Run Hour Monitoring - Construction Equipment Tracker Australia

The Importance of Run-Hour and Odometer Monitoring for Equipment

In the world of heavy machinery and equipment trackers, efficient operation and maintenance are crucial. Tracking run hours and odometer readings is essential to ensure that equipment remains in optimal condition, minimising downtime and maximising productivity. Advanced GPS tracking devices, such as the Keep Track GPS devices, Dart3, G70, and G150, play a pivotal role in this process. This blog will explore the benefits of run-hour and odometer monitoring and how these GPS devices facilitate effective equipment management.

Understanding Run-Hour and Odometer Monitoring

Run-Hour Monitoring: This involves tracking the total time that equipment has been operating. It provides valuable data on usage patterns, helps schedule maintenance, and prevents overuse or underuse of machinery. Run-hour monitoring is particularly crucial for equipment that operates on an hourly basis, such as generators, compressors, and construction machinery.

Odometer Monitoring: This involves tracking the distance travelled by equipment. It is essential for vehicles and machinery that move frequently, such as trucks, bulldozers, and agricultural equipment. Odometer readings help plan maintenance, manage fuel efficiency, and ensure compliance with operational standards.

How are Run Hour and Odometer Values Tracked?

Our devices have a multitude of options that can be used to determine how often assets are being utilised.

Wired Ignition

Many devices have digital inputs, which can be wired directly to an ignition feed. This is the simplest and most reliable way to determine if the engine runs for powered devices. This is still not infallible, as if a vehicle engine is left running to warm up or due to lazy operators, additional hours can be logged.
This can be circumvented by wiring additional digital inputs to other parts of the equipment that are only on when the asset is truly in operation and not just idling. This also has the benefit of being able to detect idling – if the ignition is active and the GPS speed is below a threshold, we can say that the vehicle is idling. Engine hours will be recorded when the asset’s ignition is switched on and off.

Run Detect

If a device is connected to an external power source (e.g., vehicle battery), this voltage can be used to start and end a ‘trip’ or record run hours. This is handy as an option where an ignition feed is inaccessible and lends itself to idle monitoring. This assumes that the alternator will lift the external voltage to charge the battery when the ignition is turned on.
Note that this assumption does not always hold. Over time, voltage thresholds for ignition off/on may change as the battery ages, and new vehicle batteries are getting smarter. Often, they will turn off the alternator once it is detected that the battery is charged.

GPS Movement-Based Tracking

Our devices will use their GPS receivers and 3-axis Accelerometers in tandem to determine movement. Small movements or bumps will be filtered out, and a trip will begin to log run hours and distance travelled only once the device has crossed a configurable distance from its initial resting place. Learn more about Adaptive Tracking.

Accelerometer Based Tracking

Our battery-powered​ devices can also be configured to log run hours when accelerometer movement is detected. This is perfect for tracking run hours on stationary assets, such as pumps that vibrate when in operation.

Benefits of Run-Hour and Odometer Monitoring

1. Enhanced Maintenance Scheduling:

• Predictive Maintenance: By monitoring run hours and odometer readings, operators can predict when maintenance is due, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
• Optimized Maintenance Intervals: Maintenance can be scheduled based on actual usage rather than arbitrary time intervals, ensuring that equipment receives attention precisely when needed.

2. Increased Equipment Lifespan:

• Preventative Care: Regular monitoring helps identify wear and tear early, allowing for timely interventions that prolong the life of the equipment.
• Balanced Usage: Ensuring that all equipment is used evenly prevents overuse of specific machines, distributing wear and tear more evenly.

3. Cost Savings:

• Reduced Downtime: Predictive maintenance and early problem detection reduce the chances of equipment failure, minimising costly downtime.
• Fuel Efficiency: Odometer monitoring helps manage fuel consumption, identify inefficient practices, and optimise routes for mobile equipment.

4. Operational Efficiency:

• Improved Scheduling: Accurate data on equipment usage helps in planning operations more efficiently, ensuring that machinery is available when needed.
• Better Resource Allocation: Understanding usage patterns allows for better resource allocation, ensuring that the right equipment is available for the right task.

GPS Tracking Devices for Run-Hour and Odometer Monitoring

Keep Track GPS Tracking Devices

Keep Track GPS devices offer advanced monitoring solutions for run hours and odometer readings. These devices provide real-time data, allowing maintainers to make informed equipment usage and maintenance decisions. Key features include:

• Real-Time Tracking: Continuous equipment monitoring provides instant location and usage updates.
• Detailed Reports:Comprehensive reports on run hours and odometer readings, aiding in maintenance planning and operational efficiency.
• Alerts and Notifications:Customisable alerts for maintenance due dates, excessive usage, or deviations from planned routes.

Dart3 GPS Tracking Device

Durability: Built to with stand harsh conditions, making it ideal for construction and agricultural machinery.

Accurate Data: Provides precise run-hour and odometer readings, ensuring accurate equipment usage tracking.

Easy Installation: Simple to install and configure, allowing for quick deployment across a fleet of machinery.

G70 GPS Tracking Device

The G70 GPS Tracker is a robust GPS tracking device for industrial and heavy-duty applications. Its capabilities include:

Advanced Monitoring: Offers detailed insights into equipment performance, including run hours and distance travelled.

Remote Access: Enables remote monitoring and management, allowing operators to track equipment anywhere.

Customisable Reports: Generates customisable reports that meet specific operational needs, facilitating better decision-making.

G150 GPS Tracking Device

The G150 GPS Tracker is a high-performance GPS tracking device designed for large-scale operations. It features:

Comprehensive Tracking: Monitors parameters, including run hours, odometer readings, and engine performance.

Scalability: Suitable for large fleets, offering scalable solutions for extensive operations.

Integration Capabilities: Easily integrates with existing management systems, providing a seamless flow of information.

Implementing Run-Hour and Odometer Monitoring with GPS Devices

Selection of Appropriate Devices: Choose GPS tracking devices that meet the specific needs of your equipment and operations. Consider factors such as durability, accuracy, and additional features.

Installation and Configuration: Install the devices on your equipment and configure them to track the desired parameters. Ensure that they are correctly set up to provide accurate data.

 Data Collection and Analysis: Regularly collect and analyse data from the GPS devices. Use this data to identify trends, predict maintenance needs, and optimise equipment usage.

 Maintenance Scheduling: Based on the collected data, create a maintenance schedule aligning with equipment usage. Ensure that maintenance is performed timely to prevent unexpected failures.

 Continuous Monitoring and Adjustment: Continuously monitor the equipment and adjust the monitoring parameters as needed. Stay proactive in addressing any issues that arise to maintain operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Run-hour and odometer monitoring are vital components of effective equipment management. By utilising advanced GPS tracking devices like Keep Track, Dart3, G70, and G150, operators can gain real-time insights into equipment usage, enhance maintenance practices, and improve overall operational efficiency. Implementing these monitoring practices leads to longer equipment lifespans, reduced costs, and increased productivity, ensuring that your machinery remains in top condition and operates at peak performance.