Tracking Devices Designed for Hazmat Cargoes

-- Logistics Management, 2/1/2001

Satellite tracking company Collect Localization Satellites (CLS) of France and its North American division, NACLS, have introduced several new transmitters using the company's Argos satellite system. The tracking and data transmission systems are designed specifically for tracking railcars, tank containers, or trailers containing hazardous materials.

Railtrax is a multipurpose transmitter than can track railcars and tank containers as well as monitor temperatures. It can also be used as a fleet-management system. The Railtrax unit is powered by internal alkaline batteries that can last up to 2.5 years. The Railtrax-ST model can manage up to five temperature probes, and the Railtrax-STG model has temperature probes plus GPS positioning capabilities.

The AGT is a multipurpose transmitter that can be used for container, railcar, or trailer tracking. It was designed for fleet-management applications when position-only information is required. The AGT is also powered by an internal alkaline battery, which is rated from -20 degrees C (-4 F) to +50 degrees C (+122 F). For lower temperatures, a lithium battery can be used. The AGT-C is larger to accommodate alkaline batteries for a lifetime of up to 2.5 years (with Basic Tracking service), and the AGT-T option comes with a probe that can transmit information about the temperature of a product like the liquid in a tank container. The temperature rating is from -55 degrees C (-67 F) to +150 degrees C (+302 F).

The AGT-G is a transmitter that can be used for railcar tracking. It is similar to the AGT, but it includes a GPS receiver. The ACT-AL transmitter is designed for tank container tracking and monitoring. It includes interfaces for various analog sensors and logical gates. Designed for use with tank containers that are fitted with temperature-control equipment, it comes in two parts, the transmitter and an optional alkaline battery pack (the vehicle's 12V/1A battery can also be used as a source).

For more information on these transmitters, visit http://www.nacls.com, e-mail info@nacls.com, or call (301) 341-1814.