Introduction
In today’s data-driven world, manual records and handwritten labels are no longer enough. With the increasing importance of traceability, compliance, and speed in asset maintenance, barcode-based oil sampling has become a game-changer. This blog explores how Tru-FIL Ltd is modernizing transformer oil sampling using barcode technology, mobile apps, and ERP integration.
Traditional Sampling vs. Modern Sampling
Old methods involved:
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Manual entry of transformer details
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Labeling bottles by hand
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Lack of location traceability
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Human errors during sample identification
- Missing or delayed lab reports
Modern barcode-based sampling eliminates all of these pain points by digitizing the entire sample lifecycle — from collection to report delivery.
How It Works at Tru-FIL Ltd
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📋 Functional Location Mapping
Each customer’s transformers are pre-configured in our ERP with their exact location, equipment ID, and asset metadata. -
📲 Mobile App Sampling
Technicians use a mobile app to select the customer, asset, and sample point. The app guides the technician through bottle usage and barcode scanning. -
🔖 Barcode-Tagged Vacuum Bottles
Every sample bottle has a unique barcode. Once scanned, it is digitally linked to the asset and timestamped in the system — ensuring traceability. -
🚚 Digital Gate Pass & Dispatch
After collection, a system-generated gate pass is printed. All bottles are dispatched to our lab and virtually logged into a customer-specific ERP warehouse. -
🧪 Lab Receipt & Processing
Upon lab receipt, the bottles are scanned again. Our AI-integrated ERP assigns tests like DGA, Furan, Moisture, etc., based on the asset type. -
📄 Automated Reporting
Once testing is complete, the system auto-generates reports and pushes them to the customer portal with download links and alert emails.
Key Benefits
- Zero Human Error in labeling and assignment
- Faster Turnaround Time with instant ERP logging
- 100% Traceability from asset to report
- Compliance Friendly for ISO/IEC audits
- Tamper-Evident Samples with vacuum-sealed bottles
Why Vacuum Bottles + Barcode = Total Sample Integrity
Vacuum bottles prevent contamination or moisture ingress during transit. Barcode scanning ensures:
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Correct asset mapping
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Avoidance of duplicate samples
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Clean audit trail
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GPS/time-based field validation
This combination ensures sample integrity from the field to the lab.
Real-World Use Case
- 30% faster report turnaround
- 0% label mismatch issues
- Seamless maintenance planning across 70+ remote locations