Weight and Cable-Based “Smart” Level
Sensor Is Unaffected By Material Composition
Level Sensor Uses Innovative Hall Effect
Technology To Maximize Application Reliability By Effectively
Regulating Power To Motor Under Varying Load Conditions
Industry–Best Measurement Resolution
Of 1/100’
(0.12”; 3mm)
Measuring range up to 150
feet (46m) for powder bulk solids material levels in bins
and silos. (Works for some liquid & slurry applications
with optional ball float plumb bob)
Virtually Maintenance-Free
Split-Compartment Enclosure Isolates
Electronics And Measurement Optics From Process Material
Uniquely Designed Wiper
Seal Compartment For Fast, Easy Servicing or Replacement
iI Necessary
The Silo
Patrol® SE Inventory Management
System is an industry-leading cable-based
smart level sensor system that is designed to handle some of
the harshest and most dynamic conditions. The Silo Patrol SE
system incorporates state-of-the-art sensors, a wide choice
of operator interfaces, auxiliary outputs and displays, as
well as unique remote/vendor managed inventory solutions.
The introduction of Silo Patrol several years ago delivered
the first truly robust level sensor design, providing reliable
and high value solutions for a wide variety of applications
and industries worldwide. The Silo Patrol
SE incorporates significant advances in this field-proven
approach to reliably monitoring the level of material in
bins, silos and tanks up to 150ft (45.7m) in height. The
Silo Patrol SE level sensor technology is suitable for use
with a multiplicity of powders, granules, slurries and liquids,
even in the most harsh and dynamic conditions.
The heart of the Silo Patrol SE level measurement system
is the sensor itself. The Model
SMU (Silo Monitoring Unit), incorporates technological advancements,
requires no field adjustments and its robust design provides
virtually maintenance-free operation. The SMU is suited for
most any application and can be equipped with a variety of
mounting flanges and plumb bobs.
The Silo Patrol SE system also offers the most sensor interface
choices:
• RS-485 “smart” communications output
• 4-20mA analog output
• AC/DC Pulse output
The “smart” RS-485
output version SMU can be connected with either the multi-functional
HMI2 Operator
Interface Control Console or with SiloTrack™ PC-based
Inventory Management Software that provides a flexible graphical
interface for up to 128 sensors.
If a stand alone level detection sensor with analog output
and no operator interface display is what you are looking
for, the SMU is available in this type of configuration at
an affordable purchase price. The SMU is available
as a truly stand alone analog output transmitter, including
automatic measurement initiation and a relay output.
The SMU pulse output sensor is typically used for connecting
into older Monitor Technologies inventory systems. This output
version retrofits and replaces the older CM3A/CM4 sensors
and uses the AC pulse output to connect to the old system
console. The DC pulse output also included with the latest
SMU pulse output version can be used to connect into existing
PLC systems.
Once a measurement cycle is initiated, the SiloPatrol® SE
sensor (SMU) “smart” motor system controls the
descent of a plumb bob, attached to a heavy-duty stainless
steel cable, into the vessel. The SMU measures the amount of
cable dispensed via its unique optical sensing system. The
SMU’s optic system is completely sealed from the internal
environment of the electronics compartment, which is isolated
and sealed from material ingress in the mechanical compartment,
to ensure long-term reliable operation.
The descent of the bob is maintained at an optimal speed by
the “smart” motor control system, contributing
to the elimination of cable slack and maximizing the motor
life. In conjunction with the unique dual optical sensing system,
the “smart” motor control system guarantees that
the bob will stop when it contacts the material surface and
eliminates the need for a mechanical brake. When the bob reaches
the material surface, the SMU reverses the direction of the
motor and transmits the distance value.
During the ascent of the bob, the SMU measures the amount
of cable gathered and controls the speed of ascent. This ensures
proper cable wrapping in the patented storage reel and tangle-free
operation.
The latest SMU also includes an innovative Hall-effect sensor
array that monitors the movement and position of the swing-arm
that controls the absorption of slack in the cable system during
descent and ascent. The SMU is smarter than
ever and uses this technology to control the cable and plumb
bob travel to ensure reliability of the measurement cycle,
even with harsh changing conditions in the most severe applications.
The standalone versions of the SMU generate their respective
4-20mA or Pulse output in response to a measurement query,
or automatically with the analog output version. The standard “smart” RS485
SMU communicates with the operator interface chosen for the
system (HMI2 or SiloTrack™ PC software).
These operator interfaces can perform calculations and conversions
to display the data in the format desired. The SiloPatrol SE
system, if so equipped, will also generate auxiliary analog
and/or relay outputs. RS485 communications
can be accomplished via hardwiring or with wireless transceivers.
