General-purpose laser measurement device
May 2007
Level Measurement & Control
The popular LM80 Lasermeter from Laser Measurement is a general-purpose level measuring instrument that has been used in hundreds of different applications ranging from straightforward silo monitoring to high-speed crusher control. Like many competitive products the LM80 takes readings at a single point on the surface of the material of interest, however the narrow beam produced by its measuring laser guarantees that the location of this measuring point is clearly defined. Such direct aiming ensures that readings remain reliable and stable even in narrow vessels with restricted access or in silos where measurements all the way down to the exit chute are important.
The recent introduction of multipoint measuring systems, such as the LM150S also from LaserM, now gives customers a choice of three different types of level information. Firstly, 'silo monitoring' describes a range of applications for which a slow, periodic measurement of the level is sufficient. The types of silo for which this approach is applicable are filled and emptied slowly and often have large dimensions. In this case the long-range capability (25 m) and adjustable update rate of the LM80 make it an ideal choice.
The second category of level measurement involves some form of 'control'. This is used when vessels are small in size, can fill or empty quickly and the level information forms part of a control loop (to a feeder conveyor) or an emergency shut off system. Again the LM80 is an ideal choice because the output can be set to update rapidly (12 times per second) and post-processing filters ensure a clean and smoothed control signal.
These two categories of single point measurement give a useful indication of 'how full' a silo is. This has historically been termed the 'level' of the material in the vessel. However, it is well known that the material surface is seldom flat so this 'fullness' value is only indicative of how much material is actually present. Any slope or coning of the material produces errors when the level is compared to the volume.
The third category of level control information is 'volumetric' measurement. Advances in laser technology now make it possible to create three-dimensional maps of the convoluted material surface from which an accurate volume can be calculated. This multipoint information is used for stock control in either small or large vessels but can only be applied when the material is static ie no filling or emptying takes place during the measurement cycle.
Given these three alternatives, the single point measurements made by the LM80 are ideally suited to most process control and basic silo monitoring applications.
For more information contact Natalie Suter, Laser Measurement, +27 (0)11 314 4130, [email protected], www.laserm.co.za
Further reading:
Groundbreaking measurement system
Mecosa
Level Measurement & Control
Berthold Technologies has launched the LoopSeries LB 430, an innovative, industry-leading measurement system designed to enhance operational efficiency with advanced level, density, and level switch capabilities.
Read more...
Level measurement in oil storage
VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
Measuring the level of crude oil in storage is essential for safe and efficient operations. VEGA offers solutions that effectively address the challenges, ensuring precise and consistent level measurements in crude oil storage facilities. VEGA’s sensors offer reliable data on the volume, level and pressure of all types of media. Accurate level measurement is complicated by crude oil thermal expansion properties, particularly in lighter oil grades.
Read more...
Cloud-based inventory management
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Level Measurement & Control
Netilion is an award-winning cloud-based IIoT ecosystem designed for industrial processes. It connects the physical and digital worlds to send valuable information from the field straight to your phone, tablet or other device.
Read more...
Smart solutions for tabletting
VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
The manufacturing of pharmaceuticals is considered to be one of the most challenging production environments. Pharmaceutical manufacturers across the globe have opted for VEGA sensors in their production facilities.
Read more...
Magnetostrictive level transmitter
WIKA Instruments
Level Measurement & Control
WIKA’s new model FLM-Tx-FLEX magnetostrictive level transmitter is used for high-accuracy, continuous level detection of liquids, including those with long insertion lengths.
Read more...
Superhero vision for hazardous waste environmental control
VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
VEGA understands that in the world of hazardous waste management, ensuring both safety and efficiency is crucial. With the disposal of chemicals requiring conscientious attention to ethical and ecological standards, innovative solutions are mandatory. Among these solutions, non-contact level sensors emerge as a game changer, offering increased safety in environments laden with dangerous substances.
Read more...
Copper mining powered by VEGA
VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
VEGA sensors are an integral part of the continuous monitoring and control systems across the board in mining and beneficiation processes. The robustness, reliability and precision of VEGA instruments make them a good choice for managing liquid levels and ensuring the smooth operation of the production process.
Read more...
Cloud-based inventory management software
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Level Measurement & Control
Netilion is an award-winning cloud-based IIoT ecosystem designed for industrial processes. It connects the physical and digital worlds to send valuable information from the field straight to your phone, tablet or other device.
Read more...
Level sensing, conveyor control and grid resistors
DRH Components
Editor's Choice Level Measurement & Control
DRH Components is a specialist electric component and systems supplier with a focus on the control of electric motors. As part of its wide variety of products, the company markets the entire Bindicator range. Bindicator manufactures sensors for dry bulk and liquid level measurement.
Read more...
Level measurement under extreme plant processing conditions
VEGA Controls SA
Level Measurement & Control
Level measurement in LNG and LPG processes is about answering the simple question: “How much product is in the tank?” However, obtaining an exact value is not easy. The products are often under pressure, cryogenic, and highly explosive. Sensors from Vega have been operating successfully in all stages of the LNG/LPG process for many years.
Read more...
printer friendly version