Case Study
How remote asset monitoring and 5G NB-IoT transformed equipment management for a global infrastructure leader
OUR CLIENT
This prominent US engineering and construction firm specializes in geotechnical, environmental, and civil engineering services. Known for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions, it serves the infrastructure, energy, and real estate industries. Its expertise includes project management, site assessments, and remediation services, ensuring efficient project completion and strict regulatory compliance. With a focus on quality and safety, it uses advanced technologies to address complex engineering challenges.
THE CHALLENGE
Analog equipment limitations and unreliable connectivity disrupt operational efficiency
The client encountered challenges managing its widespread analog equipment, especially in harsh outdoor environments, such as extreme temperatures, rain, and snow. This effected the reliability of network connectivity and limited the client’s ability to monitor and manage outdoor equipment remotely, resulting in increased downtime, operational inefficiencies, and higher costs due to manual inspections. The absence of real-time data and remote visibility made it difficult to respond quickly to issues, perform predictive maintenance, and ensure equipment quality and safety.
THE TRANSFORMATION
Integrating remote asset monitoring and real-time data analytics for improved equipment visibility
UST provided the client with a remote asset monitoring and control platform, enabling real-time analog and digital equipment management in challenging outdoor environments. This end-to-end platform-as-a-service (PaaS) solution integrated a robust data logger with the client’s existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, facilitating seamless, remote real-time data collection and monitoring.
To address the client's connectivity issues, UST implemented the 5G narrowband Internet of Things (5G NB-IoT) protocol, ensuring reliable communication even in remote areas with previously unreliable network connectivity. The platform supports GPS tracking and is IP65-rated, offering protection against extreme weather. It features advanced analytics for predictive maintenance and carbon footprint monitoring, allowing the client to reduce downtime and align with sustainability goals.
The system tracks key performance indicators for predictive maintenance, reducing equipment failures and extending lifespan while providing insights into carbon emissions, contributing to more environmentally conscious operations. With this scalable solution, the client can proactively manage equipment performance and grow its operations without compromising reliability or efficiency.
THE IMPACT
Enhanced equipment management with streamlined tracking of analog and digital systems
Implementing UST's remote asset monitoring solution yielded significant benefits for the client, particularly in equipment management. The new solution:
- Tracked more than 15 sensors using a single device—This capability significantly simplified the monitoring process, enabling a more integrated approach to managing both analog and digital equipment.
- Enhanced safety and security management—UST’s centralized command center control view improved supervision and compliance, delivering real-time insights that allowed the client to address potential issues and swiftly mitigate risks.
- Optimized operations through advanced data analytics—The solution’s analytics capabilities reduced unexpected downtime by monitoring fuel consumption, equipment aging, and usage patterns while enabling predictive maintenance.
- Provided accurate location tracking with GPS—The integrated GPS functionality allowed the client to monitor the exact locations of its equipment, which is particularly beneficial for assets spread across large or remote areas.
- Improved equipment reliability—UST enhanced reliability through several key measures. The long battery life reduced maintenance needs, while the IP65-rated hardware ensured durability against harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, real-time equipment performance monitoring simplified early detection of issues and supported predictive maintenance, significantly minimizing the risk of unexpected failures.
- Enhanced operational efficiency—The integration of these capabilities streamlined processes and improved resource allocation, enabling the client to manage equipment needs and minimize operational disruptions proactively.
Unlock the full potential of your operations with UST’s Connected Services Platform. Contact us today to enhance efficiency, improve equipment reliability, and drive sustainability through advanced remote monitoring and predictive maintenance solutions.