The SiloPatrol® SE Inventory Management
System can be used in a wide variety of applications. These
include, but are not limited to, simple inventory monitoring
with a standalone HMI2 display to Remote and Vendor
managed inventory solutions using SiloTrack™ server and
client software to manage inventories at multiple facilities
while providing access to a virtually unlimited number of users.
Materials being monitored include a broad list of powders
and bulk solids, as well as, a wide range of liquids and slurries.
These include coarse/fine granular solids, powders, liquids,
foodstuffs and many other substances.
Typical
Applications include, but are not limited to:
Feeds
Bulk
Chemicals
Cement
Plastic
Pellets
Rocks
Coal
Limestone
Liquids
Sand
Powders
Plastic
Regrind
Oils
Grains
REMOTE INVENTORY MONITORING
If material levels need to be monitored at one or many
locations (i.e. your facility, a location down the
street, or a plant on the other side of the world)
the SiloPatrol® SE system can provide accurate
and reliable measurements. Using SiloTrack™ Version
3.5 software, inventory monitoring from remote locations
has never been easier.
WIRELESS
SENSOR COMMUNICATION INTERFACE
While using the SiloPatrol® SE “smart” sensor
is the most economical approach available for inventory
monitoring, using the available wireless interface
in your application may help you reduce the installed
cost of your SiloTrack™ / SiloPatrol SE system
even further.
The wireless transceivers use frequency-hopping spread-spectrum
wireless technology and operate in the FCC license-free
900MHz band. This provides the longest range and most
reliable wireless communications available.
Working in conjunction with SiloTrack™ PC-Based
inventory management software, the wireless transceivers
provide the most functional and economical inventory
management system available today.
Refer to Bulletin 343D for additional information
and contact our technical support personnel today to
see if your application can benefit from the a wireless
communications solution.
SMU Sensor Electronic Features
Industry-exclusive
use of magnetic Hall effect sensor technology (patent
pending) monitors swing-arm movement and improves overall
application reliability and performance, even with
the most difficult dynamic conditions
Microcontroller technology
provides “smart” motor control, high resolution/accuracy
and consistent performance under the most challenging
and dynamic conditions
Lock-out input on all
models to restrict sensor from initiating a measurement
cycle (used to disable measurement during filling operations)
Industry-exclusive
electronics certified to international CE 1010 standard ensures compliance in shock hazard protection,
electromagnetic noise interference and generation
Complete electrical
isolation between inputs/outputs and earth ground
eliminates ground loops and ensures proper long-term
operation and data communication
Superior resolution
of 0.01ft (0.12”; 3mm)
Unique optical measuring
system uses an amplification circuit to maximize signal-to-noise performance
Relay output standard
on analog output version provides contact closure based on user set level, sensor failure or measurement
cycle operating
SMU Sensor
Mechanical Features
Split-compartment enclosure
completely isolates electronics from mechanical section
of sensor
Industry-exclusive compartment
seals optical sensors from internal SMU environment completely eliminating problems created by contamination,
even from conduits
Industry-first direct-drive
motor and heavy-duty cable system deliver unsurpassed
pull strength
Process seal (wiper seal
mechanism) easily replaced without removing or cutting
cable
Unlike most competitive
devices, the SMU wiper seals provide full-circumference
wiping of the cable
Freeze-resistant flange
can eliminate problems in applications where changing
environmental conditions and condensation are present
Patented storage reel
incorporates a "step" to ensure non-tangling
cable wrap
Cable pathway and storage
reel are completely captive, eliminating cable-jump
Wide variety of plumb
bobs available including cast aluminum or stainless steel,
standard plumb bob, stainless steel inverted cone, Teflon
coated and digestible
Air purge connection enables
operation in dynamic, dust-laden applications
SMU Sensor Model Selections
OUTPUT
TYPES Standard "Smart": The SMU communicates
with the HMI2 or SiloTrack™ PC-based Inventory
Management Software via a RS-485 proprietary
protocol. This type of system can also be equipped with
auxiliary relay and/or analog outputs and remote displays.
Analog
4-20mA: This SMU sensor is a standalone transmitter
version providing a direct analog signal for each measurement
update. Measurements are initiated automatically as setup
within the sensor or in response to a remotely activated
contact closure. This sensor version is provided with a relay
output that can be set to activate when a user established
level is reached, upon detection of a sensor error or when
a measurement cycle is in process.
Pulse (retrofit):
This SMU version generates AC or DC pulses in response to
a request for a measurement from a contact input. This output
can be used to provide direct input into a PLC or to integrate
into an older Monitor Technologies Model CM console when replacing
the old Model CM-3A or CM-4 sensors. The SMU provides only
a 1/10’ or dm pulse output. This sensor version is provided
with a relay output that indicates when a measurement cycle
is in process.
