Monitor Stationary LPG Tanks Without Sensor Cabling
Traditional tank-monitoring installations may require installers to run cables between the tank sensor and a separately located display. Depending on the site, this can involve trenching, conduit installation and additional electrical work.
The LevelCon Wireless STM removes the signal cable between its wireless sensor node and local display. First, a compatible sensor measures the tank level. The wireless sensor node then transmits the reading to the monitor, which displays the current level on its backlit LCD.
Consequently, the Wireless STM can simplify installations. Especially, where distance, existing infrastructure or site access makes conventional sensor cabling difficult or expensive.
Key Features of the LevelCon Wireless STM
- Wireless communication between the monitor and compatible sensor nodes
- Large, always-on backlit LCD
- Local tank-level indication
- Configurable local level alerts
- Optional Cat-M1 LTE and 4G cellular communication
- AES-128 wireless security protocol
- Native Modbus RS-485 data streaming
- JSON API support
- Integrated solar-energy harvesting
- Supercapacitor energy storage
- Four AA backup batteries
- Optional external 12 V power
- Magnetic mounting for compatible metal tanks
- Optional fixed mounting bracket
- Wide operating temperature range
- Support for several tank-level sensing technologies
Local and Remote Tank-Level Monitoring
The Wireless STM gives technicians an immediate tank-level reading through its local LCD. Therefore, they can check the tank without opening a control enclosure or connecting a separate device.
In addition, a cellular-enabled configuration can transmit monitoring information for remote access. When connected to the appropriate LevelCon service, operators can view tank data through the LevelCon cloud monitoring platform.
This combination provides two important capabilities:
- Local visibility: Personnel can see the tank level while standing at the installation.
- Remote visibility: Authorised users can monitor the tank without travelling to the site.
Actual cellular services and portal functions depend on the selected configuration, network availability and monitoring subscription.
Compatible Tank-Level Sensors
The Wireless STM works with LevelCon wireless sensor technology and supports several measurement methods. Therefore, Metromatics can help select a sensor based on the tank, stored product and operating conditions.
Compatible sensor categories include:
Propane Dials and Tank Gauges
The Wireless STM can receive readings from compatible propane dials and tank-gauge sensors. These configurations suit stationary LPG and propane tanks fitted with an appropriate mechanical float gauge.
Hydrostatic Pressure Sensors
A submersible hydrostatic sensor measures the pressure created by the liquid above it. This method supports level measurement in water, fuel and other compatible liquids.
Non-Contact Radar Sensors
Radar sensors measure the distance to the surface of the stored material without touching it. Consequently, radar can suit applications where contact with the liquid is undesirable.
Ultrasonic Sensors
Ultrasonic sensors also provide non-contact level measurement. They calculate the tank level by transmitting a sound pulse and measuring its return from the material surface.
Other Sensor and Equipment Inputs
Depending on the system setup, the Wireless STM can connect to different devices. Items such as flow metres and gas metres. Or to Modbus devices and variable frequency drives. It can connect to other compatible equipment too.
Solar-Powered Tank Monitoring
The Wireless STM incorporates a micro-solar panel that harvests energy for the monitoring system. It stores this energy in a long-life supercapacitor and uses four standard AA batteries for backup power.
As a result, the system can operate at locations where mains power is unavailable or difficult to install. LevelCon states that the solar charging arrangement can support up to ten years of operation. Although actual service life will depend on configuration, reporting frequency, installation conditions and available sunlight.
Alternatively, users can select an optional 12 V external power supply.
Modbus RS-485 and System Integration
The Wireless STM provides native Modbus RS-485 data streaming for integration with compatible:
- SCADA systems
- Remote terminal units
- Site controllers
- Programmable logic controllers
- Industrial monitoring systems
Furthermore, the system supports JSON API connectivity in compatible remote-monitoring configurations. This allows organisations to incorporate tank and sensor data into supported third-party dashboards or business platforms.
Integration requirements should be reviewed for each application before ordering.
Applications
The LevelCon Wireless STM can support tank and equipment monitoring across:
- Stationary LPG and propane tanks
- Telecommunications towers
- Radio communications sites
- Generator fuel systems
- Remote infrastructure
- Industrial storage tanks
- Water and wastewater sites
- Fuel and lubricant storage
- Agricultural tanks
- Utility facilities
- Unattended equipment locations
The stored material and tank configuration will determine the appropriate sensor.
