year and beyond.

I began my career as a design engineer, working with companies such as STC, where I designed industrial power supplies; Beecham Pharmaceuticals, developing specialised scientific research equipment; Amstrad, designing PCs and communications equipment; and Raytheon, where I worked on Air Traffic Control radar installations. Although I enjoyed the technical challenges, I often found myself missing the more hands-on, practical side of engineering.

In the early 1990s, I joined a small firm specialising in the design, build, installation and servicing of draught indicator systems for ferries. This was my first experience in the marine industry and involved extensive international travel. I had finally found a niche that combined all the aspects of engineering I enjoyed most. It was during this time, in the mid-1990s, that I first encountered PSM while using their sensors on a project.

In 2001, PSM approached me to run their service department…and the rest, as they say, is history. Nearly 25 years later, with around 1,000 service jobs completed and visits to more than 50 countries across six continents (still waiting for that one job in Antarctica to complete the set!), I continue to enjoy working alongside the dedicated team that PSM has built.

Outside of work, I have a wide range of interests, including air rifle field target shooting, where I have competed at both national and international level and won the British Championship in 2015. My biggest passions, though, are astrophysics, astronomy and astrophotography, and I’ve travelled extensively to photograph total solar eclipses – five so far, with another trip planned to Egypt in 2027.

At Scanjet PSM, growth isn’t just a goal, it is a mindset. As demand for our products, systems and services continues to rise and our market footprint expands, we are proud to highlight some of the key investments we are making in 2025 and beyond.

Strategic Investment for the Future

We are making strategic investments in cutting-edge plant equipment designed to supercharge our production capabilities and future-proof our operations.

Why Now? Meeting Growth Head-On

Over the past year, we have seen remarkable growth across key sectors. Customer demand is rising, new markets are emerging, and innovation continues to drive us forward. But with growth comes responsibility to deliver faster, smarter and more sustainably.

That is why we are investing in state-of-the-art machinery and automation systems that will:

• Boost production capacity by over 50% to meet rising demand
• Enhance product quality through precision engineering and real-time monitoring
• Reduce energy consumption and waste using eco-efficient technologies
• Streamline workflows for faster turnaround and improved scalability

What is New in the Plant

Our latest equipment lineup includes:

• Laser etching machine – accelerates process time and improves legibility for our customers
• Semi-automated packaging system – speeds up fulfilment and enhances transport protection
• Expanded automated calibration system – increases capacity and reduces lead times
• Energy-efficient HVAC upgrades – support our ongoing sustainability goals

These upgrades are not just about hardware, they are about empowering our team with the tools they need to innovate, collaborate and lead.

Investing in People

Technology is only as powerful as the people behind it. Alongside our equipment investment, we are launching new training programs to upskill our workforce and foster a culture of continuous improvement. From engineers to operators, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the next chapter of our success.

In 2025, we’ve also welcomed three new team members to support this exciting phase of growth.

Looking Ahead

This investment marks another pivotal moment in our 50-year evolution. It is a signal to our customers, partners and employees that we remain committed to excellence, agility and sustainable growth.

As we gear up for the future, we are excited to deliver even more value – faster, smarter and greener.

Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes updates, success stories, team features, application insights and a closer look at how our new plant equipment is transforming the way we work.

I joined PSM in 2024 as a Test Engineer, bringing with me many years of experience in electronics manufacturing. My role involves final configuration, testing and inspection, as well as working closely with the project team to carry out full system testing and Factory Acceptance Tests alongside our military customers.

I am also involved in product development and performance testing, including accelerated life cycle and process validation projects.

Before joining PSM, I completed my Master’s degree in Marketing with a specialisation in Advertising at the University of Katowice.

Outside of work, I have always had a strong passion for dance. From an early age, I attended various classes, from folk dancing (including the traditional Polonaise) to ballroom styles such as waltz and salsa. These days, I love keeping active with Zumba, aqua aerobics, and swimming.

Another lifelong passion of mine is sailing. I obtained my sea helmsman licence at just 15, sailing over 1,200 nautical miles across Polish lakes, the Baltic Sea, and European waters. Sailing taught me not only discipline and teamwork, but also the importance of making quick, accurate decisions, skills that I continue to apply in my work today.