Low maintenance ,high reliability level measurement for food aplications
Jan 2000
Level Measurement & Control
Krohne
Krohne Measurement has released details of the latest version of the Reflex Radar BM100, a level sensor suitable for many applications within the food industry. Ideal for the measurement of all liquids, powders and other food products with a dielectric constant greater or equal to 1,05, the BM100 has no moving parts and offers low cost with virtually maintenance free operation.
The BM100 consists of an external, flange mounted electronics and display unit bolted to a stainless steel rod or cable probe assembly. The sensor operates by emitting an electromagnetic pulse down the probes. When the pulse reaches a layer with a defined change in dielectric value, for example, between air and beer, part of the pulse is reflected back toward the sensor where it is translated into a level measurement. The remainder of the pulse can also be used to monitor the next product layer or interface.
This method of operation ensures that the sensor probe continues to operate with a high degree of accuracy irrespective of the food material being measured while remaining insensitive to clogging or encrustation by deposits. Furthermore, unlike traditional radar, detection of the reflected pulse is unaffected by the shape of the tank or silo in which it is positioned. Consequently, the BM100 can be used in process conditions that would render conventional level sensing techniques, such as ultrasonic and capacitance devices, unreliable or inaccurate.
The BM100 offers high reliability and repeatability of ±1 mm for liquids and powder. It can be used in conditions from -30 to +240°C and from full vacuum to 100 bar, with CENELEC certification for Zone 0 applications in liquids and Zone 10 dust approval for powders.
The BM100 range is already used in a wide range of food applications with materials varying from sugar, rice, wheat and corn to freshly steamed cooked mashed potato, coffee and beer. For example, one flour plant in the US is using the level sensor to monitor the swelling of wheat grain as it absorbs water.
The BM100 has various communication options available including the Windows-compatible 'PC-Star' configuration and diagnostics, a Hart 'smart' connection and can also be supplied with an RS485 connection. For further flexibility, an explosion proof enclosure and an intrinsically safe output option can also be supplied where required. A cost effective lightweight version of the device, the BM100L is also for use on all non-Ex liquid foods up to a depth of 24 m.
Krohne
(011) 314 1351
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