A New Case Study: Empowering Refinery Operations with MRTECH Explosion-Proof 5G True XR Glasses

Empowering Refinery Operations with MRTECH Explosion-Proof 5G True XR Glasses

A Recent Case Study

MRTECH, with our 5G carrier partner, successfully engaged a live case study of MRT-GTH4000EX and MRT-GTC2000EX explosion-proof 5G True XR glasses with integrated thermal imaging in a leading refinery, along with a private 5G project. This initiative formed part of the client’s digital transformation program, targeting safer, faster, and more precise inspection, maintenance, and operational workflows in hazardous environments.

Deployment Objectives

The refinery faced multiple operational challenges:

• Extended downtime during inspections due to manual reporting and delayed expert input.

• Difficulty in accessing technical documentation and repair instructions in the field.

• Limited visibility into high-temperature or inaccessible areas without specialized tools.

• Health and safety risks for frontline workers in ATEX Zone 1 hazardous zones.

The goal was to integrate advanced wearable XR technology that could operate hands-free, connect over 5G/4G, and deliver real-time visual collaboration—while meeting strict explosion-proof compliance

Technology in Action

During the case study, MRTECH’s MRT-GTH4000EX and MRT-GTC2000EX proved essential for the refinery’s inspection, maintenance, and operations (IMO) workflows.

Key Features Delivered on Site:

• 5G Seamless Connectivity – Ultra-low latency ensured uninterrupted live video, thermal imaging feeds, and access to remote experts from anywhere in the refinery.

• True See-Through 65–125” Augmented HD Screen – Workers viewed step-by-step digital overlays directly in their field of vision without obstructing their real-world view.

• Explosion-Proof Certification – Safe to operate in ATEX Zone 1 areas without additional safety gear modifications.

• Lightweight Ergonomics – Designed for extended wear during full-shift operations.

• 48MP High-Resolution Camera – Captured precise inspection images and videos for documentation and AI-assisted defect detection.

• Integrated Thermal Camera (MRT-GTC2000EX) – Enabled instant temperature anomaly detection in heat-critical refinery assets.

• Hands-Free & Knob Control – Allowed operators to perform tasks without removing gloves or interrupting their work.

Use Case Applications

1. Inspection

• Technicians conducted real-time equipment checks while streaming HD and thermal camera feeds to the central control room.

• Remote experts annotated live video to highlight potential corrosion, leaks, or overheating issues.

• All data was automatically geo-tagged and stored in the refinery’s asset management system.

2. Maintenance

• Workers accessed 3D exploded-view models of critical pumps and compressors directly on the glasses, reducing repair times by up to 30%.

• Guided overlays ensured correct torque, alignment, and part replacement steps.

3. Operations Workflow

• XR glasses displayed digital operating checklists—progress automatically tracked by voice or knob control.

• Alarm status and SCADA alerts appeared in the worker’s line of sight in real time.

4. Remote Support

• Remote engineers in another country provided instant troubleshooting assistance without travel delays.

• Dual camera views (HD + thermal) enabled more accurate diagnosis in a single session.

5. Telemedicine in Hazard Zones

• On-site medics used glasses to stream patient vitals and visuals directly to hospital specialists, enabling faster medical decisions during emergencies.

Results Achieved

Within the first month of deployment, the refinery reported:

• 25% reduction in inspection cycle time.

• 30% faster issue resolution in maintenance tasks.

• Significant improvement in worker safety due to reduced time in hazardous areas.

• Enhanced training outcomes, as recorded XR sessions were reused for onboarding new technicians.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrated that MRTECH’s explosion-proof 5G True XR glasses are not just wearable devices—they are critical operational tools. By enabling real-time data, expert collaboration, and immersive guidance, they helped the refinery streamline operations, minimize risks, and cut downtime—a model now being considered for adoption across multiple refinery sites globally.