PSM’s ability to supply a complete tank contents monitoring solution within the constraints of a short docking schedule was a key factor in securing two recent contracts with Naval Systems, Italy for replacement cargo monitoring systems.

Based on PSM’s Minder multi-channel unit, the systems can monitor up to 40 inputs. Simplicity of installation and the ease with which the tank characteristics can be configured were also attractions of the system. Both vented and pressurised tanks are being monitored, and the company’s 260 series transmitters are used in this application for both level and top pressure measurement.

Future possible enhancements include alarm monitoring and reporting and communication with the ships’ centralised monitoring systems, both of which the Minder can be readily expanded to cover.

The Minder 2200 has been developed to provide comprehensive display and control facilities whether on just one tank or more than 100. Although ideal for marine applications it is equally suitable for static storage tanks in any land-based industry. Its flexibility enables it to be tailored easily for individual applications, and particular attention has been paid to engineering the product to ensure durability and reliability in harsh operational conditions.

Menu accessed features include programming for any shape of pressurised or vented tank, SG correction, product details, and alarm/control settings up to four output relays per tank. Outputs include 4-20mA retransmission and serial communication. 

Each unit has both an RS485 serial port for multi-drop communications and an RS232 port for local/host communications and local configuration. PSM’s own secure protocol is provided for network communication and host communication may be MODBUS based, enabling simple integration with systems from other manufacturers.

PSM also supply Tankview for Windows, a PC based graphical monitoring package, and, to complete the package, a full range of level transmitters employing various sensing technologies.