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
Further reading:
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...
Grounding of hydrostatic level sensors
WIKA Instruments
Level Measurement & Control
Hydrostatic level sensors are very often installed in outdoor applications, primarily in the water and wastewater industries. A good connection to ground is essential when installing hydrostatic level sensors, since no grounding or poor grounding can result in destruction or damage to the level sensor.
Read more...
printer friendly version