Industrial IoT for Commercial Buildings
Whether you're a commercial property owner or manager, you know how complex it can be to keep things running smoothly. From HVAC systems to security, it may seem like something always requires fixing. But with the help of industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices, you can stay on top of maintenance and minimize costly repairs.
What are industrial IOT devices, and what can they do for you? IIoT devices use sensors, cameras, actuators, and other mechanisms to spot problems. They collect data, analyze it, and notify you when there's an issue. Many commercial buildings use IoT as a preventative maintenance tool. It's also useful for security and environmental monitoring.
Industrial IoT devices bring real value to facility management. They reduce maintenance costs, improve building security, and track potential environmental concerns. With all those benefits, they should definitely be on your radar.
Categories of Industrial IoT Devices
Industrial IoT devices come in all shapes and sizes, but they usually fit into one of three categories. Some industrial IoT device examples include:
Environmental monitoring devices: Track changes and anomalies in air, water, and energy resources.
Equipment performance and predictive maintenance sensors: Monitor machinery for faults, disruptions, and usage.
Safety and security monitoring devices: Observe infrastructure for potential security threats and accidents.
IoT devices support building management activities. It's a bit like having a 24/7 guard over critical building infrastructure and assets. Sensors are always watching for faults or anomalies, even when your team is focused on other activities.
Air Quality Monitoring Devices
Air contains tiny particles that can't be seen by the naked eye. And while it's usually safe to breathe, sometimes harmful matter seeps in. When it does, anyone who inhales toxic elements can experience health issues. With air quality monitoring devices, you can detect harmful particles and other air quality problems before they get worse.
Air quality monitoring devices can detect humidity and carbon monoxide levels. They scan the environment for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as cleaning and paint chemicals. Sensors are available for other particulates, too, like lead. Each device shares indoor air quality scores, so you can see how air quality changes from day to day.
Smart buildings of any type can benefit from these sensors. Schools, offices, and multi-family housing units can use them to monitor air quality and notify building occupants when issues occur. That way, fewer people suffer health problems, and building owners can take swift action.
Energy and Water Monitoring Devices
If you've ever had a water leak, you know how expensive — and destructive — they can be. Unfortunately, small leaks can go undetected for weeks or months. And when they get bigger (as they always do), they can destroy walls, pipes, and other critical infrastructure.
That's where water monitoring sensors come in. These tiny devices sit on top of water heaters, mains, and meters. They detect anomalies when they occur and alert you to issues. With their help, you'll know when a leak occurs in your building. That notification may be the difference between a major insurance claim and a quick repair call.
Sensors are also available for energy efficiency and management. They track electrical and fossil fuel usage in the building. This is useful for identifying potential surges or equipment failures. For example, abnormally high electrical voltage could point to a wiring or circuit issue. That's something you'd want to address to keep fire risks in check.
Asset and Equipment Monitoring Devices
Most commercial buildings rely on multiple devices for HVAC and refrigeration. And while preventative maintenance can extend their longevity, it isn't foolproof. Accidental damage and equipment faults can happen anytime. When a device stops working, it can interfere with building heating and cooling.
Equipment monitoring devices catch these faults when they occur. Sensors are available for HVAC and refrigeration systems. They monitor fans, compressors, and chillers for anomalies and inefficiencies. When one pops up, you'll know it — and you can decide whether it warrants a repair.
Security is also a concern for many commercial properties. IoT supports security systems in several ways. In any industrial IoT devices list, you'll find sensors for fire protection that monitor smoke alarms and fire sprinkler lines. IoT trackers can notify you of unexpected intrusions with glass break detectors and door sensors. If something happens, you can quickly intervene to mitigate loss or damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial IoT
What are the examples of IoT devices in industry?
IoT devices are widely used in commercial properties, factories, and manufacturing. They can monitor air quality, water and energy usage, and identify equipment failures. For example, an IIoT sensor can detect air contaminants, such as lead or carbon monoxide. Companies also use IIoT technology for security purposes. Sensors can detect when someone enters a building without authorization or breaks windows or doors. All IoT devices collect data and report anomalies so managers can act on them.
How is IoT used in industry?
IoT technology helps with quality control, process optimization, and preventative maintenance. It's found in nearly every business sector, from transportation to retail. Sensors detect problems early, which helps mitigate damage. Companies also use IoT for inventory management and automation. IoT supports informed decision-making with clear data and analytics.
Smart Building Technology Integration
At Attune, our IIoT devices run through a centralized platform. All data collected from each sensor or device is sent to the platform, so you can easily view it whenever you want. There's no need to do building walkthroughs to check system status. You'll know when a sensor detects an anomaly through automated notifications. And if you're curious about the current system status, view the platform dashboard for up-to-date information.
Attune offers modular and customizable IIoT solutions for commercial properties. Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, we tailor our products to fit your needs. From air quality to asset condition monitoring, Attune delivers high-quality and efficient components that keep your building running smoothly.
To learn more about Attune and how we can support your property, explore how our solutions work. Better yet, schedule a demo!
