Tank gauging problems

With a significant number of end-users across the market, such companies’ moves to reduce production in smaller European factories and re-locate to low cost countries is said to be having a serious impact on customer service, delivery and communication.

PSM says the problem has been worsened by the decision to generate more savings by replacing older tank gauging products, due to the cost of maintaining hazardous area and marine type approvals. Without these products, many users are being left without the ability to directly replace or repair failed hydrostatic level and pressure transmitters, PSM added.

In a bid to counteract the problem, PSM is offering new transmitters that are mechanically and electrically equivalent to the failed or non-available OEM items. This is said to not only reduce costs, as existing tank fixings and cabling can be re-used, but also speeds up the repair process, as delivery is faster and often more local.

“Like all globalisation and offshoring concepts, the decision being made by many suppliers is a good cost saving idea in theory but works badly in practice due to quality, communication and skills problems. For customers this translates to delivery issues and a lack of effective, personal, customer support,” said Mark Jones, sales director, PSM. “In this instance it’s a real advantage to be focused and nimble enough to offer customers something the larger firms cannot: excellent quality, service and products from a company that is not going to leave them struggling for a solution.” .