SA Instrumentation & Control | Volume 40 | September 2024

SAIMC NEWS

Secunda branch efficiency, drone and 3D technologies are emerging as powerful tools that can reshape traditional practices, and we got a glimpse into how they are revolutionising this field. PC and Robert showed how drones can play a valuable role by bringing the plant to the engineer using the power of Lidar scanning of real-world applications. This provides an immersive experience using VR and AR to simulate actual conditions, providing engineers with a hands-on understanding of their projects, without leaving the office. By bringing the plant to the engineer, utilising advanced lidar scanning, and leveraging VR and AR, we are witnessing the dawn of a new era in engineering. The Durban branch of the SAIMC held a most interesting and well-attended technology evening in August. The topic was the application of drone technology in engineering work, and the evening was kindly sponsored by Proconics. PC Annandale and Robert Theron took us on a fascinating journey, with lots of ‘wow’ and ‘awesome’ heard from the audience. PC is currently the Responsible Person for Flight Operations (RPFO) at Proconics, and Robert manages the automation, ICT and RPAS team. In a world where engineering demands constant innovation and Durban branch

The audience was treated to live demonstrations of both traditional and SLAM-based lidar scanning. These technologies enable the creation of highly accurate 3D models that are essential for a variety of engineering applications. The Durban branch would like to thank Proconics for their sponsorship of the evening. Mark Calvert (right), Durban GM thanking Robert Theron.

The scattered light that returns is analysed to provide temperature data. This technology has a wide range of applications, including the oil and gas industry, power and energy sector, mining operations, environmental monitoring, structural monitoring, and research and development. Despite its numerous advantages, including long-distance monitoring and real-time data provision, DTS technology also presents certain challenges. The high cost of the system compared to traditional monitoring methods is a significant disadvantage. Furthermore, the installation process is complex, particularly the software component that houses the system’s intelligence. Calibration can also be a challenging aspect of deploying this technology. In summary, Mpendulo’s presentation highlighted the sophisticated capabilities and wide-ranging applications of DTS technology. This technology is essential for

Mpendulo Shabangu from Mbonyasambe Technology Solutions visited the Secunda branch on 7 August, to deliver a presentation on Temperature Profiling using Distributed Temperature Sensor (DTS) technology. The presentation included a detailed explanation of DTS, and its advantages, disadvantages, and other relevant aspects. This advanced technique utilises fibre-optic cables to measure temperature continuously along the entire length of the cable, offering a sophisticated solution for temperature monitoring. During his presentation, Mpendulo elaborated on the intricacies of Rayleigh, Brillouin and Raman scattering techniques, explaining how each contributes to the measurement process. DTS systems mainly uses two of these methods to accurately measure temperature. In the process, light is directed into the cable and bounces along the fibre.

Bernard Sello (left), SAIMC Secunda Committee, with presenter Mpendulo Shabangu, Mbonyasambe Technology Solutions. temperature profiling and monitoring in various industries, providing accurate and continuous measurement solutions. The Secunda SAIMC committee would like to thank Mpendulo for his time and presentation, and Proconics for hosting the monthly Technology Evenings.

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