Sludge and interface level switch
April 2004
Level Measurement & Control
Hawk's Sonar Point Switch operates as an interface/sludge blanket in point level measurement applications using Hawk's sonar transducers and sonar echo processing algorithms. The SS Series level switch consists of an SS amplifier and the appropriate SS001 sonar transducer to optimise detection of heavy and light density interfaces.
An automatic cleaning mechanism removes build-up on the sonar sensor, especially where suspended solids are present. The system is unaffected by colour changes and operates in a 0 to 20 g/l range. The level switch emits a sound pulse towards the reflector plate, the pulse signal is reflected off the plate, back to the sonar transducer, and then the level switch interprets the signal, compensates for temperature and provides a relay and an analog display of the sludge/interface density, indicative of the sludge/interface at the transducer position.
Echo processing software monitors the operating efficiency of the sonar transducer. As the efficiency of the transducer drops off due to build-up on the sensing face, the sonar transmitter will increase the level of ultrasonic cleaning of the face, or where fitted, will activate the automatic 'scum cleaner' which will remove all heavy build-up on the sonar transducer.
Both sonar transducer and sonar amplifier have a separation distance of 200 m, and four field programmable relays are supplied for control purposes at different density values. The density range for water to solids is fully adjustable and full operational diagnostics are displayed on the switch. The SS series is suitable for controlling pumps, tracking fluff layers or bed levels and detecting thickeners, clarifiers and settlers.
For more information contact Jerry Smits, Protea Automation Solutions, 011 719 5700, [email protected], www.protea.co.za
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