This new product combines the strength of the Lokring-Coldweld™ technology with strain monitoring that improves performance and safety for all industrial installations. The new sensor, specifically designed for Lokring fittings, is an IoT-based device that attaches seamlessly to the product and monitors the product’s drive ring after the fitting is pulled up.
The IoT sensor monitors the joint post-installation, measuring strain and ensuring the integrity of the connection. This ongoing monitoring is crucial in maintaining safety and efficiency in high-stakes environments like industrial manufacturing facilities, power plants and oil refineries.
It is also pivotal in preventing equipment failures and ensuring continuous operations in demanding industrial environments. The Smartlok™ product is designed for lifecycle extension of pipework systems, and acts as an early warning system of piping and fitting anomalies.
State-of-the-Art Energy Harvesting Technology
In a remarkable advancement, this sensor functions without a conventional power source. It is equipped with a patented innovative photovoltaic (PV) energy-harvesting system that draws power from a solar unit that is only 1.638” x 1.035”. This unit runs on ambient light in a typical office environment or can be powered by a flashlight from 15-20’ away.
This approach eliminates the need for batteries, reducing both maintenance requirements and environmental impact. The solar panel is now the power source for the SmartLok and enables remote data acquisition.
Wireless Data Transmission for Enhanced Convenience
The sensor uses Bluetooth to wirelessly transmit data to a handheld Android device that is running the Lokring app. This feature allows for daily, hassle-free readings, enabling maintenance staff to easily monitor the strain on installed fittings.
The Lokring app transmits the data using Wi-Fi to the Lokring cloud. The Lokring cloud includes a dashboard that enables strain readings to be analyzed over time. In addition, if the handheld is out of range of Wi-Fi, the data readings are timestamped, stored locally on the handheld, and transmitted asynchronously to the cloud when the handheld comes back into Wi-Fi range.
This approach means that readings can be taken in places that do not have immediate access to the internet.
Redefining Industrial Monitoring Standards
Lokring Technology had already developed IoT concepts while working with Phase IV in Boulder, Colorado and was looking for a local IoT source to further enhance the data acquisition and cloud-based systems. Lokring and Embedded Planet were able to create a product that meets the stringent requirements for monitoring, transmission, durability, and data analysis.
User-Friendly Design and Seamless Integration
Tailored for ease of use, the sensor integrates effortlessly into existing systems, boasting a user-friendly interface that ensures swift adoption in diverse industrial settings. Its compatibility with standard handheld devices means that integrating this advanced technology into daily operations is both simple and efficient.
Learn More about Smartlok™
Are you looking for a solution to monitor the performance of your piping system? Get in touch with one of our team to find out more about Smartlok™ and how they can be used with LOKRING fittings.