The refrigerated transport industry in Australia is estimated to be worth $100 billion per year. That’s a lot of food and other perishable items being transferred between places. All perishable items need to be kept at a specific temperature range. Whether you are moving them or simply storing them the quality and lifespan of the product can only be maintained by keeping them at the correct temperature.
To do this you need equipment to reduce the temperature and thermostats to ensure the temperature is maintained. You also need to record the data to ensure that the temperature is being maintained properly.
In the past, this was done via a thermometer and a person physically checking the temperature at set intervals. Now, data loggers are generally the better option.
The Advantages Of A Data Logger
A data logger is a small box that mounts inside the refrigerated area. Where possible it is powered by the mains electricity and hardwired to the existing systems. If this is not an option the data logger will be battery powered and connect wirelessly to a data center.
You should note that battery-powered data loggers have alarms that sound when they are getting low on power. This allows you to change the batteries or recharge the unit before it runs out.
The unit records the temperature at set intervals and saves the data, allowing you to see the temperature over a period of time. It also alerts you if the temperature is close to going out of range.
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Convenience
When you use a thermometer someone needs to remember to check the temperature. They need to record the result and this result can be subjective, although less so if a digital thermometer is used.
The data logger does everything by itself, needing no intervention. That makes it much more convenient and potentially more accurate.
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Time-Saving
Because you don’t need to go to each refrigerated space to check the temperature you can save a considerable amount of time. This is time that can be used for a variety of other things, including boosting your reputation or customer numbers.
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Reduced Cost
Obviously, not needing to send personnel to each unit means you can save on fuel costs and time. This saving allows the staff to undertake other jobs, improving the productivity and efficiency of the business.
Alternatively, it means that some employees will no longer be needed and can be let go, saving the business money.
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Warning Time
If the temperature starts to drop straight after a thermometer has been checked you may not know about the issue until the next tie the thermometers are checked. This could be too late to save the crops.
However, if you use a data logger it will warn you as soon as the temperature is close to its limits, allowing you to take action and prevent the products from spoiling. This will save the products and our reputation.
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