Non-Contact Level Measurement At 150C

Burkert has expanded both the range and media types that can be measured using non-contact radar technology, with the introduction of the Type 8136, 8137 and 8138 modular radar transmitters. The addition of the new radar sensors allows level measuring in normal, aggressive and hygienic operating environments, at pressures up to 40 bar and temperatures (on hygiene transmitters) to 150C, providing the facility for CIP and SIP.

The addition of the new radar sensors to Burkert's existing ranges of ultrasonic, guided microwave and vibrating level sensors means that Burkert can now measure open-channel flow and tank levels for a broad range of solids and liquids covering 95 per cent of all level applications, with dielectric values as low as 1.7. The radar sensors offer operating benefits across a wide range of process industries, including food and beverages (especially breweries and dairies), pharmaceuticals, water treatment (pure water and sewage) and pulp and paper.

They are reliable, non-contact devices that are suitable for CIP and SIP processes and are impervious to atmospheric conditions such as temperature, pressure, dust, vapour and condensate. The base unit in the new sensor range, the Type 8136, is a modular radar transmitter designed for simple process applications - typically measuring flow in open channels or levels in open tanks - as a superior alternative to ultrasonic transmitters. The device is designed for use at pressures up to 3 bar maximum and fluid temperatures of 80C. It is supplied with threaded connections G/NPT 11/2in and is supported by optional mounting brackets.

Developed for demanding applications, the Type 8137 operates at temperatures up to 130C and pressures up to 40 bar. Using optimised antenna, the device can measure at distances up to 30m, even in aggressive environments. In common with the Type 8136, the 8137 is supplied as standard with G/NPT 1.1/2in, but with the added options of DIN and ANSI flange connections. The final unit in the new range, the Type 8138, has been developed specifically for hygienic applications in food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The 8138 can operate at fluid temperatures up to 150C and, depending on the flange connection employed, at pressures up to 16 bar.

These extreme operating parameters, plus the hygienic design of the 8138's flange connections, ensure that cleaning and steam sterilisation of the device can be carried out to the highest possible regulatory standards. The Type 8138 is equipped with a Triclamp 2in connection as standard, with Varivent DN25 as well as DN50 and DN100 DIN-flanges also available. All the sensors in the new range can be delivered with or without displays. They will shortly be joined by versions suitable for potentially explosive atmospheres, according to Ex ia IIC T6, for zones 1/2G and 2G. Certification for these devices is planned but not yet carried out.

Burkert is supporting the new radar sensors with intuitive Pactware - an industry-standard software platform. This provides a configuration tool with a PC using HART communication and DTMs. The software allows simple configuration of custom tank-configurations and provides easily selectable pre-programmed open-channel flow configurations and also false echo suppression, among many other features.

Trumpf Unveils Entry-Level CNC Laser Profiler

Trumpf has introduced an entry-level version of the Trulaser 3030 CNC New laser profiler. The Trulaser 3030 Lean Edition is aimed at manufacturers needing additional and expandable capacity or those who do not currently require high productivity but want to keep their options open for the future. The machine's capacity can be quickly and effectively boosted in line with customer demand thanks to a wide choice of options and retrofit possibilities, according to the company.

The Trulaser 3030 Lean Edition comes with all the technical advantages of the Trulaser 3030 New. The new entry-level version is equipped with a Truflow 3200 laser for cutting sheet up to 20mm and has simultaneous axis speeds of 140m/min. Faster processing is characteristic of the Trulaser 3030 New series and results in more parts being cut in the same amount of time and the reduction of power usage per part.

The laser's hibernation mode also contributes to the machine's overall energy efficiency. The single head, with collision protection, processes an entire range of material thicknesses. The Lensline lens monitoring system and Adjustline for the instant increase of material tolerance are both included in the standard package. The machine can be fed with sheets from the side or the rear.

The automation options start with an automatic pallet changer and include a range of possibilities from a simple Loadmaster loader through to a complete Liftmaster storage and automation system. For process optimisation, a premium cutting package is available as both an option and a retrofit. The components are Pierceline, Fastline and a spray unit that prevents material spatter from sticking.

Hamamatsu To Exhibit CCD Board-Level Cameras

Hamamatsu will be introducing the C10990 series of OEM CCD board-level cameras at the Photonex 2009 Exhibition. The cameras feature high sensitivity and high resolution and include the latest 1.3 million pixel 2/3in progressive scan interline front illuminated CCD, circuitry and lens mount all on one board.

Also on show will be the latest range of semiconductor detectors featuring photon detection capability, the S10362-33 series multi-pixel photon counters (MPPC). This device uses a Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode structure for ultra-low-level light detection, and the active area has been increased from 1mm2 to 9mm2.

