FMCW radar technology becomes more affordable

February 2002 Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration

The Solartron Mobrey MRL700 delivers consistent, precision measurement, based on leading FMCW (frequent modulated continuous wave) technology for a price, that its maker's claim, is normally associated with unsophisticated pulsed-technology instruments.

While the benefits of radar as a technology for continuous level monitoring are widely accepted, its cost has, until recently, made it the preserve of specialist high-value applications. DLM says that the MRL700 makes top-of-the-range radar level measurement an affordable option for a wide range of process liquids, slurries, dry products and powders.

A time-of-flight level transmitter, MRL700 is installed inside the process tank above the product. The noncontact continuous level measurement is ideal for hygienic applications or harmful or aggressive process liquids. MRL700 wet side is made from 316L stainless steel with a choice of either PVC or PTFE antennae for wide chemical compatibility.

Consistency of measurement accuracy is ensured by the use of the FMCW technology. A continuous high frequency signal, which ramps from 9,5 to 10,5GHz, is transmitted by the instrument and reflected back from the surface of the liquid. The difference in frequency between the received and transmitted signal is a measure of the distance travelled.

The MRL700 is accurate to ±3 mm, can be used in temperatures from -40 to 150°C, and in pressures from full vacuum to 3 MPa (30 bar). Its measuring range is 0 to 35 m. The measurement is relatively insensitive to ullage conditions, coping well with traditionally difficult media, such as foamy, frothy and vaporous liquids and slurries.

Dave Rosser

DLM

(011) 975 1171

Further reading:

WearCheck leads the way in condition monitoring
Wearcheck Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Minimising maintenance costs of mining and power-generating machinery and maximising its operational efficiency – these goals form the foundation of the proactive/preventive maintenance services provided by the expert technicians at condition monitoring specialist, WearCheck.

Read more...

---

Collect data three times faster
SKF South Africa Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
SKF has extended its renowned Microlog Analyzer family of data collection devices with the addition of the Microlog Analyzer dBX. Currently SKF’s most powerful diagnostic tool, this cutting-edge device redefines diagnostic capabilities, enabling users to take measurements three times faster than its predecessor.

Read more...

---

Integrated liners for the mining industry
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Multotec has developed a range of composite integrated mill liners in response to the needs of local and international mining clients.

Read more...

---

The criticality of maintenance in the water and wastewater segment
Schneider Electric South Africa Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
In a time of water shedding, climate change and ageing infrastructure, the importance of maintenance and support in the water and wastewater segment cannot be overstated.

Read more...

---

How dry ice blasting is revolutionising the mining industry
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Dry ice blasting has emerged as a game-changing technology for the mining industry, offering a range of advantages that are reshaping traditional cleaning methods.

Read more...

---

Quality test tools save costs at pulp and paper mill
Comtest Editor's Choice Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
A case study on how preventive maintenance and a few good test tools avoided unnecessary motor replacements at a pulp and paper company.

Read more...

---

The logical solution to oil and gas industry corrosion
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The consequences of corrosion in the oil and gas industry can be astronomical. The simple culprit is metal reacting with oxygen and moisture, degrading it back to its natural state.

Read more...

---

Lube tip: foaming is affected by oil level
Wearcheck Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
In a circulating system, it is crucial to check the oil level before introducing anti-foam agents to address a foaming problem.

Read more...

---

Microfine filtration boosts fuel quality and reduces equipment failure
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The path to contamination-free fuels relies on a combined effort from refiners to transporters, storage depots, handlers and end users. Prior to use, fuels can be polished with multi-pass microfine filtration systems such as those exclusively manufactured by ISO-Reliability Partners.

Read more...

---

Supporting capital investment in machinery
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Industrial and mining operations are under increased financial pressure in the current economic and social climate in South Africa. This means that when businesses make capital investments in new equipment, they need to be sure that the machinery will function optimally for as long as possible.

Read more...

---