LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a relatively new wireless protocol, which offers many benefits in an industrial setting when compared to others such as Wi-HART and ISA-100. LoRaWAN (LoRa) has been successfully adopted in certain parts of the world such as Europe and North America, while others have yet to adopt the technology. The long range and low power capabilities of LoRa make it a much more cost effective and scalable technology. This paper will cover the differences between the main types of wireless networks available as well as the different sensor types available that can operate on a LoRa network (UT, temperature, vibration, atmospheric, etc.) and possible use cases. The purpose is to present a new type of wireless technology that has many advantages over its predecessors when used in industrial applications. By utilizing LoRaWAN remote sensing technology, operators can have more easily accessible and affordable data. That data can then be used to see how operational changes impact corrosion rates, improve overall operational efficiency, and provide a better understanding of assets.
We live in a data driven world where technology is constantly evolving and making our lives easier, but even with this progression, industrial facilities are still struggling with the lack of reliable and sufficient data. LoRa has the capability to affordably expand remote sensing technologies in industrial applications, thereby improving operational efficiency, automating processes, and improving safety. With several different types of sensors available, and many more being created every year, LoRa is set to become the industry standard for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Ultrasonic thickness (UT) sensors can be used for corrosion monitoring, providing end-users with a better understanding of how their equipment deteriorates. Vibration sensors can be used to detect and monitor turbulent areas. Temperature sensors can be used to identify excursions and the negative results they have. These are just three types of sensors currently available, that when used together can help improve process efficiency and optimize operations. In the coming years, LoRa devices will be the backbone of the Industry 4.0 revolution, creating what will come to be known as smart facilities around the world.
