FAQs?

“Print” System Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the RF interfere with other electronic devices?
A: No, transmit and receive functions use very low frequency and output wattage.

Q: How are the RFID tags mounted?
A: Depending upon the application, only your imagination will restrict how you can mount RFID tags, however, they cannot be obstructed by metallic materials.

Q: Will RFID tags read underwater?
A: Yes, the read range is somewhat restricted however, the tags do respond under water.

Q: What is the maximum and minimum temperature the tags will withstand?
A: Current productions tags will withstand 425 degrees F with spikes up to 475 degrees F for 1 hour.  Minimum operating temperature is –40 degrees.

Q: What is the maximum pressure the tags will withstand?
A:  Current production tags will withstand pressure up to 20,000 psi.

Q: Will the tags survive use in drill string components?
A: Yes, RFID tags have been used in drill string components such as drill pipe, drill collars and subs with no adverse effects.

Q: Will the tags survive immersion in well completion fluids?
A: Yes, our tags have been tested by one of the world’s largest oil companies and the tags survived every test they were subjected to.

Q: How are RFID tags installed into tubulars?
A: Depending on the wear standards of the individual item, the tags are installed in a hole approximately .625 dp x 1.00 dia  Each tag is housed in a special cup with cover and retained with an external gripping retainer.

Q: What is the read distance of the tags using a portable RFID reader?
A: If a tag is mounted on the surface of an item, the read range is approximately 4” depending upon the size of the RFID tag.  If a tag is implanted into steel, the read range is reduced to approximately 2”.

Q: Can the tags be installed with Epoxy?
A: Yes, as long as the cure temperature of the epoxy does not exceed the RFID tag temperature rating.

Q: Do RFID tags have to be clean in order to be read?
A: No, the tags will respond through wood, plastic, mud, paint, grease, or any non-metallic substance.

Q: Are there batteries in the “Harsh Environment” tags?
A: No, the “Harsh Environment tags are totally passive.

Q: Does magnetism affect the RFID tags?
A: No, the tags are encoded in such a way that the identification code within the tag cannot be erased, and the number cannot be changed.

Q: How much information is contained in the tag?
A: There is no data/information contained in the read-only RFID tag.  There is only a unique number coded in the tag that ties the item to a database of information housed in a computer.  Should a tag become inoperable or non-responsive, no data relative to the piece of equipment will be lost.

Q: If a tag won’t read, how do I know what the tag code is?
A: An optional feature from Den Con allows the tag code to be laser etched onto the tag housing, if the tag becomes non-responsive, the code can be retrieved by cleaning the tag housing and reading the code visually.

Q: Can a used tag be reinstalled?
A: This will depend on the previous installation method.  If a tag has been installed with and external retaining ring and can be removed without damage, the tag can be reused on another item

Q: Can I put my special number in a tag?
A: This depends on how many digits are required.  Up to 10 digits can be preprogrammed in the tag during manufacturing at an additional charge.