Benefits of Wireless Stationary Tank Monitoring
Reduce Installation Work
Wireless sensor communication removes the need to install a signal cable between the sensor and display. Therefore, the system can reduce trenching, conduit and associated installation work.
Check Tank Levels Locally
The large backlit LCD gives technicians a clear local reading at the installation. Consequently, onsite personnel can check tank conditions quickly.
Access Data Remotely
A cellular-enabled system can send data to compatible remote-monitoring services. This allows operators to check tanks before scheduling site visits or deliveries.
Receive Early Warning of Level Changes
Local alerts help personnel respond when the tank reaches selected operating thresholds. Remote notifications may also be available through the configured LevelCon monitoring service.
Integrate with Existing Control Equipment
Modbus RS-485 output allows the Wireless STM to share data with compatible SCADA, RTU and site-control equipment.
Support Off-Grid Locations
Integrated solar-energy harvesting, backup batteries and optional 12 V power provide flexibility for remote and unattended sites.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | LevelCon Wireless STM |
|---|---|
| Product type | Wireless stationary tank monitor |
| Primary application | Local and remote tank-level monitoring |
| Local display | Large, always-on backlit LCD |
| Sensor communication | Wireless communication with compatible LevelCon sensor nodes |
| Cellular options | Cat-M1 LTE and 4G, subject to configuration and network compatibility |
| Local integration | Modbus RS-485 |
| API support | JSON API |
| Security protocol | AES-128 |
| Compatible sensors | Propane dials, hydrostatic pressure, radar, ultrasonic and other compatible sensors |
| Solar power | Integrated micro-solar energy harvesting |
| Energy storage | Supercapacitor |
| Backup power | Four AA batteries |
| External power | Optional 12 V supply |
| Mounting | Magnetic mounting or optional fixed bracket |
| Dimensions | Approximately 120 × 89 × 36 mm |
| Operating temperature | Approximately –40°C to 65°C |
| Storage temperature | Approximately –50°C to 80°C |
| Country of origin | More than 50% assembled in the USA |
How Does the Wireless STM Work?
- A compatible sensor measures the tank level or other required parameter.
- A LevelCon wireless sensor node transmits the reading to the Wireless STM.
- The monitor shows the current reading on its backlit LCD.
- The monitor activates configured local alerts when readings reach selected thresholds.
- Modbus RS-485 sends data to compatible onsite systems.
- A cellular-enabled configuration can transmit data for remote monitoring and API access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LevelCon Wireless STM?
The Wireless STM is a stationary tank monitor that receives readings from compatible wireless sensor nodes. It displays tank levels locally and can also support cellular remote monitoring, Modbus integration and local alerts.
Can the Wireless STM monitor LPG tanks?
Yes. LevelCon designed the Wireless STM to support local level monitoring of stationary propane and LPG tanks when paired with compatible tank gauges, dials and sensors.
Does it need a cable between the tank sensor and display?
No signal cable is required between the compatible wireless sensor node and monitor. However, power, installation and integration requirements will depend on the selected configuration.
Can it operate without mains power?
The Wireless STM incorporates solar-energy harvesting, a supercapacitor and AA backup batteries. An optional 12 V power input is also available. Yes, it can operate without mains power.
Can the Wireless STM connect to a SCADA system?
Yes. Native Modbus RS-485 data streaming supports integration with compatible SCADA systems, RTUs, PLCs and site controllers.
Can it monitor liquids other than LPG?
Potentially. The Wireless STM supports hydrostatic pressure, radar, ultrasonic and other compatible sensors. Therefore, it may monitor water, fuels, lubricants and other industrial liquids when paired with an appropriate sensor.
Can users view tank levels remotely?
A mobile-enabled configuration can transmit tank information to compatible remote-monitoring services. Portal access, communications and notification functions depend on the selected LevelCon service.
Selecting the Right Wireless STM Configuration
The correct configuration depends on:
- Stored liquid or gas
- Existing tank gauge
- Tank size and geometry
- Required sensor technology
- Local display requirements
- Alarm thresholds
- Cellular network availability
- Solar exposure and power availability
- SCADA or Modbus integration
- Hazardous-area requirements
Metromatics can help select the Wireless STM, sensor, communications and portal configuration required for your application.
Request a Wireless Tank-Monitoring Solution
Finally, reduce sensor cabling while gaining clear local tank-level information and optional remote visibility.
Contact Metromatics for more information about the LevelCon Wireless STM stationary tank monitor.
View the STM94442A Stationary LPG Tank Monitoring for a different alternative.
