Significant differences in technical specifications no longer exist between sensors for level measurement. Although some are less precise, some more expensive and some are safer to use than others, the only real difference that remains is in the functional design of their user interface.
Instrumentation specialist Endress+Hauser believes that with the release of its new Levelflex M, it has shown just how much of a differentiator user interface design can be, by concentrating on making operation, commissioning, calibration and measuring-point specific settings as convenient and modern as possible.
The company's innovative new operating design has on-site electronics with a removable display, through which all the settings can be made. Tools such as a handheld terminal or a laptop are superfluous. Even in hazardous locations, the electronics compartment cover can be opened for access to the display while the measuring point is in operation. The user is guided through processes (like calibration) in simple, clear commands in one of seven languages, with the alphanumeric display sporting up to 20 characters in four lines. Additional aids include online help, various symbols for different alarms, an envelope curve depicting the measured signal and connecting cables long enough to cater for any application.
The main feature of the display itself is the variety of display options available. This is an important breakthrough in level measurement, as the user can now consider the total value of a measuring point when making a decision, rather than having to rely on the selection and capabilities of a sensor. Endress+Hauser's new operating design allows the customer to save a considerable amount of time and money, in the commissioning process. The company is confident that time spent and the staff required for commissioning and operation will soon become as important a consideration as the acquisition cost of the actual measuring points.
A guided level radar for continuous level measurement, the Levelflex M is available in either a solids or liquid measuring version with a large stainless steel rod or coaxial probe. This means that the user is able to reliably measure nearly all applications in liquids with a dielectric constant of less than 1,4, like oil, petrol hexane and toluol. The measuring device is suitable for all types of vessels, especially for those with complicated geometry and small vessels with levels up to 500 mm (buffer vessels) with an accuracy of about 3 mm.
The safe guidance of the reflected waves means that disturbances at the surface of the medium do not significantly alter the reliability of the measurement. The measurement is also unaffected by foam formation on the surface of the medium. The instrument does not need to be recalibrated when there are changes in the dielectric constant of the medium.
With blocking distances as short as 200 mm from the process connection to the bottom and 50 mm from the probe end to the top, optimum use of the vessel is allowed. When installed in a stilling well or a bypass and when the coaxial variant is used, blocking distance is not an issue. As the electronics is thermally isolated from the process, temperature has no bearing on accuracy, permitting an operating temperature range that extends from -40 to +150°C.
Endress+Hauser has made considerable progress with regard to reducing the size of process connections in the new generation of devices. For the first time, a connection of only 3/4" thread is available. Since the radar pulses only travel along the rope, installation in nozzles up to DN150 of any height is possible, avoiding expensive conversions at the tank.
Endress+Hauser offers its time-of-flight product range with a standard user interface. Device operation is the same for all instruments in the range and a software configuration tool, which allows extensive device control, is provided with every purchase. The identical operation and configuration off all instruments makes this product range particularly attractive, as it improves familiarisation and overall ease-of-use. The company believes that the speed and simplicity of operating its equipment is set to become a major selling point, particularly as this technological advancement comes at no extra cost to the end user.
For more information contact Grant Joyce, Endress+Hauser, 011 262 8000, [email protected], www.za.endress.com
| Tel: | +27 11 262 8000 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.endress.com |
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