The Kenya Port Authority (KPA) was facing a real issue with fuel discrepancy and in 2017, they invested in MechTronic’s VisiLevel gauging system to prevent pilfering at its port. The Kenya Port Authority said: “Siphoning by drivers is chronic, affecting transporters and construction companies at KPA. For instance, nearly 40% of fuel is lost, this technology is expected to help address this problem.”
How does VisiLevel end fuel discrepancy?
VisiLevel, is an ATEX and IECEx approved level gauging system that uses patented and proven technology to identify a tankers fuel content; by measuring the volume, temperature, density and colour.
This unique gauging system ensures that the date, time and location is recorded when the fuel tanker makes it delivery. When linked to MechTronic’s bespoke cloud-based tracking system, actual loaded product information is automatically uploaded to the tracking system and using the metered delivery information, the product left onboard the tanker at the end of the day is reconciled. An end of shift report can be easily created to identify any stock variations, guaranteeing the security of both the onboard product and tanker.
“Since installation, our customer has been able to track exactly where fuel is leaving the tanker or when the fuel is being tampered with – providing operators with a tool to end fuel discrepancies and save valuable product and money.”
global services
Further sales into Africa with Global Services
Since the successful launch into Kenya, VisiLevel has been purchased by Global Services (based in Côte d’Ivoire). Global Services are a distributor of fuel management systems within Africa and were looking to assist a customer with fuel discrepancies in the Ivory Coast.
Global Services said: “We wanted a solution that would enable our customer to monitor, track and ensure that their customers are receiving an untampered product. With drivers travelling some two to three thousand kilometres over a period of several weeks, unfortunately fuel discrepancies and tampering can happen.
“However, with the introduction of VisiLevel and its tailor-made audit tracking capabilities, we can ensure our individual customers’ requirements are met, for example the software automatically issues text and email alerts when fuel levels drop by a specific level. Since installation, our customer has been able to track exactly where fuel is leaving the tanker or when the fuel is being tampered with – providing operators with a tool to end fuel discrepancies and save valuable product and money.”
Already we are seeing repeat orders for Kenya and significant orders due for the Ivory Coast and South Africa; it is clear to see that VisiLevel is helping fuel oil operatives to protect their valuable fuel loads.
