New Industry Products

Cellular RMU Provides AC and DC Measurements with 1% of Reading Accuracy

October 02, 2013 by Jeff Shepard

American Innovations, Inc. has released the Bullhorn RM4150 remote monitoring unit (RMU) for accurate remote monitoring of cathodic protection (CP) assets. By collecting and communicating rectifier measurements using GSM networks, operators can meet 49 CFR 192/ 195 regulations and protect their pipelines. The digital channels provide an accumulator for metering applications and, with an optional accessory, intrusion detection. It includes GPS-synchronized interruption for close interval, depolarization, and DCVG surveys.

The RM4150 RMU was created to monitor rectifiers used in cathodic protection systems. It has five analog channels and two digital channels to monitor rectifiers on pipelines, well casings, tanks and other assets. The unit measures ac and dc Volts and Amps, pipe-to-soil potential, shunts, Instant Off, line power presence and more - all with 1% of reading accuracy. This allows high-resolution changes to be observed and monitored, and allows the measurement of very low mV readings to accommodate current shunt measurements. Operators typically no longer need to change a shunt to adapt to limitations of measurement devices.

The RM4150 installs quickly and is easy to set-up. It is small enough to fit inside most rectifiers or mounts externally using an optional NEMA 4X enclosure. It features over-the-air configuration and firmware upgrades via the Bullhorn Asset Tracker (BATâ„¢) website. The RM4150 also communicates measurement readings to AI's Pipeline Compliance System (PCSâ„¢) to further manage, analyze and report on data collected in the field.

"The RM4150 was designed using feedback and requirements from our oil & gas customers who needed an accurate, easy-to-install CP rectifier monitoring product with interruption. It works well in both remote and urban areas," said Jaco Botes, Director of Product Strategy.