Proven Success in the O&G Downstream Sector
microPIMS has been a game-changer for refineries and petrochemical facilities seeking accurate and timely data to monitor corrosion and erosion. Jeff Anderson, Senior Vice President of Robotics and Remote Monitoring, emphasized the importance of customer-centric design:
“Our customers have made it clear they need more accurate and timely corrosion rate data to more efficiently operate their plants, and where possible, extend the useful life of their most critical assets – they key is to make it easy on them, which is why we started with 900MHz/LoRaWAN.”
Thanks to its innovative design, a single 900MHz/LoRaWAN gateway can support microPIMS installations across vast areas. Sensors are installed in under 10 minutes and provide temperature and thickness readings with 0.0254-millimeter (0.001-inch) accuracy. This level of precision enables instant feedback on corrosion or erosion—key insights that empower operators to make informed decisions about asset maintenance and operation.
Expanding Connectivity: Why WiHART Matters
Industrial environments today largely rely on two major wireless protocols: 900MHz/LoRaWAN and 2.4GHz/WiHART. Each has its strengths, and understanding these protocols highlights why microPIMS-WiHART is a pivotal innovation.
The Evolution of Wireless Protocols
WiHART was introduced in 2007, providing plants with wireless capabilities for process control applications such as monitoring flow, pressure, level, and vibration. With roughly 30% of all process wireless communications utilizing WiHART, according to The FieldComm Group, it became a popular choice for real-time data in control loops. However, WiHART’s mesh network design posed challenges:
- A limited transmission range of ~100 meters or ~300 feet.
- Significant infrastructure costs, ranging from $250,000 to $5 million per facility, to extend coverage.
In response, 900MHz/LoRaWAN emerged in 2015 as a cost-effective alternative. Its long-range capability (>1 mile per gateway) and ease of deployment have made it the preferred choice for over 60% of the global Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market, according to the LoRaWAN Alliance. Industries from oil and gas to mining and even amusement parks have embraced this technology.
Addressing Customer Needs with WiHART Integration
While LoRaWAN remains a dominant force, many facilities have already invested heavily in WiHART infrastructure. To support these customers, Eddyfi Technologies introduced the WiHART-enabled microPIMS in June 2024. This advancement ensures seamless integration with existing networks, allowing users to leverage their infrastructure investments while accessing the unparalleled accuracy and reliability of microPIMS.
Jeff Anderson elaborated:
“We continually refine our product roadmap to deliver maximum value to our users. By introducing the Wi-HART-enabled microPIMS, we’re proud to meet the needs of our loyal WiHART customer base.”
Setting a New Standard in Wireless UT Sensing
The launch of microPIMS-WiHART marks a significant milestone in wireless UT sensing. It is the only fully wireless, battery-operated, and CIDI & ATEX Zone 0-rated UT sensor available in both 900MHz/LoRaWAN and 2.4GHz/WiHART protocols. This versatility ensures that asset owners across industries can:
- Reduce unplanned downtime by identifying corrosion and erosion issues early.
- Enhance plant efficiency with precise, actionable data.
- Maintain safety for personnel and critical assets through robust monitoring.
Real-World Impact: Why It Matters for Your Operations
Whether your facility is equipped with LoRaWAN or WiHART, microPIMS-WiHART delivers seamless integration and unparalleled performance. Its user-friendly design minimizes installation time, while its dual-protocol capability ensures compatibility with a wide range of industrial environments. The result? Comprehensive asset integrity management that saves time, reduces costs, and enhances operational efficiency.
The Road Ahead
As industries continue to embrace digital transformation, solutions like microPIMS-WiHART will play a crucial role in shaping the future of asset monitoring. By offering a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective approach to UT sensing, microPIMS empowers operators to stay ahead of corrosion and erosion challenges, ensuring the safety and reliability of their assets for years to come.
Discover how microPIMS-WiHART can revolutionize your approach to asset integrity management. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative solutions and how they can drive value for your operations.