How to improve operations with propane tank level monitoring?

A propane tank level monitoring system is a specialized system used to monitor and control the amount of propane in one or more tanks. This system can be used for both domestic and commercial applications, for example, by propane suppliers where propane storage is a critical component of the operational process. This system consists of three main components:

• Sensors to accurately detect the propane level;
• Communication network to transmit the data from sensors to the platform;
• Platforms to store, process, and display the data.

The main idea of the propane tank monitoring system is to remotely monitor tank levels 24/7 using tank telemetry and see in real-time how much propane is in the tank, helping better manage propane and keep business running smoothly. Propane tank monitoring is accomplished through the use of smart technology, such as a wireless propane tank level monitor and float gauge, as well as reliable communication methods to deliver the measurements to the cloud system. With the right IoT platform and its easy-to-use dashboard, users can quickly get all the information about propane tanks or check levels via smartphone or PC. Efficiently managing propane inventory and being notified about any sensor alerts, helps avoid interruptions and ensure having propane when needing it, and even improves business sustainability and environmental compliance by detecting leaks in the tanks, making operations more efficient and customers happier.

In addition, the tank level monitoring system can be adapted to the needs of the business, for example, in sales, manufacturing or any other industry where propane levels need to be closely monitored. The tank level monitoring system helps to make business more efficient by using resources more accurately and carefully.

How propane tank level monitoring system works?

There are many propane level sensors, such as an external magnetic sensor, float gauge, and remote gauges for vertical propane tanks or horizontal propane tanks. They can be installed indoors or outdoors, and they all perform the same function – read the remaining contents of your propane tank. The sensor is mounted on the lid of a closed tank or suspended by a rod or rope in the tank, or a float gauge is used. Once installed, the sensor can check the amount of liquid in the tank. To do this, it sends a wave through the liquid and measures the time it takes for the wave to reflect off the surface of the liquid. The device collects this information from the sensor and sends it to our IoT visualization platform for tracking real-time tank level. This gives you the ability to monitor propane levels remotely from anywhere in the world via a web or smartphone app, making it easy to keep track of the amount of liquid in any tank.

Wireless devices for propane tank monitoring

Wireless devices for remote propane tank monitoring have many advantages over standard tank level measurement devices. They can be used to remotely control and monitor the level of propane in tanks. These devices use a variety of sensors and communication technologies to transmit data on propane level, temperature, and sometimes even propane quality to a central system or directly to users via our platform in real-time. Here are some of the benefits and specifications of IoT devices used for wireless propane tank monitoring:

1. Level sensors: These sensors measure the amount of propane in the tank for the accurate and repeatable tank level readings. The technologies used include ultrasonic, radar, and float sensors, each with its own advantages and suitable for different tank conditions – vertical propane tank or horizontal propane tank, It can be installed indoors or outdoors.
2. Temperature sensors: Remote reading of propane tank contents helps to measure temperature, it is vital for for business and farming, as changes in temperature can affect volume and quality of propane.
3. Connectivity: These devices often use wireless technology such as Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, NB-IoT or cellular networks to transmit data to a IoT platform. This allows for remote monitoring and alerting.
4. Power supply: Many IoT devices for propane tank monitoring are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They can use batteries, solar power, or energy harvesting technologies to operate in remote or hard-to-reach locations without requiring frequent maintenance, what is very important for tanks in the field, tanks below ground, and other tanks located in the hard-to-reach places.

ThingsBoard IoT platform solution for the propane tank monitoring

There are many benefits to using the ThingsBoard IoT platform to monitor propane levels in tanks. With real-time tracking, the platform allows you to always have the latest information about propane in your tanksʼ and make informed decisions, ensuring smooth and safe operations. With features such as user management, device compatibility, and customization, the ThingsBoard platform is a versatile and powerful tool for any business involved in the storage and management of propane in tanks.

Here is an overview of the main benefits of using an ThingsBoard IoT platform in the propane tank monitoring:

Real-time Monitoring

An interactive map with current status of the sensor and detailed view will help you to always be aware of all the information about your propane tanks.

