Numerex Corp, a leading provider of enterprise solutions enabling the Internet of Things (IoT), today announced their partnership with Sensile Technologies, a leading provider of solutions for remote monitoring of tanks and meters for the oil & gas industry, to distribute exclusively in North America the intrinsically safe NetrIS^® 3G tank monitoring device for hazardous liquids, particularly propane. NetrIS 3G is the latest addition to the Numerex device portfolio as part of the cloud based iTank offering, a managed solution that enables bulk liquid distributors to monitor tank capacity levels and optimize tanker distribution routes, realizing significant bottom line savings and improved ROI.

In order to meet market requirements in North America, the NetrIS 3G recently received PTCRB certification. The PTCRB was established in 1997 as the wireless device certification forum by North American Mobile Network Operators (MNO).  Obtaining PTCRB Certification on a mobile device ensures compliance with 3GPP network standards within the PTCRB Operators' networks. Consequently, PTCRB Operators may block devices from their network if they are not PTCRB certified.

Reports from the propane industry estimate that the tank level monitoring systems market is expected to reach $859 million by 2020, and some of the biggest demand comes from propane retailers. Two of the main reasons for needing an intrinsically safe solution among propane retailers are safety and homeowner assurance, due to the higher flammable risk associated with propane.

Shu Gan, Numerex Chief Marketing Officer commented, “There are three major things propane distributors all want: safety, efficiency, and affordability. The Numerex iTank solution, when used in conjunction with the NetrIS 3G device for propane monitoring, helps accomplish this as well as eliminating overhead, reducing truck rolls, and satisfying customer needs. We’re excited about having this new use case for the iTank solution”.

In addition, intrinsically safe iTank for propane use is also IECEx and ATEX certified. IECEx and ATEX are, respectively, the international and the European Directives concerning equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. NetrIS 3G’s level of certification makes it one of the safest devices available today.

Jean-Marc Uehlinger, Sensile Technologies Chief Technical Officer added, “Our development teams’ unique expertise in hazardous area and telecom regulations was key to the certification of the NetrIS 3G.”