Browse by Category

News

Features

LPG Industry

Magazine

Elpiji Uses EDiT iD’s RFID to Track its Lpg Cylinders

Elpiji, an lp gas supplier in Malaysia, has automated its lpg cylinder filling and tracking operations using a new radio frequency identification (RFID) reader from New Zealand based developer EdiT iD specifically designed for use in lpg facilities.

“We believe we have a world first – putting RFID tags on propane cylinders,” said Mark Powell, general manager of EDiT iD.

EDiT iD’s new Model 0205 low frequency (125 KHz) reader uses RFID tags from German company Tectus that meet ATEX requirements.

Elpiji has implemented the system at several production and distribution facilities in Malaysia. When lpg gas cylinders are returned for filling, operators need to know the specific tare weight for each cylinder, but bar code reading is not effective as symbols can become damaged and unreadable.

EDiT iD created its Model 0205 specifically for this project.

“Some of the reasons we chose low frequency were the amount of moving steel, the physical environment and the handle ring of the cylinder,” said Mark.

Lpg cylinders are fitted with permanent RFID tags that include the cylinder’s identification number, tare weight and date of manufacture. Fixed-position readers on the filling line identify each cylinder and verify that it is eligible to be refilled and reissued according to its manufacture date.

Ineligible cylinders are automatically diverted and the others are routed to the filling station, where the dispenser pumps in an amount of lp gas based on its tare weight. Cylinders are also automatically routed to inspection, cleaning and other stations, and identified throughout the process.

Elpiji uses production control software from Kosel Industries, which modified its system to accept RFID input.

You must be logged in to post a comment.