The car wash industry demands technology that can endure constant exposure to water, soap, and high-pressure cleaning while still delivering seamless system control. Equipment must remain reliable in wash bays where harsh chemicals and frequent washdowns are the norm. By deploying rugged IP69K-rated stainless steel touchscreen computers, a leading operator streamlined workflows and ensured consistent reliability in one of the most demanding environments.
Challenges
- Limited computing power from legacy panel solutions
- Unstable KVM switch connections disrupting reliability
- Risk of equipment failure due to constant water, soap, and high-pressure washdowns
- Need for full stainless steel housing resistant to corrosion and chemical exposure
- Requirement for IP69K certification to ensure protection in wash bay environments
Solution
- Premio’s 23.8" IP66/IP69K Stainless Steel Panel PC (SIO-W224-I5-8365UE)
- Intel® Core™ i5-8365UE processor delivering smooth, high-performance computing
- Secure M12 locking connectors for reliable power and data transfer during washdowns
- Stainless Steel SUS316 construction with pressure valve for durability and reliability
- Optical bonding technology for superior display clarity in humid and wet conditions
Benefits
- Accessible engineering support and technical expertise
- Reliable long-term deployment in critical environments
Company Overview
The Challenge
Limited Computing Power
The car wash previously relied on older panel solutions paired with separate back-office systems. This fragmented setup slowed performance and lacked the efficiency needed for modern automation requirements. The need for a more powerful, unified computing solution became a pressing concern.
Unstable KVM Connections
A KVM switch linked the wash bay panel to the back-office PC, but frequent instability disrupted daily operations. This led to unnecessary downtime and frustration for staff who relied on seamless system control. The company sought a direct, integrated alternative.
Harsh Washdown Environment
Wash bays are constantly exposed to water, soap, and chemical sprays, creating one of the harshest environments for electronic equipment. The previous setup risked damage and corrosion, leading to maintenance challenges and reliability concerns.
Corrosion Resistance Requirements
The use of harsh detergents and cleaning chemicals made stainless steel construction essential. Without it, traditional housings would degrade quickly, compromising both safety and performance.
IP69K Protection Needs
High-pressure and high-temperature cleaning cycles demanded equipment with certified ingress protection. Ensuring complete waterproofing and dustproofing was non-negotiable to maintain consistent operation during washdowns.
The Solution
Premio’s 23.8" IP66/IP69K Stainless Steel Panel PC (SIO-W224-I5-8365UE)
The car wash selected Premio’s rugged stainless steel panel PC as the foundation for its wash bay operations. Equipped with an Intel® Core™ i5-8365UE processor and fanless design, the system delivered high performance while ensuring durability in extreme environments. Its fully sealed IP66/IP69K enclosure, optical bonding, and stainless steel SUS316 construction made it ideal for constant washdowns.
Powerful Processing Performance
The Intel® Core™ i5 processor provided the computing capability needed for advanced automation, real-time monitoring, and consistent system control. This ensured that the wash bays could handle daily customer volume without delays.
Secure M12 Locking Connectors
The SIO series features industrial-grade M12 connectors that provide secure, waterproof connections for power, LAN, USB, and COM ports. This ensured reliable data and power transfer even during frequent washdowns. For the car wash, this eliminated the instability previously caused by KVM switches and exposed cabling.
Corrosion-Resistant Construction
The stainless steel SUS316 enclosure and vented pressure valve provided superior resistance to corrosion from soap, detergents, and chemicals. This rugged design extended equipment life and minimized maintenance.
Clarity in Demanding Conditions
Optical bonding technology enhanced display visibility even in humid environments with condensation. This ensured operators had clear visuals at all times, which was critical for keeping wash bay systems running smoothly.
The Benefits
Local Expertise and Support
Engineering and service teams located in Los Angeles provided seamless integration and quick assistance when needed. Direct access to knowledgeable experts reduced downtime and kept operations moving smoothly.
Long-Term Reliability
Built to meet rigorous industrial standards, the rugged design has proven dependable in challenging wash bay conditions. Its durability gives the team confidence to scale operations without worrying about unexpected system failures.
Conclusion
By upgrading to Premio’s stainless steel washdown touchscreen computers, the car wash achieved a reliable, high-performance solution tailored to its demanding environment. The M12 locking connectors resolved stability issues, while the rugged design ensured resistance to water, chemicals, and pressure washdowns. This deployment not only modernized operations but also positioned the company for scalable growth and long-term efficiency.