Calculation of propane level based on geometry

Determining the liquid level is not only based on the sensor readings, but also takes into account the shape and dimensions of the tank, which are crucial for accurate calculations. The use of an ThingsBoard platform makes it possible to be more flexible in the choice of sensors, since sometimes sensors transmit data in some units of measurement, and the dimensions of the tank in others. In such cases, the IoT platform plays a crucial role. It enriches the raw readings from the sensors by applying mathematical calculations that take into account the specific tank dimensions and shape. The enriched data is then displayed on monitoring and end-user dashboards.

Alerting and Notification

The ThingsBoard IoT platform can continuously monitor the propane level and send alerts to phones or computers if the propane level gets too low or too high. This helps take action quickly, such as refilling the tank or stopping the flow to prevent a spill. The platform enables customized alerts tailored to your specific needs and preferences. You can receive notifications via SMS, email, or app for changes in temperature, pressure, or other conditions within the tank. Additionally, you will be alerted when the propane level drops below a certain threshold or if unusual patterns are detected. This ensures timely refills and maintenance and even helps in monitoring for potential theft.

Data analysis and visualization

Using data storage, you can always check historical data, make reports, and even forecasts. The platform supports 300+ out-of-the-box widgets and flexible customization of the required data visualization.

Low-Code Customization for Different Business Requirements and Integrations

Every business has unique needs, and the ThingsBoard IoT platform can be customized to meet those needs. Using ThingsBoard tank monitoring and flexible mechanisms of the platform, you can create unique solutions that better match specific business processes, integrate with other systems (for example, with inventory systems or ordering systems), or add new functions. This makes adapting the platform to business needs easy, increasing efficiency and integration with your existing operations.

Residential propane tank monitoring & Commercial propane tank monitoring

Commercial propane tank monitoring

Tank monitoring in the oil, gas, and energy for business and farming encompasses a wide range of technologies to optimize the storage, use, and distribution of various propane and bulk storage. This sector requires accurate and reliable monitoring solutions due to the high volumes, potential environmental and safety risks, and economic implications of storage and distribution. Benefits of tank monitoring in the oil and energy industry:
Operational Efficiency: Real-time monitoring allows for just-in-time delivery and distribution, reducing holding costs and optimizing supply chains.
Safety and Environmental Protection: Early detection of leaks and potential hazards minimizes the risk of accidents and environmental damage.
Cost Savings: By optimizing inventory management and reducing the risk of spillage or contamination, companies can achieve significant cost savings.
Data-Driven Decisions: Access to detailed analytics and trends enables better strategic planning and investment decisions

Residential propane tank monitoring

Residential propane tank monitoring refers to the use of technology to continuously measure and track the propane levels in a household propane tank. This system typically involves sensors placed for each tank, which transmit data to a monitoring device or a cloud-based platform. Homeowners and service providers can access this data in real time through mobile apps, web portals, or notification systems. Benefits of residential propane tank monitoring:
Convenience: Eliminates the need to manually check the propane tank level gauge, especially in adverse weather conditions or for tanks located in hard-to-reach areas.
Cost savings: By understanding consumption patterns and ordering propane only when needed, homeowners can avoid unnecessary deliveries and take advantage of lower prices during off-peak periods.
Environmental impact: Effective monitoring and tracking of consumption can reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by optimizing heating efficiency.

Conclusion

Implementing propane tank level monitoring systems significantly enhances operational efficiency for companies relying on propane. These systems provide accurate tracking of propane levels, which reduces the risk of running out of supply and leads to improved inventory management. The automation involved in monitoring minimizes the need for manual labor and optimizes delivery schedules, resulting in substantial cost savings. Safety is also greatly improved, as continuous monitoring helps detect and prevent leaks.
Additionally, the data collected through these systems can be analyzed to forecast future needs and improve overall operations. Real-world examples demonstrate that companies that have adopted propane tank level monitoring have experienced notable improvements in efficiency, cost savings, and safety. Consequently, propane tank level monitoring is an invaluable tool for modern enterprises, enabling them to achieve higher productivity, lower operational costs, and maintain safer working environments.