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Nepean Conveyors Industrial June 2021

Nepean Conveyors: Cloud Database Migration and Asset Tracking Platform

IIoT Coal Processing Asset Tracking

The Challenge

Nepean Conveyors was managing conveyor roller and pulley data across fragmented Excel spreadsheets and access databases---a cumbersome system that made tracking service history, maintenance schedules, and asset location nearly impossible at scale. The company needed a unified, cloud-hosted solution that could securely share real-time asset data with clients, workshop teams, and engineers, while laying the groundwork for future RFID-based automated tracking.

Our Approach

Deftec designed and implemented a comprehensive cloud-hosted SQL database with a secure, role-based web interface to replace the legacy spreadsheet model. We collated complex technical specifications from multiple drawing standards (LiveShaft single/dual drive, DeadShaft configurations) into a normalized database structure, then built user-specific dashboards and interfaces for clients, workshop staff, engineers, and management. The solution included automated service alerts and notifications, customisable PowerBI reporting, and the foundational architecture to integrate passive RFID tag readers for real-time asset location and maintenance tracking---removing manual data entry and improving visibility across the entire asset lifecycle.

The Outcome

Nepean Conveyors transitioned from scattered Excel files to a single source of truth accessible from anywhere, with role-based permissions protecting sensitive data while improving transparency with clients. The platform eliminated manual tracking workflows, automated service notifications, and enabled structured asset history reporting. With RFID integration built into the architecture, Nepean positioned itself to move toward fully automated asset identification and condition monitoring---reducing downtime and improving maintenance planning across BHP test sites and other major mining operations.

Technologies and Capabilities

  • Cloud-hosted SQL database architecture and data migration
  • Secure, role-based web interface (client, workshop, engineer, management tiers)
  • Custom database schema for complex conveyor asset specifications
  • PowerBI reporting and custom dashboards
  • Automated alerts and notification triggers
  • RFID tag integration framework (passive tag reading into web platform)
  • Asset management and service history tracking
  • Multi-client portal architecture
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