Wireless Thief Hatch Sensor for Remote Tank Monitoring Announced

Phil Black - PII Editor 27/03/2017

161 1 minute read

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SignalFire has introduced the Hatch Watchdog, a wireless thief hatch sensor that monitors the status of tank hatches to mitigate environmental and safety risks associated with accidental emissions.

When tank hatches – known as thief hatches – remain ajar, they can release vapours into the atmosphere. Stringent regulations in controlling emissions can result in fines due to leaking tank hatches. Protecting the environment is also a priority for many companies with green initiatives.

The Hatch Watchdog (patent pending) sensor tracks the angle of the tank hatch and wirelessly reports status (open/closed/cracked) and changes to a central gateway that formats and transmits the data to a control center for remote monitoring.

Modbus or digital alarming is available at the gateway. The Hatch Watchdog also operates as a standard wireless node in any SignalFire Remote Monitoring and Control Network.

As the Hatch Watchdog constantly monitors the status of a tank hatch, operators can immediately respond to any deviation from the hatch-closed position.

With pending C1D1 certification for hazardous locations, this novel sensor has an operating range of ½ mile and a battery life of more than five years. In addition, the sensor attaches easily to the hatch with an epoxy adhesive, eliminating the need for tools.

To activate the Hatch Watchdog sensor, an operator simply presses the zero button for approximately two seconds until a LED flashes to record the “closed” position.

The longer setup period reduces the chance of the sensor being zeroed by mistake. In addition, the zero button is protected by housing that guards against accidental activation from someone bumping into it.