APPROVALS
The SiloPatrol® SE Model SMU sensor is available certified
for either Ordinary or Hazardous locations. The SMU also
carries the CE Mark. Consult the Specifications section for
further information.
FREEZE-RESISTANT MOUNTING
FLANGES
SMU sensors can be provided with either the standard flat
mounting flange or one of the angled flanges (5° and 10° available)
for adapting to sloped roofs. Each of these standard flanges
has a unique design that resists freezing of the plumb bob
to the underside of the flange. This is especially important
in very cold climate conditions where moisture from condensation
within the silo can form and create ice on the underside of
the silo roof, usually due to cycling above and below freezing
temperature in an outdoor installation. In these applications
the freeze-resistant flange may eliminate the need for standpipe
or flange heating. Contact the factory for modified ANSI/DIN
flanges (not “freeze resistant”).
SMU Sensor Accessories
Dimensions
are shown in inches with millimeter equivalent in brackets
Standard
Cast Aluminum - Most SMU sensors are shipped
with this plumb bob assembled to the unit. For use
with bulk solids with a bulk density greater than
20lbs/ft3 (320kg/m3). A Teflon® coated version
is also available for sticky materials.
316
Stainless Steel - For use with corrosive solids
and foodstuffs with bulk densities greater than 20lbs/ft3
(320kg/m3). This plumb bob is typically shipped as
a separate item, but can be assembled to the SMU at
the factory upon request.
316
SS Inverted Cone - For use with light bulk
solids and foodstuffs with bulk densities greater
than 5lbs/ft3 (80kg/m3). Teflon®-coated also
available for corrosive or sticky materials. This
is shipped as a separate line item and must be attached
to the cable in the field.
6 in
(152 mm) Diameter 316 SS Ball Float: For
use with liquids with a minimum specific gravity of
0.85. A Teflon®-coated version is also available
for corrosive or sticky materials. This plumb bob is
shipped as a separate line item and must be attached
to the cable in the field.
HMI2 Operator Interface Control Console
The HMI2 operator interface control console provides convenient,
local interface for Monitor’s “Smart” RS-485
SiloPatrol® SMU SE cable-based inventory monitoring sensors
and/or Flexar® guided wave radar sensors. HMI2 allows for
monitoring up to 32 SMU and/or Flexar sensors. The multi-functional
HMI2 controls sensor operations, displays measured and calculated
data and performs/displays system and sensor diagnostic messages.
The HMI2 is easily programmed to display calculated
level, volume, weight or percent in addition to the basic distance
measurement. Manual readings are taken by depressing the MEAS
button, followed by the channel number, followed by ENTER.
The HMI2 can also be programmed to operate
the SMU “Smart” RS-485 sensors automatically. Menu
options allow the user to select days of SMU operation (such
as Mon.-Fri.), time window (such as 7 a.m.-3 p.m.) and measurement
interval (minimum 30 minutes).
SiloTrack™ Version
3.5 Inventory Management Software provides users with
an unsurpassed, flexible graphical interface for SiloPatrol® SE “smart” output
sensors. Together, SiloTrack Server and Client software
can provide inventory monitoring and management to a
virtually unlimited number of users, both internal and
external to your facility. This allows easy implementation
of remote monitoring and vendor managed inventory programs.
SiloTrack capabilities
include:
Monitor up to 128 sensors/with up to
5 sensors per vessel
Easy
to setup and use
Network
capable
Remote
monitoring via LAN, Internet/WAN or dial-up
The SiloPatrol® SE
Model SMU sensor makes a direct measurement of the distance
between the sensor and the material surface. This equipment
does not measure the volume or weight of the material within
the vessel. The HMI2 and
SiloTrack™ PC-based
software, when used with a SiloPatrol
SE “smart” output sensor, may be able to perform
calculations to display the volume and weight of the material.
These calculations are based upon the distance measurement
and the vessel dimensions and material bulk density entered
by the user during setup.
Note: The calculated volume
and weight values should be considered "estimates".
Monitor Technologies LLC accepts no responsibility for the
accuracy of the calculated and displayed volume and weight
values. The accuracy (not stated or warranted) of the volume/weight
calculations are effected by the fluctuation and accuracy of
various factors. These factors include, but may not be limited
to, actual vessel dimensions, sensor mounting location, angle
of repose (negative and positive), material bulk density, material
flow properties (ratholes, bridging, etc.), material inlet/discharge
locations and material packing. Please consult the factory
to discuss applications where volume/weight is of critical
importance.
