1. INTRODUCTION
Tanks and storage have been essential to human civilization for centuries. From early agriculture to modern industries, they help store food, fuel, water, and chemicals. How technology is transforming tank manufacturing is playing a pivotal role in enhancing production processes and design. Now, IoT (Internet of Things) technology is transforming this industry by improving security, efficiency, and monitoring capabilities. Here are five ways IoT is bringing innovation to tank and storage management.
1.1 PREVENTING THEFT
Theft is a major issue in the tank storage industry. Both individuals and large industries suffer losses due to stolen fuel, water, or chemicals. In Mexico alone, oil theft cost the country $3.5 billion in 2018. IoT technology helps prevent theft through real-time monitoring and smart algorithms. Sensors detect unusual changes in flow or pressure, sending alerts if unauthorized access is detected. This allows owners to act quickly and protect their assets.
1.2 MONITORING TANK LININGS
The outer shell of a tank is important, but so is the inner lining, which is often made of polyurethane or PVC. Over time, linings can wear out or develop leaks, causing asset loss and safety risks. IoT sensors track the condition of these linings, detecting small leaks before they become bigger problems. This ensures compliance with safety regulations and prevents costly repairs.
1.3 PREVENTING OVERFLOW
Overflowing tanks can lead to wasted resources, environmental hazards, and even fires. Improper filling, seasonal expansion, or human error can cause tanks to exceed their capacity. IoT-based remote monitoring helps prevent this by collecting real-time data and identifying risks early. Automated alerts notify managers about potential overflow, reducing the risk of accidents.
1.4 DETECTING LEAKS AND TANK WEAR WITH EDGE IOT
Tanks expand and contract due to temperature changes and pressure variations. Over time, this can cause structural weakness and leaks. IoT solutions, such as Edge IoT and AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things), provide continuous monitoring of tank conditions. By analyzing volume changes, the system differentiates between normal seasonal fluctuations and dangerous leaks. This helps in early detection and timely maintenance, preventing asset loss.
1.5 MONITORING CHANGES IN STORED MATERIALS
The contents inside tanks can degrade over time due to temperature changes, contamination, or chemical reactions. Traditionally, industries rely on manual sampling and lab tests, which are time-consuming and expensive. IoT technology simplifies this process by offering real-time monitoring of stored materials. Sensors track factors like temperature, humidity, and chemical composition, ensuring that the quality of the stored product remains intact.
- CONCLUSION
IoT technology is revolutionizing the tank and storage industry by enhancing security, preventing waste, and improving efficiency. Whether it’s stopping theft, monitoring tank conditions, or ensuring product quality, IoT-based solutions provide real-time insights that help businesses save time and money. If you want to learn more about how IoT can benefit your storage operations, feel free to reach out.