Level Measurement & Control


Radar for level measurement of solids

February 2012 Level Measurement & Control

Optiwave 6300 C measures challenging bulk goods reliably and quickly.

According to Krohne, fine powder, pellets and granular materials can pose problems: in fact, level measurement in silos is one of the most demanding measurement tasks. In addition to reliable measurement technology, experience and quality advice are essential to obtain reliable results.

Radar on the rise

Radar level measuring technology has made considerable strides in development over the years. Non-contact radar technology has gained ground over established methods such as ultrasonic, electromechanical systems and TDR devices, particularly when it comes to addressing user requirements for difficult solid applications, for example, in the bulk goods industry. It is reliable, easy to maintain and easy to use. Even the level of challenging products such as plastic granular material, which reflects poorly, is dusty and also adhesive can now be measured reliably. At a chemical factory in Northern Germany, PVC granules are stored in several 20 m high silos. Levels were previously measured using ultrasonic measuring devices with a 4-20 mA output. As the degree of automation at the plant increased, the problem caused by dust when filling the silos was solved by the installation of Krohne’s Optiwave 6300 C.

The OPTIWAVE 6300 C is a 2-wire radar level measuring device that measures using the FMCW (frequency modulated continuous wave) method at 24-26 GHz. It measures the levels and the volume of powder and granular material continuously and without contact and is well suited to measurements in extreme environments. Its wide dynamics ensure convincing measuring results; the basic version of the Optiwave 6300 C with a DN 80 drop antenna covers a measuring range up to 30 m. The antenna is resistant to deposits, which means there is no need to implement measures to protect it from dust or install a washing system.

The focused measuring radiation from the drop means there is no need for a bulky parabolic detector; in addition, no special equipment for sensor alignment is necessary. A high-contrast display, piezoelectric buttons and a set-up wizard make for easy installation and reliable operation.

Conclusion

The features of the Optiwave 6300 C measuring device impressed the operators of the German chemical factory. The device operated reliably even in the extremely dusty conditions during filling. Following a successful test, Krohne was given the job of equipping seven silos and another 10 small hoppers.

The device also delivers in other bulk materials applications thanks to a wide selection of antenna sizes.

For more information contact John Alexander, Krohne SA, +27 (0)11 314 1391, [email protected], www.krohne.com



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