Other products include the C10988MA, an ultra-compact spectrometer built using MOEMS technology. The C10988MA is a device measuring 27.6mm x 13mm x 16.8mm, which was developed for use in portable and hand-held devices, where a standard mini spectrometer would be too large and consume too much power.

XMD Pressure Transmitter Measures Level And Flow

Impress Sensors & Systems has introduced the XMD range of smart differential pressure transmitters for process-industry applications. The transmitters can be used for level measurement of closed, pressurised tanks; pump and filter control; or for closed-pipe flow measurement in conjunction with an orifice plate, Venturi or nozzle. The XMD range is ideal for flow applications due to the device's ability to switch the output from a standard linear output to a square-root extraction where flow rate can be output.

Target industries include chemicals, paper and pulp, petrochemicals, energy and power, food and dairy and pharmaceuticals. The XMD has a differential pressure range from 75mbar up to 2 bar and with a static over-pressure capable of 130 bar line pressures. The calibrated pressure range can also be turned down 10:1 times, which means that a 75mbar range can give a full-scale output at 7.5mbar, while still maintaining the 130 bar line pressure.

A 5:1 turn-down ratio maintains the accuracy of the transmitter, which is +/-0.1 per cent FSO. Outputs available are 4-20mA as standard with the option of having Hart communication. If this option is selected, the XMD is Atex-approved as standard. The device is safe for Zone 0/1 and an Ex d version is available with a flameproof enclosure for Zone 1 applications.

The XMD range is designed for harsh process manufacturing environments and so the electrical enclosure is a two-chamber aluminium die cast, powder coated with the option to include an integrated smart display. The optional display is an LCD with a visible range of 32.5 x 22.5mm. There is also a textual display and a 52-segment bar-graph that runs along the bottom of the display for easy interpretation of the output from the device. Even with this display option, the XMD is still rated to IP67.

Siemens Adds Switch To Vibrating Level Range

The Siemens range of vibrating level switches has been extended with the addition of a switch designed for use in dry bulk solid applications. The Sitrans LVS100 is suitable for applications with high, low or demand levels of dry bulk solids in bins, silos or hoppers. The device can detect the presence of materials with bulk densities in excess of 60 litres, and is ideal for use in industries such as mining, food, plastics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and hazardous applications.

The Sitrans LVS100 has a compact design that can be top, side, or angle-mounted. The rotating enclosures ensure easy installation and wiring, and it can be easily connected to an alarm system or control room. The level switch offers high durability with no moving parts, and is unaffected by external vibrations.

The vibrating fork design ensures the sensing tines are kept clean, reducing the need for maintenance. The stainless steel process connections and rugged aluminium housing provide extra protection against external elements, ensuring a long and reliable service life.

Micropilot M FMR245 Radar Offers Level Monitoring

Endress And Hauser is offering the Micropilot M FMR245 radar for accurate and reliable level monitoring of solid and liquid applications. Suitable for continuous non-contact level monitoring, the radar is claimed to deliver high measurement integrity even in demanding applications involving dust, build-up formation and aggressive or corrosive environments.

Signal performance has been enhanced, further extending the application scope of this 26Hz level radar. In addition to the process seal, the device features an optional glass gas-tight feed-through between the antenna and the electronics, which stops toxic or aggressive media penetrating the electronics compartment, guaranteeing optimum safety in extreme conditions, according to the company. Its improved antenna design enables applications up to 200C.

Its one-piece solid PTFE antenna is adapted to the signal, which inhibits hollow spaces or joints, thus preventing condensation within the antenna and improving process reliability. Offering a SIL2 rating for added process safety, the two-wire technology is said to facilitate implementation into existing systems, making the Micropilot M FMR245 a cost-effective, alternative solution to differential pressure and displacers. It is Hart and Profibus PA compatible and features a menu-driven alphanumeric display.

Gizmo Unveils Liquid-Level Alarm For Tanks

Gizmo Engineering has introduced its first intrinsically safe liquid-level alarm for tanks. The battery-powered alarm is also said to work well in drums or IBC tote tanks. The company claims that it can run for years from battery power as there is zero-power drain when the unit is not alarming.

The loud pulsing alarm is intended to cut through loud industrial noise. Additionally, a push-button feature is available to silence the alarm. It is said to be easy to install because it comes in any necessary mounting, including many sizes of threaded plugs, bolt-on flanges, a flat plate or bulkhead feedthrough.

The unit is built from the ground up for wet, corrosive environments and rough handling. The float switch is protected from physical abuse inside a pipe and is further protected from debris by a screen.