Capacitive Proximity Switch Fits In Tight Spaces for Bin Level Detection
The Model PAC30U and PDC30 capacitive style proximity switches from Monitor Technologies are new bin level detection devices for tight spaces and dry free-flowing powders and granular materials. The capacitive style proximity switch operates by detecting a change in capacitance as the material to be detected comes within close proximity or contact with the switch. These devices can be used in many applications where the granular or powder material is dry and free-flowing and has a dielectric constant within an adequate range. In addition, these devices are ideal level indicators where tight spaces exist at the desired mounting point. They are also relatively low in cost.
The Model PAC30U is a universal AC operated device (20-265VAC) and the PDC30 is DC (10-40VDC) operated. Both units are provided with a 30mm process connection and adjustable sensitivity. The PAC30U is UL listed for ordinary locations and both the PAC30U and the PDC30 carry the CE Mark and are warranted for 2 years.
Monitor Technologies LLC is a leading pioneer in level measurement and monitoring instrumentation for the worldwide powder and bulk solids industries. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2008, the experience and market knowledge gained over five decades has earned Monitor a reputation for providing high quality and reliable product solutions. Monitor is located in Elburn Illinois in the United States.
The PAC30U and PDC30 are some of the many level measurement and monitoring devices designed and manufactured by Monitor Technologies LLC in Elburn, IL. For additional information please visit www.monitortech.com, www.flexar.info and our weblog at www.typepad.monitortech.com. You can also contact Joe Lewis or Emily Jones at 1-800-766-6486 in the USA or 1-630-365-9403 for more information.
Global Flour Processor Uses Flexar® Guided Wave Radar
A large global flour processor and food products company recently began using the Flexar® guided wave radar in a total of eighteen (18) silos and bins to manage their finished product inventory. Readings from these continuous level sensors is reported as being reliable and accurate, even during pneumatic filling, contrary to their previous measuring system. A previous non-performing ultrasonic system was replaced by the Flexar level sensors. Flexar guided wave radar level sensors were chosen as the best for pneumatically filled dust laden flour silos.
Eight (8) Flexar level sensors are installed in load-out silos that fill bulk trucks with processed and finished flour. These silos are 12ft in diameter and 35ft tall. The finished flour is pneumatically conveyed into these silos. During filling the internal environment of the silos is very dusty and turbulent. The finished flour in these silos is used for loading bulk transport trucks for distribution. In addition, ten (10) Flexar level sensors are installed in 40ft high bins that contain bran. This material is also sent by bulk transport to end users.
All of the Flexar level sensors are equipped with an RS485 digital communications output that is connected to a PC with a graphical user interface for inventory management purposes. Monitor’s SiloTrack™ inventory management software is used by the facility to monitor and manage material inventories of both the finished flour and the bran. SiloTrack allows for multiple user viewing and data access via LAN and this is how the facility will be using the software that provides a flexible, graphical user interface, alarms, report generation and history analysis functions.
Guided wave radar is especially well suited to level measurement applications of dusty powder materials even when measuring during pneumatic filling. Flexar guided wave radar utilizes TDR (time domain reflectometry) technology. Radar pulses are continuously transmitted down the sensor’s probe and guided to the material surface where they are reflected back to the electronics along the wave guide. The time-of-flight of the pulses is measured and directly related to the distance to the material surface and its level.