Stock monitoring and Inventory Control
The OTS TankStream family uses Internet connectivity for real time stock visibility.
Oil Tank Supplies has developed a range of electronic tank gauging products to support depot and wholesale fuel oil storage facilities. These gauges are used in conjunction with the appropriate instrumentation to measure tank levels, temperature and water content. The data is presented in a clear digital display which can be viewed both on-site and online by using TankStream – a dedicated stock monitoring system, which is operated by a standard web browser and does not require proprietary software.
Recommendations for site installations will vary according to operational requirements. In addition to stock monitoring, TankStream can be used with fuel conditioning systems and additional protective measures to prevent potential contamination by ‘rogue’ fuel deliveries. An important feature of the online connectivity is the ability to offer ‘Real Time’ remote monitoring with SMS messaging and e-mail alarm alerts.
The TankStream family covers all installation requirements from a single tank up to a larger scale distribution terminal.
TankStream LITE
The basic entry level display console is intended for local operation, covering two storage tanks. The tank contents are measured by pressure sensor devices. Features include a high level alarm and integrated bund alarms. This console can be integrated into a larger web-based network, using the TankStream Touch screen panel as the master console.
TankStream II
The full specification unit provides increased processing capacity for up to eight tanks. The user simply scrolls through the digital display listing to check individual tank contents. As well as recording the data in real time, the unit is also connected to the internet using GPRS telecoms technology to enable remote monitoring via an Internet connection.
TankStream Touch
This option provides the user with a consolidated overview presentation. Each of the depot tanks are presented as a graphic which can then be selected for more details. The data is collected from appropriate sensor devices used to measure height of fuel contents, ullage (free space) and water content etc.
Fuel Control System
Normally housed in a weather proof cabinet, the FCS provides all the information required to enable delivery tanker drivers to check the depot tank contents and obtain a printed receipt when either unloading or loading fuel. Most depots operate on a self-serve basis and OTS has simplified the process by integrating the tank contents gauge and the loading information into a single control panel with touch display.
In operation TankStream allows management to track and monitor their fuel storage facilities. For example, in a typical multi-depot haulage operation, the customer simply logs into his account through a web browser, to view his dashboard overview. This will show that he has a specific quantity of fuel across the network and how this is distributed between the actual tanks located at regional depots.
Rather than inventory alarms, the tank contents low level setting itself, can be used to trigger a purchasing instruction, so that stocks are replenished automatically. The supervisor can click on any depot to view the current status. Should there be any alarms, the system will send out an SMS message to key personnel, who must then acknowledge receipt in order to order to ensure traceability and full responsibility for any corrective action required.
Customers can also use the system to monitor the serviceability of the fuelling facilities. For instance output from pump and machine diagnostics monitoring nozzle switches, back lights, motor running electrical spikes and fuel flow through the pumps.
The system can also be used to monitor drainage tank interceptors and other security measures such as the closed circuit television. Potentially there is capacity to pick up some 200 or more devices or data entry gates. Driven by actual customer requirements, the development of OTS TankStream is moving towards the functionality of a full blown building management systems tool.
