Flow Measurement & Control


No more blind spots in flow measurement of liquid foods

I&C July 2024 Flow Measurement & Control

The SM Foodmag magnetic-inductive flow sensor takes the flow measurement of liquid and creamy foods to a new level. Equipped with IO-Link, the sensor is the first of its kind to enable digital data transmission from a process, eliminating the last blind spot in the digitalised, transparent production process. The display and the all-round visible status LED provide information on the current status on site.

Measure what matters

The sensor detects the current flow rate, total volume and flow direction, and also the presence of the medium, often referred to as empty pipe detection. It also transmits conductivity and temperature to the control system and IT level. This can reduce the need for additional measuring points in the system.

Convenience, clarity, safety

The integration of the SM Foodmag almost takes care of itself. Combined with ifm’s patented cables, the standard M12 connection ensures a fast, waterproof and error-free connection to the data infrastructure. Standard installation dimensions and a flexible choice of seals and process adapters make it easy to integrate into existing systems. The app-based menu structure and guided installation make parameter setting a breeze. Locally and digitally, the SM Foodmag ensures maximum visibility inside the pipe for greater process reliability.

The game changer

The magnetic-inductive flow meter completes ifm’s portfolio for the food industry. It reduces the need for measuring points by providing flow rate, total volume, temperature, and conductivity. It is easy to set up thanks to the app-based menu and guided installation.

Intensive testing for long-lasting quality

Extensive internal and external tests ensure from the outset that the SM Foodmag can withstand the extreme conditions of day-to-day processing in the food industry for the long term.

The temperature shock test puts the sensor’s accuracy to the test when exposed to large temperature fluctuations. These occur during the pasteurisation process, for example, where milk or highly acidic products are heated to between 72 and 95°C and then rapidly cooled down. This process ensures the shelf life of the products. Even after 1000 hours of continuous stress due to rapid temperature changes from sub-zero to the high double-digit range, the measurement result must still be within the specified accuracy band.

Pumps and valves are required to move the media from the tank to the downstream processing steps. Pumps provide continuous vibration and quick-opening valves for pressure peaks. The pressure peak test simulates the rapid pressure surges by applying a pressure load that deliberately exceeds the pressure rating specified in the data sheet. After one million cycles, the SM Foodmag is tested for leakage. Shock and vibration along the X, Y and Z axes are also intensively simulated over several days to ensure that external influences do not have a significant impact on the performance of the devices.

In the condensation test, a cold medium is passed through the pipe system and sensor while the ambient temperature is warm. The SM Foodmag is exposed to high humidity and the resulting condensation for several weeks in different installation positions to ensure that no moisture can penetrate the device.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Submersible pump protection
ifm - South Africa Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
With ifm’s remote monitoring solution you can visualise the condition of your submersible pumps and diagnose issues before they become serious problems.

Read more...
Hygienic ultrasonic flow sensor
ifm - South Africa Flow Measurement & Control
The SU Puresonic Hygienic ultrasonic sensor from ifm detects flows of conductive and non-conductive media with high precision.

Read more...
Distance sensor for confined spaces
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers
The O6D100 from ifm has been designed as a powerful all-rounder for typical applications in object detection, distance measurement and positioning.

Read more...
VEGA pressure instrumentation supports resilient water network management
VEGA Controls SA Pressure Measurement & Control Flow Measurement & Control
As rapid urbanisation and climate pressures strain water networks across Africa, accurate real-time pressure monitoring has become a strategic necessity. VEGA’s pressure instrumentation helps utilities reduce losses, protect infrastructure and meet sustainability targets.

Read more...
Inclination sensors for motion control
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers Motion Control & Drives
The JBC dynamic inclination sensor from ifm offers accurate angle measurement in the most demanding conditions, filtering out motion disturbances such as vibrations, shocks and vehicle dynamics to deliver reliable inclination values via IO-Link or programmable switch outputs.

Read more...
Reducing fluid control and automation complexity in pharma process development
Flow Measurement & Control
Designing and building pharmaceutical processes or skids demands close coordination between mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and automation engineering teams.

Read more...
Flow imaging microscopy for the early detection of harmful algal blooms
Yokogawa South Africa Flow Measurement & Control
Yokogawa’s advanced flow imaging microscopy technology, FlowCam is helping utilities move from reactive treatment to proactive prevention of harmful algal blooms in reservoirs, dams and freshwater sources.

Read more...
Conductivity sensing as a cornerstone of South Africa’s water smart industry
ifm - South Africa Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
South Africa’s engineers operate at the intersection of resource constraint and industrial ambition. Few parameters illustrate this balancing act as clearly as water quality. Whether in municipal treatment works, food and beverage plants or mining operations, the ability to measure water quality accurately and continuously has become non-negotiable.

Read more...
Never waste a drop
Flow Measurement & Control
Manufacturers of pumps, valves and related equipment have an important role to play when systems for water are being designed or upgraded and should be included at every stage of a project to ensure that the work is carried out within the equipment’s capabilities.

Read more...
Integrated and upgradable vision system
ifm - South Africa Motion Control & Drives
The O3R platform is the comprehensive solution for centralised, synchronised processing of image and sensor information in autonomous mobile robots such as automated guided vehicles.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved