CHEMICAL EQUIPMENT UPDATE
strong gusts of wind. It measures the river level with a precision of ±2mm and provides early warning of impending floodwaters. Simple mounting, fast setup and low
maintenance requirements make VEGAPULS WL 61 the ideal sensor for many different applications – from level or gauge to flow-rate measurement, says VEGA. New from SITRANS is the LR560 2-wire,
78GHz frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar level transmitter for continuous monitoring of solids in silos to a range of 100 metres. SITRANS LR560’s plug and play performance is ideal for most solids applications, including those with extreme dust and high temperatures to 200ºC. A novel design allows safe and simple programming using the intrinsically safe handheld programmer without having to open the instrument’s lid. The transmitter includes an optional
graphical local display interface (LDI) that improves setup and operation using an intuitive quick start wizard, and echo profile display for diagnostic support. Startup is easy using the quick start wizard with only a few parameters required for basic operation. In terms of overall benefits: the rugged
stainless steel design is ideal for industrial applications; the 78GHz high frequency provides a very narrow beam, virtually no mounting nozzle noise, and optimal reflection from sloped solids; an optional aimer can direct a beam to an area of interest, such as draw point of cone; the lens antenna is highly resistant to product build up; an air purge connection is included for self-cleaning of extremely sticky solids; and the LDI allows local programming and diagnostics The LR560’s key applications are with
cement powder, plastic powder/pellets, grain, coal, wood powder, and fly ash. OMEGA’s contribution to the level
measurement market includes numerous models and technologies. For example, its non-contact ultrasonic level sensor LVU41 comes with power and programming options, RS-232 or RS-485 communications capability, pushbutton calibration, and temperature-compensated signalling. They are highly accurate over their entire range of 0.3 to 18.3 metres and incorporate filtering that virtually eliminates false echoes from peripheral obstructions. In conjunction with a programmable logic controller or an OMEGA CNi Series controller, they can be used for point level measurement. The company’s LVRD500 series are
an affordable solution in applications requiring non-contact measurement of liquid levels. They are ideal where vapour, dust, or a foaming surface prevents ultrasonic measurement. Their radar sensor uses microwave pulse technology to track target liquids from the antenna tip to the bottom of a tank. This advanced ‘echo marker’ signal processing provides a reliable continuous pulse shape unaffected by environmental conditions. RS-232 and RS-485 models are available, too. Then there is OMEGA’s LVD800 series
of rotary paddle switches. These use patented magnetic technology that makes fail-safe bin, hopper, silo, and tank monitoring a reality. A self-diagnosing microcontroller constantly monitors rotation of the shaft and motor mounting plate, reacting immediately to material presence and to mechanical or electrical failure. Magnetic sensing avoids the fouling problem inherent to optical systems. The twist-on cover does away with bolts, there
are two conduit entrances, and most models have a status light. High-temperature models are rated to 399°C. The company’s LV3000/4000 Series
probes give reliable continuous level measurements in difficult applications. Appropriate for liquids, pastes, and some solids - whether conductive or non-conductive - they have no moving parts and are easy to install. After rectifying and filtering incoming power, generating a radio frequency signal, and calculating changes in current, the electronic circuitry produces a 4-20 mA 2-wire output signal proportional to the process level. Convenient zero and span adjustments let the user factor in variables such as media type, vessel dimensions, rod length, and installation position. If the stainless steel probe will be used near a conductive vessel wall, a PTFE-insulated model will prevent short circuiting. New from Pepperl + Fuchs is the LGC
hydrostatic level control for level measuring and temperature control (optional) of freshwater drinking water and wastewater. The measuring system consists of a LGC level probe and a SMART transmitter power supply. Central to the control is a ceramic
measuring cell (dry measuring cell). The pressure acts directly on the rugged ceramic membrane of the LGC level probe and causes it to move by a maximum of about 0.005mm. The effects of air pressure on the liquid surface are transferred via a pressure compensating tube through the extension cable to the rear of the ceramic membrane and compensated. Pressure-dependent changes in capacitance caused by membrane movement are measured at the electrodes of the ceramic carrier. The electronics then convert the movement into a pressure-proportional signal. ❒
Reducing costs with SmartLine H
oneywell’s new SmartLine non-contact radar level meter (FMCW, frequency modulated
continuous wave) is for level measurement of liquids and solids and can be used to calculate volume. A key advantage of this meter is that it provides a more stable measurement than pulse radar, and is well suited for agitated process conditions and the most demanding applications. The maximum measuring range of the SmartLine non-contact radar level meter is 80 metres.
The company’s SmartLine guided
radar level meter is a time delay reflectometry (TDR) level meter for measuring level, distance, interface, level and interface, volume and mass. This unit is well suited for measuring liquids as well as granular solids. A remote housing can be mounted up to 14.5 metres feet from the probe. The SmartLine guided radar level meter has higher signal dynamics and a sharper pulse than conventional TDR devices and therefore better reproducibility and accuracy. Its maximum measuring range is 35 metres.
Overall the SmartLine range has a number of features and benefits for process users, including: the same model can be used for solids and liquids, reducing inventory and lowering costs; a two-wire loop powered design saves on wiring, which also reduces costs; and accurate level measurements are possible even when the substance of interest is being agitated. As such, they are ideal for most industries and applications, from chemicals and water to iron and steel and pulp and paper. ❒
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