System Accessories
AUXILIARY
OUTPUT ENCLOSURES (AOE)
A unique feature of the SiloPatrol® SE Inventory
Management System is the ability to incorporate both relay
and analog outputs with a standard "smart" output
sensor system. These auxiliary relay and/or analog outputs
are provided in Auxiliary Output Enclosures (AOE) and are
programmed and controlled by either the HMI2 or
SiloTrack™ PC-based
Inventory Management Software.
One analog output and up to four relays (two for HMI2;
four for SiloTrack) can be assigned to each of the “smart” output
sensors. These can be used to tie the Inventory Management
System into remote control systems, sound alarms and for
local control functions.
Up to 16 analog outputs or 32 relays can be provided within
a single enclosure. Up to four AOE’s can be connected
on a single network. The AOE can be located close to the
point of hardwiring termination minimizing wiring and installation
costs.
2-Card
AOE
Specifications
SILO MONITORING UNIT
(SMU)
Power Requirements:
115
VAC or 230 VAC(+15%), 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption:
6 VA continuous, 50 VA intermittent
Altitude:
6562ft (2000m) maximum
Installation Category:
II
Pollution Degree:
4, Suitable for
indoor/outdoor use
Process Temperature:
-40° F to 300° F (-40° C to 149° C)
Ambient Operating Temperature:
-40° to +150°F (-40° to
65°C)
Maximum Internal
Bin Temperature:
Up to 300°F (149°C) with
use of bare stainless steel cable
Up to 200°F (93°C) with use of stainless steel jacketed cables
Maximum Vessel Pressure:
15 PSI
Measurement Range:
150 feet maximum (45.7 m)
Measurement Rate:
1.0 ft./sec. (typical) (0.3 m/s)
Accuracy:
+/- 0.25% of distance reading
Repeatability:
0.1 ft. (30 mm)
Resolution:
1/100 ft. (0.12 inch; 3mm)
Mounting:
Freeze-Resistant "K" flange, 8" dia.
with 7" bolt
circle
4-20mA, 16 max, 4 per card, non-isolated,
500 ohm max loop resistance, 10 bit resolution,
zero/span set via HMI/SiloTrack™
Relay Outputs:
SPST, 5A @ 250 VAC, 32 max, 8 per
card, visual LED per relay, assignment and action
set via HMI/SiloTrack™
Enclosure:
Painted aluminum
Overall Dimensions
(HxWxD):
2-Card: 11.02 x 9.05 x 4.33 in
(280 X 230 X 110 mm)
4-Card: 15.74 x 9.05 x 4.33 in
(400 X 230 X 110 mm)
Enclosure Rating:
NEMA 4; IP66
Approvals:
CE Mark
Teflon® is a registered trademark
of Dupont Chemical Co.
Windows® is a registered trademarks of
the Microsoft Corporation
RSView® is a registered trademark of Rockwell Automation
Wonderware® is a registered trademark of Wonderware Corporation
Intellution® is a registered trademark of Intellution,
Inc.
Cimplicity® is a registered trademark of General Electric
Company
Warranty
Monitor
Technologies LLC warrants each SiloPatrol® SE Inventory Management System it manufactures
to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal
use and service for two (2) years from the date of purchase.
The purchaser must notify Monitor of any defects within the
warranty period, return the product intact, and prepay transportation
charges. The obligation of Monitor Technologies LLC under this
warranty is limited to repair or replacement at its factory.
This warranty does not apply to any product which is repaired
or altered outside of Monitor Technologies’ factory,
or which has been subject to misuse, negligence, accident,
incorrect wiring by others, or improper installation. Monitor
Technologies LLC reserves the right to change the design and/or
specifications without prior notice.
Last Rev.: August
31, 2012
Spotlight: True Fail Safe Level Switch
SafePoint®
"Truly" Fail-Safe Level Switch
The
SafePoint® rotary paddle level switch with a self-validating design
detects material presence plus continuously monitors its own ability
to function. The analysis includes sensor health and system power
failure, which makes the SafePoint truly fail-safe.
The SafePoint incorporates patented use of Hall-Effect technology,
dual outputs to indicate both material presence and unit health,
and microcontroller technology to continuously protect bulk solids
processing and storage from the consequences of unknown sensor
failure by providing immediate indication of a sensor failure
and confirmation of proper operation.
Other practical features of the SafePoint include rugged construction,
motor shut-off when paddle becomes impeded to maximize motor life, twist On/Off
cover for bolt free removal, and local status indicating light (except hazardous
location models)
A practical application for the SafePoint would be to use this "true"
fail-safe product if undetected sensor failure could result in a
catastrophic process problem.