Introducing McElroy’s DataLogger® 7: The Ultimate Tool for Fusion Process Quality and Documentation
You know what would be awesome?
If when I sat down to write a blog, I had the bloggers equivalent of McElroy’s Datalogger 7.
The DataBlogger 7?
It could literally walk me through every step of the blog by answering simple, logical questions, confirming my proper execution and then log every detail in case one of the sentences proves to be a bit long (cough, cough).
I mean – I think every one of us would welcome our own personal vocational equivalent of the DataLogger.
But alas – that technology is a luxury reserved only for those who fuse thermoplastic pipe.
The O-G Datalogger was introduced by McElroy on April 1, 1996, and even though it seems almost archaic now when compared to the 7th iteration – then – it was no April Fools. I mean, remember how excited we were to have a remote control for the TV for the first time? We have been taking that for granted for 40 years or more.
The original model was comprised of the “rugged Pocket PC” and the DataLogger unit, which ran on “D” cell batteries, and took four hours to fully charge the unit, allowing for 15 hours of operation before charging again.
Like any piece of technology, in a 25-year span and versions later, the size, ease of use, and advantages have evolved.
McElroy’s Datalogger 7 has the look and feel of a small tablet computer or a large phone. About the size of a standard piece of paper that has been folded in half, the touch screen is around seven inches and it weighs less than two pounds.
So, what exactly does the McElroy DataLogger 7 do?
In a nutshell, it is about assistance, accountability and quality assurance.
With a simple interface, the DataLogger will take the operator through, and record each and every step of the fusion process on McElroy hydraulic machines. With manual fusion machines, the operator can choose to enter all of the fusion process details to archive the data electronically, but it does require detailed manual entry.
It documents virtually every detail of the fusion, including the type of fusion, operator, machine, GPS location, pipe details, pressure-testing, and more, while meeting the ASTM F3124 standard for recording fusion joints. It assists with open, close, automatic drag measurement and optimizes cool times by factoring in external variables.
Integrated for butt, sidewall, mitered and dual-containment fusion, the DataLogger is also compatible with some Highland electrofusion machines.
Real-time analysis of the joints ensures meeting industry standards, and logs the details of the fusion. In the unlikely event there is a non-conforming joint, those comprehensive details will allow you to track the fusion and potentially identify the reason.
To ensure device damage or accidental deletion doesn’t take out your data, a micro SD card records and automatically backs up all the fusion data. McElroy also features a centralized location called the McElroy Vault™, where fusion data can be uploaded and stored.
A micro SD card records the fusion data, and McElroy features a centralized location called the McElroy Vault™, where fusion data can be uploaded and stored.
If you are concerned about the unit holding up to the elements and perils of on-site fusion, worry no more.
The DataLogger 7 is dustproof, waterproof, and can operate from the Yukon to the Yucatan with an operating temperature range between -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Those are some serious temperature ranges there where this blogger doesn’t operate, but the DataLogger does.
That doesn’t even touch on the fact that it can be dropped from four feet onto concrete multiple times without damage or compromise, although I don’t recommend demonstrating that one intentionally.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatible, the DataLogger 7 features front and rear cameras as well.
In stark contrast to the original unit, the DataLogger 7 includes an internal battery that provides 21 watt-hours of life, and a second removable battery nudges that time to 43.2-watt hours, allowing a full workday of battery production. There are available kits that can add an extra battery and charger that extend life even further.
So now I need to put a bow on this and I am stuck.
Where is the DataBlogger 7 when you really need it?
Are you using the McElroy DataLogger for your fusion process quality and documentation? Give us a shout to give it a try.