Maersk picks WAM to monitor reefer gensets

Maersk Line North America has selected WAM Technologies LLC to provide M2M technology for remote tracking, monitoring, and inspection of its refrigerated container generator sets (gensets).
The company will fit WAM’s GensetConnect GPS/GSM wireless telematics devices to 1,453 of its gensets in this initial install, including 881 clip-ons and 572 underslung units. Maersk also has the option to install WAM technology across more of its 6,000-plus strong North American genset fleet.
The M2M devices capture real-time data on location, fuel levels, whether units are running or not, and other key operating parameters. Information is fed to WAM’s M2Connect cloud-based asset management platform, which allows Maersk and Mark-It Services (MIS), its reefer service provider, to actively monitor and control genset performance. The system also includes alarms for immediate, automated notification of unplanned genset shut-downs, low fuel, and other critical conditions. The M2Connect platform enables remote management for reefer containers, gensets, chassis, and other transport equipment moving by road, rail, and sea.
This new technology will enable Maersk Line North America to track and manage its new genset fleet across the North American ports and intermodal transport network. Among key benefits, GensetConnect will enable the carrier to implement the Virtual Inspection Program (VI Program) developed and operated by MIS, WAM’s sister company and  a provider of reefer monitoring and protective services.
On a long-haul US rail trip, a reefer container and its genset typically require four to six manual inspections at rail ramps while in transit, to ensure the integrity of refrigerated loads. This includes checking that the genset is working properly and has enough fuel. By remotely monitoring the condition of reefer boxes and gensets fitted with telemetry devices, the VI Program is proven to reduce the number of manual inspections/services required, while maintaining high levels of cargo and equipment care. Since its launch in 2008, the VI Program has enabled MIS to reduce manual reefer box inspections per trip by up to 64%, and has saved the company’s shipping line clients millions of dollars in inspection fees and fuel bills.
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